Inuit inukshuk

This giant with the welcoming outstretched arms is a well-known symbol in northern Canada for just that: hospitality and friendship. Also traditionally used as a landmark and navigation aid, this stone sculpture was originally commissioned by the government of the Northwest Territories for its pavilion at Vancouver Expo in 1986. It was subsequently donated to the City and placed in its current location. If you are lucky, you may catch some of the local people building smaller freestanding stone and wood sculptures which are amazing studies in seemingly defying gravity...

Turn back towards the hillside and you'll see a path heading straight up to the road. Follow it up and bear left at the top, proceeding to cross at the first crosswalk to your right (Beach Avenue). Head over to the park on your left and continue to follow the upper path parallel with Beach Avenue.

Alexandra Park

Here at the foot of Bidwell Street is Alexandra Park. This small park (only 1.33 acres) was named in honor of the reigning Queen at the time the park was acquired. In the middle of the park is Haywood Bandstand, one of only a few remaining Edwardian bandstand's in Vancouver. Every Sunday afternoon during summer, a series of concerts entitled 'Music in the Park' take place.

About halfway along the path you'll come to Joe's drinking fountain.

Joe Fortes Drinking Fountain

Alexandra Park is also home to a decorative fountain which was placed here in June 1927 by the citizens of Vancouver to commemorate Joe Fortes. Joe was English Bay's self-appointed, unpaid lifeguard and later Vancouver's first official lifeguard. Built at a height so that children can use it, the fountain's inscription says, "Little Children Loved Him". If you didn't have a look before, please read Joe's story.

Cut back up through the park past the bandstand, and cross Burnaby Street at Bidwell. Continue to follow Bidwell past the stylish "Balthazar Hideaway" restaurant on your left. Davie Street is the next one you come to, so cross the road and turn right up the hill.