6 Reasons to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
So much more than just a big bridge, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a must-see when visiting Vancouver. And I’m not the only one who thinks so, it’s one of the top attractions in the city with over 1.2 million visitors every year.
Located just outside downtown Vancouver the park is easy to get to, open year-round and offers plenty to see and do. To give you an idea what to expect and to help convince you to add this great attraction to your itinerary I’ve rounded up the top 6 reasons to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
1. The Capilano Suspension Bridge
Hanging 70m (230 feet) above the Capilano River the 137m (450 feet) long bridge is a sight to see. Stepping out onto it for the first time I was surprised how much it bounced and swayed despite its sturdy appearance and size. And the more people get on it, the more it moves! There’s nothing to fear though, the bridge can apparently hold a fully loaded 747 airliner so a few tourists aren’t going to cause it any strain.
The bridge is the most popular attraction at the park so try and arrive early to beat some of the crowds and give yourself time to enjoy your crossing. The bridge itself makes for some great photos, taking in its massive span, but the surrounding forest and river below are equally stunning. I’m not great with heights but I didn’t have a problem crossing over, and there’s always the handrail to hold on to if you feel at all unsteady.
2. The Treetops Adventure
The fun doesn’t stop after you’ve crossed the bridge. Make your way to the Treehouse and climb up to begin the Treetops Adventure. Step out onto the first of 7 smaller suspension bridges hanging up to 33.5m (110 feet) above the forest floor. The bridges traverse the beautiful West Coast rainforest between magnificent Douglas-fir trees. You get to experience a stunning new perspective of the forest from high up in the tree canopy.
This is the second most popular spot in the park, another reason to arrive before the crowds to avoid the slow shuffle from tree to tree. There’s not a lot of room to pass on these smaller bridges so you want some time and space to enjoy the experience and grab some unique photos. These smaller bridges swing and bounce just like their larger cousin but you can find relief on the sturdy platforms attached to each Douglas-fir if you need it.
3. The Living Forest
After exploring the forest from up high there’s still plenty to explore at ground level. After you descend from the Treetops Adventure join the boardwalk and explore the Living Forest. Winding through the beautiful West Coast rainforest the boardwalks take you through the park and offer a variety of stunning scenery. The walk is enhanced by interpretive panels offering a great range of information on the forest, it’s geology, residents and unique spirit.
On the far side of the park the walk takes you past the beautiful trout pond, where you may be lucky enough to spot one in the still reflective waters. If you visit in the summer you can also catch the Raptors Ridge Birds of Prey display. Experienced handlers offer visitors a chance to get up close to hawks, owls and falcons and learn about these special creatures.
4. The Cliffwalk
The newest addition to the park is the Cliffwalk. Don’t miss it once you cross back over the main bridge. The suspended walkway is cantilevered from the granite cliffs flanking the Capilano River, carrying you out and over the rainforest and river below. The views of the river, forest and even a little waterfall are stunning.
This bridge will be the biggest challenge for those afraid of heights. While it feels a lot sturdier than the suspension bridges it is much narrower and there is less underfoot separating you from the drop below. It’s obviously just as safe as the other attractions in the park but it may pose more of a challenge if heights aren’t your thing.
5. The Story Centre & Kia’Palano
In the rush to get on to the bridge the Story Centre and Kia’Palano can sometimes be overlooked. But make sure to head back and enjoy this area once you’ve had a chance to cross the bridge. The Story Centre illustrates the early history of the 130 year old bridge with large photo murals, antiques and interpretive displays. Learn about the “Tramps” who used to make the long journey from the North Shore to visit the bridge and original cabin.
The park has strong ties to indigenous culture. The name Capilano is derived from the Squamish word Kia’palano, which means “beautiful river”. After passing through the Story Centre visit the Kia’Palano display and learn about the fascinating culture of the Coast Salish peoples. You can also view the largest privately owned collection of totem poles in North America.
6. Canyon Lights
Every year during the Christmas period the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park comes alive with the Canyon Lights Festival. Running from December through to New Years the event illuminates the park with a stunning display of thousands of lights. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland with lights adorning the Capilano Bridge, Treetop Adventure, Cliffwalk and the rainforest below.
how to Get There
Free Shuttle
The park offers a free shuttle bus from downtown Vancouver. Pick up sites include Canada Place, the Hyatt Hotel on Melville Street and the Blue Horizon Hotel on Robson Street. Full details can be found on the website. Seats are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Public Transport
Depending on your starting point there are a number of public buses that will get you to the park. For details on bus numbers, routes and prices visit Translink.
Car
Parking is available at the park however it is limited and can fill up very quickly during peak times. Arrive early to secure a spot and use your credit card to purchase a 3 hour ticket for $8.
Tips
Buy your tickets online. Purchase your tickets online ahead of time and avoid queuing when you arrive.
Beat the crowds. Arrive early! The park is hugely popular and visitor numbers peak from late morning. Avoid the tour buses and school groups and arrive early to enjoy the park and get your photos.
Bring a rain jacket. The park is located in the Vancouver rainforest, a light rain jacket is likely to come in handy and isn’t much to carry if it’s not needed.
Wear sensible shoes. The main bridge was a lot steeper than I expected. There are mats on the ground so you don’t slip but sensible shoes are a good idea. The Living Forest has areas of dirt and gravel and some parts of the Cliffwalk are nothing more than steel grates, it’s not a destination for heels.
Allow enough time. The park recommends allowing 2-3 hours for your visit and I would agree. Give yourself time to explore each area, you may want to do some twice. The park also has dining options available so allow time for lunch if this is something you’d enjoy.
Bring your camera. But not your selfie stick or drone, these are not permitted in the park.
So, did I convince you? Hopefully you’ve now added the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park to your Vancouver wish list or itinerary. After visiting in the summer I know I’ve added it to my list when I have a chance to get back to Canada in the winter. I can’t wait to see the magical lighting display illuminating the forest!
Looking for more things to do during your stay? Check out my post on the Top 10 Things to do in Vancouver for some inspiration.
Have you been to the Capilano Suspension Bridge? What was your favourite part? Let me know in the comments below.
This post is not sponsored. As always all views and opinions expressed are my own.
