Trout Lake

Trout Lake is a small freshwater lake in the middle of East Vancouver, ringed by a flat walking loop, a sandy beach, tall trees and open lawns. It sits inside John Hendry Park, and locals use both names.

About Trout Lake and John Hendry Park

John Hendry Park covers roughly 27 hectares in the Cedar Cottage area, and the lake at its centre is a natural peat bog lake. That makes it one of the few natural freshwater lakes inside the city, which gives the park a different feel from Vancouver’s ocean beaches.

The land has a logging history. The park is named after John Hendry, a local lumber industrialist whose mill drew water from the lake in the late 1800s. The Hendry family donated the land to the city in the 1920s on the condition that the park carry his name. Most people still just say Trout Lake.

Trout Lake Beach

The beach is at the south end of the lake and is small and sandy, which suits kids, sunbathers and anyone who wants a quiet dip without the ocean crowds. Washrooms and a concession stand are nearby, and a swimming raft is usually placed in the water for summer.

Walking the Trout Lake Loop

The path around the lake is short, level and easy to loop more than once, so it works for a quick lunchtime walk or a slow afternoon. Some stretches of shoreline are open lawn where people sit and read, while others are left wild, with reeds, trees and birds close to the water. Ducks are common, and the lake is a decent stop for casual birdwatching. If that interests you, see our guide to bird watching in Metro Vancouver.

Trout Lake in Fall

The lake loop is one of the easier places in the city to see autumn colour without leaving the neighbourhood. Leaves change around the water from about October, and the reflections on a calm day make the loop worth slowing down for. Bring a camera, since the trees, path and lake all frame well together. For more seasonal ideas, browse our list of the top things to do in fall in Vancouver and the best Vancouver autumn places.

Trout Lake Farmers Market

On Saturdays through the warmer months, a large farmers market sets up at the northeast end of the park, close to East 13th Avenue and Lakewood Drive. Expect farm produce from the Fraser Valley, baking, honey, plants, crafts and a few food trucks, plus musicians and activities for children. It is one of the bigger weekly markets in the Lower Mainland, so arrive early if you want the full selection.

Market dates and hours change from year to year. Confirm them on the official market website before you go.

Off-Leash Dog Area

A designated off-leash area at the north end of the lake is a favourite with local dog owners, and dogs are allowed to swim in this section. Keep pets out of the main swimming beach and follow the posted rules and leash signs elsewhere in the park.

Trout Lake Community Centre and Park Facilities

The Trout Lake Community Centre is at the southwest end of the park along Victoria Drive. It has a rink, gym and fitness spaces, classrooms and a hall, and it also serves as the main indoor base for the park. Around the grounds you will find playgrounds, baseball diamonds, sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, picnic areas and an Indigenous medicine garden.

Events at Trout Lake

Trout Lake hosts community events through the year. Depending on the season, these can include the Mother’s Day Powwow, Bike the Blossoms during cherry blossom season, summer performances at the beach, the Illuminares lantern festival in late summer, and the Parade of Lost Souls around Halloween. Event dates vary, so check organizer pages for the current year.

Getting to Trout Lake

Transit is the easiest option. The park is a short walk from Commercial-Broadway Station, and Victoria Drive runs along the west side of the park. Parking around the park can be tight on market days. If you are driving, plan for a short walk from wherever you find a spot. You can also pair a visit with a stroll on nearby Commercial Drive, known for its cafes and restaurants.

Tips for Visiting Trout Lake

• Go early on Saturdays if you plan to visit the market, and expect a crowd by midday.
• Bring a towel and sandals for the beach, and check water quality notices first.
• Late September through October is the best window for fall colour on the loop.
• Pack water and snacks, since food options outside market days are limited.
• Keep dogs on leash outside the designated off-leash area.

More Vancouver Places to Explore

Keep exploring the city with these guides: Everett Crowley Park, New Brighton Park, Sunset Beach Park, Queen Elizabeth Park and VanDusen Botanical Garden. If swimming is your goal, the best beaches in Vancouver list covers the ocean options too.

Trout Lake FAQ