Burnaby Mountain Park (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Burnaby Mountain Park?
What makes it 83% Solo-Friendly: A solo visitor can hike marked trails, photograph sweeping city and mountain views, and enjoy quiet forest time at any pace. Transit and parking are available, but there is little shelter in rough weather.
Positives:
- Free Entry and Amenities: Park access, rides, trails and picnic sites are all complimentary.
- Varied Trail Difficulty: Options range from flat rose-garden paths to intermediate hikes.
- Panoramic City Views: Summit lookout offers 360° vistas of Vancouver and North Shore mountains.
Challenges:
- Transport Access: Bus service ends at SFU; plan for a 10 min uphill walk from campus.
- Exposed Summit Conditions: Winds can be strong and temperatures drop quickly above treeline.
- No On-site Rentals: Bring your own bike, tripod or birding gear; no equipment rentals in park.
What is Burnaby Mountain Park?
- A municipal park atop Burnaby Mountain encompassing forested slopes, open meadows and landscaped rose gardens
- A conservation area threaded by a network of hiking and nature trails
- A public art site showcasing carved wooden sculptures and panoramic lookouts over Vancouver, Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains
What is so special about Burnaby Mountain Park for solo trip?
- Panoramic summit views ideal for solo photographers
- Trails for all levels, from rose-garden strolls to stair climbs
- Quiet forest paths perfect for birdwatching and reflection
- Outdoor art at the Playground of the Gods adds cultural interest
- Free park entry with low-cost optional guided hikes
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: 2-3 hours gives time to hike trails, enjoy viewpoints and explore the rose garden without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Burnaby Mountain Park
Summit Photography at Centennial Way:
Capture sunrise, city lights and cross-mountain panoramas from the summit grassy area.
Tip: Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens; shoot at sunrise or blue hour for best light.
Hike the Velodrome Trail:
Climb 500 wooden steps over a 3 km round-trip to the summit lookout.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and pack water and a snack; allow 1 hour round-trip.
Stroll the Centennial Rose Garden:
Wander paved paths among 900+ rose bushes and shaded benches.
Tip: Visit late June to early September for peak bloom; arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds.
Explore the Playground of the Gods:
View and touch 24 tall wooden poles carved by Ainu artists.
Tip: Read interpretive plaques; visit at sunset for dramatic silhouettes.
Birdwatch on Drummond’s Walk:
Walk quieter forest trails near the northeast urban trail.
Tip: Go at dawn with binoculars and a bird guide; look for raptors and songbirds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Burnaby Mountain Park
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and catch sunrise at prime lookout spots.
- Loop Panorama and Rose Trails: Combine the rose garden and Panorama Trail for a scenic 1.5 km loop.
- Download Offline Maps: Mobile coverage is patchy; save trail maps before you go.
Reviews of Burnaby Mountain Park
Raymond
This is definitely a wonderful park in all of Greater Vancouver! It provides surreal views of the city, and great nature, with many walking trails that lead you into the woods! Would highly recommend going here if you're visiting Vancouver BC!
David O'Brien
If you’re in Burnaby, BC, Canada, treat yourself to this gem of a view and view the rose garden behind the restaurant facility. View spectacular sunsets from the hillside. There is no other better west view vantage than this one. It’s free and easily accessible by car, bicycle and transit. Personally, l take my bicycle onto skytrain, catch bus # 145 up to the Simon Fraser University, ride down t...
Explore with Zilly
Burnaby Mountain offers a breathtaking view that perfectly blends nature and cityscapes. Yesterday, I visited with family and friends and was captivated by the panoramic scenes of Vancouver, Burrard Inlet, and the surrounding mountains. The park's well-maintained trails are ideal for a relaxing walk, and the lush greenery provides a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. The totem poles and the ...
Ali Zareei
Burnaby Mountain Park is a beautiful place to visit, offering stunning views and a serene environment. The park’s trails are well-maintained and perfect for hiking, with options for both beginners and more experienced hikers. The lush greenery and vibrant flowers add to the park’s charm, making it an excellent spot for nature lovers. One of the highlights is the breathtaking view of the city and ...
Komalpreet Kaur
Absolutely hands down one of my favourite places! Watching the sunset is INCREDIBLE from here (pictures don't do it justice), just wonderful! So beautiful and lovely and such an amazing view of the city. Awesome gravel path walkways through a hilly park with views. Totem poles and beautiful mountain views. AND a beautiful Rose Garden that smells like heaven!
When is the best time to visit Burnaby Mountain Park (Vancouver, Canada)?
Spring brings wildflowers along forest trails. Summer (April–October) opens the bike-skills park and rose garden blooms. Fall adds red maple hues on Panorama Trail. Winter offers snowy mountain views but pack traction devices for icy paths.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Snacks and water | CAD 5 |
| Coffee at park café | CAD 5 |
| Guided hike drop-in fee | CAD 2 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 12 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Burnaby Mountain Park
Address: 100 Centennial Way, Burnaby, BC V5A 4V2, Canada
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About Burnaby Mountain Park
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