Deer Lake South Loop via Second Beach Trail

Deer Lake South Loop via Second Beach Trail is a relaxed city escape right in Burnaby, circling the quieter south side of Deer Lake. At 4.7 km with only about 87 m of gain and a max elevation around 77 m, it’s a very easy loop that most people finish in just over an hour, making it ideal for a quick after-work walk or a low-key weekend outing.

The loop combines a short, steeper forest entrance with long stretches of flat, wide, hard-packed gravel around the lake. You’ll pass through shaded sections, open views of Deer Lake, and a mix of urban nature with lots of locals out walking, running, and strolling dogs. It feels more like a community greenway than a backcountry hike, with enough trees and water views to forget you’re in the middle of Burnaby for a bit.

Recent hikers on Deer Lake South Loop via Second Beach Trail report that the AllTrails starting point drops you at a residential area with no real parking, so aim for the main Deer Lake Park parking lot instead and walk roughly 0.5 km to connect with the loop. The first and last 10 minutes can be steep and uneven, but the rest is easy and open; if you want to skip the steeper bit, use trail access off Royal Oak or Sperling. Expect plenty of people and dogs year-round, with December through October being the most comfortable window, and bring decent shoes since the steeper entrance can get slick after rain.