Sasamat Lake Trail

Route Description for Sasamat Lake Trail

The Sasamat Lake Trail is a beautiful lakeside loop for hikers in search of an easily accessible, year-round escape from the city. Nestled in Belcarra Regional park near Port Moody, Sasamat Lake is one of the warmest lakes in the Metro Vancouver area and can be crowded in the summer months. Because of its popularity, especially on the weekends, it is advised that hikers arrive early enough to ensure that they can get a parking spot close enough to the lake and its surrounding trails.

The minimal elevation gain of this short 3.2 km loop makes the Sasamat Lake Trail an ideal route for an easy morning or afternoon stroll. The pathway around the lake offers hikers a variety of scenic changes, including the opportunity to walk through some sections of old-growth forest or along the floating bridge that spans the southern portion of the lake. The hike is dotted with several vantage points that will allow you to peer through openings in the tree cover to catch glimpses of a majestic mountainous backdrop.

To reach the Sasamat Lake trailhead, move through the parking lot toward the lake and White Pine Beach. Once you have reached the paved pathway, follow it north, skirting along the edge of the beach until you come upon a junction with a gravel trail heading to the left. Follow this gravel path to set off on the Sasamat Lake Trail, which loops around the lake in a counterclockwise direction.

Follow the well-maintained trail through the forest as it skirts around the edge of the water, making sure to take in the different views of the lake on your left as you pass by a few openings in the tree cover. Continue on this trail for 500 m, going up the wooden stairs and following along the path as it merges with a gravel road. Keep moving left along the path toward the Sasamat Outdoor Centre.

After crossing a small bridge, follow the trail junction left to continue making your way south along the lake. This portion of the trail is relatively flat and offers hikers the chance to stop at several vantage points to look out over the lake to view the neighbouring mountain peaks in the backdrop.

Continuing along the trail, you will eventually arrive at the south end of the lake and the floating bridge that stretches out over the water to the opposite side. As you cross the bridge, take note of the built-in platforms that can be used after your hike if you are looking to jump in for a quick swim or cast a few fishing lines over the calm water.

Once you reach the other side of the lake, follow the trail left and continue heading north for 800 m to arrive back at the White Pine Beach area. From here, you can stake your claim on a portion of the beach to catch some sun for the remainder of the afternoon or return back to the carpark having completed the Sasamat Lake Trail loop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in Sasamat Lake?

The beach at Sasamat Lake in Belcarra Regional Park is known for its warm water and great swimming.

Is Sasamat Lake man-made?

White Pine is a man-made sandy beach on the shore of Sasamat Lake.

Insider Hints for Sasamat Lake Trail

• This area is especially popular on the weekends during the warmer months of the year. Make sure you arrive early to get a parking spot and/or a spot on the beach.
• Although the trail is dog-friendly, the beaches and the portion along the south side of the lake with the floating bridge are not. Keep this in mind when planning your walking route, or you may receive a ticket.
• The trail is mostly flat and suitable for children; however, there are some sections with stairs that are difficult to navigate with a stroller.