How wide should a 2-person Vancouver walkway be?

A 2-person walkway in Vancouver should be 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 metres) wide to allow two people to walk side-by-side comfortably, with 5 feet being ideal for accessibility and long-term usability.

The 4-foot minimum allows two adults to walk together without feeling cramped, while 5 feet provides comfortable clearance and meets accessibility guidelines if you ever need wheelchair or mobility device access. This width also accommodates seasonal considerations like winter coats and umbrellas — important in Metro Vancouver where pedestrians are often bundled up and carrying rain gear during the October-to-March wet season.

Metro Vancouver's climate makes walkway width particularly important because wet surfaces require more cautious navigation. When pavers are slick from rain or moss growth (common on north-facing walkways), people naturally walk more slowly and need extra space for stability. A 5-foot width provides that safety margin and reduces the risk of stepping off the paved surface onto wet grass or garden beds.

Practical considerations for Vancouver walkways include ensuring your chosen width works with standard paver dimensions to minimize cutting. Most concrete pavers are manufactured in 6-inch, 8-inch, or 12-inch modules, so a 4-foot (48-inch) or 5-foot (60-inch) walkway works perfectly with standard sizes. This reduces material waste and installation costs since fewer pavers need cutting.

For front entry walkways leading to your door, 5 feet is strongly recommended because it creates a more welcoming, proportional appearance and allows space for planters or lighting along the edges. For secondary garden paths or side yard access, 4 feet is typically sufficient and more cost-effective.

A 100-linear-foot walkway at 4 feet wide (400 sq ft) typically costs $2,500-$6,000 installed in Metro Vancouver, while the same length at 5 feet wide (500 sq ft) runs $3,200-$7,500 installed. The additional width adds about 25% to material costs but creates significantly better functionality and curb appeal.

When planning your walkway width, also consider the approach areas — steps, landings, and connections to driveways or patios. These transition areas should match or exceed your walkway width to avoid bottlenecks and maintain smooth traffic flow.

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