If you are unsure where you can have all the fun, adventure, and excitement, altogether in Canada. I would suggest planning a trip to Burnaby City and exploring the Burnaby mountain and nearby attractions there. Spending a few nights here to enjoy with family and hang out with friends is worth it. So, check out what’s there for you!
Burnaby Mountain is 370 meters high with incredible views of downtown Vancouver and North Vancouver. It offers something for everyone – bike trails, hiking trails, and beautiful playgrounds for kids. With a total of 26 multi-trails, the mountain is the perfect destination for those interested in trails and hiking. So, here is a call for all beginners, mountain bikers, and cyclists. You can also walk around the lovely Rose garden and the mountain is also home to some wildlife, like deer, coyotes, raccoons, and black bears.
You can either choose public or private transport to get there. For public transport, there is a bus to SFU from Downtown Vancouver or pick up the Sky Train Expo and Millenium Lines that have the closest stops at Burnaby Mountain.
So, What Can You Do Once Reaching Around the Mountain?
With a total of 28 hiking trails, Burnaby Mountain offers a variety of hiking options for hikers. You can start your hike through the forest and finish after 600 steps. I recommend the Velodrome Trail and Nicole’s trail to hike. And yes, don’t forget your hiking shoes to keep your legs protected. Burnaby Mountain is a perfect destination for mountain bike enthusiasts, both beginner and advanced skiers. Riders enjoy practicing, riding, and stunting at the Mountain Air Bike Park. Moreover one can’t just ignore the awe-inspiring views of the grassy slopes and downtown Vancouver from the top of Burnaby Mountain. What else can you expect? Plan your trip for the stunning mountain views and spectacular sunsets are ready to brighten your day.
The Canada Hustle team talked to Sushant Yadav, a Tourism Development Expert at Travelosei, about things that make Burnaby Mountain unique for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Here is what he said:
“As someone deeply passionate about both outdoor adventures and cultural exploration, I find Burnaby Mountain to be an unparalleled destination that seamlessly merges the wonders of nature with rich cultural heritage.
Burnaby Mountain offers awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape, including the majestic Vancouver skyline, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore Mountains.
Its diverse ecosystems, from lush forests to serene meadows, provide endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.
Atop Burnaby Mountain sits Simon Fraser University, a renowned academic institution known for its innovative architecture and cultural events. Visitors can explore the university’s art galleries, performances, and lectures, immersing themselves in a vibrant intellectual atmosphere.
Burnaby Mountain is steeped in Indigenous history, with archaeological sites and traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples.
The Mountain is a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of the First Nations communities, offering opportunities for educational experiences and Indigenous-led tours.
Whether it’s picnicking at Centennial Park, playing a round of golf at the Burnaby Mountain Golf Course, or enjoying a stroll through the Japanese-Canadian War Memorial, Burnaby Mountain provides diverse recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
The Mountain serves as a hub for community events and festivals, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity among residents and visitors alike.
From outdoor concerts to cultural celebrations, Burnaby Mountain brings people together to celebrate diversity and creativity.
In summary, Burnaby Mountain stands out as a destination that seamlessly integrates nature, culture, and community.
Its diverse offerings appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and cultural explorers alike, contributing to the overall appeal and identity of Burnaby City as a vibrant and diverse community.”
Popular Attractions Around the Burnaby Mountain
The Burnaby mountain trip is not just limited to hiking and mountain biking. There’s much more to it as you can explore lots more around. Have a look:
Burnaby Mountain Park
There are a few amazing parks in Burnaby Mountain where you can take the kids and pet dog to play. The Burnaby Mountain Park has unique attractions to engage the visitors. The beautiful Rose garden has over 900 colourful bushes. You would be surprised to see the carvings on the wooden pillars that were created by Nuburi and Akio Toko, also known as God’s Playground. If you visit there in the summer or spring season, don’t miss the park’s Eco sculpture, only made of plants.
There are many other parks, like Central Park, Robert Burnaby Mountain Park, and Kensington Park for you to explore.
Burnaby Art Gallery
People who love adventure may also be interested in the arts. I guess! The Art Gallery in Burnaby City is the only public art gallery in Canada that showcases the history and contemporary art pieces by local and regional artists, and some unique artworks of international talents. This is a must-visit in Burnaby if you love to see the arts and want to learn more about it. The gallery organizes several exhibitions, school programs, and public programs for different age groups.
Hannah Jones, a Realtor at NewBuildHomes, talked to the Canada Hustle team about Burnaby Mountain’s unique attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Here is an excerpt from the interview:
“Burnaby Mountain is a great place to observe the panoramic views of downtown Vancouver, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore Mountains. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is a treat because they thrive on beautiful and scenic spots.
The mountain is very well known for its extensive trail network, where outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking can try out their skills and make a day out of it. Not only this, but the interconnected and safe system also makes it very easy for biking and running.”
Burnaby Central Railway
This is meant for people of all ages, especially those with children. The Burnaby Central Railway runs a classic miniature steam train through Confederation Park, which whistles along the way. The train is operated on weekends and statutory holidays from Easter to the Canadian Thanksgiving day, between 11 am to 5 pm. So, be sure to visit the city in the summer to ride the miniature train. Each ride is around 10 minutes long and covers a 2km long track.
Simon Fraser University Museum
One more popular attraction that you shouldn’t miss is the Simon Fraser University Museum, located on the University’s campus itself. The museum displays a wide range of exhibits on archaeology and ethnology. Some popular exhibits that you would love to spot there include the Haida Argillite Carvings, Naamboi and Photogrammetry, and Plains Regalia.
None of my trips conclude until I stroll down the markets and shopping complexes there. If you are also a shopaholic like me and have enough time after exploring the city, You must go for a casual shopping experience in Burnaby. Some popular shopping malls are Metropolis at Metrotown, The Crystal Mall, and L.L.Bean.
We interviewed Hannah Sanderson, the CEO/Founder of Clever Canadian, about Burnaby Mountain’s uniqueness for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers. Here is what she had to say:
“Nestled amidst the natural beauty of British Columbia, Burnaby Mountain stands as a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
This majestic destination boasts a unique blend of scenic landscapes, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions that set it apart from other destinations in the region.
As an integral part of Burnaby City’s identity, Burnaby Mountain contributes to the city’s reputation as a vibrant and diverse community, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its rich tapestry of experiences.
At the heart of Burnaby Mountain’s allure lies its stunning natural beauty and abundant recreational offerings. From lush forests and meandering trails to panoramic viewpoints and serene lakes, the mountain provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching are popular activities enjoyed by visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the splendor of the surrounding wilderness.
The mountain’s proximity to urban amenities makes it a convenient escape for locals and tourists alike, offering a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Beyond its natural wonders, Burnaby Mountain is also home to a wealth of cultural attractions and heritage sites that reflect the city’s diverse history and multicultural identity.
The Simon Fraser University campus, with its striking architecture and academic excellence, serves as a focal point for education and innovation.
Additionally, the renowned Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area and Centennial Rose Garden showcase the city’s commitment to environmental conservation and beautification, providing tranquil settings for reflection and relaxation.
Burnaby Mountain serves as a hub of community engagement and social activity, hosting a variety of events and festivals throughout the year.
From outdoor concerts and cultural celebrations to environmental initiatives and volunteer programs, the mountain fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents and visitors alike.
These events not only showcase the mountain’s natural and cultural assets but also promote inclusivity and unity within the community, strengthening Burnaby City’s reputation as a welcoming and vibrant destination for all.”
Burnaby is a culturally diverse country, and there are many options in cuisine. Greek, Italian, Vietnamese, Thai, and Indian food can all be enjoyed uphill of Burnaby Mountain. You can also try local delights on the corner of Burnaby Street. Overall, Burnaby Mountain is the perfect destination for a weekend outing with family and friends. So, plan your next trip to the hills of Burnaby now!
Guest Author: Saket Kumar
Last Updated on May 28, 2024 by Saket
