Vancouver is a great place to visit—a diverse city that’s filled with an eclectic downtown and sprawling landscapes that include not just the city, but the surrounding mountainside districts. With plenty of culture, history, and local attractions to explore, it’s no wonder that this British Columbia gem is a top tourist destination.
But it’s not just the downtown area that’s worth exploring—just a short 15-minute drive away from the bustling city center is one of the area’s most beautiful outdoor areas: Lynn Canyon Park. Packed with a plethora of outdoor activities (and many that are free) and some of the region’s most beautiful scenic beauty, Lynn Canyon is a must-see for any visitor to Vancouver.
About Lynn Canyon Park
Lynn Canyon Park opened in 1912 and has been a favorite among both locals and tourists ever since. Perhaps the biggest attraction at Lynn Park is the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, which towers a whopping 160-feet over the canyon and offers some of the area’s most spectacular views. For those who want an alternative to the city’s more touristy (and expensive) Capilano Suspension Bridge, Lynn Canyon is the perfect alternative.
But there’s so much more to do at Lynn Canyon Park beside the famed suspension bridge—the park is packed with stunning scenic beauty (including waterfalls) that can be explored via its many hikes. There’s also a swimming hole for those who want to take a dip in the summertime.
Important Info About Lynn Canyon Park
- Address: 3663 Park Road, North Vancouver
- Parking: Must pay to park in Lynn Canyon lots
- Handicap Accessible: No
- Hours: Park Gate Hours are 7 AM to 6 PM daily; Ecology Centre Hours are Monday through Friday 10 AM-4 PM, weekends 12 PM-4 PM
- Best Time To Visit: Summer is the best time to visit (especially to take a dip!), though weekends can get very crowded. Hiking trails are lovely to visit in the fall and spring, but visitors should make sure to get back to the park gates before dusk.
Hiking Trails At Lynn Canyon Park
Lynn Park is part of the popular Baden Powell Hiking Trail, and visitors can trek through the park via this stretch that extends from Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove. However, there are also a number of hikes accessible within the park—some of which connect to other area parks, and some that stay within the confines of Lynn Canyon. From casual strollers to more experienced hikers, Lynn Canyon has something for everyone. Below are some of the most popular hikes for visitors to explore.
- The Baden Powell Trail runs through Lynn Park and has a variety of sections for everyone from beginner to advanced hikers. This section runs throughout the North Shore region and takes about an hour and a half to complete.
- The trail to the 30-foot swimming hole is just a short stroll away from the suspension bridge. Take the nearby stairway to the Pipe Bridge, head into the Northern region of the park into the Seymour Demonstration Forest, or loop back to the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge.
- Another popular trail near the bridge is the Twin Falls trail. This trail leads down toward the river and offers hikers a spectacular view of the falls. This is a nice place to escape the crowds at Lynn Canyon and enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest.
- Lynn Headwaters is another nearby trail that takes visitors along the scenic riverside. This trail also has many great spots along the way to have a picnic. Rice Lake is also accessible via Lynn Headwaters, and there is a nice trail here, too that circles the lovely lake.
Other Things To See At Lynn Canyon
Lynn Canyon is the perfect spot to spend a scenic afternoon in Vancouver—but it’s not just about the hiking and suspension bridge. Below are some other activities for visitors to enjoy at this beautiful park.
- The Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre is a great place to learn all about the park’s history, the local flora and fauna, and the area’s contributions to natural history. This is also a great place to begin any visit, as there are maps available of the park and its trails.
- Stop in at the Lynn Canyon Cafe for a post-hike bite.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a scenic and relaxing lunch at the riverside.
- Take a ranger-led walking tour to learn more info about the surrounding temperate rain forest and its ecosystem. Rangers are onsite throughout July and August
Visitors to Vancouver will bask in the peace, tranquility, and natural beauty of Lynn Canyon Park. While Lynn Canyon is worth visiting simply to see its almost 100-year old suspension bridge, it’s also the perfect place to explore the great outdoors via the area’s many hikes and scenic natural attractions that include waterfalls and nearby Rice Lake. Open all year round, Lynn Canyon is especially nice to visit in the summer—and is less crowded than many other Vancouver attractions, making it the perfect outdoor adventure for any traveler to this charming city in British Columbia.