Cleveland Dam
Peering over the edge of Cleveland Dam is an awe-inspiring sight
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: NoCleveland Dam Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 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
Cleveland Dam is a hidden gem for those who love nature and scenic views. The walk across the dam gives you an amazing perspective of Capilano Lake and the surrounding mountains, especially The Lions. It's a great spot for a quick picnic or a peaceful hike. Just remember, it's not just about the dam; the surrounding trails are a must-explore. Parking is easy, and it's free, which is a nice bonus. If you're in North Vancouver, definitely worth a stop.
Ramtin Lahooti - in the last week
Lovely place for a hike for yourself with friends or a dog. There is no access to the water as those seem to be the drinking water for the residents. There is a parking lot but the space is relatively limited
Luke L'sk - a week ago
Very nice view to the lake, and the dom.
Nice trail about 1 hour for the whole family.
Garage Door Pro Solutions - in the last week
Lovely views across the reservoir. Free parking and toilets. Only took around 10/20 minutes to walk around but the views were some of our first in Vancouver and witnessing the scale of the trees and mountains is something special.
K W - a month ago
A nice location for a walk or bike ride. There is parking and some open grass with benches. The view across the dam is nice and picturesque and you might get to see the rescue helicopter coming and going from the nearby helipad.
Ben Tuxworth - 2 months ago
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
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Cleveland Dam:
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: 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
Video
Please provide consent and/or disable ad blocker to view the video.
