Trans Canada Trail, Burnaby

Also known as The Heights Trail, this route takes walkers from North Burnaby to the eastern edge of Vancouver. Because the trail is so well covered by trees, it’s not until the temperature drops and leaves have all fallen that you can truly appreciate the expansive views that this trail offers of the North Shore, Burrard Inlet and Capitol Hill. It’s one trail where the views may actually be better in winter than in other seasons.

GETTING THERE
Start at Confederation Park, located in North Burnaby near the north end of Willingdon Avenue. To access the trail, the parking lot nearest the lawn bowling green is most convenient, so head north on Willingdon until you reach Penzance Dr. and make a right turn. You’ll see the parking lot almost immediately on your right. The trail starts just across the street at the corner of Penzance and Willingdon. If driving is not your thing, the route is also easy to access on transit.

TERRAIN

Wide, compact gravel paths with short paved sections. Expect a mix of sun and shade since the first half is exposed while the second half is almost completely shaded by trees. The trail gently slopes downward as it travels west gradually getting steeper as it enters Vancouver.

STROLLER RECOMMENDATION

Umbrella, all-terrain or anything in between.

LENGTH

Departing from the lawn bowling green parking lot, the trail runs less than 2.5 km to take you all the way to the eastern edge of Vancouver just underneath the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge. To complete the entire trail at a leisurely pace in and out with play stops, plan for about 1.5 hours.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FEATURES

Confederation Park has just about any family-friendly amenity imaginable, including washrooms (with change tables), playgrounds, sports fields, a library, and more. Along the trail you’ll find benches, a playground (including toddler equipment), and picnic tables – because who doesn’t love a picnic?

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS

Take in a few of the interpretive signs along the way highlighting area history and ecology.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

The Heights neighbourhood offers great shopping along Hastings St. In the warmer months, the miniature train at the Burnaby Central Railway is a hit with kids (and parents too). Confederation Park itself is worth a visit even in the winter months since it’s home to so many kid-friendly indoor activities at the pool and library.

GOOD TO KNOW

Just as the trail approaches the Ironworkers’ Memorial Bridge, you’ll come to a spot where trains enter and exit a tunnel that takes them under the northern part of Burnaby. Who knew!

IMPORTANT: Any adventure in the outdoors carries a certain level of risk. The route information and maps contained in this blog are provided as rough guidelines only and are based on just one person's experience. Baby Meets Trail and its authors are not responsible for any harm that may occur while attempting one of the posted walks. We will, however, take credit if you have an excellent time!

Shoreline Park Pathway, Port Moody

The Shoreline Park Pathway is fantastic any time of year, but particularly in the fall when it offers some of the most spectacular views of Burrard Inlet and the seasonal colours of fall. Connecting Rocky Point Park on the south side of the inlet to Old Orchard Park on the north side, the route is a smooth, paved pathway, perfect for either a leisurely stroll or a heart-pumping power walk with baby. More adventurous stroller walkers may want to tackle the lower, unpaved trail which runs directly along the shoreline. This rugged route is not recommended without an all-terrain stroller.















GETTING THERE
From St. John’s Street (the main drag in Port Moody), turn left onto Moody Street. Proceed over an overpass and down to the left before making another left onto Murray Street. You’ll see the entrance and parking lot on the left.

TERRAIN
Wide, paved path from start to finish. Aside from a short section which runs directly alongside Murray Street, the path takes you through forested parkland. The trail is so smooth and even, it's a good one to let new walkers out of the stroller to test their legs.

STROLLER RECOMMENDATION
Umbrella, all-terrain or anything in between.

LENGTH
The path is 6 km (return) so it could be managed in less than two hours, but with playgrounds at both ends (yes, that's right...there's more than one playground!), you’ll likely need to plan for a bit more time. If an epic walk is not what you’re after, there are plenty of options to loop back through streets or along adjoining trails.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FEATURES
Washrooms (with change tables), playgrounds, spray park (summer months only), beach, benches, covered tables, picnic tables, sports fields, and interpretive signage referencing the local history and plant life.

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS
Piers for gazing out at the inlet, plenty of benches to rest and take in the calm of the forest, and a few historic remnants of the region’s past as a mill town make for a very interesting walk.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
The Inlet Community Garden along Murray Street is worth a visit in the warmer months. The Port Moody Station Museum and Noons Creek Hatchery are two more family-friendly destinations in the neighbourhood.

GOOD TO KNOW
The path is very popular with cyclists, joggers and inline skaters, meaning it can get a bit crowded.


IMPORTANT: Any adventure in the outdoors carries a certain level of risk. The route information and maps contained in this blog are provided as rough guidelines only and are based on just one person's experience. Baby Meets Trail and its authors are not responsible for any harm that may occur while attempting one of the posted walks. We will, however, take credit if you have an excellent time!

Deas Island Regional Park, Delta

If you’ve never been on Deas Island, chances are you’ve at least been under it. Located atop the George Massey Tunnel, the park offers plenty of variety for its relatively compact size. The name is actually a bit of a misnomer, since the “island” has long been connected to the mainland with a roadway. If you can overlook the inaccuracy of its name, the park is a lovely spot to kick through piles of fallen leaves and enjoy a quiet afternoon stroll.










GETTING THERE
Unfortunately, this is one walk you'll pretty much surely need a car to access. From the south end of the George Massey Tunnel, take the second exit and follow the signs for River Road North. A short distance along River Road, you will see signage marking the park entrance. Turn in and park in the first parking lot.

TERRAIN
Wide, flat trails of loose gravel with lengthy sections of sand. The route winds its way through trees along the shores of the island, so expect a fair bit of shade.

STROLLER RECOMMENDATION
In general, large-wheeled strollers will have an easier time on these trails. There are significant sections of sand that would not make for easy pushing if you didn't have large wheels. Umbrella strollers are not recommended for this reason.

LENGTH
Departing from the first parking lot, the trail runs less than 5 km (return). With a few looping options, it’s easy to customize your walk depending on your available time (or how long junior sleeps).

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FEATURES
Benches, washrooms (no change tables), picnic tables and large grassy areas are all readily available. Kids young and old may enjoy watching the cars stream into the tunnel from this unique vantage point.

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS
It’s not every day you get to see a shipwreck, but that’s exactly what you’ll see across the water from the southern side of the island. There is also a low tide beach located near the tip of the island which offers a spectacular spot to stop for lunch or just to watch the boat traffic along the river. The views of the Fraser River and Deas Slough are lovely from the trails, but are best seen from atop the viewing tower.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
There are a number of horse stables nearby and the community of Ladner is a short drive down River Road. On the island itself are a few heritage buildings including Delta Agricultural Hall (1894), Burrvilla, a grand home (1906), and Inverholme, one-room schoolhouse (1909). Some folks (myself included) may enjoy watching the traffic enter the tunnel under the island...that's an attraction, right?

GOOD TO KNOW
Dogs must be on a leash at all times. Bikes are only permitted on the roadways throughout the park.


IMPORTANT: Any adventure in the outdoors carries a certain level of risk. The route information and maps contained in this blog are provided as rough guidelines only and are based on just one person's experience. Baby Meets Trail and its authors are not responsible for any harm that may occur while attempting one of the posted walks. We will, however, take credit if you have an excellent time!

George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sancutary, Ladner

I believe my grandfather was the first person to take me to Reifel. It's very much the kind of place a grandfather would take his grandkids. According to the folks at Reifel, "the sanctuary consists of 300 hectares of ponds, natural tidal marshes and trails in the heart of the Fraser River Estuary. For birds seeking feeding and resting areas during migration, the sanctuary's location is ideal. It is a place where wildlife and their habitats are protected from harm..." For us human-folk, it's a bit of a sanctuary as well: peaceful, relaxing, inspiring, and an easy place to get away from the rat race for a while and teach our kids about the beauty of nature.

GETTING THERE

The sanctuary is located west of Ladner on Westham Island. From Richmond, travel through the Deas Island Tunnel and follow the signs for Highway 17 (as if you were going to the ferries) and continue until it intersects with Ladner Trunk Road (Highway 10). If travelling from Delta or Surrey, simply take Ladner Trunk Road (Highway 10) and head west into Ladner. From Ladner Trunk Road travel west to 47A Avenue and on to River Road. Continue along River Road for approximately 3 km until you cross a single-lane bridge onto Westham Island. Follow the main road across the island and all the way to Reifel.

TERRAIN

The wide paths are mostly compact gravel, but there are several areas where the trail has been overtaken by grass. Be sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat because there is no shade cover for about half of the trails.

STROLLER RECOMMENDATION

Any kind of stroller can handle the trails at Reifel.

LENGTH

Reifel is not a place to be rushing about so plan to spend at least an hour exploring the many routes through the sanctuary.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FEATURES

Kids will love sneaking into the bird blinds to get an up-close look at some of the amazing birds that stop by the island. At certain times of year, you may have an opportunity to observe birds nesting on their eggs or see little ducklings soon after they've hatched.

From a practical standpoint, parents may appreciate the large indoor washrooms that are fully eat your lunch with the birds. There is also a gift shop filled with a variety of bird-related items.

The trails themselves are great for pushing a napping baby along since there are many looping options that will enable you to extend your walk as needed or you can pause for a bit of a rest at any of the benches that sit trail-side.

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS

A tall observation tower is located in the northwestern corner and provides an excellent view of the shallow ponds, the intertidal marshes of the Fraser River estuary beyond the dikes, the Strait of Georgia and even as far off as Vancouver itself. Other, lower, viewing points are stroller-accessible and overlook marshy islands and ponds. 

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Westham Island is home to many farms and other agricultural industries including the Westham Island Herb Farm, Westham Island Apiary and Westham Island Estate Winery. Touring the bird sanctuary  followed by a few stops at the neighbouring farms to grab a few items for dinner is a lovely way to spend a day.

GOOD TO KNOW

There is a fee (cash or credit only) to enter the sanctuary for anyone age two and up and small bags of birdseed are available for purchase at the admission gate. The gates are locked at 5 pm, so you'll need to be in your car and heading home before then. Other than that, be sure to note that bikes, pets, sports equipment and collecting items to take with you are not permitted.


View George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Ladner in a larger map

IMPORTANT: Any adventure in the outdoors carries a certain level of risk. The route information and maps contained in this blog are provided as rough guidelines only and are based on just one person's experience. Baby Meets Trail and its authors are not responsible for any harm that may occur while attempting one of the posted walks. We will, however, take credit if you have an excellent time!

Trout Lake, Vancouver

Actually, the park's official name is John Hendry Park, but, let's be honest, most people just call it Trout Lake. It has to be one of the most family-friendly places I can think of in the entire Lower Mainland. Your child like beaches? There's a beach. He like playgrounds? There's a playground. Birds? They've got birds too. Trees to climb? Check. Pretty much the only thing they're missing is a train, but, hey, you can't have it all.

GETTING THERE
This is one walk that is super easy to access via transit, so, if you can, leave the car at home and hop on the bus or Skytrain to make your way to the park.  It really is just a short walk from the Broadway Skytrain station (located at Broadway and Commercial Drive), so transit is a great option. If you must drive, you'll find the park between Victoria Dr. and Nanaimo St. at about East 15th Ave. There is usually plenty of street-side parking in the area, but it can get a bit congested in the summer months when the farmers market is on, so be respectful of the residence who live in the area. The parking lot at the north end of the park is not available on market days.

TERRAIN
The entire park is flat, so don't expect to build up too much of a sweat pushing the little one along this route. The trail itself is mostly compact gravel with short paved sections. Large mature trees throughout the park provide ample shade if you wish to get off the trail and out of the sun. In spots the trail takes you very near the water's edge, so little ones will have plenty of opportunity to examine the mysteries that lie along the shoreline.

STROLLER RECOMMENDATION
Any type of stroller can handle the trail around Trout Lake.

LENGTH
The walk around the lake itself is not a long one, and therein lies the beauty. Sometimes you just want to go for a quick walk with the stroller. All told, you can easily make it around the lake in less than half and hour. While not extensive, there are a few trails through the park, so you could do more than just loop the lake if you wanted/needed to.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FEATURES
In all likelihood, you'll find yourself spending much longer than a half hour since this park has so much to offer. At the south end, you'll find a small beach, swimming area, playground, covered picnic tables, and the all-important washrooms (no change tables). The previously mentioned farmer's market is another excellent feature for families.

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS
On clear days, you'll enjoy unobstructed views of the North Shore Mountains.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS
The park is conveniently located in one of Vancouver's many quaint, family-oriented neighbourhoods. This one also happens to be very near Commercial Drive and all the excitement it offers a toddler in a stroller. Explore a few of the city streets in the area and you're likely to come across a few community gardens and an amazing array of playgrounds.

GOOD TO KNOW
On Saturdays between May and October, you'll find one of the best farmers markets going: the Trout Lake Farmers Market. Be sure to toss a reusable cloth bag into the stroller as you head off on your walk so you can pick up a few locally produced items from the market.


View Trout Lake, Vancouver in a larger map
IMPORTANT:  Any adventure in the outdoors carries a certain level of risk. The route information and maps contained in this blog are provided as rough guidelines only and are based on just one person's experience. Baby Meets Trail and its authors are not responsible for any harm that may occur while attempting one of the posted walks. We will, however, take credit if you have an excellent time!

Deer Lake Park, Burnaby

The epitome of calm and serenity nestled right in the heart of Burnaby, Deer Lake Park is, quite simply, a walker’s dream. During the warmer months, the park is popular with concert-goers, walkers, joggers, picnickers, birdwatchers, nature-lovers, boaters and horticultural enthusiasts. The looping trails and beautiful setting are what make Deer Lake Park a stroller-friendly walk not to be missed.

GETTING THERE

From Highway 1, take the Kensington South turnoff. Turn west on Canada Way and follow the signs to Deer Lake Park.

TERRAIN

Wide paths, minimal hills, mostly compact gravel with short sections of wooden boardwalk or paved road (minimal traffic). Expect a mix of covered forest and open grassy meadows.

STROLLER RECOMMENDATIONS

Umbrella, all-terrain or anything in between.

LENGTH

The trail around the lake can easily be done in about an hour with the option to extend your walk by taking the loop trails at the west end of the park.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FEATURES

A small beach, washrooms (no change tables), playground equipment (swings and climbing apparatus only), benches, and picnic tables.

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS

Docks and ponds for viewing frogs and turtles, plenty of bird watching opportunities, flower gardens, beautiful views of Deer Lake and the North Shore mountains in the distance.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

The Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, Burnaby Art Gallery, and Burnaby Village Museum.

GOOD TO KNOW

Dogs are not allowed in the beach or picnic areas around the lake.



View Deer Lake in a larger map

IMPORTANT: Any adventure in the outdoors carries a certain level of risk. The route information and maps contained in this blog are provided as rough guidelines only. The walks written about on Baby Meets Trail are based on just one person's experience. Baby Meets Trail and its authors are not responsible for any harm that may occur while trying one of the posted walks. We will, however, take credit if you have an awesome time!