The Swaying Bridge Above the Canyon
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a 137-metre-long, 70-metre-high footbridge spanning the Capilano Canyon on Vancouver’s North Shore — approximately 15 minutes from downtown. The bridge sways as you walk across it (the sway is the experience — the canyon floor 70 metres below, the old-growth forest on both sides, and the river rushing through the gorge), and the park surrounding it contains the Cliffwalk (a cantilevered walkway attached to the granite cliff face above the canyon), the Treetops Adventure (seven suspension bridges between old-growth Douglas firs at 30 metres above the forest floor), and interpretive exhibits on First Nations culture and the temperate rainforest ecosystem.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a private attraction (ticketed entry), and the combination of the bridge, the Cliffwalk, and the Treetops creates a 2–3 hour experience that is one of Vancouver’s most visited attractions. The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge (a free alternative approximately 15 minutes east) is smaller but provides a similar — if less dramatic — canyon-crossing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Capilano Suspension Bridge cost?
Approximately CAD 55–65 per adult (prices vary seasonally). Children’s rates and family passes available. The ticket includes the bridge, the Cliffwalk, the Treetops, and all exhibits.
Is the bridge scary?
The bridge sways — by design. The sway increases with the number of people on the bridge and with wind. If you are uncomfortable with heights or motion, the experience may be challenging. The bridge is safe (engineered to carry far more weight than it ever holds) but the sensation is visceral.
Is the free Lynn Canyon bridge a good alternative?
The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is free, shorter, lower (approximately 50 metres), and less crowded. It provides a canyon-crossing experience without the Capilano park’s additional attractions (Cliffwalk, Treetops). For budget-conscious visitors, Lynn Canyon is a viable alternative.