Metro Vancouver Park Series: Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge

Last weekend we had a great time getting our boots nice and muddy trekking through the forests of the North Shore, which now leads me to adding another mini-adventure to my Metro Vancouver Park Series, Lynn Canyon Park.

Metrics: 250 hectares (618 acres)

How to get there: You can take Hwy 1 to the Lynn Valley Road exit all the way up to the park at the end (near Lynn Headwaters) or turn off on Peters Road to the Lynn Canyon Park Entrance and trailhead. You can also get there easily on transit (2 zones) by taking a 210 from downtown Vancouver or Phibbs Exchange, or a 228 from the Lonsdale Quay (Sea bus).

Photo credit: John Bollwitt on Flickr

Features: At this time of year the park is open from 7:00am until dusk for all to enjoy for free. You can choose from a variety of trails, as the park borders on the Seymour Demonstration Forest, including the extensive Baden-Powell Trail that runs all the way from Deep Cove to Horseshoe Bay. The Lynn Valley Ecology Centre is a nice place to stop in for more information about the area, and there is a cafe on the West side of the suspension bridge in case you’re in need of refreshments.

Photo credit: John Bollwitt on Flickr

Believe it or not, this was the first time I ventured across the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge. If you’re shakey when it comes to height (or having rushing water rage beneath you) I would advise against looking down – all though that’s really the most beautiful part.

History: From VancouverHistory.ca, “September 14, 1912 Lynn Valley Park—today it’s called Lynn Canyon Park, one of the most popular parks in the lower mainland—was officially opened in the District of North Vancouver. Band concerts were given by the North Vancouver City Band. One piece of more than usual interest was entitled The Echoes of the Lynn, composed by Miss G. Strickland, age 15. The 6th Field Engineers of North Vancouver made their first appearance as an Honor Guard.”

Photo credit: DaveO on Flickr

Notes: Wear suitable footwear and if you go walking along the trails prepare for mud, roots, and plenty of stairs going up and down. At no time is jumping into the water a very good idea (especially from the 30-foot pool) as there are severe undercurrents and the water’s pace is quick. Dozens of people have lost their lives this way.

Photo credit: John Bollwitt on Flickr

For another thrill suspended over white water rapids see my past Day Tripping post about Hell’s Gate and if you have any suggestions for the Metro Vancouver Parks Series, please drop a comment below.