It might be a bit early to round up your favourite swimming holes in B.C., but for those who like to plan ahead for warmer days (or those who enjoy a cold plunge), there’s no place more magical to start than the natural swimming hole at Lynn Canyon Park.
Plus, it’s located at the foot of an equally enchanting waterfall that’s especially breathtaking during the spring months. According to the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre, mist rises from the canyon during the rainy months of the year, and the creek rises dramatically.
“Look for spectacular waterfalls near the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge or Twin Falls,” says the centre.
Sitting on 617 acres of lush, temperate rainforest, Lynn Canyon Park has been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike since opening over a century ago. In 1991, the District of North Vancouver added a significant amount of protected land to the park, making it one of the largest and most popular parks in Metro Vancouver.
30-foot natural pool
Thankfully for hikers, there’s a beautiful place to cool off during the warmer months. A 30-foot swimming hole awaits at the end of a very short walk through the forest, leading from the north side of the suspension bridge.
According to the park, the natural pool is only visible during the summer months when the water level is lower, and there’s a beautiful pebble beach to lounge on.
“If you’re planning to spend the day there, come early to be sure you get a small space for a picnic,” recommends the park. “Otherwise, head down river and find a large rock to sit on.”
Those who prefer to head to Rice Lake can ascend to the top of the canyon via
Pipe Bridge, which crosses the canyon and leads visitors to the top of Lynn Valley Road.
Visitors climb up a long wooden stairwell to the top of the canyon, with a great lookout point on the way to help break up the vertical trek. While the Old Pipe Bridge is not open to the public for crossing, there is a pedestrian bridge right next to it that offers beautiful views of the canyon, pool, and river below.
The Pipe Bridge connects to several trails – among them a dirt road that leads to Rice Lake.
Twin Falls Trail
Speaking of trails, the park is home to a number of scenic hiking routes suitable for any hiking level, according to the park’s website.
Among the most popular hikes is the Twin Falls Trail, which leads from the suspension bridge heading east to the breathtaking Twin Falls, the swimming hole visible below.
Visitors cross the Twin Falls Bridge and reach the river by climbing down a steep bank, crossing the river to access a long riverbank with “lots of sitting room,” according to the park.
“If you are looking for a quiet place to sit by the river, this is the spot,” says the website.
Other fantastic trails to check out during your visit include the famed Baden Powell Trail, which crosses the entire North Shore mountain range and connects with several different parks, including Capilano River, Grouse, the Power Line Trails, Lunn Canyon, and Quarry Rock in Deep Cove.
Hours & info
The Lynn Canyon Park gates are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The Ecology Centre is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and from noon to 4 p.m. on weekends and stat holidays.
Note that the suspension bridge and park trails are, sadly, not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
Remember to leave no trace behind and enjoy your next visit!
How to get there: Drive 20 minutes from Vancouver to 3690 Park Rd., North Vancouver, via BC-1A/BC-99 N and Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 E.
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