The best gravel rides in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area
4.8
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172
riders
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Gravel biking in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area offers a diverse landscape characterized by forested trails, lakefront paths, and varied elevation changes. The region features established multi-use trails and routes that navigate through natural areas and along waterways. Terrain includes compacted gravel paths, some paved sections, and occasional climbs, providing a mix of surfaces for gravel cyclists. The area's geography combines the tranquility of the lake with the surrounding hills and green spaces.
Best gravel bike trails in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Barnet Marine Park loop from Moody Centre, a 14.6 miles (23.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 9 minutes to complete, offering views of the marine park and surrounding waters.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Port Moody Heron Rookery – Buntzen Lake Beach loop from Inlet Centre, a difficult 19.2 miles (30.9 km) path. This route provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy lakefront scenery.
- Local gravel bikers also love the PoCo Trail – Trans Canada Trail – Coquitlam loop from Lafarge Lake–Douglas, an 11.6 miles (18.7 km) trail leading through established multi-use paths, often completed in about 56 minutes.
- Gravel biking in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area is defined by lake shorelines, forested sections, and established trail networks. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 160 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Buntzen Lake Recreation Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
11
riders
37.1km
02:26
640m
640m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(44)
125
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
29
riders
51.4km
02:38
140m
130m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(7)
7
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
təmtəmíxʷtən/Belcarra Regional Park sits covers 1,100 hectares (2,700 acres) and offers a mix of beaches, shaded trails, and calm lake swimming. You can explore cool, mossy glades beneath towering trees, wander shoreline paths, or head inland to Sasamat Lake, known for its warm summer water and family‑friendly beaches. The parks name, given by the Tsleil‑Waututh Nation, means “the biggest place for all the people,” and the land still holds a high place in their history and culture.
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This section of the Trans Canada Trail follows the wooded banks of the Coquitlam River through Coquitlam. The mostly gravel path runs through forested river habitat, offering a quiet stretch of trail where the sound of the river accompanies much of the walk. It’s a multi-use route popular with hikers, runners, and cyclists, and several bridges and viewpoints along the way provide good views over the river as it flows through the valley.
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The Traboulay PoCo Trail is a beautiful multiuse 25.3-kilometer loop surrounding Port Coquitlam that winds through diverse landscapes including forest, marsh, riverfront, and urban areas, with fantastic views of the Pitt and Coquitlam Rivers along with abundant wildlife. The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained, with a mix of gravel and paved sections, and is an ideal location popular with walkers, runners, cyclists and families.
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Operated by volunteers. Usually open to the public on Saturday mornings.
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The Pitt River Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Pitt River between Port Coquitlam and Pitt Meadows in British Columbia, Canada.
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With a telephoto lens you can get a beautiful picture of Mount Baker
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Beautiful route up the Sunnyside Road
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Operated by the Port Moody Ecological Society
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area?
There are 7 gravel bike trails in the Buntzen Lake Recreation Area, offering a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options to suit various skill levels.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the region offers several easy routes. A good option for beginners or families is the PoCo Trail – Trans Canada Trail – Coquitlam loop from Lafarge Lake–Douglas, which is 18.7 km long and typically takes under an hour to complete. Another easy route is the View of Mount Baker – Hyde Creek Salmon Hatchery loop from Lafarge Lake–Douglas, which is longer at 37.6 km but has minimal elevation gain.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area?
The Buntzen Lake Recreation Area is generally accessible for gravel biking from spring through fall. Summer offers the warmest weather, but can be busy, requiring early arrival or reservations for parking. Spring and fall provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Buntzen Lake?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are loops. For instance, the Barnet Marine Park loop from Moody Centre offers a 23.6 km circular ride with views of the marine park. Another option is the challenging Port Moody Heron Rookery – Buntzen Lake Beach loop from Inlet Centre, which is 30.9 km and provides lakefront scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Buntzen Lake?
The terrain in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area is diverse, featuring compacted gravel paths, some paved sections, and occasional climbs. You'll navigate through forested trails, along lakefront paths, and experience varied elevation changes, combining the tranquility of the lake with surrounding hills and green spaces.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the Buntzen Lake Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, the mix of challenging and easy routes, and the beautiful lakefront and forested sections.
Is public transport available to reach the gravel biking trails?
While direct public transport to Buntzen Lake can be limited, you can often reach nearby areas like Port Moody or Coquitlam via SkyTrain, and then connect with local bus services. It's advisable to check TransLink schedules and routes for the most current information on reaching the trailheads.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the gravel bike trails?
Directly at Buntzen Lake, amenities are limited. However, the nearby communities of Port Moody and Coquitlam, especially around areas like Inlet Centre or Lafarge Lake–Douglas, offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel before or after your ride.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area?
Parking is available at designated lots within the Buntzen Lake Recreation Area. Due to the area's popularity, especially on weekends and during peak season, parking often requires advance reservations or passes. It's crucial to check the official BC Hydro Buntzen Lake website for current parking regulations and reservation requirements before your visit.
Are there any longer gravel bike routes for more advanced riders?
For more advanced riders looking for longer distances, the Pitt River Bridge – Pitt River Dike Trail loop from Lafarge Lake–Douglas is a moderate 51.6 km route that offers a substantial ride. The Port Moody Heron Rookery – Buntzen Lake Beach loop from Inlet Centre is also a challenging option at 30.9 km with significant elevation changes.
What should I wear for gravel biking in Buntzen Lake?
Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather, it's best to wear layers. Moisture-wicking base layers, a comfortable cycling jersey, and a wind/water-resistant outer shell are recommended. Padded shorts will enhance comfort on longer rides, and sturdy cycling shoes are essential for grip and pedaling efficiency. Always bring a helmet and consider gloves and eyewear for protection.
Most popular routes in Buntzen Lake Recreation Area
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