Experience the magic of the treetops at golden hour with our Sunset Expedition Tour. This self-powered, guided tree climbing adventure takes you to heights of over 50 m (165 ft) above the forest canopy, where you’ll witness breathtaking sunset views over the Salish Sea. As the light fades, descend in partial darkness by headlamp, and experience the sights and sounds of the nocturnal forest. While full sunset time varies throughout the season and may not exactly coincide with tour schedule, the evening light always delivers a spectacular view.
This tour should be considered self-powered; however, Cultivara has a battery-powered ascender to assist climbers if needed during their ascent
The tour takes place in the UBC Botanical Garden, Canada’s oldest operating botanical garden and a living museum of plant collections from around the world. A visit to the Garden pairs perfectly with your tree climbing adventure, offering beautiful walking trails, diverse ecosystems, and world-class plant collections that deepen your appreciation for the forest from the ground up.
After-hours access to the Garden is included with this tour, limited to the climbing site only.
Our small-group tours can be tailored to suit participants of all skill and experience levels
With our expert guides, modern gear, and a passion for nature, we ensure a safe, comfortable climb while connecting you to the wonders of the forest.
Snap one-of-a-kind photos from the canopy, offering perspectives few ever get to see.
Experience the magic of sunset from high above the forest. A breathtaking view from the treetops. Descend in partial darkness by headlamp.
Our flexible, Pay-What-You-Can pricing begins with a deposit equal to the recommended price of your tour. After your climb, you have the freedom to easily adjust your final payment—up or down—based on your experience and budget. No risk, and no expectations.
We’re passionate about making tree climbing accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means. By booking with Cultivara, you support our various Outreach Programs and contributions to the Ancient Forest Alliance, an organization dedicated to protecting BC’s irreplaceable Old-growth forests for future generations.
Sunset Expedition Tours run once per day, with start times varying between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM.
– Brief welcome and introduction to the tour; introduction to the forest and tree you will be exploring
– Equipment fitting, brief equipment orientation and safety briefing
– Overview of climbing techniques, including significant time for practice and Guide feedback prior to climbing to height
– Group begins climb to height, with each participant climbing at their own pace, with guidance from instructor and rest stops as needed
– Short breaks at different points for photo ops and discussion
– Along the way, the Guide shares insights into the tree’s biology and it’s role in the ecosystem
– Reach the highest branches for a stunning aerial view of the nearby ocean and surrounding forest. Depending on the time of season, experience full or partial sunset views
– Hang out in the tree, enjoy the surroundings, and engage in further discussions with the Guide about the forest and local wildlife
– Safely descend in partial darkness by headlamp with guidance from the instructor
– Conclude the tour with a debrief and a final reflection on the experience
