Burke North Summit

Burke North Summit is one of those big all-day hauls that Coquitlam locals talk about with a mix of pride and mild regret the next morning. This 24 km out-and-back with around 1,273 m of gain tops out near 1,254 m and feels every bit like a serious mountain day, not a quick after-work stroll. It’s officially rated difficult for good reason, and most hikers are out there for many hours, not minutes, so plan it as a full mission.

The route starts from the gate at 5000 Harper Road and climbs an old logging road shared with mountain bikers before turning into more classic Pinecone Burke Provincial Park singletrack. Past Dennett Lake, the trail toward Burke Mountain’s North Summit gets narrower, rougher, and noticeably less marked, with some sections turning into light bushwhacking as you approach the upper ridge. On a clear day you’re rewarded with big views toward Coquitlam Mountain, Widgeon country, and the back side of the park that remind you how wild this area still is so close to the city.

Recent hikers report flagged markers up to the lower Burke summit viewpoint, but beyond that the route can get confusing with missing tape and overgrown brush, so a GPS track or map is pretty much mandatory. Expect lots of bear sign, go in a group or with a dog, and make noise; this is proper backcountry, not a city park loop. The best season for Burke North Summit is usually July through October when snow is gone and roads are clear, and in winter this area often sees closures and heavy snowpack, so always check BC Parks updates before heading out.