Kayak Burrard Inlet from Barnet Marine Park

Our day paddle took us to Barnet Marine Park  a popular picnic and swimming area in Burnaby, BC.

5 minute loading area at Barnet Marine Park - short walk to the beach to launch

Sandy beach at Barnet Marine Park

We planned to launch from the sandy beach at Barnet Marine Park and paddle up the inlet toward Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.  To describe this paddle as a nature escape would be a mistake as the inlet is a busy commercial, industrial and residential area.  However, the paddle is very interesting as you pass by the Burrard thermal electric generating station, an Imperial Oil plant, the Pacific Coast terminal where you can see huge mounds of sulphur waiting to be shipped, a sawmill, log booms, marinas, railway lines and numerous waterfront homes.

Industry lines the water front

Boat houses

Marinas

As we paddled and floated, we spent time reflecting on the impact of industry and development on the environment.  It is interesting to note that the area is designated as an Important Bird Area.  This IBA is designated for three species at the global level: Western Grebe, Barrow's Goldeneye and Surf Scoter; and one species at the national level: Great Blue Heron.

We were treated to yet another spectacular day on the water, although in all honesty, is there ever a bad day if you are in your kayak on the water?

Water was like glass

We were impressed once again how Mother Nature adapts.  We noticed Cormorants making use of docks to rest, seagulls taking advantage of the calm waters behind the oil containment booms and seals using the log booms as haul out areas.

Cormorants perch on the docks

Seagulls make use of the oil containment booms 

Seals haul out on the log booms.  Notice the sulphur mountains in the background

It isn't just the seals who pop their heads up

It was a leisurely paddle to say the least.  As we neared Rocky Point Park the number of SUPpers (Stand Up Paddle boarders) increased and we chatted away as we passed each other.  Many struggled with the wake as the motor boat traffic was increasing.

Inlet narrows near Barnet Marine Park

Iron Workers Memorial Bridge in the distance

Being a long weekend, the boat traffic was really increasing, so we decided it was a good time to paddle back and get our feet on solid ground.....maybe some of the picnickers will be interested in sharing their feasts?


Giggle of the day:

I was busy loading up the boats, while Rob went to park the car.  I noticed an older gentleman watching me quite intently.  He finally found the courage to approach and in broken English told me that he really loved my rowboat!  He then asked if it was hollow inside.

We were also amused and impressed by the "picnic logistics!"  I must confess, we are grab and go picnickers.  Basically, water and whatever scraps are in the fridge will do, or failing that a quick stop a Subway along the route will suffice.  However, the picnic area at Barnet Marine Park is the place to go to observe full scale picnic operations.  We stood in amazement, as we watched a family in front of us unload their van...tables, chairs, coolers, tents, BBQ's, kites, buckets, shovels, blankets....  The van reminded me of Mary Poppins magic handbag!

Map and Route tips:

Arrive early, especially in summer as the parking lots get extremely busy.  There are 5 minute loading zones available near the beach - unload your gear and then move your vehicle to the upper parking areas.

There is no overnight parking available.

This is a very busy section of Burrard Inlet.  Paddlers must always have an eye open for motor boats!