I decided to visit Stanley Park today, take a walk, and give you a picture of this place. But I underestimated its size a bit. So, I quickly step off the trail and sit on a bench by the lake. The rays of the setting sun cheerfully reflect off the water’s surface right into my eyes.  

Let me quickly share what I came across.  

I got here from downtown on trolleybus 19.  

The sun was shining. To complete the picture, it started raining. So, the sun is shining, rain is falling. Beautiful. On one side, there are skyscrapers; on the other, the Vancouver Rowing Club greets you with its charming view at the park's entrance.  

The poet Robert Burns and the park’s founder, Lord Stanley—well, their monuments—continue to welcome you.  

Every step here offers some interesting detail. Lots of trees. You remember it’s a park, right? The trees are tall. But a few of them are lying fallen, blocking the paths. Obviously, yesterday’s wind had its way.  

Still, the fruity smell in the air shows that people here aren’t easily scared off;

 they’ve come to enjoy some tasty treats fresh off the fire.

By the way, the trolleybus turnaround is located deep inside the park.  

For history enthusiasts, there’s a stele dedicated to Japanese soldiers who participated in World War I. People are everywhere

—sometimes running.  

Gravel paths can lead you into dense greenery, where even the birds seem to relax and start singing, 

so you might overhear them.  

And in the heart of the greenery lies Beaver Lake. 

Well, it’s supposed to be a lake. 

It could be one if it weren’t overgrown with grass.

 And I didn’t meet any beavers there. Mostly, it was people.

 And a couple of squirrels with photographers.  

And that’s just a small part of the park. Around it, along the water, there’s a promenade. I’ve been there before. Overall, it’s a great place to connect—with nature, with friends, or with yourself.  

Either way, it’s worthwhile.  

Come visit!