
Burnaby Lake Regional Park Vancouver
A sprawling urban nature reserve with a 13km loop trail, abundant birdlife, and scenic lake views. Perfect for walks, picnics, and wildlife spotting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife

Burnaby Lake Regional Park Vancouver
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling urban nature reserve with a 13km loop trail, abundant birdlife, and scenic lake views. Perfect for walks, picnics, and wildlife spotting.
"A great place for a long walk, fresh air, and beautiful sights – will go again soon!"

🚶♀️ Long Trail Alert
The full loop is 13km+. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water!
🦉 Wildlife Watch
Coyotes, bears, and beavers are present. Make noise & stay aware.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Burnaby Lake Loop Trail
Full park perimeter
A scenic 13km+ loop offering diverse nature, birdwatching, and city views. Perfect for a long walk or run.

Bird Spit Pier
East end of the lake
A popular spot for families to see and feed ducks, geese, and other local birds. Great for picnics.

Rowing Pavilion
South shore
A picturesque spot offering views of the lake and activities, often a focal point for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Length & Wildlife Awareness
Best Times for Peaceful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Long Trail Alert
The full loop is 13km+. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water!
🦉 Wildlife Watch
Coyotes, bears, and beavers are present. Make noise & stay aware.
☀️ Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays or early mornings for a peaceful experience.
🦆 Feed the Birds (Responsibly)
Bird Spit Pier is ideal for watching and feeding ducks. Use bird seed only!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Long Trail Alert
The full loop is 13km+. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water!
🦉 Wildlife Watch
Coyotes, bears, and beavers are present. Make noise & stay aware.
☀️ Beat the Crowds
Visit on weekdays or early mornings for a peaceful experience.
🦆 Feed the Birds (Responsibly)
Bird Spit Pier is ideal for watching and feeding ducks. Use bird seed only!
🚴♀️ No Cycling on Trails
Only walking and running are permitted on the main loop.
🦟 Mosquito Alert!
Summer evenings can bring swarms of mosquitoes. Bring repellent!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Burnaby Lake Regional Park for its beautiful natural scenery, abundant birdlife, and the extensive loop trail perfect for long walks and exercise. It's considered a great spot for families and nature lovers, offering a peaceful escape within the city. Some find the trail longer than expected and note potential issues with mosquitoes in summer.
"The trail is longer than what we read. Complete trail is 13km+
But got to see lots of birds, baby squirrels and scenic views!"
Chelmeda Nidhi
"This is a great place to have a long walk, as I did and enjoyed it a lot! Got in fresh air and relaxed while walking. Enjoyed seeing all the beautiful sights🙃 will go again soon. Would recommend it to any body who’s looking to have a bit of exercise and fresh air :)"
Fatemeh Ramandi
"You'll see nature in its pristine state.
A wide expanse of lake with all kinds of birds. Beyond that, the city's buildings form a forest together. It takes another three hours to circle the entire lake. It's a great place for families and couples to enjoy."
KeonTae Kim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Burnaby Lake Regional Park via public transit using TransLink buses. Several routes stop near the park entrances. Driving is also an option, with parking available on both the east and west sides of the lake.
Yes, there are parking lots available on both the east and west sides of the park, making it accessible for visitors arriving by car.
No, parks in Burnaby typically close at sunset, and parking lots are usually locked by 10 PM. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours.
The main loop trail is generally wide and well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers. However, some sections might be uneven, so proceed with caution.
Yes, restrooms with running water are available, particularly near the pier and parking areas, ensuring comfort during your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Burnaby Lake Regional Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Access to the trails, picnic areas, and natural beauty is free for all visitors.
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific gate closures for parking lots are typically around 10 PM. Always check local advisories for any temporary closures or changes.
No advance booking is required for general park access. However, if you plan to use picnic sites or BBQ areas for a large gathering, it's advisable to check with the park authorities for any reservation policies.
Cycling is not permitted on the main walking trails. Swimming in the lake is also generally discouraged due to water quality. Stick to walking, running, and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Dogs are welcome in Burnaby Lake Regional Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be respectful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Completing the full loop around Burnaby Lake is a significant walk, often estimated at 13km or more. It can take approximately 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and any stops you make.
You can expect to see a variety of birds, including ducks and geese, especially near the pier. Coyotes are common, and there have been sightings of bears and beavers. Keep a safe distance and observe respectfully.
Burnaby Lake is generally considered safe during the day, with many other walkers and runners present. However, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in more secluded areas or during early morning/late evening.
Yes, the park offers several picnic sites with tables. While BBQs are available, it's best to check specific regulations and availability with the park authorities. The Bird Spit Pier area is particularly popular for picnics.
The lake itself offers beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset. The rowing pavilion is a picturesque landmark. Keep an eye out for wildlife and scenic natural landscapes along the trail.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes located directly within Burnaby Lake Regional Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
The nearest dining options are located in the surrounding areas of Burnaby, a short drive from the park. You'll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and fast-food establishments.
The park has designated picnic areas, and some may have BBQ facilities. It's recommended to check with the City of Burnaby or Metro Vancouver Parks for specific rules and availability of BBQ pits.
Simple, portable picnic fare is ideal. Sandwiches, salads, fruits, and snacks are perfect for enjoying by the lake. Don't forget water, especially on warmer days.
Typically, there are no regular food vendors operating within Burnaby Lake Regional Park. It's best to come prepared with your own provisions.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography, creating stunning reflections on the lake. Early mornings also provide opportunities for wildlife shots with fewer people.
The lake itself, the rowing pavilion, and the various natural landscapes along the trail are highly photogenic. Keep an eye out for birds, squirrels, and the beaver dams for unique shots.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, if you are planning a professional photoshoot or commercial filming, you may need to obtain a permit from Metro Vancouver Parks.
While generally permissive, be mindful of other park users and avoid disturbing wildlife. Do not trespass on private property or restricted areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and general shots. A telephoto lens is useful for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive lake views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many designated spots. While the full 13km loop might be a bit much for toddlers, shorter walks along the lake provide ample opportunities for discovery. Keep an eye out for squirrels and other small creatures that will delight kids.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Early morning runs are recommended to avoid crowds and potentially spot wildlife. Be aware of potential mosquitoes during summer evenings, and always carry water. The park's natural beauty makes for an inspiring and refreshing running experience.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers and Birdwatchers
Be prepared for the full 13km length if you plan to circumnavigate the lake. Early mornings are best for spotting a wider variety of wildlife and enjoying the tranquility before the park becomes busy. Keep an eye out for coyotes and other local fauna, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Wildlife
Wildlife is a significant feature of the park. Coyotes are frequently seen, and while less common, bears have been spotted. Redditors advise making noise as you walk, especially in quieter sections, to avoid surprising animals. Wearing bells or carrying an air horn can also be helpful. Beavers have also been observed, with evidence of their dams visible in certain areas.
It's important to note that cycling is not permitted on the main trails, so stick to walking or running. Some visitors have also reported significant mosquito activity during summer evenings, so insect repellent is a good idea.
Family Fun and Birdwatching
Beyond the pier, the park's open spaces and relatively flat trails make it suitable for strollers, allowing even the youngest family members to enjoy the scenery. While the full 13km loop might be challenging for very young children, shorter walks along the lake offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and discovery. The park's natural beauty, with its varied birdlife and occasional sightings of squirrels and other small mammals, provides constant entertainment.
Picnic sites are readily available, making it easy to plan a full day of family fun. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as there are no food concessions within the park. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and family-friendly, making it a recommended spot for a relaxed outing.
Photography Opportunities
Wildlife photography can be rewarding here. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife, including ducks, geese, and various smaller species, particularly around the Bird Spit Pier. While more elusive, sightings of coyotes and beavers can lead to unique photographic moments. A telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing these creatures from a respectful distance.
When planning your photo sessions, consider the time of day for optimal lighting. Early mornings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, while evenings provide dramatic sunset colors. Remember to be mindful of park rules and wildlife, ensuring your photography efforts are both creative and responsible.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit