Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

The Basics

Book admission tickets in advance for this popular attraction and visit independently—highlights include First Nations totem poles, a 700-foot-long (213-meter-long) Cliffwalk, and a thrilling treetop adventure route made up of smaller, open-ended suspension bridges. Kids will also love the guided nature walks. Alternatively, stop by on a small-group or private tour from Vancouver that also heads to Grouse Mountain or tours Vancouver city. Most such tours include round-trip transportation for convenience.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The bridge's thick steel cables are securely attached to huge concrete blocks on either side of the canyon; there's no need to be afraid.

• While strollers and wheelchairs are not allowed on the bridge, visitors with wheelchairs receive free entrance to the park and can take part in other activities.

• Dogs are permitted in the park, as long as they stay on their leash.

• There's an on-site gift shop for all your souvenir needs.

How to Get to There

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is located in North Vancouver, across the First Narrows from Stanley Park. By road, take Highway 99 north across the Lions Gate Bridge to Exit 14 on Capilano Road. By public transit, take the 246 bus from downtown Vancouver or the connection between the SeaBus and the 236 bus. A free shuttle also stops at several downtown hotels, and you can get there easily from the Olympic Cauldron, Granville Island, and Canada Place.

When to Get There

While summer is by far the most popular time to visit and take your turn at the walk across the bridge, the park is open year-round. Between the months of November and January, the bridge and surrounding area are lit up with hundreds of thousands of canyon lights set against the greenery. You’ll also find fun holiday activities suitable for families and kids.

The History of the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Originally installed by Scottish civil engineer George Grant Mackay, the Capilano Suspension Bridge started life as a hemp rope footbridge before being replaced in 1903, reinforced in 1914, and rebuilt in 1956. It's now one of Vancouver's most popular attractions, owned by Nancy Stibbard. And the name? It's an Anglicization of the Squamish Nation word Kia'palano.

How much time do you need at Capilano Suspension Bridge?

How much time you need at Capilano Suspension Bridge depends on you. While the bridge only takes around 5 to 15 minutes to cross, there’s plenty more to do in the park. Most people spend around 2.5 to 3 hours exploring the grounds, but it’s still worth visiting if you have less time.

Is it worth going to the Capilano Suspension Bridge?

Yes, it is worth going to the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Along with the historic 450-foot (137-meter) bridge, the park features many other things to do and views to behold. Highlights include a cliff walk, a treetop adventure circuit, and a collection of First Nations totem poles.

Do I need to book the Capilano Suspension Bridge?

No, you do not need to book the Capilano Suspension Bridge. However, doing so is a very good idea, particularly if you visit during the summer. The festive weeks leading up to Christmas are also notably busy when the park is illuminated with numerous colorful, twinkling lights.

Is the Capilano Suspension Bridge hike hard?

No, the Capilano Suspension Bridge hike is not hard. Crossing the bridge doesn’t take long, and there are railings to hold onto. However, visitors with compromised mobility may find it challenging, and those with a fear of heights may find it too much to handle.

What do you wear to the Capilano Bridge?

No matter what time of year you visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge, wearing comfortable shoes and bringing rain protection is crucial. A sun-shielding hat is a good idea if you visit in the summertime. Layers are a must the rest of the year, and a good coat is particularly essential in the winter.

How do you get to the Capilano Suspension Bridge from downtown Vancouver?

If you’re traveling from downtown Vancouver and aren’t on a Capilano Suspension Bridge tour, you’ll either need to take public transportation, rideshare or taxi, or drive yourself. Bus 246 will get you from downtown Vancouver to the Capilano Suspension Bridge. There’s also a free shuttle that departs from Canada Place.

Ways to explore

Book admission tickets in advance for this popular attraction and visit independently—highlights include First Nations totem poles, a 700-foot-long (213-meter-long) Cliffwalk, and a thrilling treetop adventure route made up of smaller, open-ended suspension bridges. Kids will also love the guided nature walks. Alternatively, stop by on a small-group or private tour from Vancouver that also heads to Grouse Mountain or tours Vancouver city. Most tours include round-trip transportation for convenience.

Accessibility

Only parts of the park are accessible. The Capilano Suspension Bridge, Treetops Adventure, and Cliffwalk are not accessible, and strollers and crutches are also not permitted on those attractions.

Age limits

None, although heights and limits on strollers may make access with very young kids difficult

What to pack

Umbrellas, hats, other sun or rain protection, wearable baby carriers if visiting with infants

What to wear

Wear comfortable, weatherproof layers and walking or hiking shoes with good grip.

Not allowed

Smoking, drones, dogs off-leash, selfie sticks

Amenities

Wi-Fi, food and drink concessions, walking trails, play areas for kids, gift shop

Address

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is located along the Capilano River in North Vancouver. To get there, you can drive, although parking may be limited. Otherwise, use public transit, free shuttles, or tours with transportation included.

Driving

To get to the park by car, travel from downtown Vancouver up the Stanley Park causeway over Lions Gate Bridge; then take the North Vancouver exit to Marine Drive. Turn left up Capilano Road for 1 mile (1.6 kilometers).

Public transportation

To get to the park from downtown Vancouver using public transportation, take the SeaBus to Lonsdale Quay, then take the #236 bus to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. You can also use the free shuttle service that departs year-round from Canada Place and the Hyatt Regency Hotel.

Best times to visit

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is open daily throughout the year, except on Christmas Day. It is typically less busy in the mornings and late afternoons.

Best days to visit

Expect weekdays to be calmer than weekends. While it can be good to visit on a sunny day, the park is also beautiful—and much quieter—during rainy days.

Best months to visit

There’s no bad season to be in Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Spring and autumn bring vivid floral and foliage displays, summer the best weather, and winter festive holiday events and light installations.

Special events

Visit from late November to late January, when the annual Canyon Lights event sees the park outfitted with glittering, festive decorations. The Love Lights event from late January to late February brings a luminous, romantic vibe to the park.