Talking Trees
Stanley Park
A nature walk to learn how Indigenous people utilize the land for food, medicine, technology
Each plant, each tree has its own special story. On this nature walking tour you will hear the stories of how shíshálh (Sechelt) Coast Salish & Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) People have been utilizing the land for food, medicine and technology for thousands of years. Your Talaysay cultural ambassador guide will share our ecological practices, ancient and contemporary history, stories, legends and Indigenous ways of living (knowing) with you.
What to Expect
Each Talking Trees tour is unique; shaped by the land, the season, and the stories of those who walk with us.
Your journey begins with a land acknowledgment and gentle introduction from your Cultural Land Ambassador. Together, you’ll walk among towering cedars, maples, firs, and wild berries, exploring how Indigenous peoples have lived sustainably in this region since time immemorial. Through engaging stories, hands-on teachings, and sensory invitations, you’ll discover the traditional uses of plants and trees for food, medicine, technology, and culture.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the “Tree of Life”, its sacred gifts, from transportation, housing, clothing, and ceremony. Your guide will share how Indigenous communities have practiced stewardship, selective harvesting, and reciprocal relationships with the land.
Each experience is shaped by the season and the group’s interests. You’ll be invited to slow down, notice the forest’s intricate details, and reflect on our connection to the natural world. No experience is required, just a willingness to listen, learn, and be present.
Every tour includes a cup of Indigenous tea, a moment for gratitude, sharing, and community.
Where We Meet
We invite you to join us for a guided forest walk at Stanley Park’s Beaver Lake Loop, one of Vancouver’s most cherished natural spaces.
Our tour begins at the Stanley Park Bus Loop, located near the Stanley Park Pavilion and Vancouver Aquarium, where guests can easily arrive by public transit, taxi, or private vehicle. From here, we’ll take a short, gentle walk into the forest to reach Beaver Lake, a serene oasis surrounded by towering cedars, maples, and hemlocks.
The Beaver Lake Loop Trail is a well-maintained gravel path with moderate inclines and benches along the way, making it suitable for most participants, including families and guests with varying mobility levels. We recommend sturdy walking shoes and dressing for the weather, as the trail can be damp in shaded areas.
As we circle the lake, you’ll experience the quiet rhythm of the forest, learn about its ecological and cultural significance, and discover how this special place has been cared for and sustained by Indigenous peoples since time immemorial.
Accessibility: This experience also provides ASL ( American Sign Language ) interpretation for our guests.
Book this Tour
Ready to join us? View dates and reserve your spot below.
If no time slots are visible, the tour may not currently be scheduled. Gift cards remain available, and we welcome inquiries about future dates.
Before Your Tour
What to Bring
Good walking shoes
Layered clothing - dress for the weather
A water bottle on warm days
A water resistant jacket on rainy days
Weather Information
We operate our tours and programs in the rain.
The company reserves the right to cancel when extreme weather and wind impacts safety.
Guest Protocol
Tours start promptly
Arrive 15 minutes prior to tour start
Late guests or missed tours are not reimbursed
Individual booking cancellation: 48 hours notice prior to tour is required and a 20% administration fee applies
Group booking cancellation: 10 days notice prior to tour is required and a 20% administration fee applies
Cancellations with less than the required notice are 100% non-refundable
