Vancouver's Parks: A Fresh Look at Old Favorites

You've walked these paths a hundred times.

You know every bench, every view. Or do you?

Let's challenge that assumption. Today, The Vancouver Sage revisits five Vancouver parks you think you know, but with a twist.

Let’s don an explorer's hat, and view these spaces through new eyes.

1. Jericho Beach Park: More Than Just a Stroll

Yes, you know about the pond near the sailing center. You've passed it a hundred times.

But when was the last time you really looked at it? Next time, bring those old binoculars gathering dust in your closet.

Remember the thrill of spotting a Red-winged Blackbird? Or the satisfaction of identifying a Great Blue Heron?

They're still there, waiting for you to notice them again.

2. New Brighton Park: Light and Time

We've all admired the view of Burrard Inlet from here. It's stunning, isn't it?

But have you ever watched how it changes? Next visit, come at dawn.

Yes, it's early, but remember when getting up at sunrise was no big deal?

Bring a thermos of coffee and watch the light change. Then come back at sunset.

Same view, whole different story. You might just rediscover why you fell in love with Vancouver in the first place.

3. Charleson Park: The Sound of Silence

The waterfall here is lovely, we know.

But when was the last time you really listened to it?

Find that bench you always like - you know the one. Now close your eyes. Listen. Really listen.

The water, the breeze, maybe even that noisy squirrel. It's amazing what you can hear when you take the time, isn't it?

4. Oppenheimer Park: Stories in the Trees

You probably remember when those cherry trees were planted back in '77.

They've grown a bit since then, haven't they?

Just like the neighborhood.

Next time you're here, strike up a conversation with someone.

Ask them what they remember about the park. You might hear a story that surprises make you feel young in comparison.

5. Everett Crowley Park: Nature's Resilience in Action

Hard to believe this used to be the old Kerr Road Dump, isn't it?

You've probably told your grandkids about how it's changed.

Next visit, play detective. Look closely at the ground as you walk.

Spot any old bits of glass or pottery peeking through? It's a reminder of how things can change - and how nature always finds a way.

The Five-Park Challenge:

Now, we know you don't need an excuse to visit these parks. But how about a little challenge to spice things up?

Here's your mission for the next month:

1. At Jericho, dust off those binoculars and count bird species. Bet you can spot at least five different ones.

2. At New Brighton, watch a sunrise or sunset. Really watch it. The whole thing.

3. At Charleson, sit by the waterfall with your eyes closed for five full minutes. Time yourself if you have to.

4. At Oppenheimer, share a memory about the park with someone younger. And listen to theirs too.

5. At Everett Crowley, find three signs of its past life as a landfill. They're there if you look closely.

Keep a little notebook of what you discover. You might surprise yourself with what you notice.

Remember, it's not about covering new ground. It's about seeing the familiar with new eyes. After all, isn't that what keeps us young?

So go on, lace up those walking shoes. Take a friend, or go solo.

Rediscover these old friends of ours. Who knows? We might just fall in love with Vancouver all over again.