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Photos Courtesy BC Hydro
Buntzen Lake
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BC Hydro
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BC Hydro
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BC Hydro
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BC Hydro
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BC Hydro
By Will Mbaho
Nestled between soaring mountain ridges, the scenery at Buntzen is unsurpassed. Located forty-five minutes from downtown Vancouver, Buntzen Lake offers access to over 50 kilometres of hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Popular activities at the recreation area also include canoeing, swimming, fishing and sunbathing.
Formerly known as Lake Beautiful, the lake is named after the first general manager of B.C. Electric Co., Johannes Buntzen. In 1903, the Buntzen hydroelectric project was put in service by the Vancouver Power Company to provide the first hydroelectric power to Vancouver. Today BC Hydro's Buntzen Lake Reservoir serves not only as a source of hydroelectric power but also as an attractive recreation area for the public.
In addition to powering the two hydroelectric plants, water from Buntzen is an essential part of the operation of the Burrard Generating Station. Fresh water from Buntzen is used to produce the steam to power Burrard's generators. The natural gas-powered Burrard Generating Station plays an important role to provide back-up for the hydroelectric system during low water years, and also to provide transmission support and electrical supply security for the Lower Mainland.
Since operations of the hydroelectric facilities on Buntzen Lake and Indian Arm are remotely controlled, they are particularly hazardous to the public. Sudden adjustments in water flows can occur without warning and cause strong surface and underwater currents in the vicinity of the intake structures and the Coquitlam Lake tunnel outfall. Swimming or boating in these areas is extremely dangerous. For public safety, visitors are strongly advised to observe all warning signs and stay well back from BC Hydro operating areas and structures.
Visitors planning a short stroll through a coastal lowland rain forest, or a more adventurous hike into the surrounding mountains or a day of mountain biking, will find the Buntzen Lake area offers a trail they can enjoy. There are numerous trail loops to follow, depending on your time and fitness level. Many of the trails are steep and rough in places, and hikers should take care and stay on the established trails.
BC Hydro provides the following facilities to the general public at Buntzen Lake:
• Picnic tables, shelter and grass play areas
• Boat and canoe launch areas and dock
• Canoe rentals are available at the Anmore Store located on Sunnyside Road. (Call 604 469 9928 for rentals)
• Hiking, mountain biking, equestrian and nature trails
• Developed viewpoints and interpretive displays
• Parking and equestrian staging area
• Designated area for dogs
• Drinking water
• Pay phone
For directions and more information about the trails at Buntzen Lake Recreation Area, visit bchydro.com.
Nearby RV Park include;
Anmore Camplands & RV Park
3230 Sunnyside Road, Port Moody, BC V3H 4Y2
604.469.2311