Highlands Stairs

The Highlands Granular Trail project was first identified in December 2009. The Highlands Trail is located on the west side of the Capilano Bridge and north of the North Saskatchewan River. The trail that leads to the lower trails is steep. Users of the trail have difficulty traversing the trail due to the grade and the lack of handrails. Several goat paths have also developed in this region as users have sought alternative approaches to reach the lower trails. As well, due to the slope and lack of stockpile space, maintenance equipment is unable to easily maintain the trail. 

Project Objectives

• Improve access for users from Ada Boulevard to the existing trail system
• Upgrade trail system to reduce slopes (extension of switchback eastward)
• Improve access for trail maintenance equipment
• Provide space for gravel stockpile delivery
• Improve safety for users (extension of switchback eastward and extension of handrails)
• Rehabilitation of goat paths and installation of deterrents for recurring use to occur
• Introduce erosion control around and beneath the stairs, as well as at the granular paths