Treetop Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge
Holiday lights add a certain sparkle to the winter season, and nothing gets you in the holiday spirit more than walking through treetop suspension bridges guided only by the glow of hundreds of thousands of lights. We headed out to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver where, during the month of December, it's transformed into a world of festive lights, and the park offers a unique time of day to visit: night time! Plus, it’s also home to the world’s tallest living Christmas tree, at 153 ft tall.
Usually known for it’s 450 ft long suspension bridge, “Canyon Lights” brings the feeling of wonder and excitement to the entire rainforest for the holiday season. The first thing you’ll notice is, of course, the bridge itself! Not only is it long, it’s also very, very high! 230 feet above a river, to be exact. Don’t worry though - it’s completely safe, and it’s an amazing experience at dusk: to see the sun setting around nature, water rushing under your feet, and the twinkle of lights all down the bridge.
After you cross the suspension bridge, you’ll be able to walk through the rainforest and several beautiful light displays - we loved the circular balls of light strewn over the pond, the reflection from the lights cast a gorgeous glow over the water.
Then, it’s time to go up even further! The Treetops Adventure course gives you a bird’s eye view into the West Coast Rainforest, with seven smaller suspension bridges attached to 250 year old Douglas Firs. The best part? It’s all sustainable! The bridges connect to an “innovative tree collar system that is adjustable and moveable and has no nails or bolts penetrating into the Douglas-firs,” meaning that the trees (and you!) are safe.
Back on the other side of the suspension bridge is a slew of holiday activities, and another tantalizing adventure course: the Cliffwalk! The trail juts out from the cliff on a suspended walkway, which kind of feels like you’re walking on air! In some places, all you’re walking on is glass (but it’s very strong glass). We also found some very cool twinkly lights that made for some fun selfies!
Just so you know...this will be our last post 'til the new year! After a whirlwind 2015, we are taking some time off to catch up on our sleep, visit with family, and just enjoy our home for a little bit. We'll still be posting occasionally on Instagram at @localwanderer, so be sure to follow us there if you haven't yet! Happy happy holidays to all of you, we love you very much!
xoxo,
Taylor & Elaine
Canyon Lights runs until early January each year until 9pm, and is closed on Christmas Day. Partial proceeds are donated to the BC Professional Fire Fighter’s Burn Fund, which is dedicated to fire and burn education in schools. The bonus? If you’re a BC resident, the cost of admission (it's kind of pricey at about $40 per person) gives you an all-access pass for an entire year!