Minnekhada Regional Park
1 / 10

Minnekhada Regional Park

4.8
·921 reviews·Coquitlam, Canada

Discover Minnekhada Regional Park's serene trails, abundant wildlife, and stunning marshland views. Perfect for hikes and nature observation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer Mornings

Stunning views, vibrant nature

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Minnekhada Regional Park

Minnekhada Regional Park

Best Time

Spring & Summer Mornings

Stunning views, vibrant nature

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Minnekhada Regional Park's serene trails, abundant wildlife, and stunning marshland views. Perfect for hikes and nature observation.

4.8
(921 reviews)

"A lovely hike with a beaver dam, plethora of birds & beauty. Views are stunning!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏰ Mind the Gate Closure

Check park hours! Gates can close, locking your car in until morning. Plan your exit accordingly.

🐻 Bear Safety First

Carry bear spray and make noise on trails. Black bears are active here. Stay aware!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

High Knoll Trail

High Knoll Trail

Central Park Area

Moderate hike with breathtaking vistas of the Pitt River and marshlands. Rewarding views!

Pitt-Addington Marsh

Pitt-Addington Marsh

Southern Park Area

Abundant birdlife and a chance to spot beavers. A serene natural habitat.

Low Knoll Trail

Low Knoll Trail

Forested Areas

Peaceful, family-friendly stroll through the forest. Perfect for a leisurely nature escape.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Parking Lot Gate Times

Be aware of the parking lot gate closure times, especially if you plan a late afternoon visit. Missing the closure could mean your car is locked in until morning. Check park hours before you go!

Trail Difficulty & Bear Safety

While many trails are easy and family-friendly, the High Knoll Trail offers a moderate challenge with elevation. Always carry bear spray and make noise to alert wildlife.

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer Mornings
Why
Stunning views, vibrant nature
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful trails
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Explored a new trail today—Minnekhada in Coquitlam. I love discovering hikes without knowing exactly what to expect; it adds a sense of adventure and makes the views feel even more rewarding. The trail was the perfect length, peaceful and safe (despite a heads-up about bears 😅), and the lookout was such a beautiful surprise! #fyp #foryou #hike #hikinginvancouver #hikesinvancouver #vancouverhikes ...
@natxxho
758 likes • 21.3K views

⏰ Mind the Gate Closure

Check park hours! Gates can close, locking your car in until morning. Plan your exit accordingly. Reddit

🐻 Bear Safety First

Carry bear spray and make noise on trails. Black bears are active here. Stay aware! Reddit

📍 Minnekhada Regional Park, Port Coquitlam, BC 🇨🇦 This hike was quite surprising! There's so much wildlife to see here. We saw bears, beavers, a coyote and a turtle! It was such an easy hike with stunning views 😍 #hike #hiking #Minnekhada #portcoquitlam #Coquitlam #vancouverbc #travel #activitiesinvancouver #thingstodoinvancouver #nature #marsh #forestwalk
@netanyahh
44 likes • 2.3K views
The best easy-to-moderate trails no one talks about—and they’re only an hour from Vancouver. You’ll get marsh views, forest paths, wildlife sightings, and even a hidden lookout or two. One trail winds past an old lodge and a quiet picnic spot. Another rolls through the trees to a tucked-away viewpoint overlooking the river. And if you’re up for a bit more climbing, there are short detours to rocky...
@worldadventurists
65 likes • 3K views

👟 Trail Variety

From easy strolls to moderate climbs, there's a trail for everyone. Wear good shoes! Reddit

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be limited. Consider street parking if the lot is full. Reddit

One of our favourite hikes to do, views are great and it’s never crowded here. Be extra bear aware on this trail as has a big bear population 🐻. I recommend doing with this bearspray to be safe. It’s about a 4km hike with a 297m elevation gain. Happy hiking! 😊 #explorebc #hiking #coquitlam #hikingwithkids #nature
@madybynature
19 likes • 965 views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏰ Mind the Gate Closure

Check park hours! Gates can close, locking your car in until morning. Plan your exit accordingly. Reddit

🐻 Bear Safety First

Carry bear spray and make noise on trails. Black bears are active here. Stay aware! Reddit

👟 Trail Variety

From easy strolls to moderate climbs, there's a trail for everyone. Wear good shoes! Reddit

🚗 Parking Tips

Parking can be limited. Consider street parking if the lot is full. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails

A popular spot for dog walkers. Keep pets leashed and clean up after them. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(921 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Minnekhada Regional Park for its beautiful, well-maintained trails and abundant wildlife, making it a favorite for families and dog walkers. While the High Knoll Trail offers rewarding views, some find the access road to Minnekhada Lodge narrow. Parking can be limited, and awareness of gate closure times is crucial.

"Lovely hike, have done it many times. I like the high knolls, not to strenuous. About 5-6km total. There was a beaver dam and beaver we could see, plethora of birds & beauty. My tip would be to be careful for parking lot gate closure times. We went in a cloudy day here in Feb. The views are stunning in the spring & summer and with that.. some crowds too! Worth it!"

Grace Wong

"Minnekhada Regional Park is a great place for a variety of outdoor activities. With over 10 kilometers of trails, there's something for everyone from casual strollers to experienced hikers. The park is especially popular with dog walkers and families with young children due to the mostly easy and well-maintained trails.

For a moderate challenge with scenic views, check out the High Knoll Trail. This trail offers a good workout with some elevation gain, rewarding you with breathtaking vistas of the Pitt River and Pitt-Addington Marsh.
If you're looking for a shorter and easier option, the Low Knoll Trail is a great choice. This family-friendly trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll through the forest. While the views aren't as expansive as the High Knoll Trail, it's a peaceful option for enjoying nature.
No matter which trail you choose, be sure to carry bear spray and make noise while hiking as black bears are active in the park.

Overall, Minnekhada Regional Park is a beautiful and easily accessible park that's perfect for a day spent outdoors."

Deependra Tomar

"Majorly swooned by this magnificent place. Family and I hike here countless times, all year round. Several paths to choose from—never a dull moment whenever we’re there. My daughter has been hiking here since she was three and now that she’s six, she always asks to hike “the tough one.” Oodles of thanks to the kind folks who maintain the park so so so so well! It’s almost as if it’s untouched by man and so nature-lovers, you’re in for a sweet treat!"

Summer Denise

What People Like

Beautiful natural scenery
Abundant wildlife sightings
Well-maintained trails

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Narrow access road
Gate closure times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Minnekhada Regional Park is accessible by car. The main entrance is off of intuitive roads. For those driving, be aware that some internal park roads, like the one to Minnekhada Lodge via Oliver Road, can be narrow and may require careful navigation, especially when encountering oncoming vehicles. Reddit

Information on direct public transportation routes to Minnekhada Regional Park is limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for nearby bus routes and consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving. Reddit

The park offers a parking lot, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. If the main lot is full, there is limited street parking available nearby. Reddit

Yes, there is an outhouse washroom located by the main parking area for visitor convenience. Reddit

Access to Minnekhada Lodge via Oliver Road is possible, but travelers have noted that parts of the road can be quite narrow, making it challenging when encountering larger vehicles. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Minnekhada Regional Park is generally free to enter, making it an accessible destination for all visitors looking to enjoy its natural beauty. Reddit

The park has specific operating hours, including closure times for the parking lot gates. It's crucial to check these hours before your visit to avoid any inconvenience, as your car could be locked in if you stay past closing. Reddit

No advance booking or tickets are required for general entry into Minnekhada Regional Park. Visitors can typically enter freely during operating hours. Reddit

For general hiking and wildlife viewing, no special permits are usually required. However, if you plan on organizing a large event or specific activity, it's advisable to contact the park authorities for information on permits. Reddit

Yes, Minnekhada Regional Park is open year-round. Be aware that trails can be slippery during winter months due to ice and snow. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The High Knoll Trail offers a moderate challenge with rewarding scenic views, while the Low Knoll Trail is a shorter, easier, and more peaceful option through the forest. Both are well-maintained. Reddit

Yes, the park is very family-friendly, with many easy and well-maintained trails like the Low Knoll Trail. The High Knoll Trail offers a bit more of a challenge for older kids. Reddit

The park is known for its abundant wildlife, including a plethora of birds, beavers (look for dams!), and black bears. Remember to maintain a safe distance and carry bear spray. Reddit

Minnekhada Regional Park is a popular destination for dog walkers. Dogs are generally allowed, but it's important to keep them leashed and to clean up after them to maintain the park's natural beauty. Reddit

The majority of the trails are easy, but sections of the High Knoll Trail are considered moderate with some elevation gain. These moderate sections might be challenging for very young children. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit of the High Knoll Trail provides stunning panoramic views of the Pitt River and marshlands, perfect for landscape photography. The marsh areas offer opportunities to capture diverse birdlife and serene natural scenes. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. Spring and summer offer vibrant greenery and blooming flora. Reddit

The Pitt-Addington Marsh is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. Keep an eye out for various bird species, and you might even spot beavers near their dams. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed without restrictions. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits, so it's best to check with park management if you plan on extensive professional shoots. Reddit

Bring a versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, extra batteries, and a sturdy tripod if you plan on low-light or long-exposure shots. Don't forget your bear spray for safety! Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Minnekhada Regional Park is a fantastic destination for families. The Low Knoll Trail is perfect for little legs, offering a gentle and engaging walk through the forest. Reddit Older children might enjoy the challenge of the High Knoll Trail, which rewards with impressive views. The park's abundant wildlife, like birds and beavers, provides exciting learning opportunities. Remember to bring snacks and water, and always supervise children closely, especially near the marsh areas and on more challenging trails. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This park is a favorite among dog walkers, so your furry friend will likely enjoy the visit. Most trails are suitable for dogs, but it's essential to keep your dog on a leash at all times to ensure the safety of other visitors and the park's wildlife. Reddit Be sure to bring waste bags to clean up after your pet, helping to keep the park pristine for everyone. The varied trails offer different terrains for your dog to explore, from forest paths to open areas.

🚶‍♀️ Casual Strollers & Nature Lovers

For those seeking a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature, Minnekhada Regional Park is ideal. The Low Knoll Trail offers a serene walk through the woods, perfect for quiet contemplation. The park's diverse landscape, including marshlands and forests, provides a rich environment for observing wildlife and enjoying scenic beauty. Reddit The High Knoll Trail provides a moderate option for a bit of exercise with rewarding views, without being overly strenuous. It's a great place to unwind and appreciate the natural surroundings.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Minnekhada's Trails

Minnekhada Regional Park boasts over 10 kilometers of trails, catering to a range of fitness levels. The Low Knoll Trail is a gentle, family-friendly option, winding through peaceful forest settings. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and enjoying the quiet ambiance of the woods. For those seeking a bit more of a challenge and rewarding views, the High Knoll Trail is highly recommended. This trail involves some elevation gain, offering a moderate workout and culminating in breathtaking vistas of the Pitt River and the expansive Pitt-Addington Marsh. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained nature of these paths, making them accessible for many visitors. Reddit+1

When exploring, remember that while many sections are easy, some parts of the High Knoll Trail can be moderate and potentially difficult for very young children. It's always a good idea to wear appropriate footwear, especially during wetter seasons when some sections might become slippery. Reddit The park's varied terrain ensures that each hike offers a slightly different experience, from dense forest to open marshland views.

Wildlife Encounters & Safety

Minnekhada Regional Park is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with wildlife, making it a prime spot for nature enthusiasts. Visitors frequently report sightings of a plethora of birds, beavers constructing their dams, and the occasional black bear. Reddit The Pitt-Addington Marsh, in particular, is a haven for avian species, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities. It's important to remember that these are wild animals in their natural habitat, and maintaining a safe distance is paramount for both your safety and the animals' well-being.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking are strongly advised, as black bears are known to be active in the park. Reddit This practice helps alert bears to your presence, reducing the chance of a surprise encounter. Following park guidelines and respecting wildlife will allow everyone to appreciate the natural beauty of Minnekhada Regional Park responsibly. Remember to always stay on marked trails and never feed the animals.

Accessing Minnekhada Lodge

The route to Minnekhada Lodge via Oliver Road presents a unique navigational challenge that some visitors have discussed. Travelers have noted that parts of this road can be quite narrow, with limited space, even on the shoulder or grass. Reddit This can make encountering larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, coming from the opposite direction a point of concern and requires careful maneuvering.

While the drive is feasible, it’s recommended to proceed with caution and be prepared to yield or pull over where possible. The experience of reaching the lodge can be part of the adventure, offering a sense of remoteness and immersion in nature. Reddit It's advisable to check current road conditions before heading out, especially after periods of heavy rain or snow, which could further impact the road's accessibility.

You may also like

1 of 2