Capilano Suspension Bridge

It's felt like a while since I have been a proper tourist here in Vancouver as things here seemingly become more and more day to day, rather than a vacation, however, yesterday we decided to become true tourists again and go and cross off one of the top attractions (on my list at least) in Vancouver, the Capilano Suspension Bridge (all photos are mine because Im such an awesome photographer!) 

The bridge itself is 450 feet wide and 230 feet high and apparently draws in 800,000 visitors each year. I can see how they reach that number though, it was extremely busy, mainly because it was a scorching Saturday. 

As you can see from the picture, the bridge is fairly wide and it's just as well, as people love to stop and take photographs on it (why wouldn't you, the views are amazing!) There seems to be no limit for how many people are allowed on it at once, and it shakes to high heaven. 

Taking photos on the bridge is extremely difficult as you have to hold onto the rails with one hand in order to not fall over. I can't emphasize just how wobbly the bridge is, definitely not for the faint hearted. Also make sure all of your belongings are secure, my sunglasses fell off from my neckline but luckily landed on the floor.

This photo is the view from one side of the bridge, to the right you can see the cliff walk and below is obviously the river.

The other side of the bridge is just water and what appears to be an apartment block in the distance, with balconies overlooking the canyon (I bet they aren't cheap!) 

What is surprising is just how close this area is to the busy streets of North Vancouver. It is like a little gem in the city, but you certainly don't notice that from within the canyon.

Recently the bridge added a lot of new features to the site. It's not just a bridge that you cross, on the other side is a huge area to explore, with a treetop adventure (pictured) and lots of sights and photo opportunities. This area is less crowded and more spacious (although you do get backlogs at good photo spots).

There is even a small area with rescued birds, which had a kestrel, a hawk and this lovely owl.

One problem of going over the bridge to the treetop area, is that to get back, you have to go back over the bridge. A lot of people seemed scared at the thought of going back over it, as if it was a once in a lifetime challenge. Kids were being dragged back across by parents, throwing themselves on the floor. Don't kids just find a way to ruin even the most amazing places? I'm definitely not one for heights, but I felt safe throughout, but the adrenaline is certainly a thrill! 

But, the fun isn't over yet! Once you've returned over the bridge, you have the cliffwalk. This is a thin single file walk around a cliff face. EVERYBODY stops to take photographs here, and because it is single file, long queues form behind. But, if you are patient and courteous, you get a chance of some fantastic photos yourself. 

Luckily, along the way are viewing points so the build up does subside now and again. 

After this, you have seen all the sights at Capilano Suspension Bridge. We managed to spend around 4 hours there, but you could probably rush through it all in around 2 hours, if you didn't care for too many photos and you didn't stop for a bite to eat. There is also a lot of reading and cultural writings there, you could spend a lot of time if you wanted to read about the rainforest, the importance of water etc.

Overall, I had a great day out. People say it is expensive ($38 per person inc. tax) but it is absolutely worth it for a one off visit. If you don't mind extremely touristy places, with families and children around, you will love this place. You might want to go in the middle of the week, or when it's not such a hot day, because it really was packed when we went.

And now back to reality, job hunting, yay!