In Vancouver, British Columbia, bridges play a vital role in connecting the city and its surrounding waters. Beyond their practical function, these iconic structures have also become tourist attractions due to their unique designs, breathtaking views, and appearances in popular movies. As locals who’ve spent weeks exploring the city (and Eric, having grown up there), we have a deep appreciation for several of them!
If you’re planning a few days in Vancouver, discovering the best bridges is a must-do experience. To make it easier for you, we’ve categorized our guide into suspension bridges, famous bridges, those in the Greater Vancouver area, and bridges near the city. Throughout this post, you’ll find everything you need to know about Vancouver’s bridges. We’ve also started with a Q&A section, addressing the most common questions about these iconic structures.
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Bridges in Vancouver Q&As
Vancouver, a city known for its scenic landscapes and urban beauty, is also home to numerous iconic bridges that connect its diverse neighborhoods and districts. Among these, some notable mentions include the truss bridges, cable-stayed bridges, suspension bridges, hanging bridges, and toll bridges. The Capilano Suspension Bridge, Lions Gate Bridge, and Ironworkers Memorial Bridge are just a few examples of famous bridges in Vancouver.
The Alex Fraser Bridge is considered the largest bridge in Vancouver, stretching an impressive 2.5 km in length. While there’s no exact count of the number of bridges in Vancouver, it’s safe to say that there are dozens upon dozens of bridges throughout the city and its surrounding areas. Vancouver is also home to several suspension bridges, with five located within the city limits and nine near the Greater Vancouver area.
However, it’s worth noting that this number may change in the future as new bridges are built or existing ones are upgraded. In terms of toll bridges, most of those in Vancouver are not tolled, except for two which have been counted so far. One of these is set to be replaced with a toll-free bridge in 2024. For those looking for the best bridges in Vancouver, popular choices include the Lions Gate Bridge, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Coast Meridian Overpass.
Interestingly, there is no direct bridge connecting Vancouver to Vancouver Island. However, plans are underway to construct a massive steel span bridge spanning 43 km that would link Gabriola Island to the mainland. On Vancouver Island, the Johnson Street Bridge in Victoria stands out as an interesting example of a bascule-type bridge with its unique wing-like structures and nighttime lighting display. The Lions Gate Bridge is another notable bridge located near Stanley Park.
This iconic structure connects downtown Vancouver to North Vancouver and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. Vancouver is also famous for its tree bridges, including the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which attracts visitors from around the world due to its unique treetop setting and smaller suspension bridges within the park.
What tours do we recommend to visit the bridges of Vancouver?
If you’re looking to explore the best bridges in Vancouver, we suggest taking a few guided tours that showcase these iconic structures. One excellent option is our city and suspension bridge day trip, which lasts for six hours and takes you on an adventure to historic Lions Gate Bridge, Capilano suspension bridge, Grouse Mountain, and the Capilano Fish Hatchery.
Alternatively, our half-day trip offers a condensed version of this experience, featuring stops at Lions Gate Bridge, Stanley Park, Capilano suspension bridge, Granville Island, and Gastown. For a truly unique experience, consider taking a seaplane tour that not only provides breathtaking views of the Vancouver skyline but also grants access to the awe-inspiring Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Why is visiting the best bridges in Vancouver a good activity for travel couples on a budget?
While most of Vancouver’s iconic bridges can be visited without paying a toll, there are a few that require a small fee to cross. Despite this, exploring the city’s bridges is an excellent way to experience the best of Vancouver without breaking the bank. For couples and solo travelers alike, Vancouver’s bridges offer breathtaking views, unique structures, and picturesque walking routes along the Fraser River.
The majority of these bridges are free to visit, with a few notable exceptions that provide exceptional value for the price. Some of the top picks include Lynn Valley’s suspension bridge, Lions Gate Bridge, and West Vancouver’s Trestle Bridge, all located on the North Shore.
Where to stay near the best bridges in Vancouver
For those seeking accommodations near the iconic bridges of Vancouver, we suggest considering these options: The SureStay Hotel in North Vancouver offers comfortable two-double-bed rooms for approximately $100 per night. Alternatively, the Econo Lodge Inn&Suite in North Vancouver provides cozy queen-sized rooms for around $80 per night.
If you’re looking for a more unique experience, the Riverfront Bed and Breakfast in North Vancouver – located just 12 km from the Lions Gate Bridge – offers fully equipped rooms with breakfast included for about $100 per night. For a luxurious stay with breathtaking city views, the Paradox Hotel in Downtown Vancouver is a great option, priced around $500 per night. You can also opt to stay at Aaron Sweet’s home in Surrey for approximately $85 per night per room.
The Cambie Hostel Gastown provides modern accommodations in one of Vancouver’s most popular neighborhoods, starting at about $80 per night. For a more local experience, the Cambie Lodge offers double rooms with shower and breakfast for around $120 per night. Lastly, the Vancouver Traveller B&B – located near Kitsilano and the Granville Street Bridge – is a sustainable property offering rooms for approximately $120 per night, complete with continental breakfast.
The Best Bridges in Vancouver
The bridges of Vancouver play a significant role in the city’s infrastructure and identity. Not only do they facilitate traffic flow, but they also serve as iconic landmarks that define the urban landscape. As you explore Vancouver, it’s likely you’ll encounter several notable bridges that showcase unique features such as their design, sculptures, or historical significance.
Whether it’s a suspension bridge, an arch bridge, or something entirely innovative, each one offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s engineering and architectural prowess.
Ironworkers Memorial Bridge
In Vancouver, Canada, there’s another notable bridge besides the ones connecting Stanley Park and North Vancouver – the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge. This one-kilometre structure stands out for its unique blend of truss and cantilever designs. Interestingly, it’s often paired with the Second Narrows Rail Bridge as a single entity. What makes this bridge particularly significant is the tragic event that occurred during its construction in 1958.
Unfortunately, 18 workers lost their lives in an accident that has become infamous.
The Second Narrows Rail Bridge
In Vancouver, BC, another notable bridge is the Second Narrows Rail Bridge, situated adjacent to the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge in North Vancouver. This railway-exclusive span is a vertical-lift structure that spans the Burrard Inlet, linking Downtown Vancouver to the North Shore. Interestingly, its southern terminus connects seamlessly with the Thornton Tunnel, providing a vital link to the main Canadian rail network.
Granville Street Bridge
The iconic Granville Street Bridge is a staple of Vancouver’s urban landscape, seamlessly connecting Downtown Vancouver to the charming Granville Island, renowned for its bustling public market. As you stroll or drive across this 1-kilometre-long bridge, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Downtown Vancouver, English Bay, and False Creek. With pedestrian sidewalks on either side, the bridge provides a unique vantage point to take in the sights and sounds of the city.
Cambie Bridge
The Cambie Bridge holds a special place in my heart as one of Vancouver’s most beloved landmarks. As a pedestrian-friendly crossing over False Creek, it provides breathtaking vistas of the Quayside Marina and Vancouver’s striking skyline on a clear day. But that’s not all – the bridge also offers stunning views of the iconic Science World building on the other side, making it an absolute must-visit spot for anyone who loves exploring this beautiful city.
Burrard Bridge
The Burrard Bridge is one of three vital connections linking Downtown Vancouver to South Vancouver. Spanning Fans Creek, this steel truss bridge features four lanes and boasts a unique Art Deco architectural style, making it a standout among Vancouver’s bridges. As you stroll across the bridge, you’ll be treated to breathtaking harbour views on one side and the picturesque Granville Island on the other.
This additional pedestrian path offers a scenic route that can also be accessed from Granville Island, providing ample opportunities for exploration and appreciation.
Georgia Street Viaduct, Vancouver famous bridge
The Georgia Street Bridge stands out for its sheer scale and unique position – it’s the only Vancouver bridge that spans Downtown Vancouver. This iconic landmark boasts two impressive features. Firstly, it connects the Rogers Arena and BC Place Stadium, two of Vancouver’s most recognizable landmarks. Secondly, it holds a special place in pop culture history as one of the filming locations for Deadpool 2. Remember the memorable car crash scene?
The bridge has been saved from demolition and remains a beloved fixture in the city.
The Best Suspension Bridges in Vancouver
Vancouver’s scenic landscape is characterized by a unique collection of five exceptional suspension bridges that showcase the city’s engineering prowess. While there may be more suspension bridges near Vancouver, these top-rated structures are easily accessible and offer a mix of free or budget-friendly options for visitors to enjoy. As you explore this section, get ready to be impressed and spoiled for choice as you ponder which suspension bridge in Vancouver is your absolute favourite!
Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge
The Lynn Canyon suspension bridge is a hidden gem in North Vancouver, offering a free alternative to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. This picturesque bridge stretches 40 meters long and hangs precariously above Lynn Creek, providing stunning views of waterfalls on one side. The surrounding forest creates a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Although it can get busy, the crowd is nowhere near as large as Capilano’s, which contributes to its popularity.
But Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is not the only suspension bridge in North Vancouver – there are more to explore. When planning your visit, consider the time of year: summer brings clear views and warm weather perfect for a swim, while winter brings a misty, gloomy atmosphere and abundant waterfalls. We’ve experienced both seasons and can attest that each has its unique charm. For those seeking answers, our complete guide to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge and Park is available.
Norvan Falls Suspension Bridge
The Norman Falls Suspension Bridge, situated in North Vancouver, is another suspension bridge that stands out from the rest. Spanning across Norvan Creek, it’s surrounded by a lush forest, creating a serene atmosphere. What’s unique about this bridge is its moderate height above the river, which adds to its charm.
To access the bridge, you’ll need to embark on a 14km round-trip hike starting at Lynn Headwaters Regional Park, where you can follow the riverbank trail and immerse yourself in nature.
Twin Bridges Suspension Bridge
Nestled in North Vancouver’s scenic landscape, Twin Bridges stands out as another suspension bridge that traverses the Seymour River. Despite its name suggesting two separate bridges, it’s actually a single structure that forms part of an enchanting loop hike along both the Seymour River and Lynn Creek.
Capilano Suspension Bridge in Capilano Park Vancouver
The Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver is a must-visit attraction that offers an unparalleled experience. Spanning 137 meters and hanging 70 meters above the Capilano River, this iconic rope bridge provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As part of the larger Capilano Park, the suspension bridge is just one component of a wider network of walkways and smaller bridges nestled among the trees.
The entire site is meticulously maintained and presents an immersive experience that’s unlike anything else. Getting to the bridge from Downtown Vancouver is relatively straightforward. Simply take the Lions Gate Bridge and head north towards Capilano Lake, where you’ll spot a large parking lot on your right off Capilano Road. Insider Tip: If you’re planning to visit during peak season, such as Christmas, be sure to factor in extra time for traffic and parking.
During busy periods, it may take over an hour to reach the site from Downtown Vancouver. Tickets can be purchased online, which is highly recommended to ensure a preferred day and time slot. You can find more information on Capbridge Vancouver. Budget: Adult tickets cost $60, making this an accessible experience for visitors of all ages. Q&As:What’s the best time to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge?
The winter season brings a unique charm to the park, with Christmas lights illuminating the landscape. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the hanging bridges, although it may be extremely busy. Alternatively, summer offers unobstructed views and a lively atmosphere. Shoulder seasons provide a more relaxed experience. Is it worth visiting on a rainy day? If you’ve never seen the bridge before and it’s your only chance, I would still recommend braving the rain.
Most of the treetop bridges are protected from the elements, and the mist can create a mystical ambiance. Just be sure to dress appropriately for the weather.
Greenheart TreeWalk
At the UBC Botanical Garden, the Greenheart TreeWalk suspends itself within the lush canopy, weaving between tree platforms and towering trunks around 20 meters above the ground. This elevated path stretches for an impressive 310 meters, offering a unique treetop adventure amidst the majestic cedars, Douglas firs, and grand firs. While it may not be as well-known among tourists, this Vancouver forest bridge is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided tours of approximately an hour can be arranged. The Greenheart TreeWalk operates from April to October, during which time visitors can book their spot and enjoy the thrill of walking among the treetops on a donation basis, with a suggested contribution of $5.
The Best Suspension Bridges near Vancouver
While Vancouver’s suspension bridges are certainly worth exploring, they’re not the only impressive structures of their kind in the area. For those willing to venture a bit further – whether by car or as part of a day trip – there are numerous other suspension bridges waiting to be discovered, each with its own unique character and charm.
Squamish Suspension Bridge
The iconic Squamish suspension bridge, affectionately known as the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, sits atop the Sea To Sky Gondola, just before arriving in Squamish. If you’re planning a 3-day stay in Vancouver, this suspension bridge near Vancouver is an absolute must-visit. Spanning approximately 100 meters in length, it’s long enough to give height-conscious travelers a thrilling experience. Fear not, however, as the bridge boasts remarkable stability and safety features.
From its vantage point, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains on one side and the picturesque Howe Sound on the other. A pedestrian-only bridge, it’s also wheelchair accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all. We highly recommend taking this tour to explore both the Squamish suspension bridge and Whistler.
The Old Suspension Bridge
Unlike Vancouver BC’s modern suspension bridges, this historic wooden bridge, situated north of Lillooet, stands out for its rustic charm. Spanning the Fraser River, it’s exclusively pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, boasting an impressive length that carries a rich history. As you explore the area, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the river flowing gently beneath the mountains’ majestic backdrop. It’s as if time has paused, allowing you to fully absorb the serene atmosphere.
To make your visit even more enjoyable, there are picnic tables scattered throughout the site. One of the most fascinating experiences here is watching Osprey birds and their nests up close. Additionally, this region has become a hotspot for indigenous communities who gather along the Fraser River’s banks to fish. Feel free to strike up a conversation and learn about their techniques and traditions.
Cascade Falls Suspension Bridge
Located about an hour and a half drive from Downtown Vancouver, the Cascade Falls Suspension Bridge is situated within the Cascade Falls Regional Park, just northeast of Mission. A mere 20-minute drive from town, this scenic spot offers an exciting adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. The park allows you to park close to the waterfall and embark on the short but steep Cascade Falls trail, which leads directly to the suspension bridge.
Standing 20 meters above Cascade Creek, you’ll have a breathtaking view of the 30-meter high cascade as you cross the 35-meter long bridge. For an even more immersive experience, additional wooden platforms offer up-close views of the falls. As the weather can be unpredictable, especially outside of summer, we highly recommend bringing a rain jacket to ensure a dry and enjoyable visit.
Buntzen Lake Suspension Bridge
The Buntzen Suspension Bridge is an awe-inspiring hanging bridge nestled approximately 50 minutes from Vancouver’s bustling streets, yet surprisingly hidden in the serene surroundings of Anmore. To experience this natural wonder, embark on a moderate 10-kilometer hike along Buntzen Lake, which will take you to the North end of the lake where the suspension bridge awaits.
Whistler Train Wreck Suspension Bridge
If you’ve embarked on our Vancouver to Whistler Road Trip adventure, you’re likely familiar with one of the journey’s most iconic stops: the infamous train wreck. While exploring this attraction, consider taking a short detour to reach the Train Wreck Suspension Bridge. This rustic wooden bridge features rope-handled crossings over the scenic Cheakamus River, flanked by two metal wheels on either side – nostalgic tributes to old train wheels.
Cal-Cheack Suspension Bridge
The Cal-Cheak Suspension Bridge can be found in Whistler’s recreation park, situated south of the town. As part of the Sea To Sky Trail network, this suspension bridge spans over Callaghan Creek, offering a unique vantage point for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. While it shares some similarities with Lynn Valley’s suspension bridge, the absence of a waterfall here adds to its distinct character.
Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge
Located within the Whistler Interpretive Forest, the Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge serves as a vital connector between various trails that meander along the scenic Cheakamus River. A unique aspect of this suspension bridge is its accessibility to both pedestrians and cyclists, providing mountain bikers with a convenient route for ascending and descending the river’s banks.
Cloudraker Skybridge
Located at the top of the Peak Express in Whistler, another impressive skybridge offers breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience. Spanning 130 meters in length, this elevated walkway towers over Whistler Bowl, providing a thrilling panorama that’s sure to leave you awestruck – if you’re not scared of heights, that is! For the fearless, it’s an experience not to be missed.
Alternatively, make a day out of your visit and follow our comprehensive Whistler road trip guide to get the most out of your adventure. With a budget in mind, be prepared to spend $75 on the Whistler Gondola ride that will take you there.
Gin & Tonic Suspension Bridge
The Whistler suspension bridge, a petite attraction, operates solely during the summer season. This means you can plan your visit accordingly, avoiding any potential winter woes. The bridge is nestled along the trail leading to Rainbow Lake, making it an exciting discovery for those venturing into this picturesque Whistler area.
Interesting Bridges in Greater Vancouver
While many bridges near Vancouver were built primarily to facilitate and manage traffic, some structures stand out for their unique design or breathtaking views of Greater Vancouver.
To highlight these standout bridges, we’ve categorized them into three groups: massive cable-stayed bridges that showcase innovative engineering; bridges featuring distinctive arches that add visual interest; and more common bridges that play a vital role in Vancouver’s transportation network or offer spectacular views.
Cable-stayed bridges in Vancouver
Vancouver’s impressive infrastructure features a range of iconic cable-stayed bridges that have captured the attention of locals and visitors alike. Among these, five prominent structures stand out: the SkyBridge, Alex Fraser Bridge, Coast Meridian Overpass, Pitt River Bridge, and Port Mann Bridge. The SkyBridge, situated in New Westminster near Vancouver, boasts two main pillars supporting its cables as it spans the Fraser River, connecting New Westminster with Surrey.
While its sheer scale is awe-inspiring, the bridge’s architecture is also notable for its ability to provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and cityscape, particularly during foggy or sunset conditions. The Alex Fraser Bridge, named after a former provincial Minister of Highways, is located in southern Vancouver and connects Annacis Island to the Delta Area.
As the largest bridge in Vancouver, it features four car lanes on each side, crossing the South Arm Fraser River with an interesting architectural design. Unfortunately, this massive structure is not accessible for pedestrians. In contrast, the Coast Meridian Overpass is one of the most impressive bridges in Vancouver. Spanning 580 meters over the Canadian Pacific railyard in Port Coquitlam, this four-lane cable-stayed bridge features six pillars supporting its cables.
As you traverse the bridge, you’ll enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. The Pitt River Bridge, located in Coquitlam, connects Port Coquitlam to Pitt Meadows and is a part of Highway 7. This cable-stayed bridge relies on six pillars holding 380 meters of cable to maintain its structure. Lastly, the Port Mann Bridge, stretching two kilometers across the Fraser River in Surrey, connects Coquitlam with ten lanes open for cars.
Its cables are supported by two pillars at one end, making it one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in North America, similar to Oakland Bay Bridge in California. Interestingly, its structure is also reminiscent of the Pitt River Bridge and Coast Meridian Overpass. Insider Tip: The Port Mann Bridge was once a toll bridge but has since become free to cross. Another notable bridge is the Golden Ears Bridge, named after the Golden Ears peaks of Mount Blanshard in Golden Ears Provincial Park.
Located within Metro Vancouver, this single-lane bridge crosses the Fraser River to connect Langley with Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge. With a length of about two kilometers and seven pillars holding its cables, the Golden Ears Bridge features an extradoses design combining elements of a prestressed box girder bridge and cable-stayed bridge. Insider Tip: The Golden Ears Bridge is a toll bridge, charging fees for cars ranging from $4 to $6.
Bridges in Vancouver build in an arch structure
These unique bridges in Vancouver and surrounding areas showcase creative designs and structures that set them apart from others. One such example is the Castle Park-Citadel Landing Pedestrian Bridge, located in Port Coquitlam, which features an arch structure and connects Castle Park to the riverfront. The bridge has been a popular spot for locals to take leisurely walks along the Fraser River since its opening in 2002.
Another notable bridge is the New Westminster Bridge, also known as the New Westminster Rail Bridge or Fraser River SwingBridge, which spans from New Westminster to Surrey. This swinging steel and granite structure is shaped like a half-circle and stands out with its bright red color. As it’s only used by trains, it remains an interesting spot for onlookers.
The Pattullo Bridge is another notable bridge in Vancouver, featuring a four-lane through arch structure that connects New Westminster to Surrey across the Fraser River. Notably, it has separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists, making it accessible for all users. While it’s planned to be replaced in 2024, its unique design sets it apart from other bridges. The Westham Island Bridge is a charming brown and green truss bridge with a wood deck located in Ladner, south of Greater Vancouver.
This single-lane, 325-meter-long bridge crosses over Canoe Pass in the estuary of the Fraser River, connecting Westham Island to Ladner. Its rustic appearance makes it reminiscent of bridges seen in popular TV shows like Gilmore Girls and Dawson’s Creek. Lastly, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) Bridge is located in Port Coquitlam and spans across the Coquitlam River.
Like the Westham Island Bridge, it features a unique design that sets it apart from other bridges, although it’s only accessible for trains.
More common bridges of Vancouver
Vancouver’s bridges offer a mix of functionality and scenic views. The Annacis Channel Bridge, for instance, may not be impressive in terms of structure, but it provides a picturesque backdrop of Victorian-style houses and the Alex Fraser Bridge in the distance. On the other hand, the Annacis Island Swing Bridge is an engineering marvel that can open horizontally to allow ships to pass through.
This swing bridge serves as both a road and rail crossing, allowing trains to chug along while also being a pedestrian-friendly option. The Queensborough Bridge connects New Westminster and Queensborough over the Fraser River, offering views of Poplar Island and Surrey in the distance, with the Alex Fraser Bridge visible on the other side. In contrast, the view from the North Shore is unobstructed by mountains, providing a unique perspective.
The Arthur Laing Bridge plays a crucial role in Greater Vancouver, connecting Downtown Vancouver to Vancouver International Airport (YVR). While the view towards the airport may not be particularly impressive, the vista from the airport itself features majestic mountains in the backdrop. The Eleanor Ward Bridge in Coquitlam is more about the journey than the destination, with its tranquil drive through the trees and alongside the Coquitlam River.
Lastly, the Moray Bridge, which spans the Fraser River’s middle arm, is a vital link between Vancouver International Airport and Richmond. What sets it apart is that it’s shared by cars, cyclists, and pedestrians, making it an inclusive and accessible crossing.
Other bridges near Vancouver
The Canadian landscape is dotted with a variety of bridges that serve as crucial connections between communities. For instance, the Knight Street Bridge in Richmond provides a concrete path linking the city to downtown, while the Deering Island Bridge in Vancouver offers the only road access to the island’s residential neighborhood over the Fraser River. Meanwhile, the Dollarton Bridge in North Vancouver spans 153 meters across Seymour River as a four-lane thoroughfare.
Additionally, the Silver Bridge crosses South Alouette River in Pitt Meadows, while Dinsmore Bridge traverses the middle arm of the Fraser River. If you’re looking to explore more of Canada’s diverse regions and bridges, be sure to read our comprehensive guides for insider tips on making the most of your visit!
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