Burnaby Mountain Biking and Hiking Trails

Burnaby Mountain offers families a perfect blend of accessible hiking trails and natural forest settings just minutes from Vancouver. Located on Simon Fraser University's scenic campus, these well-maintained trails provide everything from easy nature walks for little ones to more challenging mountain biking routes for adventurous teens, all with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and city.

• ✓Playground of the Gods totem poles and panoramic viewpoint perfect for family photos
• ✓Easy accessible trails suitable for strollers and young walkers
• ✓Mountain biking trails for older kids and teens seeking adventure
• ✓Forest exploration opportunities with chances to spot local wildlife like deer and various bird species
• ✓Connection to the Trans Canada Trail for extended family hikes

1. 1.Park at the main SFU campus lots near the UniverCity area for easiest trail access. Parking is free on weekends and after 5 PM on weekdays, but can be expensive during weekday hours.
2. 2.Bring bug spray during summer months and layers year-round as the mountain top can be cooler and windier than lower elevations.
3. 3.Visit the Playground of the Gods totem pole sculptures at the summit viewpoint, a 5-minute walk from parking that kids find fascinating.
4. 4.Download an offline trail map before arriving as cell service can be spotty in forested areas.
5. 5.The Trans Canada Trail section here is perfect for families wanting a relatively flat, wide path suitable for jogging strollers and beginner cyclists.

Weekday mornings or weekend afternoons offer the best experience with fewer crowds. Spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Avoid Thursday evenings when campus facilities have extended hours and trails can be busier with students.

Trail access is free year-round. Parking fees apply on weekdays before 5 PM at SFU lots. No on-site food facilities on the trails themselves, so pack snacks and plenty of water. Restrooms are available in nearby campus buildings during the posted hours.

Trails are open year-round but can be muddy during rainy season (November to March). Winter occasionally brings snow to the mountain, making trails slippery but magical. Trail conditions are best from May to October. Note the limited facility hours, especially weekend closures for campus buildings.

UniverCity's Cornerstone building (5-minute drive) has family-friendly options including Pogo Cafe and Boston Pizza. For a quick bite, the Highland Pub offers casual dining with kids' menus, or head down the mountain to Lougheed Town Centre (10 minutes) for a wider variety of chain restaurants.