Bullet Dodger

Bullet Dodger in Coquitlam is one of those trails that feels way more remote than it actually is. This 5.5 km out-and-back route climbs about 383 m along a forested ridge to roughly 403 m, and most hikers will spend just over two hours on it. Parking is straightforward, the crowds are basically nonexistent, and the mix of ridge walking, forest, and a waterfall keeps it from feeling repetitive.

The trail runs through classic Burke Mountain forest, with stretches where you’re high above a ravine and can hear water below. The waterfall is the obvious highlight, and the surrounding trees and mossy slopes give the whole route a quiet, tucked-away feel. It’s rated moderate, but the incline and decline on Bullet Dodger are no joke in spots, especially given the loose dirt and bike-shaped corners.

Recent hikers report that Bullet Dodger is lightly trafficked and poorly marked, so a GPS track or map app is pretty much mandatory. Expect steep, dry sections with loose soil and rocks that make the descent slippery and slower than you’d think, especially if you start from the Burke Mountain side. This is technically a mountain biking trail, so watch and listen for riders, avoid it in wet or icy winter conditions due to the smooth, steep downs, and aim for April to September for safer footing and better views around the waterfall.