Among Giants: Native Trees and Forest Stories at UBC Botanical Garden
Towering above the Garden’s international plant collections is a remarkable canopy of native coniferous trees, including some of the oldest second-growth forest in Vancouver. Join Ryan Regier for a guided walk through this unique landscape as he shares practical tips for identifying native B.C. trees and introduces the distinctive characteristics of species such as Douglas-fir, grand fir, western redcedar, western hemlock, and bigleaf maple. Along the way, participants will learn about forest ecology, the relationships between trees and other organisms, and how these species have shaped local environments and communities over time.
Drawing on years of leading tree walks and studying the natural history of the region, Ryan will highlight the stories hidden within the forest: from patterns of succession and disturbance to the history of Vancouver’s second-growth forests. Whether you are new to tree identification or already have an interest in local ecology, this walk offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of the remarkable forest growing within UBC Botanical Garden.
About the guide: Ryan is a Research Librarian at UBC Library, a member of the Nature Vancouver Botany Committee, and a regular forest walk leader with Pacific Spirit Park Society. You can learn more about his walks and research blog at www.ryanforestwalks.ca.
Date: Thursday August 13, 2026
Time: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: UBC Botanical Garden, Garden Entrance, 6804 SW Marine Drive, Vancouver BC
General Admission: $20.00 plus tax (this includes admission into the UBC Botanical Garden)
Concession (Garden Members, UNA Residents, Youth (13-17), Seniors (65+), UBC Students | Staff | Faculty. Valid ID card required.): $18.00 plus tax (Apply CONCESSION2026 at checkout)
All proceeds from this tour support conservation, research, and education at UBC Botanical Garden.
Important Notes: Space is limited, register online to secure your spot! While children are always welcome, these tours are targeted for an adult audience. Tours will go ahead rain or shine.
Accessibility: Please note that this is a walking tour with very few locations to sit throughout the tour.
Cancellation Policies: UBC Botanical Garden does not have the capacity to refund tickets. If the performance is cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control, ticket holders will receive a gift card for the value of their tickets that can be redeemed for UBC Botanical Garden and Nitobe Memorial Garden admission and in The Shop in the Garden.
Register Now!
