Two Terrific Days in Vancouver’s North Shore

Published May 12th, 2026
Words and pictures by Jay Kana

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For the dozens of times I’ve explored British Columbia, I’d yet to spend time in Vancouver’s North Shore. It was time to change that so in late April, I spent a couple of days immersing myself in their cultural, nature and culinary scene on Canada’s west coast.
Along with a few other travel writing colleagues, we embarked on looking for a place to happen, making stops along the way. 

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

I’d crossed this bridge in 2004 and younger Jay didn’t truly appreciate it.
Wiser 40-ish Jay is smarter and soaked in not only the engineering but the panoramic views.
For context, it’s 450 feet long, 230 feet high and it’s been in existence since 1889.
The weight capacity is the equivalent of a fully loaded Boeing 747. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a fully loaded 747 nearby so I can’t officially substantiate that figure…

Hemp rope and cedar planks were the original materials and yes, there’s been some modernization since 1889, including steel cables.
When you go, I urge you to step slowly, not because of the light wobbliness of the bridge but rather, to admire what surrounds the bridge. Look for the details in the Capilano River and the majestic trees that line it.

Once you cross the bridge, hang a right to experience the Treetops Adventure where the platforms are up to 110 feet high. Stroll your way above the forest floor and get a unique view of what surrounds you. There are seven suspension bridges that guide you to learn about the area and the photo opportunities are mesmerizing.
Opened in 2004, this piece of the park features spectacular lighting themes seasonally.
Like the bridge that brought you here, move slowly and with the intention of seeing instead of looking.

Cross the main bridge again and this time, take a left to experience Cliffwalk, their newest attraction which opened in 2011. The walk is 700 feet long and reaches heights of up to approximately 295 feet.
Here, you’ll be greeted with vivacious views of the Capilano Canyon and following the theme, remember to enjoy your surroundings.
It’s here that you’ll get an excellent view and picture of the Capilano bridge if you remember to look behind you from time to time. 

Grouse Mountain

The new Blue Grouse Gondola is the newest attraction here and if astounding views are your thing, this is it. The 5.5 minute ride brings you nearly 4,000 feet up the mountain and on a clear day, the views of Vancouver and beyond are unmatched.
Each gondola seats up to eight, so the wait times are relatively low. 

Once at the top, my experience included seeing the two resident Grizzly bears, Grinder and Coola hanging out in their enclosure, fresh out of hibernation in mid-April.
There’s a live bear cam to see what they’re up to and Ranger talks in the summer to learn more about them. 

Another educational aspect are the summer Owl Talks with wildlife specialists. Grouse has three owls dedicated for these talks; Cleo, Odin and Apollo.
So yes, the views here are great but it’s the educational component that stands tall. 

Most importantly, there’s a strong First Nations Programming presence, including storytelling and crafts. I was fortunate to be in the híwus Feasthouse and hear William “Kwel-A-A-Nexw” Nahanee proudly share a cedar basket story, that captivated everyone in the room.
If you go to Grouse Mountain for anything, go for this.

Takaya Tours

As someone who loves being on the water, participating in the Cultural Canoe Tour through Takaya Tours was an exceptional experience. Our group of nearly 20 entered the replica ocean going canoe as used by the Tsleil-Waututh Nation in traditional fashion. We paddled in Naut’sa mawt, meaning together in the  Coast Salish language as best we could. Our guide shared stories of the land, sang traditional songs and helped us further understand the importance of the land and water.
The two-hour tour truly was a special experience in that it educated us in a serene setting of these protected waters. 

To recharge, the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier in the Shipyards District is your haven. The beds are oh-so comfortable, the rooms have a modern design and if you’re as lucky as me, you’ll get a view of the water and city skyline. 

If you want a really cool shot of the Vancouver skyline, walk to the edge of the pier and then get back to your hotel room and fall into the soft yet supportive pillows. 

There are dining options aplenty in Vancouver’s North Shore and here are the ones I went to:

Seaside Provisions Italiana: One minute walk from the Pinnacle Hotel
Breakfast here is divine, upscale and approachable. My classic breakfast was a hit!

Cliff House Restaurant: At Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
I like chicken wings. A lot. And these ones were quite good, along with a side of crispy French fries. I’d go back.

King Taps: Four minute walk from the Pinnacle Hotel
Surprise, surprise; I had wings here! And they were so, so good! And a tuna bowl to balance it out was the right choice. My group was on the second floor and we watched the sunset gracefully as the city lights took over.

Lonsdale Quay Market: Three minute walk from the Pinnacle Hotel
The market brings plenty of food and drink options through various vendors. The cupcakes from Butter Lane Bake Shop were/are superb!

Catch 122 Cafe & Bistro: Three minute walk from the Pinnacle Hotel
An array of fresh baked pastries were served to our group and I could have eaten all of them myself. I didn’t. But I could have. Maybe. I like consistency so it was another classic breakfast and this one was prepared perfectly. Those pastries, though…

Arms Reach Bistro: 25 minute drive from the Pinnacle Hotel
On the shores of Deep Cove, Arms Reach has a delicious shrimp pasta and well-made fried calamari. Does food taste better with a view of the water? Maybe…but it’s probably a yes.

If you’re in Vancouver’s North Shore for a couple of days, I hope this has inspired you to perhaps walk and paddle alongside my path or create your own.
To start planning your adventure, visit the North Shore website.