The best cycling routes in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area

Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 150 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult paths.

The terrain in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area is diverse, featuring forested slopes that rise from near sea level to 366 meters. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads and gravel pathways. While some routes offer gentler rides, be prepared for sections with significant climbs, especially on parts of the Trans Canada Trail, which can have grades exceeding 20%.

Burnaby Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views from its higher elevations. You can enjoy stunning vistas of the Burrard Inlet, Indian Arm, the Vancouver skyline, and the North Shore Mountains. Notable viewpoints include the View of Indian Arm and Burrard Inlet and the View of Vancouver from Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area.

Yes, Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area features several unique attractions. You can visit the Kamui Mintara (Playground of the Gods) Sculpture, a significant cultural monument. Additionally, keep an eye out for the colorful Burnaby Mountain Water Tower Murals located along the Trans Canada Trail within the forest.

While some trails can be challenging, there are options suitable for families, particularly on the paved and hard-packed sections of the Trans Canada Trail or alternative routes with fewer steep climbs. For a moderate experience, consider routes like the View of Como Lake – Mundy Lake loop from Burquitlam, which leads through forested areas and past lakes.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the Hoy Creek Salmon Hatchery – Mundy Lake loop from Burquitlam, which explores natural areas, or the longer English Bay Beach – Granville Island Public Market loop from Burquitlam for varied urban and coastal landscapes.

Parking is available at various points around Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area. You can find parking at locations such as the Mountain Air Bike Skills parking lot and near the Centennial Rose Garden. These spots provide convenient access to the trail network.

Yes, Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area is accessible by public transport. The area is well-connected, and you can plan your journey to reach various access points, including those near Simon Fraser University, which is served by transit.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 390 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from paved paths to challenging climbs, and the rewarding panoramic views of Burrard Inlet and the Vancouver skyline.

Many multi-use trails within Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area are dog-friendly, but it's important to keep dogs on a leash and adhere to local regulations. Always check specific trail signage for any restrictions or requirements regarding pets.

For a moderate experience that balances challenge with scenic views, consider routes like the Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge – Burnaby North Viking Statue loop from Burquitlam. This route offers a good distance and elevation gain without being overly strenuous, allowing you to enjoy the surroundings.

Experienced touring cyclists looking for longer rides can explore routes that extend beyond the immediate conservation area. The English Bay Beach – Lions Gate Bridge loop from Production Way–University is a moderate, longer option that takes you through varied landscapes, including urban and coastal sections, offering a substantial cycling adventure.