Want to spend a great day at a lake close to Vancouver? Then head about an hour east of Vancouver to Buntzen Lake. This lake has a beach area for families and a fantastic 10 km year-round hiking trail that circles the lake and is perfect for all levels of fitness.
The start of the trail is at a public beach area which can get very crowded in the summer. Get there early on the weekends as this is a popular spot and the parking lot fills up quickly. Look for the signs to the left of the beach area or in the parking lot area. The first part of the hike along the western shore of the lake takes you through a forested area towards a floating bridge.
As you walk through this area take the time to look back and catch glimpses of the lake through the trees.
This hike provides fantastic scenery along the way…
…and the trail is well maintained all year.
After crossing a suspension bridge you will find a place to stop at the far end of the lake.
Bring a snack and take the opportunity to pause here where it is much quieter than where the trail begins. When you are ready to head back to where you started, hiking along the east side of the lake, you will find the trail once again takes you into the forest.
There is a bit of a climb at this section of the trail, but it soon levels out and then descends as you reach the parking lot area. With the weather getting warmer and the daylight hours getting longer it’s time to start thinking about doing some hiking. Make sure and add this trail to your list of summer outings!
Meandering My Way... 
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