For those who’ve never been to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, it might seem like all this attraction has to offer is its namesake bridge. While the bridge itself is worth the price of admission alone, the park offers so many unique experiences for first timers and return visitors.
From May 1 to September 15, if you visit after 5 p.m., you’ll qualify for a 30 percent twilight discount — an extra special experience for those hoping to see picturesque sunset colours spilling over the canyon.
The park also offers a BC Residents Annual Pass, which grants you park access for a full year in addition to perks like 15 percent off admission for your guests and a 10 percent discount at the Cliff House Restaurant & Bar. It’s a steal of a deal at the cost of a single day’s admission, and includes entry to Canyon Lights, the iconic winter festival that runs from November to January.
These perks offer even more incentive to travel to this iconic Vancouver landmark. Here’s why the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is the must-try twilight activity of the summer.
Raptors Ridge
The birds of prey at the Raptors Ridge are once-in-a-lifetime sights back by popular demand. Raptors Ridge is devoted to education about these hawks, falcons, and owls, and their role in the local ecosystem.
Treetops Adventure
For those working their way up to the park’s 230-foot-high suspension bridge, there’s seven smaller bridges at the Treetops Adventure. Stroll and admire the 30-ton Douglas-firs the bridges are attached to as well as the wildlife in the rainforest area. At twilight, the sunset peeks through the trees and illuminates the forest beautifully.
Cliff House Restaurant & Bar
Visitors can enjoy West Coast inspired dining with a stunning natural backdrop at the Cliff House Restaurant & Bar, which focuses on authentic BC ingredients as well as local wines and craft beer. After a long day of exploration, survey the Capilano Canyon (and take in the sunset) as you enjoy some ale-battered fish and chips and a pint.
Story Centre
Those looking to learn more about the history of British Columbia and Capilano Suspension Bridge Park can check out the murals, artifacts, and antiques at the park’s Story Centre. You can also pose with the Capilano Tramps, a group of rugged adventurers who explored the park in the 1900s.
Cliffwalk
The newest feature at Capilano is the Cliffwalk, a journey along the cliff faces of the park on suspended walkways. This is an ideal way to get the lay of the land, as the walkways take you through rainforest vegetation and offer unparalleled views of the Capilano River. This adventure isn’t for the faint of heart; in some sections, strong glass floors are all that separates guests from the canyon below. Visit the Cliffwalk in the twilight hours for an even more hair-raising experience.
Kia’palano
Explore the Indigenous history of the park at Kia’palano, which includes an interactive tour and a chance to view the largest privately owned collection of totem poles in North America. The name Capilano actually derives from the Squamish Nation word Kia’palano, meaning “beautiful river.” It’s named after a Squamish chief who lived in the area in the early 19th century.
Suspension Bridge
Of course, no discussion of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park would be complete without a mention of the main attraction, stretching 450 feet across the Capilano River. The original bridge was built in 1889 by Scottish engineer George Grant Mackay and has hosted millions of visitors since. If you have the stomach for it, the bridge is best visited after 5 p.m., especially during golden hour.
This article was originally published in 604 Now.
Photo courtesy of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park