Sendero Diez Vistas

Named Diez Vistas for its ten views, this hike offers beautiful scenery overlooking Indian Arm as you make your way around the Buntzen Lake area.

The hike begins from the north end of the main Buntzen Lake parking lot. Follow the Buntzen Lake Trail southbound to the southernmost end of the lake and cross a floating bridge through a marshy area. Once on the other side continue straight past the Diez Vistas sign, crossing the service road that goes left then right before beginning the climb uphill. The trail meanders through the forest as you slowly make your way uphill eventually coming to a clearing with power lines above. Continue straight and after walking another 10 minutes, a series of switchbacks begin. This is the steepest part of the hike.

After passing through the switchbacks, you will be treated to your first view of Sasamat Lake and Belcarra Regional Park with Burnaby and Vancouver off in the distance. Take a break here before continuing up the much less steep hill to the second viewpoint that overlooks Buntzen Lake and the busy beach area below.

Once you have taken in the second view, continue along the trail as it makes its way up and down through the forest until reaching the third viewpoint. This is probably the best view that overlooks much of Indian Arm with a clear view of Deep Cove directly ahead and downtown Vancouver off to the left in the distance. On the other side of Indian Arm, towering high above the water are the three visible peaks of Mount Seymour.

From this point the trail continues along the ridge with occasional views of Indian Arm and the houses along the west side. Some viewpoints are better than others as the foliage has grown over the years. The hike weaves its way through forested areas and gradually descends back downhill until you reach a gravel road. At the gravel road, turn right and walk a short distance towards the north end of Buntzen Lake.

From here, turn right and walk along the Buntzen Lake Trail for 10-15 minutes before heading down a steep gravel section where there is a trail that forks to the left, almost heading back in the direction parallel to where you came. Take this trail and you will reach the suspension bridge that crosses the north section of the lake to the much quieter beach on the other side. After completing the Diez Vistas Trail on a hot day, this area is perfect for a cool, refreshing dip into the lake.

It's only a 40-minute walk back to the parking lot where you began your day. Continue past the beach towards the huge drain and make your way up the steep hill to the dirt road. At the top take the path as it continues along the eastern shore of Buntzen Lake, crossing small streams and offering occasional glimpses of the lake and surrounding mountains. The sound of dogs barking and children playing in the water means you're almost there! On a hot day, take a dip in the lake before heading back to the parking lot to end your hike.