Garbage Trail - Ridden Art

Garbage Trail – Ridden Art in Coquitlam is one of those short, steep grinds that delivers more than you expect. At just 1.8 km out and back with about 147 m of gain, it doesn’t sound like much on paper, but the punchy climb and rough tread make it feel solidly challenging. Most hikers clock it in around 45–60 minutes, so it’s a great quick-hit workout or add-on to a longer Harper Road or Burke Mountain outing.

The trail was built with mountain bikes in mind, so expect tight corners, rooty sections, and some awkward grades that keep you paying attention. As you work your way up toward roughly 478 m of elevation, you’ll get pockets of views toward the Fraser Valley and the surrounding Coquitlam hills, especially if you connect toward Munroe Lake or the overlook above it. The forest here has that classic coastal vibe: damp earth, mossy stumps, and enough shade that even on hot days it feels cooler under the trees.

Recent users mention wandering up and down random side trails, which is easy to do here, so download a map or keep an eye on your GPS to actually stay on Garbage Trail – Ridden Art. The tread can be slick after rain and in winter, with mud, standing water, and icy patches common, and there are often seasonal access issues on nearby routes, so check local updates if you’re planning a shoulder-season trip. Aim for drier days from April through September for the best footing, yield to riders, keep dogs leashed, and be ready for a short but spicy climb rather than a casual stroll.