Burnaby Lake is one of the largest lakes in Metro Vancouver. This natural resource is situated in the heart of the city and is home to a variety of species. Several hiking trails are available, including a 10 km loop around the lake. The park also features a nature house, dock/boat launch and sports fields. A canoe and kayak course is also available for use.
It is not difficult to see why Burnaby Lake is a popular destination. Visitors can take in the beautiful scenery while observing a variety of wildlife. Several small side trails are also available for visitors to explore. One trail leads to a spit that features a panoramic view of the lake. If you are into nature photography, this is a good place to stop.
Among the numerous activities you can enjoy at Burnaby Lake, there is a first class walking trail. This loop starts at the east end of the lake and then goes around the lake. There are several small detours along the way, and it is a pleasant walk with plenty of things to see.
On the west end of the lake, there is a pavilion that offers views of the lake. Also, the nearby Burnaby Equestrian Centre has a 6-kilometre horseback riding trail. You can also take in a bird’s eye view of the lake from the Burnaby Lake Tower, located on the lake’s western shore. Several picnic sites are scattered throughout the area, and a rowing pavilion is available for guests.
Another worthwhile detour is the 5.2 kilometre return trip from the Piper Avenue entrance. There are plenty of interesting things to see along this trail, including some thick shrub areas and deciduous forests.
As if that isn’t enough, the trail also offers a few surprises. This is a great way to see the lake, and is a great way to get a closer look at some of the wildlife that calls the area home.
Taking the time to tour the Burnaby Lake Nature House is a good way to learn about the flora and fauna that occupy the area. In addition to an outdoor butterfly garden, the house has displays on local natural history, including a photo gallery. You can also find children’s puzzles and a display of living pond creatures. Some of the most exciting things to see here are dragonflies, hummingbirds and butterflies.
If you are looking for an off-leash dog park, you can also check out the one at Warner Loat Park on Piper Avenue. This is an ideal spot for a family outing. Burnaby Lake Regional Park is open every day from 8 am to 9 pm during daylight saving time. During the rest of the year, the hours are extended to 8 am to dusk. While the park is a popular destination for non-motorized boating and hiking, bikes and scooters are not permitted.
Although Burnaby Lake is located in the city, it is not suitable for swimming. You can visit the park’s dock and boat launch, or you can kayak or paddle around the shoreline.
