Buntzen Lake

Quick Info

LocationAnmore, BC (Metro Vancouver), north of Port Moody
Distance from VancouverAbout 30 km, roughly an hour by car
Managed byBC Hydro
Size4.8 km long reservoir, 182 hectares
Main activitiesSwimming, hiking, kayaking and canoeing, fishing, picnicking
Key trailsBuntzen Lake Trail loop, Halvor Lunden Trail, Diez Vistas Trail
ParkingFree reservation required seasonally, book online through BC Hydro
Official infobchydro.com/buntzen
Buntzen Lake in Anmore, BC Buntzen Lake reservoir surrounded by forest Buntzen Lake recreation area Buntzen Lake Trail through the forest Fishing at Buntzen Lake Buntzen Lake shoreline view Fishing from a boat on Buntzen Lake Hiking trail beside Buntzen Lake Trail through the woods near Anmore Forested trail at Buntzen Lake

Buntzen Lake sits in a narrow mountain valley in the Village of Anmore, a short drive north of Port Moody. Built and still operated by BC Hydro as a hydroelectric reservoir, the lake has become one of the busiest outdoor recreation spots in Metro Vancouver, drawing hikers, swimmers, and paddlers to its clear water, forested trails, and mountain backdrop. The park sits on the traditional territory of the Kwikwetlem, Musqueam, Tsleil-Waututh, Squamish, and Stó:lō First Nations.

Buntzen Lake Trail loop through forest

Trails and Hiking

The Buntzen Lake Trail is the signature route, a loop of roughly 10 kilometres that circles the entire lake through dense coastal forest. It crosses a suspension bridge near the north end, offering open views across the water, and passes a second, quieter beach along the way. Most hikers walk it counter clockwise starting from South Beach.

For a longer outing, the Halvor Lunden Trail climbs the east side of the lake and connects with the Dilly Dally Loop, tracing a ridge past Eagle Mountain, Tangled Summit, and Dilly Dally Peak. The Diez Vistas Trail is another popular option for hikers chasing viewpoints over the lake and surrounding mountains. Longer routes need extra time, so plan accordingly if booking a shorter parking window.

Swimming beach at Buntzen Lake

Swimming and Beaches

Buntzen Lake has two designated beach areas. South Beach, near the main parking lot, is the busiest and best equipped, with a boat launch, picnic tables, and a covered picnic shelter. North Beach, reached by hiking part of the loop trail and crossing the suspension bridge, is smaller and quieter.

The lake stays noticeably cooler than smaller nearby lakes, which many visitors find refreshing on hot summer days. Arrive early on weekends and holidays, since both the beach areas and the parking lot fill quickly once the weather turns warm.

Kayaking and fishing on Buntzen Lake

Kayaking, Canoeing, and Fishing

Motorized boats are not allowed on Buntzen Lake, aside from small battery powered electric motors, which keeps the water calm and quiet for paddlers. A car top and hand launch dock at South Beach makes it straightforward to bring a kayak or canoe, and rentals are available nearby in Anmore for visitors who prefer not to haul their own gear.

The lake’s long, narrow shape creates sheltered bays that are worth exploring by paddle, and fishing is popular along the shoreline and from small boats throughout the reservoir.

Parking reservations: During the busy summer season, BC Hydro requires a free vehicle parking reservation for Buntzen Lake, released online the day before your visit. Reservations can fill up fast on sunny weekends. Cyclists and transit users do not need one. Check current dates and book at bchydro.com/buntzen before you go.
Tip: Dogs must stay leashed through most of the park, but there is a designated off leash area beside Buntzen Creek where dogs can swim. If your trip depends on letting a dog off leash near the water, plan to visit that section.
“Buntzen Lake trades the city for mountain water in under an hour, and the trail around it never really lets you forget you are still this close to home.”
Do I need a parking reservation to visit Buntzen Lake?

During the busy summer season, BC Hydro requires a free vehicle parking reservation, booked online the day before your visit. Reservations are not required if you arrive by bike or public transit. Confirm current season dates at bchydro.com/buntzen.

Is swimming allowed at Buntzen Lake?

Yes. Both South Beach and North Beach are open for swimming, and the reservoir stays cooler than many smaller lakes in the region.

How long is the Buntzen Lake Trail loop?

The main loop around the lake is roughly 10 kilometres, passing through forest and crossing a suspension bridge near the north end.

Are dogs allowed at Buntzen Lake?

Dogs are welcome on a leash through most of the park. A designated off leash area near Buntzen Creek allows dogs to swim without a leash.

Can I kayak or canoe on Buntzen Lake?

Yes. Motorized boats are prohibited aside from small electric motors, which keeps the lake calm for paddling. A launch point is available at South Beach, and rentals can be found nearby in Anmore.

How far is Buntzen Lake from Vancouver?

Buntzen Lake is about 30 kilometres from Vancouver, roughly an hour by car, located in Anmore just north of Port Moody.

Plan Your Visit to Buntzen Lake

Check current parking reservation dates, trail alerts, and facility details before heading out.

Visit BC Hydro’s Buntzen Lake Page