Lions Gate Bridge
By most accounts the most beautiful bridge in Canada, Lions Gate is named for the commanding view that faces you as you travel northwards across it: a pair of snowy twin peaks that resemble the ears of a pair of lions - not surprisingly, these peaks are known across the city as "The Lions". Connecting the North Shore to downtown Vancouver, this spectacular bridge is one of Western Canada's most enduring landmarks, which is why it's on so many postcards.

Trivia The Lions Gate Bridge was built by the Guinness family in 1938 to enable access from downtown Vancouver to a swathe of land they were developing on the North Shore. The B.C. government later purchased the majestic green structure but, in 1986, the Guinness family donated money to decoratively light the bridge in the evenings.

Ironworkers Memorial Bridge
Neither as sleek nor as stylish as its western colleague, the Second Narrows Bridge - as most locals still refer to it as - is far wider, twice as busy and has a history of troubled construction. It's also the third bridge to be built on this spot. Midway through its construction in June 1958, the north anchor arm buckled, killing 18 workers and it took $19 million, five more lives and two more years before completion. In 1994, the Second Narrows was officially renamed the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge to commemorate those killed during its building.

Burrard Street Bridge
Spanning False Creek between downtown and Kitsilano and framing a spectacular view of the tree-covered North Shore mountains, this attractive art deco confection is many Vancouverites' favourite city bridge. Complete with nautical flourishes and "flaming" beacons, it was opened in 1932 - a Canadian Air Force seaplane flew under the bridge to mark the occasion. In efforts to improve traffic flow, more specifically to accommodate the increase in foot and bike traffic, the city has approved a one-lane reallocation trial to determine if the proposed would provide a viable and relatively low-cost solution for the ongoing shift of greener transportation choices.

Story idea Consider a photo essay story on Vancouver's bridges, focusing on their dramatic mountain and seascape backdrops. Make sure you include some evening photos: the Lions Gate Bridge is lit at night and the Burrard Street Bridge often frames some of the city's best sunsets.