The Buntzen Lake Recreation Area, located just north of Anmore and about a 45-minute drive east of Vancouver, is a nature lover’s paradise. Buntzen Lake is flanked by Eagle Ridge/Mountain (1,240 m) to the east and Buntzen Ridge (560 m) to the west. The surrounding area has an extensive network of hiking trails suited to a wide range of experience and fitness levels.
Trails remain accessible. Short detour for Lakeview and Diez Vistas access. Construction activity west of the suspension bridge. Details →
Buntzen Lake Area Weather
Plan Your Visit to Buntzen Lake
Planning a day at Buntzen Lake? These guides cover parking, hiking trails, beaches, facilities, and dog rules. Current trail access information and the local weather display are shown above.
Parking Reservations & Gate Hours
Parking is free, but seasonal vehicle reservations may be required. Gate closing times change throughout the year. Check parking arrangements and access information before travelling.
Hiking Trails & Maps
Explore the Buntzen Lake Loop, Diez Vistas, and longer mountain routes. Find trail descriptions, photographs, hiking distances, and maps to help plan your hike.
Beaches, Swimming & Amenities
Learn about South Beach, North Beach, swimming, picnic areas, washrooms, and canoe and kayak access before spending a day at the lake.
Dogs at Buntzen Lake
Dogs are welcome in designated areas, but leash requirements and beach restrictions apply. Review the dog areas and rules before your visit.
How It Got Its Name
Buntzen Lake was once known as Trout Lake and was later called Lake Beautiful by a group of hikers. In 1905, it was renamed Buntzen Lake in honour of Johannes Buntzen, the first general manager of the BC Electric Railway Co. Buntzen Lake is an active hydroelectric reservoir and was once an important source of electricity for Vancouver. Visit the History page to learn more.
Getting There
Buntzen Lake is located at the north end of Sunnyside Road in Anmore. If you’re manually entering an address, use 5000 Sunnyside Road, Anmore, BC. The main parking lots are approximately 1.8 km beyond the entrance gate.
Buntzen Lake Recreation Area is located at 5000 Sunnyside Road, Anmore, BC. The main parking lots are approximately 1.8 km beyond the entrance gate. Use the Directions button at the top of the page for navigation.
The Power Plant
Today, the Buntzen Lake Power Plant produces only a small portion of BC Hydro’s total electricity generation. However, it has the distinction of being the first hydroelectric generating plant to supply the Lower Mainland. In its early years, it was considered an engineering marvel, and more than a century later the facility remains part of the region’s hydroelectric system. In 1972, BC Hydro completed the formal development and beautification of the Buntzen Lake Reservoir Recreation Area.
