Spirit Trail: Bridgman Park to Ambleside Waterfront

The Spirit Trail: Bridgman Park to Ambleside Waterfront is one of those classic North Vancouver routes that locals actually use every day, not just on weekends. This 25.3 km out-and-back path links the green river corridor around Bridgman Park with the shops, beaches, and seawall vibe of Ambleside, with only 174 m of total elevation gain and a max altitude of about 47 m. It’s rated moderate mostly for the distance, not the hills, and most people clock it in around five hours at a steady pace.

The Spirit Trail is mostly paved and wide, threading past parks, residential pockets, and the working waterfront as you move west. You’ll pass creeks, marina views, and eventually open up to the Ambleside waterfront with its beach, pier, and city skyline across Burrard Inlet. It’s popular for cycling, running, and long walks, with plenty of spots to grab a coffee, snack, or washroom break along the way.

Right now, expect a busy multi-use route with lots of bikes and pedestrians, so a bike bell is genuinely handy if you’re riding. Some bike lane sections on the Spirit Trail through the harbourfront and Mosquito Creek Marina area are a bit confusing, with construction detours and spots where the lane just seems to vanish, so slow down and watch for signs. The trail runs year-round in North Vancouver, but winter can mean wet sections and darker late afternoons, and dogs are allowed and commonly seen, so keep them leashed and ready for a mix of traffic, noise, and distractions.