Paved waterfront path around Stanley Park with one-way bicycle traffic (counter-clockwise) and a separate pedestrian lane.
The Stanley Park Seawall is a paved waterfront path of about 9 to 10 km that circles Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, regarded as one of the best urban walks in North America. Access is free and the route can be joined at many points, including Coal Harbour, the West End and the park's Stanley Park Drive entrance. Visitors can reach the park by bus 19 or 23, or on foot from downtown, and bicycle and in-line skate rentals are available along Denman and West Georgia streets. The path is divided into a separate pedestrian lane and a one-way cycle lane that flows counter-clockwise, so walkers should keep to their own lane. Elevation change is minimal, about 30 m in total, and the surface is smooth asphalt and concrete, which makes the loop one of the easiest in the region. Exposure is mostly to sun and sea breezes, with shade from tall trees along the Prospect Point and Third Beach sections. Landmarks along the way include the Vancouver Rowing Club, Brockton Point and its totem poles, the Nine O'Clock Gun, Lions Gate Bridge, Prospect Point, Siwash Rock, Third Beach, Second Beach and English Bay. Walking the full loop typically takes two to three hours, while cycling takes about an hour. The park has multiple cafes and restrooms, and drinking fountains are found at several points, although some are seasonal. Because the route hugs the shoreline, a shorter walk can be made by turning back at any beach or viewpoint, and buses run on the park's main roads for an early exit. In winter, storms can send waves over the lower sections, and the seawall is occasionally closed for repairs or debris.
| Distance | About 9-10 km loop (seawall) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2-3 hours walking; about 1 hour cycling |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Bus 19 or 23 to Stanley Park, or walk from Coal Harbour or the West End; free access; bike and in-line skate rentals along Denman and West Georgia streets |
| Best season | Year-round (best May-September) |
| Address | Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4 |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Stanley Park, Vancouver
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Water
- Sun protection
- Rain layer in winter
Location
Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4
49.3017, -123.1417 View on map
Highlights
- Walk or cycle the full 9-10 km seawall loop around Stanley Park
- See the Brockton Point totem poles and the Nine O'Clock Gun
- Pass beneath Lions Gate Bridge at Prospect Point
- Relax on Third Beach, Second Beach and English Bay
Tips for visiting
- Keep to the pedestrian lane, since cyclists travel one way counter-clockwise.
- Rent bikes or skates on Denman or West Georgia streets for a one-hour loop.
- Carry water and sun protection in summer, as shade is patchy.
- Pack a rain layer in winter, when storm waves can reach lower sections.
- Turn back at any beach if short on time, since buses serve the park roads.
When to visit
May to September has the most reliable weather, while early mornings and weekdays are quieter. The seawall remains walkable year-round.
Accessibility
The seawall is paved and nearly level, and large sections are suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Some access points have curbs or slopes, and occasional closures can affect the route.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Stanley Park Seawall?
The loop is about 9 to 10 km. Walking takes two to three hours and cycling about one hour.
Which direction do cyclists travel on the seawall?
Cyclists travel one way, counter-clockwise, in their own lane. Pedestrians use a separate lane.
Is there a fee to use the seawall?
No. Access is free, though bike and in-line skate rentals along Denman and West Georgia streets are paid.
Which buses go to Stanley Park?
Bus 19 and bus 23 serve Stanley Park, and the park is also a walk from Coal Harbour or the West End.