Addington Lookout, High Knoll, Lodge, Fern and Quarry Loop

Addington Lookout, High Knoll, Lodge, Fern and Quarry Loop in Port Coquitlam is one of those “short but satisfying” routes that gives you a real hike without eating your whole day. This 6.8 km loop in Minnekhada Regional Park is mostly easy, with a couple of steeper pushes that get your legs working, and usually takes around two hours at a relaxed pace. It’s popular, but the parking turnover is quick and there’s an outhouse at the trailhead, so it’s a pretty low-stress start.

The loop winds through cool, dense forest, then breaks out onto rocky viewpoints and quiet marsh edges. High Knoll is the real payoff, with a solid climb on roots and rock and a wide, open top where you can spread out and enjoy views over the Pitt River, marsh, and surrounding lowlands. Addington Lookout is more subdued and partly screened by trees, but the mix of forest, gravel paths, marsh boardwalk feel, and wildlife viewing keeps the Addington Lookout, High Knoll, Lodge, Fern and Quarry Loop interesting the whole way.

Right now, trails are in good shape and well maintained, but expect wet patches, running water on sections, and slippery roots and rock after rain, so wear waterproof shoes or light hikers with good grip. This area has very active black bears, including moms with cubs and at least one report of a more assertive bear near the quarry, so carry bear spray, make noise, and skip the headphones. You might also run into painted turtles at the marsh, tiny frogs all over the path, and the odd patch of hornets, so keep dogs leashed and kids close; this loop works year-round, but early mornings, cooler days, and shoulder seasons are the calmest and most enjoyable.