Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain & Lynn Canyon
Planning Your Trip To Vancouver & Wanting To Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain & Lynn Canyon? We’ve Got You Covered!
This blog post is about the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain & Lynn Canyon and it was updated in 2024.
Vancouver is one of Canada’s most beautiful and diverse cities, situated on the west coast of the province of British Columbia.
Among the city’s most popular tourist destinations are the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain, and Lynn Canyon.
These three locations offer visitors a chance to experience the lush forests, towering mountains, and breathtaking views of Vancouver.
They are close to each other so I recommend doing them together.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the highlights and must-see features of each of these iconic Vancouver destinations.
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Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a popular tourist attraction located in North Vancouver (about 20 minutes drive from downtown Vancouver).
It is home to the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge.
In addition to the suspension bridge, there are various other attractions at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, including the Cliffwalk.
Which is a suspended walkway that protrudes from a granite cliff face.
As well as the Treetops Adventure, which consists of a series of raised walkways that guide visitors through the forest canopy of the park.
In addition, there are places to get food – Dr. Wood’s Cabin (refreshments only, after the bridge), and Cliff House Restaurant (full-service restaurant, beside the Cliffwalk).
Also, there is a large gift shop called the Trading Post Gift Shop which sells unique Canadian gifts and homemade fudge (yummy).
If you’re looking for coffee they have the Capilano Coffee Company where they have coffee, baked goods, and sandwiches (before the bridge).
Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of the most famous attractions in Vancouver.
What is the Capilano Suspension Bridge?
It is a suspension bridge that stretches 450 feet (137 meters) across the Capilano River, approximately 230 feet (70 meters) above the river.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver is open year-round, with different seasonal activities and events.
What is the best time to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge?
During the summer months from June to August, the park experiences warm and sunny weather with lush greenery.
Summer is the peak tourist season, resulting in significant crowds.
Despite this, the park offers extended hours, special events, and activities like live music and seasonal festivals.
During the fall season from September to November, the park’s foliage transforms into a beautiful and vibrant display of autumn colors.
There are fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
During the winter months from December to February, the park is decorated with holiday lights and festive decorations.
The Canyon Lights event is the main attraction in the winter.
It is when the suspension bridge and other park features are adorned with twinkling lights.
Finally, the spring season from March to May brings about fresh foliage, blooming flowers, and the return of wildlife.
However, the weather can still be chilly and rainy with fewer crowds than in the summer months.
Therefore, the best time to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park depends on individual interests, as each season offers something different and unique.
What is the best time of the day to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge?
To avoid crowds, it is advisable to arrive early in the morning when the park opens or later in the afternoon when crowds begin to thin out.
Doing so provides visitors with more room to explore the park and take in the views at their own pace without feeling rushed or crowded.
For those visiting during the winter months, it’s best to arrive in the late afternoon to witness the Canyon Lights event.
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How long does it take to walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge?
Crossing the bridge itself takes only a few minutes.
However, visitors typically spend a few hours at the park exploring various attractions and features in addition to crossing the bridge.
And yes, the rope bridge does sway back and forth when you walk on it or others do.
However, my partner doesn’t like heights or swaying bridges and he was able to cross it a few times.
During peak season and weekends, the park can get quite crowded, resulting in longer navigation times to see all of the attractions.
Alternatively, during quieter times of the year or weekdays, visitors can take their time exploring the park at a more leisurely pace to enjoy the scenery fully.
Therefore, how long to spend at Capilano Suspension Bridge is up to you.
However, it is recommended to plan for at least a few hours to experience everything that the park has to offer.
👉 You can book your entry ticket here: Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Entry Ticket
How do you get to the Capilano Suspension Bridge?
The Capilano Suspension Bridge bus is a FREE shuttle that is working all year round.
The Vancouver shuttle to Capilano Suspension Bridge is an easy way to reach the attraction.
It picks up visitors from three different places in downtown Vancouver and brings them to the park.
Therefore, it goes to the Capilano Suspension Bridge from Vancouver and back.
👉 If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car in Vancouver after exploring the world’s biggest car rental website: Rentalcars
Is the Capilano Suspension Bridge worth it?
While many visitors find the experience to be thrilling and unique, the high cost of admission may deter some from visiting.
Some visitors may find the cost to be too expensive, especially for families or those on a tight budget.
However, the attraction does offer an enjoyable and memorable experience that cannot be found elsewhere.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a worthwhile experience for those who can afford it.
However, the high cost of admission may make it difficult for some visitors to justify the expense.
Raptors Ridge
Raptors Ridge is an educational facility, dedicated to wildlife conservation and educating people about raptors.
Which are skilled predators like falcons, hawks, and owls.
The facility features daily shows where visitors can watch the birds in action.
Also, the birds are free to fly and roam in an open environment when they are not at the park.
Raptors Ridge operates seasonally from May to October.
The raptors we saw were a Barn Owl, North American Kestrel, and Saker Falcon. The birds were stunning and they told us a little bit about them.
However, keep in mind you’re not allowed to touch the birds.
Check the times before you explore the rest of the park so you know when they will bring the birds out and you don’t miss out on seeing them.
Treetop Adventure
Treetop Adventure is the place where your inner squirrel can come out!
It is an elevated walkway that takes visitors through the treetops of the lush rainforest, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
The walkway consists of a series of suspended bridges, platforms, and walkways that are connected to towering trees.
It allows visitors to experience the forest canopy from a unique perspective.
Also, the attraction features informative signage and educational displays that provide insight into the local flora and fauna.
Personally, that was my favorite experience. You get a different view of the forest from the treetops.
🎥 Here are two videos:
Treetops Adventure – Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Treetops Adventure – Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Part 2
Cliffwalk
Cliffwalk is the newest addition to the park.
It is a suspended walkway that juts out from the granite cliff face, offering stunning views of the Capilano Canyon and the surrounding rainforest.
The Cliffwalk is a narrow, winding path that takes visitors through various vantage points, including a glass-floored platform that extends out over the canyon.
Along the way, visitors can explore informational displays about the local history and ecology.
The attraction is designed to be an immersive and thrilling experience for visitors while also providing educational insights into the natural environment.
The Cliffwalk is located on the visitor center’s side of the Capilano River, while everything else is located after you cross the bridge.
Other Amenities
Another thing to see is the totem poles that tell the unique stories of the First Nations.
Also, if you get the park’s map, there are six different stamps that you can collect while you visit the park’s main attractions.
Once you collect all the stamps, go to Guest Services to collect your certificate!!
The stamp machines are hard to find, they are these metal, old-looking things.
And lastly, check out these three stones that have water dripping on them.
You can see the damage the water has done to the stone over different periods of time.
The stones are located close to the Cliffwalk.
👉 You can book your entry ticket here: Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Entry Ticket
🦄 If you want to learn more about Vancouver, check out this blog post: Vancouver: Gastown, Chinese Garden & Vancouver Lookout
Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is a popular destination located in North Vancouver.
It is famous for its scenic views, outdoor recreational activities, and wildlife.
Grouse Mountain
Let’s take a look at Grouse Mountain and all it has to offer.
What is Grouse Mountain famous for?
Grouse Mountain is famous for its winter skiing and snowboarding trails, which cater to all skill levels.
Additionally, visitors can participate in snowshoeing, ice skating, and sleigh rides.
In the summer months, the mountain is well-known for its picturesque hiking trails and zip line adventures.
Other outdoor activities include mountain biking, paragliding, and observing wildlife.
Also, Grouse Mountain is known for its resident Grizzly Bears, which can be observed in a natural habitat.
Educational programs and guided tours are available for visitors to learn about the bears and their conservation efforts.
Grouse Mountain has various dining, shopping, and entertainment options, including a theater and a Lumberjack Show.
To reach the peak, visitors must take the Skyride gondola.
Grouse Mountain is a popular destination for tourists of all ages and interests, offering a broad range of outdoor recreational activities and attractions.
Is Grouse Mountain free?
No, Grouse Mountain is not free.
Visitors are required to purchase a ticket to access the mountain and its facilities.
The Mountain Admission tickets for Grouse Mountain include:
- Round-trip on the Skyride gondola
- Peak Sightseeing chair lift, Lumberjack Show, Grizzly Bear habitat, Birds in Motion demonstration, etc (summer months – May to September)
- Light Walk, snowshoeing, outdoor skating, Sliding Zone (during the winter months). Keep in mind that the equipment rental is not included.
- Theatre in the Sky (open all the time)
👉 You can book your Mountain Admission ticket, by clicking here: Vancouver: Grouse Mountain Admission Ticket
How to get to Grouse Mountain without a car?
It is easy to get to Grouse Mountain without a car.
In the summer months, there is a FREE Shuttle that runs between Canada Place and Grouse Mountain.
The shuttle operates daily on a first-come, first-served basis with the purchase of a round-trip Mountain Admission ticket.
In the winter you need to take public transit – take the Seabus from Waterfront Station next to Canada Place to Lonsdale Quay.
Then connect with Bus #236 to get to Grouse Mountain.
To return to downtown Vancouver, take Bus #236 from Grouse Mountain to Lonsdale Quay and ride the Seabus to Waterfront Station.
How long does it take to hike Grouse Mountain?
Grouse Mountain provides a variety of hiking trails that differ in length, difficulty level, and elevation gain.
The duration of the hike on Grouse Mountain relies on multiple factors such as fitness level, trail selection, and weather conditions.
The most popular trail, the Grouse Grind, stretches for 2.5 km (1.55 miles) and ascends 800 meters (2,624 feet) in elevation.
Completing this difficult hike takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours for most individuals.
It is worth noting that the Grouse Grind and the Skyride gondola share the same route up the mountain.
I do not recommend attempting the Grouse Grind unless you are in top physical condition.
An alternative route to the Grouse Grind is the BCMC Trail, which spans 3 km (1.86 miles) and ascends 853 meters (2,798 feet) in elevation.
It usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to finish this hike.
If you prefer a less demanding hike, the Dam Mountain Trail is an excellent choice.
This trail is 5 km (3.10 miles) long and gains 260 meters (853 feet) in elevation, taking most people approximately 2 hours to complete.
It is important to remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring enough water and snacks for your hike.
Also, keep in mind the mountain can get cold so bring a rain jacket/sweater even in the summer months.
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Is Grouse Mountain worth visiting?
Yes, Grouse Mountain is definitely worth visiting!
It is a popular tourist destination and a favorite among locals for a reason.
The mountain offers spectacular views of Vancouver and the surrounding area, and the natural beauty of the mountain is truly breathtaking.
Grouse Mountain is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for a unique and exciting experience in Vancouver.
Lumberjack Show
This show features skilled lumberjacks demonstrating their skills in a variety of events, such as log rolling, axe throwing, and chainsaw carving.
The show is educational as well as entertaining, as the lumberjacks provide insight into the history of the Canadian logging industry and the techniques used by lumberjacks in the past and present.
During the show that we watched, there were two lumberjacks and they were competing in a few different games such as axe throwing, log rolling, 60-foot tree climb, etc.
The show took about 45 minutes; there are three shows per day.
🎥 Here are some videos of what the Lumberjack Show looks like:
Lumberjack Show – Ax Throwing
Lumberjack Show – Log Rolling
also,
Lumberjack Show – Log Cutting Part 1
Lumberjack Show – Log Cutting Part 2
Birds In Motion Demonstration
The Birds in Motion Demonstration is a wildlife education program offered at Grouse Mountain.
It showcases various birds of prey, including eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons.
During the demonstration, trained wildlife handlers release the birds and they fly freely over the audience, demonstrating their incredible flying skills and agility.
Also, the handlers provide information on the birds’ behaviors, habitat, and conservation efforts.
There are three shows per day and the show last about 30 minutes.
Additionally, Grouse Mountain offers Owl Interpretive Sessions.
Where a staff member typically holds an owl and provides visitors with information about the bird, such as its behavior, habitat, and conservation status.
The Eye of the Wind
The Eye of the Wind is a wind turbine located at the summit of Grouse Mountain.
It stands 65 meters (213 feet) tall and has a capacity of 1.5 megawatts, making it the largest wind turbine on a mountaintop in North America.
Also, it is the only wind turbine in the world with an observation deck right where the blades are.
Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the turbine and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and city.
Additionally, there is an educational exhibit on wind energy and sustainability located inside the turbine.
In order to get to it, you need to get on the Peak Chairlift which is included in the price of the Mountain Admission Ticket.
The Eye of the Wind has its own admission and you can buy a ticket on the spot.
Grizzly Lookout and Habitat
The Grizzly Lookout and Habitat provide a natural habitat for two resident grizzly bears, named Grinder (the smaller one) and Coola (the larger one).
They were both found as cubs without a mother and were rescued.
The exhibit is designed to mimic the bears’ natural environment and includes a stream, pond, and trees.
Visitors can observe the bears from a safe distance on a viewing platform.
Also, they can learn about their behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts through educational programs.
🎥 Here is a video of the two bears: Grouse Mountain – Grizzly Bears
👉 You can book your Mountain Admission ticket, by clicking here: Vancouver: Grouse Mountain Admission Ticket
Other Amenities
At the Peak Chalet, you can explore a range of amenities such as shopping, dining, and washrooms.
Additionally, it houses a movie theater that showcases nature-inspired movies.
The Peak Chalet is located beside the gondola station (Red Skyride).
It offers picturesque views of Vancouver City that are perfect for capturing some stunning photographs.
Apart from these attractions, there are several other activities to engage in, including Heli-Tours, Mountain Ziplines, Tandem Paragliding, Guided Eco-Walk, and more.
However, to participate in most of these activities, pre-booking is necessary.
The Rusty Rail BBQ served us some delicious lunch, but it’s worth noting that it’s an outdoor eatery.
Therefore, you should be cautious of the weather conditions if you want to eat there.
Even during the summer, Grouse Mountain tends to get quite chilly, as we experienced during our visit when it was cold and rainy.
If you plan to watch some shows and fully explore the mountain, you should set aside a few hours.
We spent a significant amount of time here ourselves.
👉 If you want to incorporate Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain in one day, check out this tour: North Shore Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain Tour
Lynn Canyon Park and Bridge
Lynn Canyon Park and Bridge is a popular natural attraction located in North Vancouver.
The park covers over 600 acres and features a rainforest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge.
In addition, Lynn Canyon Park offers visitors many other attractions, including the Twin Falls, a set of waterfalls that cascade into a pool below.
As well as, a variety of hiking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
Also, one of the highlights of Lynn Canyon Park is the 30 Foot Pool, where visitors love to swim in the summer months.
The park features picnic areas, a cafe, and an ecology center with educational exhibits about the local flora and fauna.
Here is a Lynn Canyon Park map, including the tails and other important information.
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge spans 40 meters (130 feet) across a deep canyon and offers visitors great views of the forest floor below.
Lynn Bridge is made of steel cables and wooden planks and is suspended 50 meters (160 feet) above Lynn Creek.
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a lot smaller than the more popular Capilano Suspension Bridge.
It is lesser known and there are fewer visitors making it a hidden gem in North Vancouver.
Is Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge free?
Yes, Lynn Canyon Park and Bridge are free to enter and explore. There is no admission fee.
However, there is paid parking implemented (since 2023) which means you will have to pay the parking fare to park your vehicle in the parking lot.
From March 1 to October 31, paid parking is enforced between 8 am to 6 pm.
The parking fee is $3 per hour, with a maximum limit of 4 hours.
It is open year-round, although some attractions, such as the swimming holes, will be closed during the winter months.
👉 Rent a car in Vancouver after exploring the world’s biggest car rental website: Rentalcars
Where is the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge?
The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is located in Lynn Canyon Park, which is in North Vancouver.
To reach Lynn Canyon Park and the Suspension Bridge, you can take public transportation or drive.
Use the #227 community shuttle at Peter’s Road and Duval Road or the #228 bus at Burrill Road and Lynn Valley Road.
The park is approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, and parking is available on-site.
What are the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge’s hours of operation?
The hours of operation for the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge vary depending on the time of year.
During the summer season, the bridge is typically open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
However, during the winter season, the hours of operation are generally shorter, with the bridge opening at 7:00 a.m. and closing at 6:00 p.m.
During spring and fall the park is open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
30 Foot Pool
The 30 Foot Pool is a popular swimming hole located in Lynn Canyon Park.
It is a natural pool formed by the Lynn Creek waterfall, which flows over a rocky outcropping and drops 30 feet into a deep pool below.
The pool is surrounded by a rocky shore and lush green forest, making it a picturesque spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
However, the water in the pool can be quite cold, even in the summer months.
That is due to its glacial origins, but it is a refreshing and invigorating place to take a dip on a hot day.
Access to the 30 Foot Pool is via a trail leading from the Suspension Bridge and it takes about 25 min to walk or about 1km (0.60 miles).
It is important to note that the water in the pool can be deep and the current can be strong.
Therefore, swimmers should exercise caution and be aware of their swimming abilities.
Additionally, swimming in the pool is at your own risk, as there are no lifeguards on duty.
Twin Falls
The Twin Falls are a pair of waterfalls located in Lynn Canyon Park.
They are so named because they consist of two side-by-side cascades of water that tumble down a rocky slope and into a deep pool below.
The falls are accessible via a short hike from the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, and they are a popular attraction for visitors to the park.
They can be viewed from several vantage points, including a wooden viewing platform that provides a great view of both cascades.
The Twin Falls are fed by Lynn Creek, which flows through Lynn Canyon and eventually empties into the Capilano River.
The waterfalls are particularly impressive during the spring months when the creek is filled with snowmelt and the falls are at their fullest.
Conclusion: Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain & Lynn Canyon
In conclusion, Vancouver offers visitors a fantastic range of attractions, including the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain, and Lynn Canyon.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a thrilling experience with stunning views of the surrounding forest and the Capilano River.
Meanwhile, Grouse Mountain offers outdoor enthusiasts a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and hiking, with breathtaking panoramic views from the top.
Lynn Canyon is a beautiful natural park where visitors have the chance to explore stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and a suspension bridge, all within a tranquil and peaceful setting.
These three attractions are among the top things to see and do in Vancouver.
Making them a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure and natural beauty.
🦄 If you like nature, check out these blog posts as well:
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