About

A boardwalk and clifftop deck opening Squamish's old-growth canyon and waterfalls to the public for the first time.

Squamish Canyon

Project Lead

Bevan Judge

Client

Ridge North America

Service

Strategy

Location

Squamish

Sector

Tourism & Hospitality

Status

Completed

Nestled in Squamish, British Columbia, Squamish Canyon is an extraordinary ecotourism destination now open to the public, transforming an otherwise inaccessible natural wonder into an experience available to everyone. Elevated boardwalks and walkways guide visitors through old-growth forest, alongside cliffs, and past spectacular waterfalls, letting guests experience the canyon while treading lightly on the delicate ecosystem below.

A defining feature is the innovative construction approach. Rather than traditional foundations that would damage the forest floor, the project uses micro-piling, narrow tubes drilled into the ground and filled with concrete, minimizing disruption to root systems and preserving the surrounding environment. The raised walkways let the forest gradually reclaim its hold, integrating with the structures over time.

The walkways also show design sensitivity, with steps of low rises and deep treads that make elevation changes feel natural and effortless. A cantilevered steel deck extends dramatically over the canyon's edge, providing a secure viewing platform above the waterfall below, particularly in winter when the canyon fills with powerful rapids.

RCP provided advisory services focused on reporting, scheduling, and budgeting. Acting as an intermediary between key stakeholders, RCP helped coordinate delivery while managing client relationships and expectations.