Pandora Trail

Pandora Trail on Burnaby Mountain is one of those quick hits that feels way bigger than its stats. At just 2.3 km out-and-back with about 139 m of gain, it’s a short, steady climb that most people wrap up in under an hour. You’re basically walking from the residential edge of Burnaby up to Burnaby Mountain Park, trading city streets for forest and inlet views in a few minutes.

The trail itself is wide, well-marked, and mostly shaded, with a gravel surface that makes it easy to follow in any season. It climbs almost right away and stays mostly uphill until the end, with a steeper push near the top that gets your legs and lungs working. On clear days you’re rewarded with views over Burrard Inlet, Indian Arm, and the city, plus access to the rose garden, the totem pole area, and other trails around SFU and Burnaby Mountain Park if you want to keep going.

Recent hikers say Pandora Trail is in decent shape, but the gravel and dirt can get slippery on the steeper bits, especially on the way down or after rain, so shoes with some grip help a lot. Expect mud in wet weather and limited views if it’s foggy or overcast, though the forest walk is still relaxing. This Burnaby trail works well most of the year, with quieter mornings and late fall days offering a peaceful climb, washrooms and a restaurant at the top, and plenty of options to loop back via Gnome or Ridgeview if you don’t want to retrace your steps.