The best road cycling routes around Burnaby

Burnaby offers a diverse range of road cycling experiences, from challenging climbs on Burnaby Mountain to scenic, flatter routes along lakes and rivers. You'll find extensive parkland, varied terrain with hills and ridges, and dedicated cycling paths suitable for all fitness levels. The city's network includes multi-use paths like the Central Valley Greenway and routes paralleling the SkyTrain line, providing both urban and natural scenery.

Yes, Burnaby has several easy road cycling options. The city's network includes multi-use paths like the Central Valley Greenway, which is mostly flat and separated, making it ideal for beginners and families. Routes around parks such as Deer Lake Park and Burnaby Lake Regional Nature Park also offer gentler terrain for a relaxed ride. For example, the North Arm Fraser River loop from Sapperton is an easy route.

For those seeking a challenge, Burnaby Mountain offers demanding climbs and descents with spectacular panoramic views from the summit. Routes that incorporate the mountain's roads provide significant elevation gains. An example of a difficult route with substantial elevation is the Good Trail loop from Sperling–Burnaby Lake, which features nearly 1,000 meters of ascent.

Burnaby's routes often feature stunning natural beauty. From Burnaby Mountain, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Vancouver, the North Shore Mountains, Burrard Inlet, and Indian Arm. Burnaby Lake Regional Nature Park is excellent for birdwatching, while Deer Lake Park offers picturesque lake views. You might also encounter highlights like Lost Lagoon or Siwash Rock (Slhx̱í7lsh) on routes extending towards Vancouver.

There are over 70 road cycling routes available in Burnaby, catering to various skill levels. This includes 18 easy routes, 51 moderate routes, and 5 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from casual riders to experienced cyclists.

The road cycling routes in Burnaby are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the extensive network of dedicated paths, and the beautiful natural surroundings, from forested areas to lakefronts and panoramic viewpoints.

Yes, Burnaby's cycling network connects to broader regional routes. For instance, the Seymour Demonstration Forest – Stanley Park Drive loop from New Westminster is a challenging 102.4 km trail that leads through forested areas and urban parks, offering a significant long-distance ride.

The best time for road cycling in Burnaby is generally from spring through fall, when the weather is milder and drier. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential rain, as Burnaby experiences a temperate climate with wet winters.

Many multi-use paths and park trails in Burnaby are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. When planning your ride, check specific park regulations for areas like Burnaby Lake Regional Nature Park or Deer Lake Park, as rules can vary. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain.

Burnaby offers various parking options near its parks and trailheads. Many routes are also accessible via public transport, particularly those that parallel the SkyTrain lines, such as the BC Parkway. Lougheed Town Centre, Sperling–Burnaby Lake, and Edmonds are common starting points with good access to both parking and transit.

Yes, Burnaby's urban and park-adjacent routes often have amenities nearby. Areas around Central Park, Deer Lake Park, and the various town centers (like Lougheed Town Centre) offer cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel and relax. Planning your route with komoot can help you identify points of interest and amenities along the way.

The Central Valley Greenway (CVG) is a highly popular multi-use path that extends through Burnaby, offering a mostly flat and separated route suitable for road cyclists. The BC Parkway, which roughly parallels the Expo SkyTrain Line, is another key recreational path. These routes provide excellent connectivity and a safe cycling experience.