Top 16 Lakes around Burnaby
Lakes around Burnaby offer a blend of natural landscapes and cultural attractions within the Metro Vancouver area. The region features significant lakes such as Burnaby Lake and Deer Lake, providing diverse outdoor experiences. These bodies of water are integrated into regional parks, serving as wildlife habitats and recreational areas. The natural setting allows for various activities, from extensive trail systems to non-motorized water sports.
Best lakes around Burnaby
- The most popular lakes is Beaver Lake Water Lilies, a lake that features a pond covered with lily pads. This location is ideal for bird watching and offers a graceful appearance in season.
- Another must-see spot is Lost Lagoon, a lake that was originally part of the port and is now home to many species of birds, turtles, and other wildlife. Visitors can expect a promenade ideal for walking, running, and cycling, offering views of the city and Stanley Park.
- Visitors also love Buntzen Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by towering fir and hemlock trees. This lake offers hiking trails along its shoreline with views of the lake and mountains.
- Burnaby is known for its regional lakes, urban lagoons, and wetland areas. The variety of lakes provides opportunities for wildlife observation, walking, and non-motorized water activities.
- The lakes around Burnaby are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 300 upvotes and over 140 photos contributed by visitors.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Totem Poles in Stanley Park
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Lost Lagoon
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stanleyparkvan.com/stanley-park-van-location-lost-lagoon.html
'The Lost Logoon' served as inspiration for the famous poem by Emily Pauline Johnson.
legendsofvancouver.net/lost-lagoon-stanley-park-vancouver
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Beaver Lake Water Lilies
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John Hendry Park
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Burnaby Lake Wetlands
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burnaby.ca/explore-outdoors/parks/burnaby-lake-regional-nature-park
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Tips from the Community
This 27-hectare park in Vancouver's Cedar Cottage neighbourhood has so much to offer it's no wonder that it is the heart of the neighbourhood. You'll find the usual park offerings like picnic area, playground, and sports fields but there's also Trout Lake in the middle of the park, 2 concession stands, hiking & biking trails, an indigenous medicine garden, and the Trout Lake Community Centre which has it's own wide range of amenities.
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In Vancouver's beautiful Stanley Park, you can admire several totem poles for free. Each one has an explanation, and the path to the pole is signposted.
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One of the most beautiful parks I know. Lots of greenery, water, and recreational opportunities. Perfect for relaxing, unwinding, inline skating, cycling, walking, and much more.
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Early morning hours often present a mist over the lake while the wildlife comes to life.
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Wonderfully quiet place next to the hustle and bustle of the city nearby. Enjoy the view!
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Stanley Park has a variety of well-signposted walking trails that lead through the different parts of the park with a total length of about 200 kilometers. About nine kilometers of this route form the so-called "Seawall", a popular route that leads directly along the water. In addition, approximately 27 kilometers of walking trails lead through the dense forests of the park. The nine totem poles near the Brockton Point Lighthouse, built in 1914, are among the most popular and most visited attractions in British Columbia. The brightly colored poles are replicas of totem poles found in the Vancouver area in the past
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The 'Burnaby Lake Regional Park' is located in the heart of the city of Burnaby and has an area of more than 3 square kilometers. The lake was formed during the last ice age around 12,000 years ago. The lake and surroundings are home to many species of birds and other forest animals and have been protected since 1977. With its numerous hiking trails, the park is also a local recreation area. https://www.burnaby.ca/explore-outdoors/parks/burnaby-lake-regional-nature-park
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The 'Lost Logoon' was originally part of the port. The body of water was separated by road construction in 1916 and developed into a lagoon. Today the lake is home to many species of birds, turtles and other wildlife. https://stanleyparkvan.com/stanley-park-van-location-lost-lagoon.html 'The Lost Logoon' served as inspiration for the famous poem by Emily Pauline Johnson. https://www.legendsofvancouver.net/lost-lagoon-stanley-park-vancouver
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary lakes to explore in Burnaby?
Burnaby is home to two significant lakes: Burnaby Lake and Deer Lake. Burnaby Lake, within Burnaby Lake Regional Park, is known for its extensive wildlife and trails, while Deer Lake, located in central Burnaby, offers a blend of natural beauty with cultural and historical attractions.
What kind of wildlife can I observe around Burnaby's lakes?
Burnaby Lake is a significant wildlife sanctuary, home to over 400 species of plants and animals, including more than 70 bird species like great blue herons, bald eagles, and osprey. Deer Lake also offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as great blue herons, turtles, and possibly beavers.
Are there good hiking or walking trails around Burnaby Lake?
Yes, Burnaby Lake boasts 19 km of walking and hiking trails, including a popular 10-km, relatively flat, gravel loop around the lake that takes about two hours to complete. There are also 6 km of designated horseback riding trails. You can also explore the Burnaby Lake Wetlands for more nature immersion.
What cultural attractions are near Deer Lake?
Deer Lake is considered the cultural heart of Burnaby. On its north side, you'll find the Burnaby Art Gallery, the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, and the Burnaby Village Museum, which offers a glimpse into 1920s regional life with a vintage carousel. The park also hosts numerous annual events and festivals.
Can I go boating on Burnaby's lakes?
Yes, non-motorized water sports are popular. At Burnaby Lake, you can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and rowing, with facilities for local clubs and a dock/boat launch. At Deer Lake, Deer Lake Boat Rentals offers canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and rowboats during summer months. Gas or electric motors are not permitted on either lake, and swimming is not recommended due to water quality.
Are there family-friendly activities available at Burnaby's lakes?
Both Burnaby Lake and Deer Lake offer family-friendly experiences. Burnaby Lake has easy walking trails and a Nature House with educational displays. Deer Lake features a popular, flat, and stroller-friendly loop trail, a playground, and cultural institutions like the Burnaby Village Museum, making it ideal for families. Beaver Lake Water Lilies is also a great spot for bird watching with kids.
Are Burnaby's lake trails accessible for all abilities?
Deer Lake features a popular loop trail that is flat and stroller-friendly, with some boardwalk sections directly over the water, making it accessible for many. Burnaby Lake's 10-km loop is relatively flat gravel, which can be suitable for various abilities. For specific accessibility needs, it's always best to check the park's official information.
What is the best time of year to visit Burnaby's lakes?
Burnaby's lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water activities, picnics, and enjoying the full bloom of nature. Fall offers beautiful foliage, and winter provides a peaceful, serene atmosphere for walks. Wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching, is excellent throughout the year at Burnaby Lake.
What are some popular routes for cycling or running near Burnaby's lakes?
The region around Burnaby's lakes offers various routes for outdoor activities. For running, you can find routes like the 'Burnaby Lake – Observation Tower loop' or the 'Burnaby Lake loop'. Cyclists can explore options such as the 'North Arm Fraser River loop' for road cycling or various gravel biking routes. You can find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes around Burnaby, Gravel biking around Burnaby, and Running Trails around Burnaby guides.
What makes Lost Lagoon a unique spot near Burnaby?
Lost Lagoon, originally part of the port, was separated by road construction and developed into a lagoon. Today, it's a wonderfully quiet place near the city bustle, home to many species of birds, turtles, and other wildlife. Its promenade is ideal for walking, running, and cycling, offering views of the city and Stanley Park.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near Burnaby's lakes?
While the parks themselves focus on natural and cultural experiences, Deer Lake Park is situated in central Burnaby, offering proximity to various amenities. Burnaby Lake Regional Park is more focused on nature, but both are within city limits, meaning cafes and restaurants are generally a short drive away in surrounding neighborhoods.
What are the safety considerations when visiting Burnaby's lakes?
When visiting Burnaby's lakes, it's important to stay on marked trails, especially in wildlife-rich areas like Burnaby Lake. Be aware of your surroundings and respect wildlife. If boating, ensure you have appropriate safety gear. Swimming is generally not recommended in either Burnaby Lake or Deer Lake due to water quality and decomposing plant life. Always check local park advisories for current conditions.
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