7 Vancouver Area Hikes with Suspension Bridges

People walk on an elevated bridge at the Greenheart Treewalk at the UBC Botanical Garden in Vancouver

Greenheart Treewalk, UBC Botanical Garden. Photo: Tourism Vancouver / Destination Canada (CTC) / Asymetric/Jason Van Bruggen

There’s something exhilarating about standing on a narrow suspension bridge, high above the ground. It gives you a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy and lets you peer down into the depths of canyons. Check out these seven suspension bridge hikes around Vancouver for great views.

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Safety First: AdventureSmart recommends bringing a backpack with essential safety and first aid gear on every hike. Check the forecast and pack extra clothing for the weather. Leave a trip plan so someone knows where you are going and when you will be back. Hiking is a little different during the pandemic. Read our tips for getting outdoors during COVID-19.

Buntzen Lake

The loop hike around Buntzen Lake in Anmore is a Vancouver classic. The moderate trail rambles for 10km along the shores of the lake. One of the highlights is the suspension bridge at the north end of the lake. The wobbly bridge crosses the lake outlet and is a great spot for photos. To allow for physical distancing, the trail is currently one-way and you must walk the loop counterclockwise. More info: Buntzen Lake Recreation Area

Capilano Suspension Bridge

The towering Capilano Suspension Bridge has been a North Vancouver tourist attraction for over 100 years. Enjoy the thrill of walking 70 metres above the Capilano River and explore short and easy walking trails on both sides of the canyon. Don’t miss the Cliffwalk and Treetops Adventure – they both put you high above the forest floor. Book tickets in advance. More info: Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

Capilano Suspension Bridge. Photo: Tourism Vancouver / Kazutoshi Yoshimura

Norvan Falls

The moderate hike to Norvan Falls takes you deep into the valley of Lynn Creek in North Vancouver. The cascading waters of Norvan Falls are the endpoint of your hike, but be sure to detour a few meters to experience the springy suspension bridge across Norvan Creek. The bridge gives access to the challenging Hanes Valley Loop Trail (which is best saved for experienced hikers and mid-summer conditions) but it’s worth a walk across even if you’re just going as far as the falls. More info: Our guide to the Norvan Falls Trail.

Lynn Canyon

The spectacular Lynn Canyon suspension bridge in North Vancouver is a popular spot. A network of trails leads through the area, making lots of hikes possible. The bridge itself is currently closed due to the pandemic, so keep it on your list for later. Or hike the Baden Powell trail along the top of the canyon for a view of the bridge. More info: Lynn Canyon Park

Twin Bridges

Built in 2018, the Twin Bridges suspension bridge connects trails on both sides of the Seymour River in North Vancouver. Despite the name, there is only one bridge – historically there were two bridges here for long-ago logging operations. One of the best ways to visit the bridge is to make a loop hike that includes trails along both the Seymour River and Lynn Creek. More info: Our guide to the Seymour River and Lynn Creek loop hike.

Twin Bridges in the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. Photo: Taryn Eyton/happiestoutdoors.ca

Greenheart Treewalk

Take a guided hike through the forest canopy on the Greenheart Treewalk at the UBC Botanical Garden. The walkway is made of connected suspension bridges, elevated nearly 20 metres above the ground. The entire structure hangs from huge Douglas firs, cedars, and grand firs. Book tickets in advance. More info: Greenheart Treewalk

Cascade Falls

The hike to Cascade Falls in Mission is short but steep. You can view the waterfall from a cliffside platform, but for an even better vantage point, walk across the metal suspension bridge. Bring a rain jacket during the spring as the waterfall generates lots of spray. More info: Our guide to the Cascade Falls hike.