Lynn Valley: A Bridge Over Troubled Waters...

The main problems with Capilano Suspension Bridge are the price and the crowds, both of which are happily absent from the smaller, more natural, locals-favourite version, the Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge.

From downtown Vancouver it’s slightly farther away than Capilano (perhaps a 25 minute drive versus 15, and similar with the seabus/bus on public transit) whereas from Beckside both locations are no more than a ten minute drive, only in opposite directions.  The extra distance is more than made up for by the price–it is free.  The thrills are the same: creeping along and alarmingly swaying but perfectly safe wooden footbridge that stretches over a rocky canyon.  The pools below are tempted, but the currents are strong and dangerous.

On the other side of the bridge you have the option of an easy overland hike on the left, or making your way down to the river on the right.  At the bottom there is a safe bathing pool (only recommended in the middle of a hot summer however, the snow melt water is always freezing).  Both options will likely include the entertainment value of an ESL school class trip, complete with Japanese girls hiking in high heels!

All in all, though less impressive overall than Capilano, Lynn Valley Suspension Bridge may be an even better afternoon out… free, less crowded, a bigger park to explore afterwards and generally the type of place where you forget you’re mere minutes away from a cosmopolitan city, and can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

This article is brought to you by Beckside Bed and Breakfast – A unique Bed and Breakfast in Vancouver