Coquitlam River Park - Image 1
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Coquitlam River Park

4.7
·609 reviews·Coquitlam, Canada

Escape to Coquitlam River Park's serene forest trails and refreshing river swimming holes for a natural getaway.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Ideal for swimming and cooling off

CrowdHigh
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Coquitlam River Park - Image 1

Coquitlam River Park

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Ideal for swimming and cooling off

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Escape to Coquitlam River Park's serene forest trails and refreshing river swimming holes for a natural getaway.

4.7
(609 reviews)

"This is easily one of the nicest parks in the Lower Mainland."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Wildlife Awareness

Be bear and coyote aware. Carry bear spray and make noise on trails.

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

Trails can be uneven; wear comfortable, supportive shoes for hiking.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Coquitlam River Swimming Holes

Coquitlam River Swimming Holes

Along the river, particularly near Lion's Park

Discover refreshing, shallow swimming spots perfect for families and hot summer days.

Winding Forest Trails

Winding Forest Trails

Throughout the park

Explore miles of trails that feel like a true forest escape, ideal for hiking and dog walking.

Peaceful Riverside Ambiance

Peaceful Riverside Ambiance

Along the Coquitlam River

Listen to the soothing sound of rushing water and breathe in fresh air for a truly relaxing experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Preparedness

Be aware of wildlife like bears and coyotes on trails. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Stick to marked paths and make noise to avoid surprising animals. Proper footwear is essential for varied terrain.

Seasonal Enjoyment

Enjoy good tree cover year-round, offering shade in summer and rain protection in cooler months. Summer brings popular swimming holes, but can also mean larger crowds. Check for trail conditions after heavy rain.

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for swimming and cooling off
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful walks
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Where to park to access Coquitlam river? (Not from the area)

🐾 Wildlife Awareness

Be bear and coyote aware. Carry bear spray and make noise on trails. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

Trails can be uneven; wear comfortable, supportive shoes for hiking. Reddit

reddit.com

How to prepare/stay safe running/walking/biking the trails along Coquitlam River?

reddit.com

Coquitlam River Access Spots

☀️ Summer Shade & Sun

Good tree cover offers shade on hot days and protection from rain. Reddit

🚗 Parking Options

Free parking at Lion's Park or street parking nearby. Reddit

reddit.com

Tubing down the Coquitlam River.

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Wildlife Awareness

Be bear and coyote aware. Carry bear spray and make noise on trails. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

Trails can be uneven; wear comfortable, supportive shoes for hiking. Reddit

☀️ Summer Shade & Sun

Good tree cover offers shade on hot days and protection from rain. Reddit

🚗 Parking Options

Free parking at Lion's Park or street parking nearby. Reddit

🗺️ Trail Navigation

Maps are available, but Google Maps is also accurate for trail locations. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(609 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Coquitlam River Park for its beautiful, forest-like trails and refreshing river swimming spots, offering a peaceful escape close to the city. While generally uncrowded, summer weekends can see higher visitor numbers. Some note the fast-flowing river might not be ideal for fishing.

"I walk these trails regularly. The trails aren't too overcrowded and the tree cover is good for all seasons; keeps the rain off in inclement and shades from the sunshine on those hot days. There are a number of swimming holes along the river as well for those sweltering summer days. In the last year and a half these areas have been overrun with people due to travel restrictions. Hoping this summer is a little calmer."

Melinda Gill

"Summary:
Along the river, there are a number of nice spots to get your camping chairs set up and play in the water. The water is shallow and safe to bring kids as well. I see tons of families and friends hanging out under the sun and the shade. The river right by the Lion’s Park has definitely been my favorite water/chilling spot over the summer.

Parking:
You can find free parking at the Lion’s Park parking lot. If it has no space, you can try parking in front of 2342 Elgin Avenue; there is a public parking space.

Bathroom:
There is a public bathroom in the Lion’s park. It’s usually walkable distance from where we set up our chairs."

Yoona Kim

"This is a beautiful huge park with many winding trails to go hiking, this is a good place to bring dogs for a walk and children although keep an eye on them it is a large Park, Also has the river running through it and a small lake. Feels more like walking through the forest than being in park. This is easily one of the nicest parks in the Lower Mainland."

Russell Toopitson

What People Like

Beautiful forest trails
Refreshing river swimming
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be crowded in summer
Fast river flow for fishing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Coquitlam River Park is accessible by car, with parking available at Lion's Park and street parking in surrounding neighborhoods. Public transit options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the park area.

Yes, there is free parking available at Lion's Park. Additional street parking can be found throughout the adjacent neighborhoods. Reddit

Yes, the park features trails suitable for biking, and you can bike to the park via local roads and connected pathways. Be mindful of trail sharing with pedestrians. Reddit

While there are maps posted throughout the park, Google Maps is generally accurate for locating the various trails. Reddit

Information on public transport routes serving Coquitlam River Park can be found by checking local transit authority schedules. It's advisable to plan your journey in advance.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Coquitlam River Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty and amenities for free. Reddit

As a public park, Coquitlam River Park is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific areas or facilities might have different hours, so it's best to check for any posted signage.

No advance booking is required for general park access. However, if you plan on organizing a large group event, it's wise to check with local authorities about permits.

While the park is open for general use, it's advisable to be aware of daylight hours for safety, especially when exploring the trails. Some areas might have specific access times. Reddit

Yes, Coquitlam River Park is a good place to bring dogs for a walk. Ensure your dog is leashed and always clean up after them. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking, walking, biking, and picnicking. In the summer, the river offers popular swimming holes. It's also a great spot for nature observation. Reddit

Yes, there are public bathrooms available, notably in the Lion's Park area, which are usually within walking distance of popular spots. Reddit

Absolutely! The park has shallow river areas safe for children to play in, and the winding trails offer a sense of adventure. Adult supervision is always recommended. Reddit

Yes, there are several shallow swimming holes along the river, particularly near Lion's Park, that are popular during the summer months. Reddit

Be aware of potential wildlife such as coyotes and black bears. It's important to be prepared and make noise while on the trails. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The riverbanks offer beautiful shots with the flowing water, especially during golden hour. The dense forest trails also provide a lush, green backdrop for nature photography. Reddit

Yes, the combination of the river, trees, and varied terrain makes it a great location for landscape photography, capturing the essence of the Pacific Northwest wilderness. Reddit

While wildlife sightings are possible, always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Use a zoom lens for close-up shots. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating a softer, more dramatic effect on the landscape and water. Reddit

Look for clearings along the river that offer unobstructed views of the water and surrounding forest. Bridges or elevated points can also provide unique perspectives. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Coquitlam River Park is a fantastic destination for families. The shallow river swimming holes are a major highlight, offering a safe and fun way for children to cool off during summer. Reddit The park's extensive trails are also great for family walks and exploring nature, though it's important to keep a close eye on children due to the park's size and potential wildlife. Reddit

Practical amenities like public bathrooms at Lion's Park add to the convenience for families. Remember to pack essentials like snacks, water, and sun protection, and be mindful of wildlife by making noise on the trails. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This park is a great spot for dog walkers, offering miles of trails where your canine companions can stretch their legs. Reddit The natural setting provides an engaging environment for dogs to explore. Remember to keep your dog leashed at all times to ensure the safety of other visitors and local wildlife, and always clean up after your pet. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For those seeking a genuine forest experience, Coquitlam River Park delivers. The winding trails offer varied terrain and a sense of seclusion, making you feel miles away from urban life. Reddit Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, but always practice wildlife safety by being aware of your surroundings and making noise. Reddit The diverse tree cover makes it enjoyable in most weather conditions.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails Safely

Coquitlam River Park boasts an extensive network of trails, offering a true forest immersion experience. When exploring, it's crucial to be prepared for potential wildlife encounters. Coyotes and black bears are known to inhabit the area, so carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is highly recommended. Making noise as you walk or run can help alert animals to your presence and prevent surprise encounters. Reddit

For a comfortable and safe hike, proper footwear is essential. The trails can be uneven, with roots and rocks, so sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are advised. While maps are available within the park, many visitors find that Google Maps provides accurate navigation for the various paths. Reddit

Remember to stick to marked trails to minimize your impact on the environment and to stay safe. The tree cover provides excellent shade during warmer months and protection from rain, making it a year-round destination, though trail conditions can change after heavy precipitation.

Summer Fun by the River

During the sweltering summer months, Coquitlam River Park transforms into a popular spot for cooling off. The river features several shallow swimming holes, particularly around Lion's Park, which are ideal for families and individuals seeking relief from the heat. These spots are often described as safe for children, with plenty of space to set up camping chairs and enjoy the water. Reddit

While the swimming areas are a major draw, they can also lead to increased visitor numbers during peak season. If you're looking for a more tranquil experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning when crowds are typically lower. Reddit

Beyond swimming, the riverside offers a serene setting for relaxation. The sound of the rushing water and the lush greenery create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and escaping the city bustle.

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