Buntzen Lake Trail Repairs and Temporary Detour, October 2026

Update: 15 October 2026

Trail repair work is underway near the junction of the Buntzen Lake Trail and Old Buntzen Lake Trail, near the suspension bridge at the north end of Buntzen Lake. A short section of the existing trail connection has been temporarily closed due to erosion, and a signed detour has been established to maintain access to the Lakeview Trail and Diez Vistas Trail.

Good news for hikers: The Buntzen Lake Trail remains open during construction, although hikers should watch for construction equipment and workers near the affected area. The Lakeview Trail and Diez Vistas Trail also remain accessible via a very short, signed detour. Please follow posted signs and exercise caution around the construction area.

Closed trail connection between Buntzen Lake Trail and Old Buntzen Lake Trail — The existing connection to Old Buntzen Lake Trail has been temporarily closed for repairs.

Where Is the Temporary Detour?

The temporary access route begins near the west end of the Buntzen Lake suspension bridge. This short route reconnects hikers with Old Buntzen Lake Trail, providing continued access to the Lakeview Trail and Diez Vistas Trail.

Temporary trail access near the west end of Buntzen Lake suspension bridge — Temporary access to Old Buntzen Lake Trail near the west end of the suspension bridge.

Official Detour Map

The posted notice identifies the closed section in red and the temporary detour in green.

Official notice showing Old Buntzen Lake Trail closure and temporary detour map — Posted detour map showing the closed trail section in red and temporary access route in green.

Trail Repairs and Construction

The work involves repairing an eroded section of trail and establishing a replacement connection. Based on information available during my hike on 15 October 2026, the work may take approximately one month, although a confirmed completion date has not been announced.

The temporary access route passes through an area previously marked as environmentally sensitive. Hikers should remain on the designated detour to minimize disturbance to surrounding vegetation and allow the trail crews to complete their work safely.

Construction warning sign along Old Buntzen Lake Trail — Construction warning sign along the affected trail section.

What Hikers Need to Know

Buntzen Lake Trail: Remains open, but hikers should watch for construction equipment and activity near the suspension bridge.
Lakeview Trail: Remains accessible using the short detour.
Diez Vistas Trail: Remains accessible using the short detour.
Old Buntzen Lake Trail: A short section is temporarily closed.
Detour: Follow posted signs near the west end of the suspension bridge.

This update reflects conditions observed on 15 October 2026. Construction schedules, trail conditions, and access arrangements may change. Please follow posted signage and check for current information before hiking.