Just north of downtown Vancouver, Lynn Canyon Park offers a peaceful escape into lush temperate rainforest, with waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, and a thrilling suspension bridge — all free to access year-round.
A Brief History
Lynn Canyon Park officially opened in 1912, originally covering only 4.9 hectares. Over time, it expanded to nearly 250 hectares, making it one of the most treasured green spaces in North Vancouver.
The name “Lynn” is believed to derive from John Linn, a British Royal Engineer, whose name was adopted and altered in early maps of the area. The land was donated by the McTavish brothers to help promote residential development in Lynn Valley. Local figure J.P. Crawford also played a key role in shaping the park’s early landscape.
The Suspension Bridge
The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, completed in 1911, stretches approximately 48 meters across and hangs about 50 meters above the canyon floor. Originally a private toll bridge, it was later taken over by the District of North Vancouver and made free for the public.
Today, it’s one of the park’s most iconic features and part of the renowned Baden-Powell Trail, offering stunning views of the canyon and surrounding forest.
Trails, Waterfalls & Natural Highlights
Lynn Canyon Park features a variety of trails for all levels:
- Baden-Powell Trail – a popular forest trail that runs through the park
- Twin Falls – a small bridge crossing beautiful cascades
- 30-Foot Pool – a clear, emerald-colored swimming hole ideal for summer visits
The trails are well-marked and offer options for short family-friendly loops or longer scenic hikes through dense second-growth forest.
Ecology & Education
This second-growth rainforest is home to towering Douglas firs, western red cedars, and hemlocks, along with ferns, mosses, and mushrooms.
At the heart of the park lies the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre, which offers educational exhibits on local wildlife, forests, and conservation. The Centre frequently hosts guided nature walks and family events that teach visitors about the area’s fragile ecosystem.
Film & Pop Culture
Thanks to its pristine and untouched appearance, Lynn Canyon Park has been featured in numerous TV shows and movies, including Stargate SG-1 and Stargate Atlantis.
It’s beloved by locals and visitors alike as a free, accessible outdoor destination that feels miles away from city life—while being just a short drive from downtown Vancouver.
Visitor Information
- Address: 3663 Park Road, North Vancouver
- Hours: Open daily, year-round
- Parking: Paid parking available; early arrival recommended
- Transit: Reachable via local bus routes with a short walk to the entrance
- Family-Friendly: Suspension bridge, picnic areas, forest trails, swimming hole
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