Indian Arm: Day Trips and Tours from Vancouver

A playground for adventure junkies and nature lovers alike, Indian Arm is a beautiful fjord tucked away a stone's throw from Vancouver. This natural wonder offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterways, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Visitors can enjoy everything from hiking to kayaking, fishing and wildlife watching — just a few reasons why Indian Arm day trips from Vancouver are becoming more and more popular every day!

Here's all you need to know about Indian Arm, one of the most exciting day trips from Vancouver.

How to get to Indian Arm From Vancouver?

Indian Arm is located in the Pacific Northwest region of Canada, near Vancouver, British Columbia. It is a narrow, steep-sided inlet that stretches approximately 20 kilometers from the Burrard Inlet to the mouth of the Indian River. The area is easily accessible by car, boat, or public transit.

From Vancouver to Indian Arm by car

While it is not possible to drive directly to Indian Arm, you can drive to a few different access points along the fjord. The most common access point is from the community of Belcarra, which is located approximately 30 kilometers from downtown Vancouver.

From Vancouver to Indian Arm by boat

Getting to Indian Arm from Vancouver by boat is a popular and scenic option. You can rent a boat from Deep Cove, a small community located in North Vancouver. There are several rental companies in the area that offer boats of varying sizes and styles, depending on your needs and budget.

From Deep Cove, you'll head north along the Burrard Inlet, passing by beautiful scenery, including waterfront homes, beaches, and forested areas. Once you reach Indian Arm, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the fjord and the surrounding mountains. It's a unique and memorable way to experience the natural beauty of the Vancouver area.

Guided tour to Indian Arm from Vancouver

Taking a guided tour to Indian Arm from Vancouver can be a great option for those who want to learn more about the history, culture, and ecology of the area – not to mention meet fellow travelers and have all the logistics taken care of.

A knowledgeable guide is on hand all day to provide valuable insights and information about the fjord and its surroundings, enhancing the overall experience.

What is the typical itinerary?

While every tour is a little different, the typical Vancouver day trip to Indian Arm begins with convenient pickup and then a meet and greet with the tour guide, who will provide an overview of the day's activities and safety instructions. Usually, you'll head to a dock where you'll board a ship and embark on a journey along the fjord, passing by various points of interest like Silver Fall and the Twin Islands, alongside stunning mountain vistas the whole way through.

On the way, you'll learn about the history and nature of Indian Arm while enjoying a delicious lunch from the ship's luxurious deck. The tour will come to an end with a drop-off at your desired destination in Vancouver or North Vancouver.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Indian Arm?

There are several types of tour packages available, depending on your needs and interests.

Indian Arm half-day cruise (with lunch)

A relaxing, 4-hour tour that takes you along the fjord, this guided day trip combines education and entertainment in an unforgettable way. You’ll learn about the natural beauty, history, and scenery of Indian Arm from the friendly grow while tucking into a delicious, buffet lunch on board the boat.

As the boat cruises down the water, expect to pass by numerous sights, including Silver Falls, the Twin Islands, Berg's Landing and more!

Indian Arm and Victoria Harbor day trip

Another popular option, this 4-hour tour sets sail from Vancouver and takes you across the Strait of Georgia to visit Victoria Harbor. Along the way, expect to pass by scenic spots such as Stanley Park, the Burrard Inlet, Granville Island, and Indian Arm’s Twin Islands, with the view of the cityscape in the background.

Once you reach the enormous Indian Arm, you'll have the chance to dine on a lunch fit for royalty, with a menu of meats, fresh seafood and other local delicacies. After the meal, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery before heading back to Vancouver's harbor.

How much does a day trip to the Indian Arm from Vancouver cost?

The cost of a guided visit to Indian Arm in Canada varies depending on tour type and duration, but is typically priced at around US$140 per person.

It's worth checking with individual tour operators for pricing and availability, to make sure you get the best deal. It's also advised to book online in advance, as this can help you get the best deals and secure your spot on the tour.

What will you see and do?

There's so much to see around the Indian Arm, but all of it is focused on British Columbia's beautiful natural scenery. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, and harbor seals, so keep your eyes peeled.

Most of what you'll do on an Indian Arm Day Trips from Vancouver is sitting back and relaxing on board a cruise boat. The skipper will take you from Vancouver's harbor to the fjord, and will point out some of the area's most remarkable sights. You can expect to see cascading waterfalls, towering mountains, and luscious forests — combining to look like something out of a fairy tale.

If you're visiting Indian Arm solo, one of the most popular things to do is to hike around the water's edge. The area has numerous hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterways, such as the Swan Falls Loop via Powerhouse Road Trail or Jessica Lake Loop via Halvor Lunden Trail. Kayaking and canoeing are also popular activities in Indian Arm — rent a kayak or canoe and explore the calm waters of the fjord at your own pace.

When is the best time to visit Indian Arm?

The best time to visit Indian Arm is during the summer months of June to September, when the weather is warm and dry and the water is calm and perfect for outdoor activities. During the colder months, the wind can be chilly on the boat's outer decks.

Travel tips

• Bring layers, as the weather in the area can be unpredictable and the wind can bite during winter.
• Guided tours and boat rentals can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so it's best to book in advance.
• Respect the environment! Indian Arm is a natural and fragile ecosystem, so make sure to leave no trace and follow any instructions from your guide or boat rental company.