Stanley Park Seawall: Vancouver's Scenic Walking Trail

Vancouver boasts many spectacular outdoor attractions, but perhaps none is more beloved by locals and visitors alike than the Stanley Park Seawall. This 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) paved pathway encircling the park's perimeter offers some of the most spectacular urban views you'll find anywhere in the world.

The Seawall is part of the longer 28-kilometer Seaside Greenway, making it the world's longest uninterrupted waterfront path. It's a testament to Vancouver's commitment to accessible outdoor spaces and has become an iconic symbol of the city's connection to nature despite being a major urban center.

A Brief History of the Stanley Park Seawall

Construction on the Seawall began in 1917 under the supervision of master stonemason James Cunningham, who dedicated 32 years of his life to the project. The original purpose was to prevent erosion of the park's foreshore, but it quickly became apparent that the path would serve a recreational purpose as well.

The entire Seawall wasn't completed until 1980, though sections were opened for public use as they were finished. Today, it stands as one of Vancouver's most significant landmarks, with over 2.5 million visitors walking, jogging, cycling, or skating along its path each year.

What to Expect Along the Route

The Seawall journey offers constantly changing views and points of interest, making the entire loop an engaging experience from start to finish. Here's what you can expect as you make your way around:

Coal Harbour Section

Starting from downtown, the Seawall passes through Coal Harbour with its luxury yachts and seaplanes taking off and landing. The Vancouver Convention Centre and the Digital Orca sculpture by Douglas Coupland mark the beginning of the route for many visitors.

Brockton Point

As you continue clockwise, you'll reach Brockton Point with its historic lighthouse and the famous collection of totem poles. The nine poles here represent various First Nations cultures and are among the most visited tourist attractions in British Columbia.

Siwash Rock

Further along, you'll encounter Siwash Rock, a 32-million-year-old sea stack that holds significant cultural importance to the Indigenous peoples of the region. According to Coast Salish legend, it was once a fisherman transformed to stone by the gods as a symbol of unselfishness.

Third Beach and Second Beach

The western side of the park features two popular beaches. Third Beach is more secluded and natural, while Second Beach offers a heated outdoor pool alongside the ocean. Both provide perfect spots to rest, picnic, or take a swim during summer months.

English Bay

Completing the loop brings you to English Bay, with its vibrant beach scene and stunning sunset views. The area is particularly lively during summer evenings and hosts the annual Celebration of Light fireworks competition.

Tips for Enjoying the Seawall

• Follow the designated paths: The Seawall has separate lanes for walkers/joggers and cyclists/skaters, with directional rules (counterclockwise for cyclists).
• Timing: Early mornings offer the most peaceful experience, while sunsets provide dramatic views of the mountains and ocean.
• Weather considerations: Vancouver's rainy season (October to March) doesn't deter locals from using the Seawall. A light raincoat is often all you need.
• Access points: You can join or exit the Seawall at multiple points, making it easy to customize your journey.
• Facilities: Public restrooms, water fountains, and food concessions are available at regular intervals.

Wildlife Encounters

The Seawall offers surprising wildlife viewing opportunities despite being in an urban setting. Watch for harbor seals bobbing in the waters, river otters playing along the shoreline, and bald eagles soaring overhead. The waters of Burrard Inlet and English Bay also occasionally welcome orcas and even gray whales, though such sightings are rare and cause much excitement among locals.

Within the park itself, raccoons, squirrels, and over 230 species of birds can be spotted along the route. Just remember not to feed any wildlife, as this can harm their natural behaviors and health.

Best Photography Spots

Photographers will find endless inspiration along the Seawall. Some prime spots include:

• Prospect Point - offering views of the Lions Gate Bridge and North Shore mountains
• The nine o'clock gun near Brockton Point
• The Girl in a Wetsuit sculpture
• Siwash Rock during sunset
• The Vancouver skyline view from Third Beach

Getting There and Getting Around

The Stanley Park Seawall is easily accessible from downtown Vancouver. You can rent bicycles near the park entrance at Denman Street or use the city's bike-sharing program, Mobi. For those preferring to walk specific sections, public transit routes stop near various access points to the park.

If you're not up for the full 10-kilometer loop, consider focusing on the section between Coal Harbour and Second Beach, which offers the most dramatic views and attractions.

The Seawall in Every Season

Each season brings a different character to the Seawall experience:

• Spring: Cherry blossoms and rhododendrons add splashes of color along parts of the route.
• Summer: Beaches come alive with swimmers and sunbathers, while the ocean teems with kayakers and paddleboarders.
• Fall: The changing colors of the park's trees create a spectacular backdrop, and the reduced crowds offer a more serene experience.
• Winter: The snow-capped North Shore mountains create dramatic views, and the Pacific storms rolling in can be an impressive sight from safe viewing locations.

The Stanley Park Seawall represents Vancouver's connection to both urban life and natural beauty. It's a place where you can exercise, socialize, meditate, or simply soak in the spectacular surroundings. Whether you're visiting Vancouver for the first time or have lived here your entire life, the Seawall continues to offer new perspectives and experiences with every visit.

So lace up your walking shoes, hop on a bike, or strap on your rollerblades, and experience one of Vancouver's most treasured pathways. The Stanley Park Seawall isn't just a trail – it's a journey through the heart and soul of what makes this city so special.