Enjoy fresh air and exercise but please be a good neighbour when using parks and trails

We still have 39 days until summer officially ends, so get outside and make the most of it – but please be a good neighbour when using parks, trails, and other public spaces. Being a good neighbour means showing respect for others and for our natural environment, and continuing to do our part to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. We live in an amazing place. Let’s keep it safe and clean for all to enjoy.
Here are some tips for using parks and trails safely and responsibly:
- aim for fewer faces and bigger spaces – stay two metres (six feet) away from others, avoid gathering in groups, use outdoor recreational areas during off-peak hours if possible, and try parks and trails that typically see fewer visitors;
- go with the flow – follow posted signs along one-way trail routes (e.g. portions of the Shoreline Trail and the Bert Flinn Loop Trail);
- wash hands frequently, and bring an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you for when hand washing is not an option;
- don’t forget that alcohol, smoking, and open fires (including fire pits and campfires) are not permitted at any time;
- keep your dog on a leash unless you’re in a designated off-leash area;
- properly dispose of all waste – put any dog waste, trash, or recyclable items into the correct bins, or bring it home with you;
- celebrate without decorations – balloons, streamers, and other decorations are not permitted when using picnic shelters and tables; and
- consider walking or cycling to your destination, as parking is limited at parks and trail heads.
Looking for a place to kick a ball around or toss a Frisbee? We have Family and Friends Field Times at the Westhill Park (203 Westhill Place) grass field and the North Shore Community Park (1300 David Avenue) turf field on Saturdays from 5pm to 8pm through August 29, 2020. These are open times – there will be no organized sports on the fields. Drop by, pick a spot on the field away from others, and have some fun.
If you’re thinking of heading to Sasamat Lake or Buntzen Lake, please keep in mind:
- Belcarra Regional Park, including Sasamat Lake and White Pine Beach, is a Metro Vancouver park – for information and updates, call 604-520-6442 or visit metrovancouver.org;
- until further notice, the City of Port Moody has temporarily prohibited parking on Bedwell Bay Road within Port Moody, near Sasamat Lake and White Pine Beach, to support physical distancing recommendations and reduce traffic safety concerns that can arise from park overflow (violators will be fined $100 and towed); and
- Buntzen Lake is a BC Hydro recreational area – for information and updates, call the Buntzen Lake Warden's Office at 604-469-9679 or visit BC Hydro's Buntzen Lake website.
Visit portmoody.ca/covid19 for the latest information on impacts to City services, programs, and facilities.