Deer Lake (Burnaby, British Columbia) | hiking, playground, canoeing, kayaking

 hiking, lake, playground, canoeing, kayaking

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No swimming allowed! When Okalla Prison was still in use, this was their sewage reservoir, unfortunately. While back in the day, this lake was very popular as a swimming beach, today toxic-looking foam washes along the shores.

However, the lake is beautiful, and is great for canoeing and kayaking. In the summer months, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats are available for rental from about $5 an hour at the docks beside the playground area on the Eastern shore.

Washrooms available year round.

Trails around the lake provide an excellent area for walking and hiking, though the trail on the south side disappears due to private property. There is a large stair climb just south of the playground area, and city streets connect the trail on the other end of the lake.

Beware of geese! This is a favourite home for Canada Geese and ducks alike, and the beach area is constantly littered with feathers and poop, unfortunately.
Please, DO NOT FEED THE BIRDS. Not only does it add to the poop problem, but bread is very unhealthy for them. Most birds brought in from this lake sick have been made sick by too much bread in their systems.