Burke Mountain is a 1,270-metre forested peak that rises directly above the eastern edge of Coquitlam. It is one of the most accessible serious hikes in Metro Vancouver — much closer to downtown Vancouver than the popular peaks of the North Shore, and considerably less crowded. The mountain forms the southern end of Pinecone Burke Provincial Park, a 38,000-hectare wilderness reserve that runs north for nearly 30 km to the Coquitlam Lake watershed.
The main summit trail starts at Harper Road in north Coquitlam and climbs steadily through second-growth Douglas fir, western hemlock and western red cedar for about 14 km return. The lower stretches are well-graded; the upper sections require some scrambling over roots and rock. The summit gives a 360-degree view over the Fraser Valley, the Strait of Georgia and (on clear days) Mount Baker in Washington State. A side trail leads to Frosst Lake, a small alpine tarn near the summit.
Allow 6–8 hours for the full return trip. The trail is best between June and October — earlier in the year there is often snow above 800 metres. There is no admission charge and free parking at the trailhead.