The best hikes from bus stations in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area
4.5
(827)
9,078
hikers
86
hikes
Hiking in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area offers a diverse landscape characterized by steep slopes, mixed deciduous and coniferous forests, and varied terrain. The area encompasses 576 hectares, providing a rich habitat for local wildlife. From its summit, at 366 meters elevation, hikers can experience panoramic views of the Burrard Inlet, the Vancouver skyline, and the North Shore Mountains. The extensive trail network caters to a range of abilities, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents.
Best bus station hiking trails in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Hiking loop from Simon Fraser University, a 5.3 miles (8.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 34 minutes to complete. This moderate route features an elevation gain of 909 feet (277 meters).
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Jim's Jungle Trail loop from Burquitlam, a moderate 5.2 miles (8.3 km) path. This trail includes an ascent of 878 feet (268 meters) and can be completed in approximately 2 hours 29 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the View of Buntzen Lake loop from Metro Vancouver Regional District, a 2.3 miles (3.7 km) trail leading through forested areas, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area is defined by forested slopes, panoramic viewpoints, and varied terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to longer routes.
- The routes in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 700 reviews. More than 7000 hikers have used komoot to explore Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
4.9
(14)
94
hikers
11.6km
03:32
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
21
hikers
8.51km
02:34
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
3.60km
01:09
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
13
hikers
3.33km
00:56
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
7
hikers
10.1km
03:04
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Upper Cut Trail is open to mountain bikers, hikers and trail runners. Mountain bikers can enjoy some fun corners and a few wooden features, while hikers can enjoy this lush green forest, with lots of shade and small stream crossings. It's a singletrack trail, which means it's narrow and bikers may only ride from north to south.
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A well-known part of Burnaby Mountain's trail network, Gearjammer is one of the area's most popular mountain biking routes. The trail winds through dense coastal forest, with the lower section featuring a series of tight switchbacks that zigzag down the hillside. These turns help manage the mountain's elevation while adding character to the route for both riders and hikers. Along the way, short ladder features and the surrounding rainforest scenery offer a glimpse into Burnaby Mountain's long-established mountain biking culture while still making for an enjoyable forest walk.
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Much of Burnaby Mountain is covered by the temperate rainforest typical of British Columbia's south coast. Towering conifers, moss-covered logs, and a dense understory create a distinctly Pacific Northwest atmosphere, while the forest canopy provides shade throughout much of the year.
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Unlike the surrounding forest trails, Powerline Trail follows an open utility corridor across Burnaby Mountain. The cleared route creates wider views and a greater sense of space than the densely wooded sections nearby, offering a different perspective on the conservation area.
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This wide, gravel trail is an easy path to take as a quick out and back hike or to combine with other trails for a nice loop. Keep in mind that it is multi-use, so you're likely to see cyclists on the path as well, but it's wide enough that there's plenty of room for everyone.
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The Velodrome Trail is well known for its iconic wooden steps. The hundreds of stairs cover over 240-metres of elevation gain and are famous for the grueling workout they give hikers. However, the city of Burnaby has closed this section of trail due to erosion and unsafe conditions. As of June 2026 the stairs are closed indefinitely, while a plan is approved for their repair.
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The colorful 'Octopus Mural' is located on a water tower tucked away in the forest of the 'Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area', along the 'Trans Canada Trail'. https://mdmurals.ca/projects/the-watertower/
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On the north slope of 'Burnaby Mountain' there is a beautiful view of the eastern part of 'Burrard Inlet', in particular the 'Indian Arm' of the fjord, which runs north-south, but also the 'Port Moody Arm' , in an east-west direction. In Legends of Vancouver, poet Pauline Johnson tells a legend about the lost island in the Indian Arm of Burrard Inlet and the search for what was lost. https://www.legendsofvancouver.net/indian-arm-deep-cove-vancouver
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are there in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area?
Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area offers a wide selection of bus-accessible hiking trails. You'll find over 90 routes that can be reached conveniently by public transport, catering to various skill levels.
What kind of views can I expect on bus-accessible trails in Burnaby Mountain?
Many bus-accessible trails lead to stunning panoramic viewpoints. From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Burrard Inlet, the Vancouver skyline, the North Shore Mountains, and Indian Arm. A notable viewpoint is the View of Indian Arm and Burrard Inlet, offering expansive scenery.
Are there any cultural landmarks or points of interest along these bus station trails?
Yes, several trails accessible by bus will take you past significant landmarks. A must-see is the Kamui Mintara (Playground of the Gods) Sculpture, a collection of intricately carved wooden poles symbolizing the sister city relationship between Burnaby and Kushiro, Japan. You might also spot the colorful Burnaby Mountain Water Tower Murals.
Are there family-friendly hiking options accessible by bus in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area?
Absolutely. The area has many easy trails suitable for families. Routes like the Drummonds Walk Urban Trail offer pleasant, relatively flat paths with waterfront views. The Centennial Rose Garden and picnic areas on the upper slope also provide great spots for relaxation and family activities after a short hike.
Can I bring my dog on these bus-accessible trails?
Yes, Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area is generally dog-friendly. Most trails allow dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check specific trail signage for any restrictions, but you'll find plenty of options to enjoy with your canine companion.
What are some good circular routes that start from a bus station?
For a moderate circular route, consider the Hiking loop from Simon Fraser University. This 8.5 km trail offers a good workout with varied terrain. Another option is the Jim's Jungle Trail loop from Burquitlam, which is 8.3 km and also rated moderate.
What is the best time of year to hike in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area using public transport?
Spring and fall are particularly beautiful for hiking in Burnaby Mountain. The weather is generally mild, and the changing foliage in autumn or blooming flowers in spring add to the scenic beauty. Summer is also popular, but trails can be busier. Winter hikes are possible, but some paths might be slippery, so appropriate footwear is essential.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area?
The trails in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse trail network, the stunning panoramic views, and the convenience of accessing many routes via public transport.
Are there any challenging bus-accessible hikes for experienced hikers?
For those seeking a challenge, the Velodrome Trail (also known as the "Mini Grind") offers a steep ascent with over 500 stairs, popular for fitness training. While a section was temporarily closed, other parts remain accessible and provide a rigorous workout. You can often connect to this trail from bus stops near the base of the mountain.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking from a bus station?
Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area is home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for blacktail deer, coyotes, and bald eagles. While less common, black bears and cougars are occasionally sighted along forest trails, so it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and make noise.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly bus-accessible routes?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners. The Pipeline Trail, for instance, is a wide, multi-use path that crosses small creeks on wooden bridges and winds through dense coastal forest, offering a gentle introduction to hiking in the area. Many of the trails around Simon Fraser University are also relatively easy to navigate.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the bus stops for these trails?
Yes, particularly around the Simon Fraser University campus, which is a major bus hub, you'll find various cafes and eateries. Additionally, the Mintara Restaurant on Burnaby Mountain offers dining with fine views of the Lower Mainland, perfect for a post-hike meal.
Most popular routes in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area
Most popular attractions in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area
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