Dunbar Diversion

The ⁠Dunbar Diversion is an unusual stretch of roadway connecting Alma and Dunbar between West 12th and West 14th before feeding into the equally unusual intersection at West 16th.

Its alignment dates back to Vancouver’s streetcar era. Rather than climbing the hill directly, the route followed a gentler grade as it gained roughly 34 metres in elevation toward Dunbar. Streetcars reached the neighbourhood in 1913 and helped shape its early development, operating for about 42 years until the line closed in 1955.

Although the rails disappeared more than 70 years ago, the distinctive roadway alignment remains. It’s one of those small pieces of Vancouver history that’s easy to overlook, even if you pass through it every day.

These photos were taken on the west side of the diversion at the stairway leading up to West 13th Avenue.

📷 Leica M10 & Voigtlander 35mm f2.5 Color Skopar lens

Some additional pics from the walk