Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – North Vancouver’s Iconic Tourist Destination
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is one of the most famous and visited tourist attractions in Metro Vancouver. Located in North Vancouver, just minutes from the Lions Gate Bridge, this breathtaking nature destination is open year-round. It offers adventure, history and stunning scenery in every season.
The best time of year is probably around Christmas, as that is when the park puts on Canyon Lights. From late November until February, millions of lights illuminate the park with festive colours and decorations.
Explore Capilano Suspension Bridge
The highlight of the park is the world-famous Capilano Suspension Bridge, stretching 137 meters (450 feet) across and suspended 70 meters (230 feet) above the Capilano River. Originally built in 1889, the bridge has been rebuilt several times, now standing as a sturdy yet thrilling experience. The bridge gently sways as visitors cross, offering both excitement and spectacular views of the canyon below.
Visitor Information
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is located at 3735 Capilano Road in North Vancouver, just a short drive from downtown Vancouver via the Lions Gate Bridge or Exit 14 off the Trans-Canada Highway. The attraction is open year-round and offers free shuttle service from several downtown Vancouver locations.
While the park is not fully wheelchair- or stroller-accessible, admission is free for guests in wheelchairs. On-site dining is available at the Cliff House Restaurant and Logger’s Grill, making it easy to enjoy a meal during your visit.
Attractions Beyond the Bridge
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is more than just one bridge. Here’s what else you can explore:
Treetops Adventure – Elevated walkways and suspension bridges between towering Douglas firs, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the coastal rainforest.
Cliffwalk – A narrow, heart-pounding walkway clinging to the granite cliffs high above the river. It’s one of the park’s most dramatic and photo-worthy features.
Nature’s Edge Boardwalk – A scenic, wooden trail winding through the forest and beneath the bridge, showcasing the area’s flora and fauna.
First Nations Art & Culture – Totem poles, Indigenous carvings, and educational exhibits highlight the rich cultural heritage of the Squamish and other local First Nations.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
Capilano Suspension Bridge transforms throughout the year with seasonal celebrations that make each visit unique:
Canyon Lights (around late November–mid-January) – A magical Christmas light display featuring hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights on the bridge, trees, and cliffside walkways. It’s a must-visit winter event.
Love Lights (around February) – A romantic Valentine’s-themed event with heart-shaped illuminations and pink-hued lighting displays.
Hoppy Heights (typically during Easter) – A family-friendly event with Easter-themed decorations and scavenger hunts for kids.
Canyon Frights (around mid–late October) – A spooky, yet still family-friendly Halloween event with pumpkins, skeletons, eerie lights and nighttime adventures through the forest.
Wildlife Encounters and Educational Guided Tours at the Bridge
During summer months, don’t miss the Raptors Ridge Birds of Prey exhibit, where you can see falcons, owls, and hawks up close and learn about their roles in the ecosystem.
Also, there are free guided nature and history tours available throughout the day. Learn about the bridge’s origin, forest ecology and First Nations heritage. Tours run every 30 minutes in the summer and hourly in the off-season. The tours are a great way to deepen your experience and learn new things.
Tips for Visiting Capilano Suspension Bridge
Tip #1: BC residents can upgrade a day ticket to an annual pass at no extra cost. This means residents can visit again during seasonal events for free.
Tip #2: Visit in the late afternoon during Canyon Lights to enjoy the park in both daylight and after dark when the lights are illuminated.
Tip #3: Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes. There are stairs, wooden walkways, and swaying bridges that aren’t suited for high heels or slippery soles.
Tip #4: For ideas of other attractions to explore with children, see our article about Metro Vancouver’s Best Kids’ Events and Attractions.