Photo: Huixia Jiang
While seasons may change, Burnaby is always beautiful. This is especially true in autumn when leaves begin to turn, and the reflection in Deer Lake transforms to brilliant shades of orange, red and yellow. So slip on your best sweater and step out into the crisp fall air. These are our favourite spots around Burnaby to take in the beauty of the season.
Burnaby Mountain Park
What better place to take in an expansive view of the city? From this high vantage point, you’ll enjoy a panoramic scene of changing deciduous trees as they stretch into the horizon. 576 hectares of nature and trails, the park includes a picnic area, playground, and several large wooden sculptures, known as Kamui Mintara (or Playground of the Gods), to wander between.
Robert Burnaby Park
With towering maples covered in leaves bigger than your head, this East Burnaby nature spot is a community favourite. Pick any direction in the park’s circuit of trails, and you’re sure to find something worthy of a photo. Old-growth trees, meandering ravines, and even a collection of mythical creatures crafted from bundled sticks. It’s a fantastic park to show kids the marvels of the season, but remember to pack their rain boots as it can stay quite muddy after a downpour.
Photo: Huixia Jiang
Deer Lake Park
Around sunset, the shimmering lake is like a kaleidoscope of light and colour. Follow the path along the water’s edge and take in the sea of vibrant leaves around every corner. A great walk to take dogs on, completing the loop around the lake typically takes about an hour. Keep a firm grip on the leash though, because this area is packed with wildlife. It isn’t unusual to catch a heron wading in the shallows or see turtles perched on the warm stones at midday.
Central Park
Of course we had to include one of the most visited spots of greenery in Burnaby. Steeped in local history (in 1986, it was launched by Prince Charles and Princess Diana during their royal visit), Central Park’s role in the evolution of Burnaby is outdone only by the natural beauty on display there. Just minutes from Metrotown, the park offers a lush escape to nature lovers. Colour-rich trees canopy over the quiet ponds, as ducks drift peacefully through the fallen leaves. It’s the perfect place for contemplation, bird watching, or just getting some fresh air on your lunch break.