North Vancouver gained prominence as a top tourist destination because of its spectacular nature.
This is the perfect site in Canada, where nature lives and reigns supreme, because it is home to the world renowned Lynn Canyon Park, Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Deep Cove and the iconic Eye of the Wind Turbine.
The coastal city of North Vancouver is easily accessible from Vancouver via the TransLink SeaBus.
It is a means of local transport, but for tourists and those who travel to North Vancouver regularly, this modern transportation plays a significant importance.
It is very punctual, convenient, affordable, and the path is done safely.
The city of Vancouver is famous for the quality of public transport and the Seabus is another example.
It is also the best means of transportation to connect the south of Vancouver to the rest of the city.
It is a safe and fast boat where it is possible to make friends and admire the stunning views around British Columbia, Canada.
It is a comfortable and fast boat for those who need to get to North Vancouver immediately.
Best time to visit North Vancouver?
The best time to visit the North Vancouver City is from June to August.
Summer is the most ideal time to go around the city because of its warm weather, outdoor events, national festivals, water sports, and when it is safe to conquer the cliff hanging trails along the famous suspension bridges of North Vancouver.
The humidity is tolerable and temperatures may range up to the low of 70s.
The only downside of the peak season is the scarcity of hotel accommodations.
It is wise to book at least three weeks in advance to ensure you have the best place to stay and avail of “early bird” promo rates if possible.
The spring season months (March – May), is another ideal time because of the presence of blooming flowers all around.
This is still a good time to hit the beaches, go fishing, and attend the lively music festivals which are more celebrated during these months.
The winter season (December to February) is still an ideal time to see and enjoy the cold weather, especially if you’re a great fan of snow and skiing activities with the family.
Hotel rates for resorts near the ski mountains are discounted and there are less tourists arriving during the holiday season because of the freezing temperature.
If you’re looking for a real bargain when it comes to hotel rates and flight deals, the best time is during the autumn season (September to November).
There is also not much crowds during these months because the summer season has just ended and most travelers/families return home because of the resumption of classes for kids.
Best things to do in North Vancouver
These are the my favorite things to do and beautiful places to visit in the city of North Vancouver…
Lynn Canyon Park
The Lynn Canyon Park is a popular destination among tourists and local residents.
It’s a great place for a family picnic, there are many places to relax during the day and there is a great cafe at the park entrance.
Do not miss the several trails throughout the park, including the suspension bridge (Chain Bridge). There are also many lakes that are perfect for a swim during the summer months, as well as some waterfalls.
The park does not charge any entrance fee and has free parking at the entrance.
Tip: bring a lightweight backpack with clothes, bath towel, sunscreen, or any item that you need for personal use; it’s a great choice for an outdoor ride, so better travel light!
It’s a remarkable area in the mountains of North Vancouver.
The Lynn Canyon Park is easily accessible by public transport and much more economical with an organized trip.
The main feature that characterizes this nature park is a wooden suspension bridge that makes an impression through it! You can also find a river where you can swim and a beautiful lake where you can fish for trout.
The nature in this park is spectacular and the walks are easy and suitable even for people who are not particularly expert in trekking.
It is a great alternative to the more popular Capilano Suspension Bridge.
It is a pleasant walk in the wonderful nature of British Columbia despite being a stone’s throw away from the busy downtown part of North Vancouver.
My favorite stuff to do in North Vancouver
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a major attraction of the Lynn Canyon Park.
It is tight and if you need to take pictures;
be careful with what you have on hand because the suspension bridge has a tendency to swing and the gadget you have may fall down the ravine and you lose it forever.
To get to the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, you need to take the Seabus transport in the Waterfront (Vancouver) and then take bus no.
228 or 229.
The suspension bridge is an attraction that cannot be missed.
The environment is well wooded with native forest where you can breathe clean air.
If you visit in winter, take extra care because the bridge becomes slippery and there is not much to see all around because the lake is frozen.
This bridge is as high as the Capilano and the best part is gaining access to the bridge for free!
Fun things to do in North Vancouver
Lynn Canyon Ecology Center
This ecological center is located in North Vancouver, and if you are in Vancouver you need to take the SeaBus that goes to North Vancouver, and then another bus to reach the Lynn Canyon.
During the summer season, the Lynn Canyon Ecology Center becomes a meeting point for those who like to find a place to retreat, to practice yoga and relax, because it is a quiet place and the only noise all around is the sound of the birds.
It is an intimate paradise in the city that is blessed with crystal clear rivers, suspension bridges, and lots of nature.
It is easily accessible by public bus transport and a visit here is a must when in North Vancouver.
Popular North Vancouver tourist attractions
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park served as the film setting for one of the Indiana Jones movies and it‘s cliff walk pathway is one of the most thrilling attractions here in North Vancouver.
They say that before, it was secured by ropes made with vines. Today, thick steel cables retain the suspended bridge several meters above the ground.
It passes through dense native vegetation and trees that are several meters high.
Once you’re there, make sure you take a deep breath, because the air is so fresh and will make you forget about air pollution.
Those in Vancouver cannot let go of the Capilano Bridge, because the resident may file a proof of residence and earn a free pass for a year after paying the first entry.
It’s perfect for beautiful photos and the nice walk on the bridge often shakes a little, but nothing can take away the beauty of the ride and deter visitors from exploring this nature park.
It is a great park where nature is the main attraction;
with valleys, suspension bridges, animals of the region, and secular trees.
The park is easy to access because there are free transports available from the main points of the city.
For those who love nature, and enjoys a recreational park with natural beauty and a flawless organization this is the ideal place to see, but everything here has its price and it is quite expensive.
However, it is still worth a visit when in North Vancouver.
The path over the trees (more than one thousand years old) and around the mountain is the best part.
The park is well maintained, with huge trees and lush vision.
The trails have signs with poems, phrases, and explanations about the park that will make you reflect and enjoy the charms of nature.
What else to do in North Vancouver?
Grouse Mountain
The view of the city from Grouse Mountain is beautiful, the ascent by cable car is very nice and the attractions on the plateau are quite fun.
The gondola ride leads straight to the mountain top.
The trail is almost 2km of steep ascent, and takes about one hour and 42 minutes to accomplish.
This trail is for the strong, agile, and not for the faint-hearted.
You will reap the rewards of your bravery at the end part of the tour because you will be presented with one of the most beautiful sights you will ever see here in North Vancouver.
The name of the trail leading to the top of Grouse Mountain is called the Grouse Grind.
A track that is considered heavy for those not accustomed to pretty steep and tiring trails.
It is worth to climb this mountain because the view that one has to go up to with the cable car is not only striking, but leads up to the first landing of the mountain where there is a shop, information office, trail options, lumberjacks show, cafes and an attraction that is well sought.
It is here where you can see, enjoy and take pictures of the two bears that live there.
For those who want to go higher and have enough budgets, can pay for a helicopter ride and / or take the lifts to different parts of the mountain.
Many travelers go up there to play sports such as running and hiking trails.
It is easy to reach with the bus offered by the tour sites.
The bus leaves from Canada Place and takes about half an hour to get there.
Is North Vancouver worth visiting?
The answer is Yes.
North Vancouver is worth visiting.
This is because it is such a magical place
full of beauty and adventours.
Make sure you visit the following stunning place:
The Grouse Grind
The famous hiking trail called The Grouse Grind is located at the foot of Grouse Mountain on the North Shore.
It was nicknamed the “stairway of God” and it is an exhilarating activity to try even if you are not accustomed to the hikes genre.
The physical experience requires reaching the end of almost 3km of ‘steps’ on an altitude with a height difference of 850 meters.
If you have a fear of heights, at the key places you have something to hold on (strings).
It is a challenging trail where you need to reach the end of these 3800 steps created by nature and to complicate things;
there are more rocks than real steps.
The courses are shaded and with the usual humidity of the region, but some are very wet.
It is a one way hike (count $10 back down via cable car) and you must go there fully equipped (hiking shoes, water, food) because it’s serious!
The view of the bay is magnificent from up there and you feel a sacred satisfaction of having arrived at the end.
What else to see in North Vancouver?
Grouse Mountain Skyride
The Grouse Mountain is a place of attractions in North Vancouver.
It is advisable to reach the peak with the funicular (because it is quite high) and see the most beautiful views until you “walk in the clouds “(depending on the weather).
There are lumberjack shows up there and two huge bears in their own habitat.
You’ll be surprised to know that even during the winter/snow season; you can see the beaches and the city from the chairlift of the Grouse Mountain Skyride up to the slopes.
Be sure to arrive before the sunset. You will see the nearby US Mountains and a panoramic view of the city even during the descent.
Popular places to visit in North Vancouver
Deep Cove
Is a small bay and marina nestled in the mountains near North Vancouver. The picnic area is small, but there is a large lawn to sit facing the sea.
People bathe at the bottom of the board and an orchestra serenades guests in the evening.
If you’re in the city, do not hesitate to get there: it’s not far, it is exotic, the atmosphere is relaxed, and there is easy parking near the water and an excellent restaurant.
In addition, it has a quiet and magnificent landscape. For fans of canoeing and kayak activities, equipment rental is on site and the place lends itself perfectly.
There is a beach long enough with a side of mountains covered with conifers; a show not to be missed.
The ocean is not as popular as the other beaches here in North Vancouver, but there are many people who swim and hang out near the shore.
There are also secluded areas where you can spend intimate time with nature. Enjoy the tranquillity of this place (best on weekdays).
To reach Deep Cove, take the city bus number 211 in downtown and arrive within 35-40 minutes. You can make a hiking for about an hour and take good pictures.
If your budget allows it, treat yourself with a good meal at the Italian restaurant on the corner, it is highly recommended.
Things to do in North Vancouver with kids
Mount Seymour Provincial Park
The Mount Seymour Provincial Park is near the Deep Cove and it is worth going there in good weather.
The road is good in the summer, autumn, and spring season, but not during the freezing cold of the winter season.
The journey is quite long, but you will be rewarded with a beautiful view and there are viewpoints that you should definitely take advantage of.
In the summer, there are hiking trails and restroom amenities, but all the other tourist buildings in wooden chalet style are closed.
If you come in the winter season, there is not much going on, but you can ski if the snow is tolerable and the slopes are visible.
The chairlifts make a highly strong and modern impression about this neat attraction in North Vancouver.
Things to do around North Vancouver
Capilano Salmon Hatchery
The Capilano Salmon Hatchery is a place of excellent conservation, where there is a service based on the breeding of salmon, especially when it goes up the river to spawn.
For those who like fishing, this is an ideal place to visit in North Vancouver because there is a bit of history and old fly equipment.
The fishing area is wonderful; there is an exuberant nature and many hiking trails to complete. The salmon breeding is interesting.
The river is very beautiful and clean, and no need to pay an admission fee to gain access to the salmon fishing area/hatchery.
It is a fast and interesting tour to learn more about the salmon and their types.
Must see places in North Vancouver
Cleveland Dam
Despite being a man-made dam, nature prevails in Cleveland Dam.
It has a lush landscape and if you visit during the week, you are sure to find a quiet place where you can spend hours watching the horizon.
The dam has a great structure and is excellent for those who enjoy a good walk in the midst of nature. It was established in 1953 and it is located near the Capilano Park and the Salmon Hatchery.
North Vancouver is one of the must see cities in Canada. The suspension bridges are the highlight of the city.
There are also fixed bridges that are sensational and links several old trees to create an incredible beauty.
At the end of the tour there are options to eat, drink and some shops for souvenir shopping.
Travel tip: if you’re travelling during the peak season (summer), wear comfortable clothes and sunscreen because you’ll be spending more time outdoors.
