Trans Canada, Cougar Creek, Barnet and Mountain Air Loop

The Trans Canada, Cougar Creek, Barnet and Mountain Air Loop in Burnaby is a solid choice when you want a real workout without driving deep into the mountains. At about 10.3 km with 461 m of gain, it’s rated moderate, but the steeper sections and stair climbs make it feel like more than just a casual stroll. Most people wrap it up in around 3 to 3.5 hours, so it fits nicely into a half day.

The loop mixes urban-edge forest, creekside sections, and some decent viewpoints that remind you how close you are to the city while still feeling away from it. The route rolls with a few ups and downs, then hits you with a couple hundred stairs that light up the legs near the end. It’s a good option if you want to string together distance, elevation, and views without committing to a big backcountry mission.

Recent hikers say the Trans Canada, Cougar Creek, Barnet and Mountain Air Loop is steeper than expected in spots, but no microspikes are needed right now; regular hiking boots are fine, even on wet days. The trail is in good shape, though the Velodrome stairs are closed, so don’t count on using those for access or training. Expect some mud after rain, keep dogs leashed, and do your part with garbage and dog bags, since people are still finding and hauling out trash. This loop tends to work well from late winter through fall, as long as you’re ready for a bit of weather and a legit cardio hit.