The Capilano Suspension Bridge
Tucked away in Vancouver’s beautiful North Shore- the Capilano Suspension Bridge awaits you. This gem of a location is home to one of Vancouver’s must see attractions. There is more than just the dramatic suspension bridge- the park is also home to: a treetops walk in the forest, an interactive Living Forest Exhibition, Complimentary eco- tours, the world’s largest private totem pole collection, First Nations artisans and artists, indoor and outdoor dining venues, the Story Centre History Walk, and the 1911 Trading Post Gift Shop.
Things To Do, and Things To See!
Stretching 450 feet across the river and suspended 230 feet above the Capilano River, The Bridge is not for the faint of heart. If one can make it across successfully, there is a spectacular tour among the treetops that is not to be missed. It’s like being on planet Endor in Return of the Jedi! One almost expects to see some Ewoks nearby. Walk in the air 30 feet above the forest floor and see 300 year old Douglas Fir Trees up close!
The Totem Poles date back to 1930 when Mac Maceachran invited First Nations carvers to make some totem poles to place in the park. Today they remain in the park: faded and still beautiful.
The Story Centre embodies the era when the bridge was built. Tourists can mill around, look at huge photomurals depicting the history of the park and pose with one of the Tramps (visitors from long ago portrayed by actors in period costumes) or peruse the antiques and artifacts.
The Living Forest is a display of the incredible flora and fauna that is part of the west coast rainforest. Children love to see the bugs up close and tourists from all over the world are surprised to see the multitude of species that make up the rainforest.
For parties of 5 or 50, The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a worthy stop on any traveler’s agenda. It is easily accessible from downtown Vancouver, by car or by public transit. http://www.capbridge.com/index.html
Capilano Suspension Bridge News, Facts and History
The rich history of the Capilano suspension bridge begins in 1888. A Scotsman by the name of George Grant Mackay arrived in Vancouver. He was a civil engineer and land developer and in charge of putting land aside to develop into what is Stanley Park today. He purchased 6,000 acres of land in North Vancouver straddling both sides of the Capilano River. The name is an anglicized version of the First Nations name- Kia’pailno. With the help of some First Nations men and a team of horses, George built the first suspension bridge using hemp and wood. The First nations called it "The Laughing Bridge" because of the sound it made when it swung back and forth. The cabin and the bridge became a popular place for his friends to visit and was dubbed, "The Capilano Tramps’ for the long trek up the mountain. When George died in 1903, the bridge was rebuilt using cable wire.
Phone: (604) 985-7474
Toll Free: 1-877-985-7474
Fax: (604) 985-7479
Address:
3735 Capilano Road,
North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1
Since the death of George the bridge has had four owners. In 1983, Vancouverite Nancy Sibbard bought the bridge and the surrounding area. Since then it has enjoyed a dramatic increase in visitors and is now world renowned. Exceptional scenery together with excellent customer service is the hallmark of a truly memorable experience at the Capilano Suspension Bridge.