Rod Reid Nature Trail

Burns Lake, British Columbia, Canada

2.30 km
108m gain
0.60 hours
Level 2.0/5
2.0/5
Difficulty
Easy
2.30
Distance
kilometres
108
Elevation Gain
metres
0.60
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Rod Reid Nature Trail is an easy, family-friendly walking trail that circles the Loch Lomond wetlands near Burns Lake. The mostly level trail features several viewing platforms overlooking the wetland, providing opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and observing native wetland plants. The trail also connects with the Magee Trail and the wider Boer Mountain trail network.

Leave No Trace

Please follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.

Interactive Trail Map

Elevation Profile

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Getting There

Directions

The official Village of Burns Lake directions are:

  1. Drive up 8th Avenue in Burns Lake.
  2. Connect to 9th Avenue.
  3. Continue toward the top/northern end of 9th Avenue.
  4. Follow the trail access to the parking lot. 

The Village's Active Transportation Plan also identifies the Rod Reid Trail as being accessed at the northernmost point of the Eveneshen Trail at the top of 9th Avenue.

Parking

Parking is available at the Rod Reid Trail trailhead near the top of 9th Avenue in Burns Lake. No current parking fee or permit requirement was identified in the available official information.

Safety & Preparation

⚠️ Wetland environment

The trail passes around a wetland and Beaver Pond. Stay on established paths and viewing areas, particularly around wet or soft ground.

⚠️ Wet and slippery conditions

Rain, snowmelt, and winter freezing can make sections of the trail slippery. Appropriate footwear is recommended.

⚠️ Winter conditions

Snow and ice can substantially change the trail surface. Visitors walking in winter should use appropriate footwear and traction equipment when necessary.

⚠️ Wildlife

The wetland is an active wildlife area. Visitors should observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid approaching or feeding animals.

⚠️ Dogs

Dogs must remain on a leash.

⚠️ Motorized vehicles on connecting trail

The Active Transportation Plan notes that the eastern half of the Magee Trail, which connects Rod Reid toward Boer Mountain, is sometimes used by motorized off-road vehicles. This creates a potential safety concern for pedestrians and cyclists using that connection. 

⚠️ Recent trail improvements

There has been recent reconstruction/improvement work on the Rod Reid Trail. The Village reported in October 2025 that reconstruction work was nearing completion, while 2025 procurement records confirm a trail-improvement project. 

Seasonal Conditions

🌱

Spring

Recommended
Trail Conditions

Generally suitable for walking, but expect potentially wet or muddy sections during snowmelt and spring rains.

Notes

Spring is particularly attractive for observing the wetland as vegetation begins to emerge. Waterproof footwear may be useful after periods of rain or snowmelt.

Highlights

Spring vegetation, Wetland scenery, Migrating and returning birds, Wildlife activity, Nature photography

Accessibility

Wet or muddy conditions may make some portions less comfortable for wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility aids. Check local conditions following significant precipitation.

☀️

Summer

Recommended
Trail Conditions

Generally the most favorable conditions for walking and sightseeing. The trail is wide and relatively level.

Notes

Summer is an excellent time for birdwatching, wetland observation, photography, and family walks. Bring insect repellent, especially around the wetland.

Highlights

Birdwatching, Wetland plants, Beaver Pond, Wildlife viewing, Viewing platforms, Long daylight hours, Family-friendly hiking

Accessibility

This is likely the most accessible season, assuming normal trail conditions. The Village specifically describes the trail as wide and level and suitable for children and seniors.

🍂

Fall

Recommended
Trail Conditions

Generally suitable for hiking and walking, but fallen leaves, rain, and cooler temperatures may make the trail damp or slippery in places.

Notes

Bring layers and appropriate footwear. Daylight hours become shorter later in the season.

Highlights

Fall foliage, Wetland scenery, Birdwatching, Wildlife viewing, Photography, Quieter trail experience

Accessibility

Wet conditions and accumulated leaves can make the surface more slippery. Accessibility may decrease temporarily after heavy rain.

❄️

Winter

Recommended
Trail Conditions

The trail is used for cross-country skiing during winter. Snow and ice should be expected, and ordinary summer walking conditions should not be assumed.

Notes

Use appropriate winter footwear or equipment. Snow and ice may make walking more difficult, especially for visitors without traction equipment.

Highlights

Cross-country skiing, Snow-covered wetlands, Winter scenery, Winter photography, Quiet trail experience

Accessibility

Snow and ice can significantly reduce accessibility for wheelchairs, strollers, and people with mobility limitations.

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