Five Easy Trail Walks to Try in Coquitlam

Whether you’re toting a young child or simply in the mood for a short afternoon stroll, these five Coquitlam trails are ideal for all ages and abilities. Did we mention that one of the locations also happens to be home to Metro Vancouver’s largest free festive lights display?

1. Lafarge Lake

A 1.2-kilometre trail loops this popular urban lake in Town Centre Park, offering views of both mountains and cityscape. Prepare to be dazzled by the Lights at Lafarge Winter Lights Display, returning Nov. 25 – Jan. 21. Walk the lakeside circuit after dusk to take in the hundreds of thousands of lights across multiple themed zones. The lake is located just steps away from Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station, also with free two-hour parking in Lot D of Town Centre Park, off Trevor Wingrove Way. www.coquitlam.ca/lights

2. Mundy Park

The city’s largest park, at 400 acres, is rated by TripAdvisor as the #1 thing to do in Coquitlam. Home to two lakes, coastal rainforest and a 16-km trail network, its mostly flat paths offer the easy “hiking” experience without having to trek up a mountain. The park is accessible by transit and offers free parking. www.coquitlam.ca/trails 

3. Hoy Creek

This flat, gravel trail stretches for 2.8 km and offer prime viewing of spawning salmon. Whether you’re a young child, an international visitor or a seasoned wildlife spotter, this scene never fails to impress. Duck into the trail off Guildford Way, a short walk from Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station. www.coquitlam.ca/trails

4. Como Lake

You might want to pack your fishing rod to reel in a rainbow trout after your walk. A 1-km trail circles this pretty lake, which is stocked with fish. You’ll also find a playground on site. The lake is accessible by transit and has free on-site parking. www.coquitlam.ca/trails 

5. Colony Farm Regional Park

Bird watchers flock to this immense park to spot rare bird life including great blue herons, purple martins and the elusive lazuli bunting. The terrain is crisscrossed by flat, wide trails, ideal for long, meditative walks. The park is accessible by transit (bus from Coquitlam Central), also with on-site parking. www.metrovancouver.org

 

For more information about upcoming festivals, events and activities, visit www.coquitlam.ca/explore