Cleveland Dam

Map & Directions
Photos & Video

Peering over the edge of Cleveland Dam is an awe-inspiring sight

Breathtaking look over the edge of Cleveland Dam photo by Arnold C

Cleveland dam is located at the south end of Capilano Lake at the head of Capilano River Regional Park. Unlike most dams in BC that were built to produce hydroelectric power, Cleveland Dam was built in 1954 to hold back the water in Capilano Lake, the source of 40 percent of Metro Vancouver's fresh drinking water. The lake collects snow melt and rainwater runoff from the surrounding mountains and holding back this water through the dry summer months provides Vancouver with a year round source of fresh water.

The twin mountain peaks called the 'Lions' provide a beautiful backdrop to the lake and dam.

There are numerous short trails nearby that lead to various viewpoints of the dam as well as to the Capilano Fish Hatchery. It is quite breathtaking to look over the edge of the dam during the wet season and see and hear the incredible power of the water overflowing with a thunderous roar into the Capilano River below.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No

Category: Landmarks & Historical Buildings

Address: Dam Rd
North Vancouver, BC V7K 3B2
Canada

Reviews

Yelp Rating:
4.5 out of 5 4.5 Star Rating
Based on 18 Reviews.

See all reviews on Yelp

What a hidden gem spot! Everything pleasant here. My local friends suggested here to meet up after hiking chilling. There are plenty free parking and well... Read More

Mari E. Mar-17-2019

I rarely venture to North Vancouver for a hike, but I ended up here at a friend's suggestion. The hiking trails were nice. We got to see the dam and the... Read More

C. H. Jul-09-2019

Amazing sight! Beautiful, scenic views from the dam and nearby hiking trails. There is (somewhat steep) 2km loop from the salmon hatchery to the dam which... Read More

Courtney B. Oct-23-2018

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Directions

Seabus and Bus Line	Nearest Station	Walking Time
Expo Line / Canada Line	Waterfront Station

How to get to Cleveland Dam by Seabus and Bus

From Waterfront Station take the Seabus over to Lonsdale Quay. After exiting the Seabus walk to Bay 8 at the bus loop and catch the #236 Grouse Mountain bus and take it to Prospect Avenue on Nancy Greene Way. This route takes you close to three other attractions so, if you are planning to visit them, you may wish do so on the same day. They are Lonsdale Quay Public Market, Capilano Supsension Bridge and Grouse Mountain

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Photo Gallery

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: Yelp
Photo Credit: Yelp
Photo Credit: Yelp
Photo Credit: David Meurin - cc license via Flickr
Photo Credit: Morisawa81 - cc license via Flickr
Photo Credit: velkr0 - cc license via Flickr
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr
Photo Credit: The Webhamster - cc license via Flickr