If you seek adventure like mountain biking or hiking, then Coquitlam’s Burke Mountain and Westwood Plateau neighbourhoods are an opportunity to go wild.
This is the true West Coast experience, complete with rainforests, mountains, waterfalls, wildlife and rugged trails appealing to your sense of adventure. For the kids, it’s also home to some stellar playgrounds. Needless to say, if you want to burn some energy, Coquitlam’s northeast is your place to play.
Fun Fact! Did you know Westwood Plateau was home to Canada’s first purpose-built road-racing track? It ran 32 seasons from 1959 to 1990. Racing legend Michael Andretti set the fastest lap time on May 21, 1983. Several street names in the residential Westwood Plateau area are named after parts of the track (i.e. Deers Leap Place and Carousel Court).
Here are some insider tips to explore like a local.
Mountain Biking
Burke Mountain and Eagle Mountain are growing in popularity for mountain biking trails, attracting riders from throughout Metro Vancouver. You’ll navigate through mazes of towering trees, roots, rocks, single-track and built features. Find out more at visitcoquitlam.ca/biking.
Trail maps: Find a map of the top trails from Tri-Cities Off Road Cycling Association (TORCA). Also check out their new A TORCA Guide to Beginners Mountain Biking in the Tri Cities.
Hiking
Pinecone Burke Provincial Park: This park is for experienced hikers seeking adventure. The Woodland Walk Trail is a favourite, leading to the stunning Sawblade Falls (approximately 8 km round-trip). Due to the remote trails in this area, hikers are advised to trek in groups with knowledgeable leaders.
Westwood Plateau: Those looking for a challenge can try the Ridge Park Trails on Westwood Plateau. This 23 km trail network can be accessed from multiple locations including Parkway Boulevard and Hampton Park. While many have manageable slopes, take care on gravel surfaces and steeper sections.
Minnekhada Regional Park: Just east of Burke Mountain is this rugged area with hiking suitable for all ages, offering spectacular views, old-growth forest and incredible wildlife. Choose from the easy hike to the Low Knoll or climb to the High Knoll (allow at least 2 ½ hours) for a satisfying lookout over the wetlands.
For more information about hiking, go to visitcoquitlam.ca/hiking.
Picnic and Play
Burke Mountain Pioneer Park: The 4.4-acre park has game tables, a sports field, sport courts and a climbing playground. The shaded area underneath the trees is a perfect spot for a picnic. 3000 Highland Dr.
Galloway Park: One of the best features in summer is the spray park, although kids can also entertain themselves with the half basketball and ball hockey court, playground and rolling grass slopes. 3404 Galloway Ave.
Queenston Park: The hugely popular neighbourhood playground is built into a slope, so kids can clamber up to the “summit” and slide down over and over again. The best feature is its looooooong metal slide. 3415 Queenston
Riley Park: One of Coquitlam’s latest additions, this 3.5-acre park was built with the concept of “rest, play and move.” Kids will love the wooden climbing structure, slides and other climbing features. Parents will like the scenic views and plenty of places to relax. 1320 Riley St.
Golf
Westwood Plateau Golf & Country Club: This picturesque course is set high above Coquitlam on Eagle Mountain, offering great golf in a spectacular mountain setting.
Westwood Plateau Executive 12-Hole Course & Driving Range: Looking to learn or sharpen your golf skills? This 12-hole executive course is a great place to work on your game or hit the driving range to adjust your swing.
Eat & Drink
Pop in for a snack or make it a meal. Here are some food options to fuel up before or after your activity.
Beanery Coffeehouse & Eatery: Drop by for a coffee and snack, including their gourmet thin-crust pizzas or sandwiches. View their menu online. 101-2591 Panorama Drive, 604-474-4199
Banshan BBQ Restaurant: Chinese barbecue and other tasty dishes in Westwood Plateau Village. 1410 Parkway Blvd., 778-285-7979
Fairways Grill & Patio: You don’t have to go golfing to enjoy the view from Westwood Plateau Golf & Country Club. Take in this spectacular setting with a cold drink and delicious meal. 1630 Parkway Blvd., 604-941-4219
Hiraku Sushi: This busy restaurant in the Burke Mountain neighbourhood is a local favourite, and near the base of the trails. 101 – 3380 David Ave., 604-475-2754
O-Sushi: This Westwood Plateau neighbourhood restaurant offers sushi and hot Japanese dishes. 1410 Parkway Blvd., 604-941-3737
Plateau Pizza: Choose from thin, traditional, deep dish or gluten free crust. 1410 Parkway Blvd., 604-552-8812
Polly Pokinos Gourmet Wings: The name says it all! Gourmet wings and side dishes. 1410 Parkway Blvd., 604-474-1466
Rogues Bar & Grill: Another great restaurant with a view brought to you by Westwood Plateau Golf & Country Club. 3251 Parkway Blvd., 604-945-4007
Sushi Boss: Another great sushi option within Westwood Plateau. 103 – 3033 Robson Dr., 604-474-1261
Be Bear Smart
Coquitlam is home to bears and other urban wildlife. If you see a bear:
- Stop and remain calm. Often the bear is just passing through and will simply move on.
- Do not scream or run.
- Make yourself look big.
- Talk in a low and calm voice while backing away slowly.
- Keep away from the bear and warn others to do the same.
For more tips, visit coquitlam.ca/wildlife.
Safety Tips
Steve Chapman of Coquitlam Search and Rescue recommends hikers always carry these 10 essentials.
- Flashlight / headlamp and spare batteries
- Extra food and water
- Extra clothing (rain, wind, water protection)
- Navigational aids (map, compass, altimeter, GPS, chart, radio, mobile phone)
- Fire starter
- First aid kit
- Emergency shelter (large garbage bag, mylar blanket)
- Sun protection
- Pocket knife
- Signalling device
Have fun exploring! Share your photos with us on social media by tagging #ExploreCoquitlam. And if you have something to add to this list, email us at tourism@coquitlam.ca.