Mundy Park Hillcrest Parking Lot

Description

Let me tell you about one of Coquitlam’s best-kept secrets – the Hillcrest Parking Lot at Mundy Park. As someone who’s spent countless weekends exploring this urban oasis, I can tell you it’s way more than just a place to park your car. This well-maintained lot serves as the perfect launching point for adventures in the sprawling 435-acre forest park.

The parking area is spacious and fully paved, with clearly marked spots including designated accessible parking spaces. But what really makes this spot special is how it connects you to everything Mundy Park has to offer. Y’know what I mean? It’s like the gateway to outdoor fun!

From here, you can easily access the park’s extensive network of trails, a fantastic playground that my kids absolutely adore, and even a dedicated off-leash dog area where I often take my furry friend for his daily exercise. The baseball field right nearby has seen its fair share of little league games and family picnics.

Key Features

• Spacious paved parking area with accessible spots
• Direct access to multiple hiking trails
• Modern playground with slides and swings
• Baseball field with spectator seating
• Clean public restrooms
• Shaded picnic areas with tables
• Off-leash dog park section
• Easy connection to both paved and natural trails
• Well-lit facility for evening safety
• Information boards with trail maps and park details

Best Time to Visit

I’ve found that early mornings, especially on weekdays, are absolutely perfect for visiting the Hillcrest lot. You’ll have your pick of parking spots, and the trails are peacefully quiet. Weekends can get pretty busy after 10 AM, particularly during summer months when families flock to the playground and picnic areas.

Fall is my favorite season here – the parking lot doesn’t get too crowded, and the surrounding maple trees put on an incredible show of colors. If you’re planning a weekend visit, try arriving before 9 AM or after 4 PM to avoid the peak hours. Winter months are surprisingly pleasant too, with fewer visitors and plenty of parking availability.

How to Get There

Getting to the Hillcrest Parking Lot is pretty straightforward. It’s accessible from both Mariner Way and Austin Avenue, with clear signage pointing you in the right direction. If you’re taking public transit, several bus routes stop within walking distance. The lot itself is easy to spot – just look for the large paved area with the playground equipment visible from the entrance.

Fun fact: I actually got lost the first time I tried finding this place (before GPS was a thing), but now I could probably drive here blindfolded – though I definitely don’t recommend that! The entrance is well-marked, and there’s usually a steady stream of cars heading in and out during peak hours.

Tips for Visiting

After countless visits, I’ve picked up some helpful tricks that’ll make your experience even better. First off, bring quarters if you’re planning to use the vending machines near the restrooms – they don’t accept cards, and trust me, a cold drink comes in handy after hiking the trails!

During summer weekends, the lot fills up fast, especially when there’s a baseball game happening. I always suggest having a backup plan for parking. The surface can get a bit slippery during winter months, so watch your step when it’s frosty.

If you’re bringing kids (which you totally should), the playground area is visible from most parking spots, but I recommend grabbing one of the spaces in the first two rows if possible. That makes it easier to run back to the car for snacks or forgotten items.

Don’t forget to check the information board near the restrooms – they often post updates about trail conditions and upcoming park events. And speaking of trails, snap a quick pic of the trail map with your phone. I learned that one the hard way after getting turned around on my first few hikes!

The lot has good lighting, but it gets pretty dark in the winter months after 4 PM. If you’re planning a late afternoon visit during winter, bring a flashlight just in case. Oh, and one last thing – keep some old towels in your car if you’re bringing your dog. The off-leash area can get muddy after rain, and nobody wants a dirty car interior!

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