Lynn Canyon Park
Price
Free
Duration
1.5-3 hours
Best Ages
All ages (hiking trails best for 4+)
About
Lynn Canyon Park is the local's secret that every family visiting Vancouver should know about. It offers essentially the same experience as the famous (and expensive) Capilano Suspension Bridge — a bouncy bridge over a deep canyon, old-growth rainforest, and stunning waterfalls — except it's completely free.
The suspension bridge is the centerpiece, spanning Lynn Creek at a height of 50 meters. It sways and bounces as you walk across, giving you views straight down to the rushing water below. The railings are high and the bridge is safe, but the wobble factor makes it exciting for kids.
On the far side, a network of well-maintained trails winds through temperate rainforest — towering Douglas firs and Western red cedars draped in moss, with ferns carpeting the forest floor.
The Twin Falls trail is the most family-friendly: about 45 minutes round trip, mostly flat, ending at a pretty waterfall. The Baden Powell Trail sections within the park are longer and more challenging for older kids and teens. All trails are well-marked.
In summer, Lynn Canyon's swimming holes are the main attraction for local families. The 30 Foot Pool is the most popular — a deep, clear pool fed by the creek where kids (and adults) jump off rocks into the cold, clean water. It's exhilarating but cold — this is snowmelt, not bathwater. Supervise closely as there are no lifeguards.
The Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre near the park entrance is worth a stop, especially for younger kids. The Kids Exploratorium has hands-on exhibits about the local ecosystem, live reptile and amphibian displays, and educational programs. Admission is by donation.
Practically: the park is free with no gates or tickets. Parking is available but limited on summer weekends — arrive early or take transit (bus #228 from Lonsdale Quay). The trails range from stroller-friendly paved paths near the bridge to rooty, muddy forest trails further out. Proper shoes are important.
Note: the suspension bridge underwent renovations starting late 2025. Check the park website before visiting to confirm the bridge is open.
Lynn Canyon pairs perfectly with a visit to Maplewood Farm (15 minutes away) or the Lonsdale Quay Market for a full North Shore family day.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
partial
Kid Meals
Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Summer mornings for swimming holes. Spring and fall for hiking with fewer crowds. Check bridge status before visiting — renovations may affect access.
Wait Times
No wait — free public park
Nearby Food
The cafe at the park entrance serves coffee, sandwiches, and snacks. Lynn Valley Village (a 5-minute drive) has several family restaurants including Browns Socialhouse and Boston Pizza. Pack a picnic for the best experience.
Why Kids Love It
Lynn Canyon is the free, less-crowded alternative to Capilano Suspension Bridge, and many local families actually prefer it. The suspension bridge hangs 50 meters above the canyon, bouncing and swaying as you cross — scary enough to be thrilling, safe enough that kids of all ages can handle it. Beyond the bridge, forest trails wind through old-growth rainforest with moss-covered trees, fallen logs to balance on, and the sound of rushing water everywhere.
In summer, the swimming holes are the main event — kids jump off rocks into crystal-clear pools fed by snowmelt (cold but refreshing). The 30 Foot Pool is the most popular. The Ecology Centre has a Kids Exploratorium with interactive nature exhibits, plus live animal displays.
The whole park feels wild and adventurous without requiring serious hiking skills.
Pro Tips from Parents
- This is the FREE alternative to Capilano Suspension Bridge — same experience, no admission fee
- Check the park website for bridge status — renovations in late 2025 may affect access
- The Twin Falls trail is the easiest family hike — about 45 minutes round trip with a waterfall at the end
- Swimming holes are popular on hot days — arrive before noon for the best spots
- Wear proper shoes with grip — trails can be muddy and slippery, especially near water
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking shoes (trails are rooty and sometimes muddy)
- Swimsuits and towels in summer for the swimming holes
- Bug spray (the forest can be buggy in summer)
- Packed lunch and water (limited food options at the park)
- A change of clothes for kids who'll definitely get wet
Cost Info
Free Admission
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
Free (Ecology Centre admission by donation)
Tips to Save
- Everything here is free — the park, bridge, trails, and swimming holes.
- The Ecology Centre is by donation.
- The cafe at the entrance has affordable snacks.
- This is the free alternative to the paid Capilano Suspension Bridge.