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Across Burrard Inlet and at either end stands two massive
bridges, linking Vancouver to North Share. At the West end
guarding the entrance to the natural harbor stands the
First Narrows or Lion’s Gate Bridge. To the East is
Second Narrow Bridge. Together these structures from an
iron bracket around busy waters of inlet carrying constant
stream of traffic to and from municipalities of North and
West Vancouver and district of North Vancouver.
Communities
of North shore, North and West Vancouver have very
different characters. West Vancouver, because of its
rugged geography has not been industrially developed and
is largely a residential community. Its residents commute
to work in other parts of Vancouver, or are employed in
service industries in the district. West Vancouver have
some lovely shopping districts and the area itself is
remarkable for the amount of greenery. The residents take
great pride in maintaining both private and public areas
in accordance with this natural beauty.
North
Vancouver has, from its origins as mill town, developed
along industrial lines. During Depression, North‘s
revenue was cut so drastically, that the city all but
stopped functioning. But with the outbreak of World War II
, ship-building facilities took on great importance. With
the influx of workers for shipyards, homes had to be built
and since that time, North Vancouver has continued its
expansion. As well as its substantial shipbuilding
facilities, the area has light manufacturing and plays a
large part in activities of Port of Vancouver, with the
shipping of grain, coal and lumber.
Topography
of North Shore is spectacular and some of favorite sports
for visitors are here. Many residents live high up on
mountain-side and enjoy stimulating view of . There are
three main mountains to visit and the better known of
these is Grouse Mountain with its famous Sky ride and
panoramic view from the top. To the East of Grouse
Mountain is Mount Seymour, which as well as being a
Provincial park, is also a popular skiing and hiking area.
To the West is Cypress Park, another skiing and hiking
area, but also a popular area for cross-county skier as
well as Alpine skiers. Both Mount Seymour and Cypress Park
can be reached by automobile along well-maintained roads.
For
those inclined to hiking, or just walking, Lighthouse Park
offers a variety of terrain within its 90-acres area. Its
forests, which is preserved in its natural states, is a
rare example of primeval forest, which once covered the
entire area.
Further
along the coast, at Horseshoe Bay, are ferry terminals.
Here B.C. Ferries come and go on their way to Bowen
Island, Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. Ferry Service
has had a long history in West Vancouver, dating from
1866, with a single boat. By 1908, there were four vessels
servicing the area and in 1961, provincial government took
over ferries.
Another
attraction on North Shore is Capilano Canyon. Capilano
Canyon boasts a suspension bridge, which has existed as a
tourist attraction since about 1904. This 450 foot
footbridge hangs more than 200 feet above Capilano River.
Further along Canyon and just bellow Cleveland Dam, which
supplies a large portion of water for Vancouver, is fish
hatchery. Here, curious visitor can learn at first hand
the life cycle of Pacific Salmon.
Vancouver
has recently instituted a new transportation system to
North Shore (1999). The bright orange sea bus caries foot
passengers and cyclists regularly from central downtown to
the foot of Lonsdale in North Vancouver, a trip which
allows visitor and commuter alike to enjoy the scenic
beauty of the harbor without the worry of traffic.
Visions of North Shore:
Ambleside Park; Carisbrooke Park; Gates Park;
Dundarave Pier; Grand Boulevard; Horseshoe
Bay Park; John Lawson Park; Lower Lonsdale;
Lynn Valley Park; Maplewood Farm; Moodyville
Park; Mosquito Creek
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