Coquitlam Crunch
A challenging fitness trail with over 890 steps and exercise stations, leading to a plateau with scenic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful climb
Coquitlam Crunch
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful climb
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging fitness trail with over 890 steps and exercise stations, leading to a plateau with scenic views.
"Legs were burning, but the views (and the company) made it all worth it."
👟 Wear Appropriate Shoes
Sturdy athletic shoes are a must for the steep stairs and varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. A water bottle station is available. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Staircase
Main ascent
Over 890 steps offering a serious cardio challenge and a sense of accomplishment.
Plateau Views
Summit
Enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Baker on clear days from the 794-foot plateau.
Fitness Stations
Along the trail
Various exercise equipment stations provide opportunities for a full-body workout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Crunch: Your Fitness Journey
Navigating the Trail: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Appropriate Shoes
Sturdy athletic shoes are a must for the steep stairs and varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. A water bottle station is available. :droplet:
⬆️ East Up, West Down
Many prefer ascending the east stairs and descending the west for a more organized flow. :arrowupdown:
☀️ Limited Shade
The trail has little shade, so consider sun protection on sunny days. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Appropriate Shoes
Sturdy athletic shoes are a must for the steep stairs and varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. A water bottle station is available. :droplet:
⬆️ East Up, West Down
Many prefer ascending the east stairs and descending the west for a more organized flow. :arrowupdown:
☀️ Limited Shade
The trail has little shade, so consider sun protection on sunny days. :sunwithface:
🅿️ Ample Parking
Parking is available at various entry points along the trail. :parking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Coquitlam Crunch for its challenging yet rewarding workout, with many appreciating the ample stairs and fitness stations. The availability of parking and restrooms is a plus, though some note the limited shade and occasional lack of clear directional signage. Overall, it's a popular spot for a good calorie burn and scenic views on clear days.
"I'm an old guy and not very fit...yet. I love the Crunch because it is wide enough that I can take my slow pace and know that there is plenty of room to have others pass me without a problem. At first I thought it would be ugly having to walk under the power lines, but they have done a fabulous job in creating a nice trail and there are some great sport fields, a community garden and pickle ball courts on the level areas. A dog park too!
The stair section has signs every 25 steps with a few motivational quotes. On our last visit the skies were clear giving us gorgeous views of Mt Baker.
There are many entry points to the trail along the way. At the bottom there are well maintained restrooms."
Doug P
"Lovely wide park pathway with a bit of a challenge whether going up or down. Has a water bottle station and public bathrooms along Lansdowne Drive, with plenty of parking scattered around. A bit of a workout if inexperienced with decent slope grades, yet beginner friendly, just take your time and enjoy the views.
I came downhill, and the stairs at the end were a killer after hiking towards Eagle Mountain for a couple hours. But I lived. Take it easy, believe in yourself, and you can easily conquer the Crunch in a day whether going uphill, downhill, or both."
Theos
"Tackled the Coquitlam Crunch with my cousin and aunties—and wow, those stairs don’t play around! 🥵 Over 400 steps straight up felt like a mini Grouse Grind, but we powered through together, one step at a time. Legs were burning, but the views (and the company) made it all worth it. 💖💪 Reaching the top felt so fulfilling—like we conquered something big as a team. So proud of us for pushing through the sweat, laughs, and occasional “Are we there yet?” moments. Grateful for this day, the climb, and the strong women beside me. 👣⛰️"
Sheika Fateema
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Coquitlam Crunch has multiple entry points. Popular access points include off Lansdowne Drive, where restrooms and parking are available. You can also find parking at other points along the trail. :parking:
Yes, there are ample parking spaces available at various locations along the Coquitlam Crunch trail, making it accessible for visitors. :parking:
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in user feedback, checking local transit schedules for routes near Lansdowne Drive would be advisable for public transport users. :bus:
Many users mention the Lansdowne Drive access as convenient due to its proximity to restrooms and parking. However, various entry points exist along the trail. :round_pushpin:
While specific online maps aren't frequently mentioned, the trail is generally well-defined. Searching for 'Coquitlam Crunch trail map' online before your visit is recommended. :map:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Coquitlam Crunch is a public park and fitness trail, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to enter. :ticket:
The Coquitlam Crunch is generally accessible during daylight hours. As a public park, it doesn't have strict opening and closing times, but it's best enjoyed when there's natural light. :clock1:
There is no entrance fee for the Coquitlam Crunch. It's a free public amenity for everyone to enjoy. :moneywithwings:
While there are no official posted hours, it's advisable to visit during daylight for safety and to enjoy the views. :sunriseovermountains:
No booking requirements are necessary for individuals or small groups visiting the Coquitlam Crunch. It's a walk-in facility. :handshake:
🎫 💪 Onsite Experience
Completing the Coquitlam Crunch, which is about 2.25 km round trip, typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on your pace and fitness level. :stopwatch:
The Coquitlam Crunch is considered moderately challenging due to its steep incline and over 890 steps. It's a good workout for those with some fitness experience. :muscle:
Yes, well-maintained restrooms with running water are available at the bottom of the trail, particularly near the Lansdowne Drive access. :toilet:
The trail features various exercise stations along its path, offering opportunities for a comprehensive workout beyond just the stairs. :barbell:
While challenging, beginners can tackle the Coquitlam Crunch by taking it slow and steady. The wide path allows others to pass easily. :runner:
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers great views of Mt. Baker on clear days. The stair sections themselves, with motivational quotes, also make for interesting shots. :camera:
Yes, especially on clear days when you can capture the expansive views from the plateau. The unique stair design also offers photographic opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light. Clear days are essential for capturing the distant mountain views. :sunbehindcloud:
Regulations regarding drone usage in local parks can vary. It's best to check with the City of Coquitlam Parks department for current drone policies before flying. :drone:
The main viewpoint is at the plateau at the top of the trail, offering panoramic vistas. :mountain_view:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting with a shorter section or focusing on the fitness stations if a full ascent seems too daunting. The ample parking and restrooms at the base make logistics easier for families. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for limited shade on sunny days.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
Many fitness enthusiasts appreciate the ability to control their intensity by choosing their pace and whether to complete the full ascent. The out-and-back nature allows for a consistent challenge. Consider timing your climbs to track progress or challenge yourself against previous bests.
🚶♀️ Casual Strollers & Dog Walkers
Even if you don't tackle the entire staircase, the lower sections provide a pleasant walk with opportunities to enjoy the park's surroundings. The availability of restrooms and parking adds to the convenience for a relaxed outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Coquitlam Crunch Experience: More Than Just Stairs
Beyond the fitness aspects, the Coquitlam Crunch is integrated into a pleasant park environment. Reviewers mention well-maintained pathways, community gardens, sport fields, and pickleball courts on the level areas. There's even a dog park, indicating it's a multi-use recreational space. The presence of motivational quotes on signs every 25 steps adds a unique touch, encouraging hikers to push through the challenge.
Navigating the trail can sometimes feel like a 'free-for-all' due to the removal of directional signs, but many visitors develop their preferred routes. The east stairs for ascent and west stairs for descent is a commonly cited preference. Ample parking and accessible restrooms at the bottom enhance the visitor experience, making it a convenient and popular spot for locals and visitors alike seeking a good workout with a sense of community.
Planning Your Visit: Parking, Amenities, and Best Practices
Essential amenities are available to support your hike. Well-maintained restrooms with running water are located at the bottom of the trail, ensuring comfort before and after your climb. While bins for garbage and dog waste are provided, note that recycling bins are not explicitly mentioned. For those looking to stay hydrated, a water bottle station is also available along the route.
For an optimal experience, consider the weather. The Coquitlam Crunch has limited shade, making sunny days potentially hot and strenuous. Visiting on a cooler, breezy day is often recommended for a more comfortable workout.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit