North Vancouver Travel Guide

Explore the best attractions, activities, and natural wonders of North Vancouver. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before visiting North Vancouver, including hiking trails, cultural attractions, local food scene, and transportation options.


Introduction to North Vancouver

North Vancouver is a city in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia, Canada. It is situated on the north shore of Burrard Inlet, just across from Vancouver. North Vancouver is known for its stunning natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities. If you are a nature lover and enjoy exploring the great outdoors, then North Vancouver should be on your bucket list.

List of Places to Visit in North Vancouver

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Polygon Gallery: A contemporary art gallery located at the foot of Lonsdale Avenue, offering exhibitions, public programs, and art classes.
  • The North Vancouver Museum: Located in Lower Lonsdale, the museum showcases the history of North Vancouver with interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • The Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge: A pedestrian bridge spanning 50-meters across Lynn Canyon, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.

Natural Attractions of North Vancouver: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: A popular tourist attraction featuring a 136-meter long suspension bridge, treetop adventures, and a cliff walk.
  • Grouse Mountain: A popular ski resort in the winter months, and a hiking paradise in the summer months with breathtaking views of the city and beyond.
  • The Baden-Powell Trail: A 48-kilometer hiking trail that traverses through various parks in North Vancouver, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Vancouver

North Vancouver is home to hundreds of kilometers of parks and trails, making it a paradise for hikers and bikers. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes in North Vancouver are:

  • Baden-Powell Trail: A 48-kilometer trail that winds through the North Shore mountains, showcasing some of the most breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding waterways.
  • Capilano Pacific Trail: A 4-kilometer trail that hugs the Capilano River, offering stunning views of the granite cliffs and the waterfalls on the way.
  • Mount Seymour Provincial Park: A popular spot for hiking and skiing in the winter months, this park offers some of the most spectacular views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in North Vancouver: Activities and Tours

  • Wilderness Adventures: Experience the rugged terrain and wilderness of North Vancouver by kayaking, zip-lining, or backcountry skiing.
  • City Tours: Explore the city’s hidden gems and secret spots with a guided tour. Some of the popular tours include the North Shore Culture Tour and the North Vancouver Food Tour.
  • Whale Watching: Take a whale watching tour and see the stunning orca and humpback whales of the North Shore.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Vancouver

Day 1: Arrive in North Vancouver and explore the Lonsdale Quay Market Day 2: Hike the Lynn Canyon Park and Suspension Bridge Day 3: Visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and take a treetop adventure walk Day 4: Explore the Grouse Mountain Nature Reserve and take the scenic tram ride Day 5: Hike the Baden-Powell Trail Day 6: Take a kayaking tour in Indian Arm Day 7: Visit the North Vancouver Museum and explore the local culture

Food and Drink Scene of North Vancouver

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wild Salmon: A Pacific Northwest delicacy, served with a side of roasted vegetables and quinoa.
  • Poutine: A Canadian classic made with french fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
  • Nanaimo Bars: A confection of chocolate, custard, and coconut named after a Vancouver Island town.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: North Vancouver is home to numerous craft breweries, including Beere Brewing Co. and Hearthstone Brewery.
  • BC Wines: Visit the local wineries such as the Deep Cove Winery to try the wonderful BC wines and enjoy the stunning views.

Where to Stay in North Vancouver: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Lonsdale Quay Hotel: A waterfront hotel located adjacent to the Lonsdale Quay Market.
  • Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier: A chic, modern hotel located just steps from the waterfront district.
  • HI North Vancouver Hostel: A hostel offering affordable accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

What to Buy in North Vancouver: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • First Nations Art: North Vancouver is home to many First Nations artists, offering unique and beautiful art pieces.
  • Whistler Beer Soap: Beer soap made from the local Whistler Brewing Co. beer is a popular souvenir for visitors.
  • BC Wines and Craft Beer: Take home a bottle of the local BC wine or a six-pack of locally brewed craft beer.

Local Culture and Customs of North Vancouver

North Vancouver is home to a diverse community of people, including many Indigenous peoples, who have called the region home for thousands of years. Visitors are encouraged to learn more about the local culture and customs by visiting cultural centers, attending cultural events, and exploring the city’s history.

Best Time to Visit North Vancouver

The best time to visit North Vancouver depends on what you want to do. In the winter months, North Vancouver is a popular skiing destination, while in the summer months, it is a popular hiking and camping destination. Spring and fall are great for outdoor activities such as cycling, kayaking, and fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Vancouver

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s parks, trails, and waterways.
  • Do respect the local culture and customs.
  • Do take care of the environment and pack out all garbage.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash in the parks.
  • Don’t disturb the wildlife.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in North Vancouver

North Vancouver is generally a safe city, but visitors should exercise caution when exploring the parks and trails, especially in the backcountry areas. Visitors are advised to carry bear spray and insect repellent, and to let someone know where they are going and when they plan to return.

Health in North Vancouver

Visitors to North Vancouver should bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water when exploring the outdoors. West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne illnesses are rare but present, so visitors are advised to wear long sleeves and pants during mosquito season.

Getting to North Vancouver: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Vancouver

The closest airport to North Vancouver is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which is approximately 30 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near North Vancouver

The main bus station in North Vancouver is the Lonsdale Quay Exchange, which serves as a hub for buses going to and from downtown Vancouver.

Other Options

Visitors can also take public transit, bike, or walk to North Vancouver from downtown Vancouver. SeaBus, a passenger ferry, connects North Vancouver with downtown Vancouver.

How to Get Around in North Vancouver

Visitors can get around North Vancouver using public transportation, bike, car, or walking. The North Vancouver Transit System provides bus services that connect the major attractions and neighborhoods of North Vancouver.

Where to Go Next from North Vancouver: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Whistler

Located approximately 120 kilometers north of North Vancouver, Whistler is a popular ski resort town in British Columbia and a must-visit for skiing enthusiasts.

Vancouver

Vancouver is the nearest city to North Vancouver and offers numerous attractions, museums, restaurants, and shopping options.

Conclusion

North Vancouver is a nature lover’s paradise, offering stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and cultural attractions. From hiking and biking to exploring museums and cultural centers, there is something for everyone in North Vancouver. Plan your trip today to experience the best of what this city has to offer.

The Wallace Shipyards — once one of the city's largest employers, now a public gathering place The Wallace Shipyards — once one of the city's largest employers, now a public gathering place The SeaBus arrives at Lonsdale Quay The SeaBus arrives at Lonsdale Quay The Grouse Mountain Skyride in action The Grouse Mountain Skyride in action The Capilano Suspension Bridge The Capilano Suspension Bridge Deep Cove Deep Cove Park & Tilford Gardens in spring Park & Tilford Gardens in spring Twin Falls in Lynn Canyon Park Twin Falls in Lynn Canyon Park Forest trail in Capilano River Regional Park Forest trail in Capilano River Regional Park Skiing with views on Grouse Mountain Skiing with views on Grouse Mountain A mellow North Shore ride A mellow North Shore ride Water play in the middle of the road, all part of the Fun City Festival Water play in the middle of the road, all part of the Fun City Festival Inside Lonsdale Quay Market Inside Lonsdale Quay Market Views and dining options on the waterfront Views and dining options on the waterfront The Shipyards are an emerging entertainment district in the city The Shipyards are an emerging entertainment district in the city The Lions - a familiar landmark on the horizon The Lions - a familiar landmark on the horizon Be prepared, there be mountains and other hazards beyond this gate Be prepared, there be mountains and other hazards beyond this gate