The Spirit Trail - Connecting the North Shore Communities

The North Shore has long been known for its natural beauty - dense forests, mountains, and scenic ocean and city views. This has no doubt attracted outdoor enthusiasts from near and far to enjoy what it has to offer. The Federal Government, Provincial Government, North Shore municipalities and Squamish Nation came together in 2007 to envision the Spirit Trail. The Spirit Trail is a 35 kilometer, multi-use and fully accessible greenway that will provide pedestrians, cyclists, inline skaters and people with mobility aids a safe and accessible path along the waterfront from Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove. Once completed, the trail will contribute to the City of North Vancouver’s sustainability objectives and provide a healthy recreation and transportation option for North Shore residents and visitors.

Spirit Map Courtesy of the City of North Vancouver

The Spirit Trail traverses Kings Mill Walk – the City’s longest stretch of accessible waterfront park – designed, developed and donated to the City by Concert as part of the original Harbourside rezoning. Upgrades and enhancements to the park and Spirit Trail are  integral to Concert’s current mixed-use rezoning proposal. The enhancements include expanding and integrating the Spirit Trail along the development’s entire waterfront with separated bicycle and pedestrian paths; landscaping, lighting, furniture and public art that embraces the area’s unique character; areas to play or enjoy the breathtaking views of the water and downtown Vancouver; and outdoor, multi-purpose spaces for community gatherings.

Spirit Trail Improvements for Harbourside

As part of Concert’s transportation upgrades proposed for the area, a commitment has been made to improve pedestrian and bike friendly amenities. Think a bike share program between Harbourside and Lonsdale Quay, and a “bike station” with end-of-trip facilities such as lockers, showers and even a tune-up shop for cyclists and rollerbladers! Combined with the proposed Spirit Trail enhancements, including bicycle paths along Harbourside Drive and Fell Avenue for commuter cyclists, these amenities will provide residents and employees improved options to commute along the North Shore.

Imagine grabbing a coffee and enjoying the city views as you stroll along the waterfront on your way to the Seabus in the morning or avoiding rush hour and taking in the natural beauty as you cycle home. The proposed enhancements to the Spirit Trail will increase public access to outdoor space and help bring neighbouring communities closer to Harbourside.