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Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Vancouver BC

Visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge? Here’s everything you need to know.

While visiting Vancouver, everyone recommended one popular attraction, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which hangs 230 ft (70 m) above the Capilano River and stretches 450 ft (137 m) across. We also recently went to the Golden Skybridge, which is now Canada’s Highest suspension bridge at 426 ft above a canyon and 492 ft long.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Vancouver.

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Last Updated: July 31, 2023

About the Capilano SUspension Bridge Park

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is open year-round and attracts over 1.2 million visitors each year. It was originally built in 1889, and has been rebuilt a few times since then, in 1903, 1956, and 1998. The current bridge is made of steel cables and Douglas fir planks and can carry up to 2,500 people at a time. Beyond the main suspension bridge, the park offers other ways to enjoy nature.

Tourist traps are usually our least favorite part of traveling to a new city because they’re always crowded, overpriced, and overrated. We didn’t expect there to be much more than just the suspension bridge, but it is a beautiful park, and we’re so glad we had a chance to visit.

We enjoyed walking around the Treetops Adventure the most and liked that they had many great photo ops throughout the park.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Vancouver.

See More: 101 Things to Do in Vancouver BC

Things to Do at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

There are a handful of different activities you can do when visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. To make the most of your visit, let’s take a look at each one in more detail.

1. The Capilano Suspension Bridge

Test your fear of heights on the world-famous suspension bridge that spans 450 feet (137 meters) above a beautiful canyon. The bridge suspends you 230 feet (70 meters) above the river. Although it’s wobbly, the bridge is strong. It can carry over 2,500 people or a fully loaded 747 airliner.

Can you tell that I maybe a tad afraid of heights in the photo below?

Fun Fact: They originally built the bridge with hemp rope and cedar planks!

Vancouver Suspension Bridge (Things to Do in Vancouver).
Capilano Suspension Bridge Vancouver.
Capilano Bridge Canada.

2. Treetops Adventure

This was our favorite activity in the park. There are seven interconnected suspension bridges that take you through the beautiful 250-year-old Douglas fir trees. There’s even a treehouse to explore. At the highest point, you are 110 feet above the forest floor.

Fun Fact: The treehouse was built from reclaimed wood.

Treetops Adventures.
Treetops Adventures (Vancouver Things to Do).
Treetop Adventure Park (Things to Do in Vancouver).
Treetops Adventures (Things to Do Vancouver).
Treetops Adventures (Things to See in Vancouver).

3. Cliffwalk

If the bridge didn’t get your heart racing enough, then check out Cliffwalk. These narrow walkways and stairs take you as high as 30 stories above the canyon. There are also viewing platforms anchored to the cliff face. If you look closely, you might even be able to spot a waterfall in the canyon.

Fun Fact: The Cliffwalk can support up to 35 adult orca whales, or 100,000 pounds.

Capilano Cliff Walk Vancouver.
Capilano Cliff Walk Vancouver.
Vancouver Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
Capilano Cliff Walk Vancouver.
Capilano Cliff Walk Vancouver.

4. The Living Forest

Just beyond the Suspension Bridge is the Living Forest, where you can explore a lush West Coast rainforest. Breathe in the fresh air as you learn about the amazing ecosystem that you’re walking through. This area is perfect if you had enough heights from the suspension bridge.

Fun Fact: Keep an eye out for banana slugs that are common in the area. Just be sure to leave them alone.

5. The Birds of Raptors Ridge

If you’re visiting between April and early September, then stop by Raptors Ridge to meet eagles, owls, and other birds of prey. The dedicated handlers tell you more about these amazing creatures and you get to see some of them in action.

The birds are kept in an open, free-flight environment and they rotate the birds as to not over stimulate them with visitors.

If I ever encountered any of these birds in the wild, they would terrify me. Look at how big their wingspans are!

Canada Suspension Bridge Park.
Capilano Cliff Walk Vancouver.

6. See the History of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

As you enter the park, you’ll see the Story Centre where you can learn about the 130+ years of stories and history the park has to tell.

You can also stop by the Trading Post to get souveniers or food and snacks in the main village area.

Fun Fact: The current owner of the park started working selling ice cream at the park when she was eight. She eventually bought the park from her father.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.
Vancouver Things to Do.

7. Kia’Palano

This educational center is dedicated to the First Nations people and their connection to the park and surrounding area. Many of the totem poles (or story poles) were designed and carved by Indigenous carvers of the Tlingtin/Talton Nation.

Fun Fact: Kia’palano means “beautiful river” in the Skwxwú7mesh language.

Vancouver Capilano Bridge Park.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

Bonus: Join a complimentary Talk

Dedicated and knowledgeable guides hold talks on history, culture, and nature. Throughout the summer, they give over 1000 tours and it’s one of the best ways to get insight into the park.

Ticket Prices and Hours

Purchasing a ticket gets you unlimited access to everything the Park has to offer. Purchase tickets online to save $3 and if you’re a BC resident, the BC Annual Pass is the same prices as one ticket.

They also offer evening prices if you plan to visit after 5 PM.

  • Adults (18-64): Online Price $54 | Ticket Window Price $57 | Evening Price $42
  • Senior (65+): Online Price $50 | Ticket Window Price $53 | Evening Price $38
  • Student (18+ with valid ID): Online Price $44 | Ticket Window Price $47 | Evening Price $33
  • Youth (13-17): Online Price $32 | Ticket Window Price $35 | Evening Price $23
  • Child (6-12): Online Price $23 | Ticket Window Price $26 | Evening Price $17
  • Children 5 and Under: Free

Seasonal Hours (You can stay in the park an additional hour after posted closing time)

  • May 18 – September 4: 8:30 AM to 7 PM (closing at 5 PM on Aug 29th)
  • September 5 – October 12: 9 AM to 6 PM
  • October 13 – October 31: 10 AM to 8 PM (Canyon Frights)
  • November 1 – November 16: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • November 17 – January 21, 2024: 11 AM to 9 PM (Canyon Lights)

Getting to Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is only 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver. There are a few different ways you can get there:

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Address:
3735 Capilano Road North Vancouver, BC Canada V7R 4J1 (map)

  • By Free Shuttle: There is a free shuttle that picks up from a few different spots downtown and even includes return service. See the schedule here. Proof of Park admission is required for the return shuttle.
  • By Car: Parking can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays. From downtown Vancouver, head west on Georgia Street up the Stanley Park causeway over Lions Gate Bridge. Then take the North Vancouver exit to Marine Drive, turn left up Capilano Road. The park entrance is 1 mile up the road.
  • By Transit: You can take the SeaBus to Lonsdale Quay, then take the #236 bus to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Fore more options, see here.
  • By Bike: Follow the same directions as by car. Some of the streets will have bike lanes and there are plenty of bike racks in front of the Bridge House. Keep in mind the ride will take you on a lot of hills and some busy areas with no bike lanes.

Parking at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: $8 for three hours
Parking can be limited on weekends and holidays, and RV parking is extremely limited. During peak periods, they may direct you to one of the free overflow parking locations where a shuttle will take you to the park.

Where to Stay

Essential Tips for Visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

  • Since you’ll be exploring the PNW, it’s always smart to have a rain jacket and waterproof shoes on.
  • Books your tickets online to save money. They can also sell out during peak season (summer and weekends).
  • The park is typically busiest between 11 AM and 3 PM. Visit before or after for lighter crowds.
  • You will be doing a lot of walking, so bring comfortable shoes.
  • They have special events throughout the year like Canyon Frights (Oct), Love Lights (Feb), and Canyon Lights (Nov-Jan).
  • If you have little ones, check out the Rainforest Explorers Program. It’s a self-guided booklet that you can pick up at the Treehouse filled with games, puzzles, and more. Once finished, you can pick up a reward before heading back across the bridge.
  • You’ll see plenty of other wildlife in the area if you keep an eye out. Resident squirrels, rainbow trout, great blue heron, and even bald eagles can be seen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Capilano Suspension Bridge Park worth it? Why is the Capilano Suspension Bridge so popular?

In general we avoid tourist traps or attractions, but this one is beautiful. We enjoyed exploring the forest and it’s a great way to get outdoors in a controlled environment.

The park is popular for a few reasons. First, it is a truly unique experience to walk across a suspension bridge that is 450 feet long and 230 feet high. Second, the park is located in a beautiful rainforest setting, which makes for a relaxing and scenic visit. Third, there are a variety of other things to see and do in the park, which makes it a great place to spend a few hours.

How long does it take to walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge? How much walking is Capilano Bridge?

It takes about 5-15 minutes to walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge. The entire park has about 1.1 miles of trails, so you can expect to do a fair amount of walking if you want to see everything. See prices here.

How many suspension bridges are in Capilano?

Depends on how you count. There’s the main suspensions bridge and seven more in Treetops Adventure. Then there’s the Cliffwalk.

What is the Capilano Bridge known for?

The Capilano Bridge is known for being one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vancouver. It is also known for its stunning views of the Capilano River and the surrounding rainforest.

Which suspension bridge is better in Vancouver?

The Capilano Suspension Bridge and the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge are the two most popular suspension bridges in Vancouver. They are both beautiful and offer stunning views, so it really comes down to personal preference. If you are looking for a more challenging walk, then the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is the better option. If you are looking for a more scenic walk, then the Capilano Suspension Bridge is the better option.

What is the free alternative to the Capilano bridge?

The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a free alternative to the Capilano Suspension Bridge. It is located in Lynn Canyon Park, which is about 15 minutes from Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is not as long as the Capilano Suspension Bridge, but it still offers stunning views of the Lynn Canyon.

What is the difference between Lynn Canyon and Capilano Suspension Bridge?

The main difference between Lynn Canyon and Capilano Suspension Bridge is the size. Lynn Canyon is a larger park with more trails and attractions, while Capilano Suspension Bridge is a smaller park with fewer attractions.

How much does it cost to walk the Capilano Cliffwalk?

Prices vary based on age.

  • Adults (18-64): Online Price $54 | Ticket Window Price $57 | Evening Price $42
  • Senior (65+): Online Price $50 | Ticket Window Price $53 | Evening Price $38
  • Student (18+ with valid ID): Online Price $44 | Ticket Window Price $47 | Evening Price $33
  • Youth (13-17): Online Price $32 | Ticket Window Price $35 | Evening Price $23
  • Child (6-12): Online Price $23 | Ticket Window Price $26 | Evening Price $17
  • Children 5 and Under: Free

What do you wear to Capilano?

Wear comfortable, preferably waterproof shoes and layers for clothing. It’s always good to have a rain jacket handy.

Can you go to the suspension bridge in Vancouver for free?

Yes, you can go to the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge for free. It is located in Lynn Canyon Park, which is about 15 minutes from Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

Can you walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge?

Yes, you can walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge. It is a 450-foot long suspension bridge that is 230 feet high. The bridge is open year-round, but it can be closed during inclement weather.

What is the best time of day to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge?

The best time of day to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The park is busiest from 11am to 3pm, so if you can, try to visit outside of these hours. You’ll have a better chance of avoiding the crowds and getting some peace and quiet.

Is there a weight limit for the Capilano Suspension Bridge?

The maximum weight limit is 200 pounds (90 kg). If you weigh more than 200 pounds, you will not be able to walk across the bridge.

How long is shuttle from Canada Place to Capilano?

The shuttle from Canada Place to Capilano takes about 20-25 minutes. The shuttle runs every 15-30 minutes, so you shouldn’t have to wait too long for a ride.

What city is the Capilano suspension bridge in?

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is located in North Vancouver, British Columbia. It is about a 15-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.

Planning Checklist

Have you been to Capilano Suspension Bridge? What other suspension bridges have you been to?

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Esther and JacobPin

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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