The best city hikes and walks in Capilano Watershed

Brothers Creek is a mountain stream that flows through a steep, forested canyon on Vancouver’s North Shore before joining the Capilano River. Fed by rainfall and runoff from the slopes of Cypress Mountain, the creek runs through a rugged valley of dense coastal forest, creating beautiful waterfalls and rocky channels, with trails that run along its course in several areas. Its clear waters and surrounding old-growth forest provide important habitat for fish, wildlife, and native plants.

Capilano Pacific Trail is a beautiful forested route in North Vancouver that follows the Capilano River corridor through dense coastal woodland, combining shaded paths, suspension bridges, and sections of rolling terrain under towering cedar, fir, and hemlock trees. The trail passes through steep canyon scenery with constant views of the river and rushing water below. Due to landslides in the area, a section of the route remains permanently closed, requiring detours or alternate connections in some areas. Despite its urban location, the mix of river views, mature forest, and peaceful stretches makes it feel secluded, and it's a fantastic route to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery close to the city.

The Spirit Trail follows the coast of North Van, passing by the pond and sports courts here in Ambleside Park. The trail is divided into two lanes, one for hiking and slower cyclists and one for commuting cyclists.

The beach is large and has logs sunken into the sand to provide natural seating every dozen metres. It's a great spot for kids and families, and there is a dedicated dog beach around the corner to the east. The Seawalk Trail follows the beach all the way through Ambleside Park.

The Centennial Seawalk is a year-round waterfront pathway. It connects Ambleside Park to Dundarave Pier. The path is paved, mostly flat, with continuous ocean views and the North Shore Mountains behind Vancouver’s skyline. The Centennial Seawalk is perfect for all ages and fitness levels, and open to activities such as biking, walking, running, and skating.

Dundarave Pier and Beach is home to a small but picturesque beach with fantastic views across Burrard Inlet, the Lions Gate Bridge, and the Vancouver skyline. Head to the end of the pier for the best views and for fishing, crabbing, and great sunsets. During winter, the pier puts on a festive Christmas light display, and within walking distance, you’ll find Dundarave Village with cafés, restaurants, and small shops.

Ambleside Park is a stunning waterfront public space on the shores of Howe Sound across the water from downtown Vancouver. This path is open for walking, jogging, or biking along the park's wide seaside boardwalk, which connects to the Centennial Seawalk. Looking south, freighters and sailboats dot the waters under the Vancouver skyline. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, popular for sunbathing, beachcombing, and swimming. Even dogs can enjoy the park in the designated off-leash zone. The park also has golfing, baseball, and pickleball fields, plenty of activities for everyone.

Enter Mahon Park on its southern end, just off West Keith Road. The park has a well-maintained network of family-friendly trails that combine forested trails, fields, and a babbling creek. Visitors can enjoy playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, and a long set of stairs connecting the upper and lower sections of the park.