Cleveland Dam
Peering over the edge of the 91-metre high Cleveland Dam into the Capilano Canyon is an awe-inspiring sight.
Located at the head of the Capilano River Regional Park, Cleveland Dam holds back the vast Capilano Lake, which supplies about 40% of Metro Vancouver's fresh drinking water. Built in 1954, this impressive structure offers breathtaking views of the lake, the iconic Lions peaks, and the dramatic canyon below, all for free.
Why Visit Cleveland Dam?
- Dramatic Views: The view from the top of the dam, looking down the spillway into the canyon, is truly spectacular, especially during the rainy season when water is overflowing.
- Stunning Scenery: Enjoy a picturesque backdrop of Capilano Lake with the twin peaks of The Lions mountains in the distance.
- Nature & Trails: The dam is the starting point for several trails in Capilano River Regional Park, including paths that lead down to the Capilano Salmon Hatchery.
- Free Attraction: It's a fantastic and completely free way to experience the grandeur of the North Shore mountains and nature.
What to See & Do
- Walk Across the Dam: Stroll across the top of the dam for panoramic views in every direction.
- Hike to the Salmon Hatchery: Follow the trails down into the canyon to visit the Capilano Salmon Hatchery, where you can learn about the salmon life cycle and see fish in the viewing windows (depending on the season).
- Have a Picnic: The surrounding park has large grassy areas and picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for an outdoor lunch.
- Photography: It's a popular spot for photographers looking to capture iconic North Shore landscapes.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Visit After Rain: For the most dramatic experience, visit during or after a heavy rainfall when the spillway is overflowing with a thunderous roar.
- Wear Good Shoes: If you plan to hike the trails down to the hatchery, be prepared for some steep sections. Sturdy footwear is recommended.
- Combine Your Trip: The same bus (#236) that goes to the dam also stops at Capilano Suspension Bridge and continues to the base of Grouse Mountain, making it easy to visit multiple attractions in one day.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Grouse Mountain: The Skyride gondola is just one bus stop further up the road.
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: A world-famous attraction located a few bus stops back towards Lonsdale Quay.
- Lonsdale Quay Market: A bustling public market at the SeaBus terminal, perfect for a post-hike meal.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoCleveland Dam Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Address: Cleveland Dam, North Vancouver, BC V7S 1A5, Canada
Phone: (604) 432-6200
Official Website: Cleveland Dam
Cleveland Dam Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
Amazing place on the dam park and the trails in that area easily accessible and lots of fun stuff to do. The nature generosity felt so touching.
There was signs of the trails in every crossing so you would feel safe to find way back even after wondering for hours in the woods. the terrain was really challenging and consistently changing elevation and still you would never feel tired. the sound of the river would accompany you all the way making it so enjoyable and relaxing
Lovely place, enough free parking and may say even better yhan the capilano suspension bridge experience.
Enea Paja - 2 months ago
🌊 Breathtaking Views and Engineering Marvel
The Cleveland Dam is a beautiful and impressive site that offers some of the most iconic views in North Vancouver. Standing atop the dam, you get a spectacular vantage point of the Capilano Lake reservoir and the towering Lions peaks in the background. The sheer scale of the dam and the rushing water make it a captivating place to visit, whether you are a fan of dramatic landscapes or interested in the engineering behind the city's water supply.
🚶♂️ Easy Accessibility and Extensive Walking Paths
One of the best things about this location is that it is very easily accessible for everyone. There is a dedicated parking lot right on-site, which takes the stress out of finding a spot, even on busier weekends. Once you arrive, the terrain is quite manageable, and you can walk for a while along the various trails that connect the dam to the surrounding Capilano River Regional Park. The paths are well-maintained and offer a mix of flat walks and more forested routes for those looking to explore a bit further.
🧺 Perfect for Picnics and Family Outings
If you are looking to make a day of it, there is a lovely park nearby that is ideal for picnics. The green space is spacious and clean, providing a great area to relax after a walk. It’s a very family-friendly environment where you can set up a blanket, enjoy some food, and soak in the fresh mountain air. The combination of the dramatic dam views and the peaceful park setting makes it a very versatile destination.
👍 Final Verdict: A Must-Visit North Shore Gem
I give Cleveland Dam an "easy" five stars. It balances natural beauty with ease of parking and accessibility perfectly. Whether you want a quick photo op of the water or a longer afternoon stroll through the forest and a picnic, this spot delivers every time. It’s a quintessential Vancouver experience that doesn't require a grueling hike to enjoy.
Sohrob H - 6 months ago
Honestly a hidden gem in North Vancouver!!! I visited this place multiple times and it never fails to take my breath away with its gorgeous view! There are some loop trails available to enjoy the nature as well. With free parking and easy accessibility, I don’t see any excuse to miss this place! 100% recommended
Ari discoveries - 2 months ago
A nice place to visit. However, it needs more signal to walk around the area. And it seems like most of the views are block by a high walls. It's hard to enjoy the views
Alice Poong - a month ago
What a great area- filled with trails that are well marked and maintained. This is accessible via a transit stop off the Highway and within minutes you are feeling like the city is so far away.
Erin LeGrand - 5 months ago
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Directions
| SeaBus and Bus Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line / Canada Line | Waterfront Station | 5 Minutes |
How to get to Cleveland Dam by SeaBus and Bus
From Waterfront Station, take the SeaBus across to Lonsdale Quay. At the Lonsdale Quay bus loop, find Bay 6 and take the #236 Grouse Mountain bus. Get off at the stop on Nancy Greene Way at Prospect Avenue. The entrance to Capilano River Regional Park is across the road and the dam top of the dam is about a 5 minute walk.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Accommodations near Cleveland Dam:
Photo Gallery
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Cleveland Dam viewed from side photo by Arnold C -
Capilano Lake with the 'Lions' twin peaks in the background cc licensed photo by matwiemann -
Photo Credit: Dennis S. Hurd - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: BumFluff2009 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr

