Confederation Nature Trail

Route Description for Confederation Nature Trail

The Confederation Nature Trail is an easy walk through the woods that features some minor changes in elevation. Because of this, hikers should be aware that the downhill portions of the trail can become fairly slippery when wet. Make sure to have footwear with a good tread to better manage on the terrain.

This trail runs through a lovely forested park that is perfect for letting your dogs run off-leash to explore. The small size of the park and simple trail network eliminates any chance of getting lost if you need to go tramping through the trees after your pup. The scenic views of the Burrard Inlet are a nice bonus, and there is even a small beach on the other side of the railway tracks if you feel like spending some time down by the water.

Setting out from the parking area next to the Burnaby Central Railway Hub, head north along the trail as it enters into the dense tree cover. The majority of the hike will be heavily forested like this, keeping you cool and protected from the sun. Keep right at the junction in the trail, and you will soon cross over a small bridge that spans Rainbow Creek.

Keep straight along the forested trail for 200 m, where you will reach a clearing in the tree cover. Continue along the path and enter back into the forest, passing through the next two trail junctions to reach a small viewpoint over the waters of the Burrard Inlet. Spend a few moments watching the ships glide effortlessly over the water in front of a picturesque mountain backdrop. After taking in the sights, backtrack along the trail and take the first path to your left.

Make your way over the creek crossing and follow the Confederation Nature Trail, as it meanders next to the railway tracks. Here, the trail will veer to the right and continue south as it passes along the eastern edge of the park. In 350 m, you will get to another junction with the Trans Canada Trail. Take this to the right to skirt alongside Penzance Drive, as you make your way back to the parking lot having traversed the Confederation Nature Trail.