Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge
A stunning suspension bridge over a clear river, offering easy trails and beautiful scenery near Whistler.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning suspension bridge over a clear river, offering easy trails and beautiful scenery near Whistler.
"Really neat suspension bridge out on the Riverside Trail near Whistler. The views around are amazing!"
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking spots make accessing the trails convenient.
👟 Easy Riverside Trail
The Riverside Trail is flat and easy, perfect for a relaxed walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge
Riverside Trail
A picturesque suspension bridge offering stunning views of the clear, flowing Cheakamus River.

Riverside Trail
Near Whistler
An easy, well-maintained trail perfect for a leisurely stroll with beautiful river scenery.

Train Wreck Hike
Near Cheakamus River
A popular, relatively short and flat hike leading to a unique train wreck site.
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Planning Your Visit
Easy Access, Stunning Views
Trail Variety & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking spots make accessing the trails convenient.
👟 Easy Riverside Trail
The Riverside Trail is flat and easy, perfect for a relaxed walk.
Rainy day hike?
❄️ Winter Wonderland
The area is breathtaking in winter; consider hiking the service road.
🔄 Loop for Variety
Hike up the service road and return via the opposite side of the river for a varied forest experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking spots make accessing the trails convenient.
👟 Easy Riverside Trail
The Riverside Trail is flat and easy, perfect for a relaxed walk.
❄️ Winter Wonderland
The area is breathtaking in winter; consider hiking the service road.
🔄 Loop for Variety
Hike up the service road and return via the opposite side of the river for a varied forest experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the picturesque Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge and its easy-to-access Riverside Trail, highlighting the stunning clear water and convenient free parking. Some note that other trails can be more moderate, and winter visits offer a uniquely beautiful, serene experience.
"Turn around for the trail, well maintained bridge. Riverside was an easier trail, certain parts of the Otherside can be moderate but a little further up is the gravel road running Parallel ."
Dave Chao
"Really neat suspension bridge out on the Riverside Trail near Whistler. There's several places to park and many ways to access the trails. The views around are amazing, the water flowing is really clear. This is very close to Loggers Lake!"
Mat Bienczyk
"MacLaurin's Crossing is a 395 m less popular green machine groomed trail located near Whistler British Columbia. This mountain bike primary trail can be used both directions and has a easy overall physical rating with a 35 m green climb. On average it takes 2 minutes to complete this trail.
Breathtaking in the winter. Well worth the hike up the service road. Return down the opposite side of the river for a great hike through the forest."
Grease Monkey Tuners
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge is easily accessible from Whistler. Many visitors drive, utilizing the free parking available near the trailhead. It's a short drive along the Sea to Sky Highway.
While direct public transport might be limited, you can explore local shuttle services or consider ride-sharing options from Whistler village to get close to the trailhead.
There are several parking areas and access points. The Riverside Trail is a popular and easy option, often recommended for its scenic beauty.
Yes, the trails around the Cheakamus River, including the one leading to the suspension bridge, are considered good options for a rainy day hike due to their relatively short length and flat terrain.
The Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge is located on the Sea to Sky Highway, making it a scenic drive from Vancouver, typically taking around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge and the surrounding trails is generally free. There are ample free parking spots available.
The trails and bridge are accessible year-round, typically from dawn till dusk. It's advisable to check local conditions, especially during winter months.
There is no entrance fee for the Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge or the associated trails. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost.
While not strictly necessary due to the ease of access, guided tours might be available through local Whistler tour operators, offering insights into the area's natural and historical significance.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but visitors are encouraged to stay on marked trails and respect the natural environment. Always be mindful of weather conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Riverside Trail leading to the suspension bridge is considered easy and flat. However, other trails in the area can range from moderate to more challenging.
Walking across the bridge itself is quick, but the entire experience, including the walk to and from the bridge via the Riverside Trail, typically takes about 1.5 hours for a round trip.
Expect stunning views of the clear, turquoise Cheakamus River flowing beneath the bridge. The surrounding forest also offers beautiful scenery, especially in winter.
Yes, the bridge is close to Loggers Lake and the popular Train Wreck site, offering opportunities for longer hikes or combined visits.
Absolutely! The bridge, the river, and the surrounding natural landscape provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially during different seasons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge. You'll find a variety of restaurants and cafes in nearby Whistler village.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a picnic along the trails, provided you pack out all your trash and respect the natural environment.
Whistler offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes and pubs to fine dining restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets.
It's highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking for an extended period, as amenities are scarce at the bridge site.
Food trucks are not commonly found directly at this natural attraction. Your best bet for quick bites would be in Whistler village or along the Sea to Sky Highway.
📸 📸 Photography
The suspension bridge itself offers iconic shots. Also, explore the riverbanks for unique perspectives of the water and surrounding forest.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your photos. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Drone usage may be restricted in natural areas. It's crucial to check Transport Canada regulations and local park bylaws before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge and landscape. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color.
Winter offers a magical setting with snow-covered trees and a serene river. The contrast of the bridge against the winter landscape is a unique photo opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. The nearby Train Wreck hike is also a relatively short and engaging option for families looking for a bit more exploration.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
The proximity to Whistler also means you can easily combine this visit with other activities or enjoy the amenities of the town. The free parking and clear trail markers make it straightforward for solo adventurers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a polarizing filter to enhance the water's colors. Winter offers a unique, serene landscape for dramatic shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails Around the Bridge
For those looking for a bit more adventure, the area connects to other trails that can be more moderate. Some reviews mention a gravel road running parallel to the river, which can be an alternative route. In winter, hiking up the service road and returning via the opposite side of the river is recommended for a unique forest experience.
It's worth noting that the MacLaurin's Crossing trail is a less popular green machine groomed trail, primarily for mountain biking, but can be used by hikers. Always be aware of your surroundings and trail conditions, especially if venturing onto less-traveled paths.
The Iconic Suspension Bridge
The visual appeal of the bridge against the backdrop of the lush forest and the vibrant blue-green river is a major draw for visitors. It's a fantastic spot for photos, capturing the essence of the natural beauty of the Sea to Sky corridor.
While the bridge itself is a relatively quick experience, the journey to it via the Riverside Trail allows for a more immersive appreciation of the surrounding environment. It’s a memorable landmark that adds a touch of adventure to any visit.
Winter Visits and Snowshoeing
Many visitors recommend hiking up the service road during winter and returning down the opposite side of the river for a rewarding hike through the snow-laden forest. This route offers a different perspective and a more challenging, yet beautiful, experience.
While the bridge remains accessible, snowshoeing or wearing appropriate winter footwear is essential. The crisp, cold air and the quiet solitude of the winter forest make for a truly unique and memorable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit