The North Shore is one of the most iconic parts of Vancouver. Looking across Burrard Inlet, the mountains rise behind the communities of North Vancouver and West Vancouver, creating the landscape that has become synonymous with the city.

The History of North Shore Vancouver

European exploration of the area began in the late 18th century. In 1792, Captain George Vancouver entered Burrard Inlet during his exploration of the Pacific Northwest. At the time, the landscape was mainly dense forests and mountains surrounding the inlet. Over the following decades, the North Shore began to change as settlement and industry expanded throughout the region.

Logging in North Vancouver

The forests of the North Shore played an important role in the region’s early development. One of the first major industrial settlements was Moodyville, established in the 1860s around a sawmill on the eastern shore of Burrard Inlet. The area’s abundant timber attracted workers and businesses, and logging quickly became an important part of the local economy. As communities grew, transportation across Burrard Inlet became increasingly important for connecting the North Shore with Vancouver.

The District of North Vancouver was incorporated in 1891, while the City of North Vancouver was incorporated in 1907. West Vancouver later became its own municipality in 1912.

Connecting the North Shore to Vancouver

For much of the North Shore’s early history, ferries were the main way to cross Burrard Inlet. The opening of the Lions Gate Bridge in 1938 changed that. The bridge created a permanent road connection between Vancouver and the North Shore, making it easier for people to travel between the communities and contributing to the growth of both North Vancouver and West Vancouver.

Today, the Lions Gate Bridge remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in Vancouver. It is also one of the many sights that can be seen from the water on our Sea Vancouver Tours. Travelling through Burrard Inlet offers a unique perspective of the bridge, with Stanley Park and Vancouver on one side and the North Shore Mountains on the other.

Seeing North Shore Vancouver From the Water

On our City & Harbour and City & Waterfall routes, guests can see landmarks including Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge and the North Shore Mountains from the water. Together, these views showcase what makes the North Shore such a defining part of Vancouver. Our City & Waterfall tour continues farther along the coast toward Say Nuth Khaw Yum Park, offering a closer look at the landscape beyond Vancouver’s urban waterfront.

Ready to explore? Pick your route and join us on the water to see the iconic sights that shaped Vancouver!