The Coquitlam Crunch is a workout trail in North Coquitlam. The trail underwent some improvements in 2014, which included new signage and stairs. Sections of the old trail had steep gravel areas, which were slippery. Now, the crunch has become more popular than ever.

Distance: 2.2 km (one way)
Low point: 38 m
High point: 289 m
Elevation gain: 251 m
Trailhead: 49° 17’ 8.2” by  122° 48’ 56.7” (Google Map)
There is a driveway to a parking lot on the south side of Lansdowne Drive, just north of Scott Creek Middle School.

Here’s the route…

This is the view from the start…

Here is a view from Runnel Drive…

New stairs…

Trail nearing the top…

One of 5 interpretive signs you’ll see…

And finally, a scenic view in winter with some fog below…

★★★★★★★★★★★

Before heading out on your hike, make sure you are well prepared. This means, having the TEN ESSENTIALS. It is also important to leave a trip plan (route details and estimated return time) with someone you trust.

Bring your smartphone, fully charged and put it in airplane mode while hiking. I always bring back-up battery packs for extra piece of mind. It is highly recommended that you bring a GPS device; I use my smartphone with a GPS app (Backcountry Navigator). The GPS will work in airplane mode. Learn how to use it before your hike.

For anyone new to hiking, there is a rule to which hikers follow; it is called “Leave No Trace” or LNT. The concept is generally to pack out what you pack in and respect nature, so all future visitors can enjoy what you have enjoyed.
To learn more about LNT, please check out this BLOG by a certified LNT Trainer.

★★★★★★★★★★★

The hike to Crystal Falls starts at north end of Shaughnessy Street in Coquitlam. This walk/hike has very gentle slope and generally follows the Coquitlam River. On hot summer days, it’s nice to take a dip in the shallow river. Be careful of some of the steep cliffs on the trail. The falls are located on Prichett Creek – a tributary of the Coquitlam River.

Tip: On a hot summer day, take your sandals, so you can cool off in the low-flowing Coquitlam River.

You can park on Shaughnessy Street or Karley Crescent – just pay attention to the parking signs and be mindful of residents.

Distance: 5.6 km (return)
Low point: 50 m
High point: 114 m
Elevation gain: 64 m
Trailhead and Parking: 49° 17’ 44.4” by  122° 46’ 15” (Google Map and Navigation)

Here’s the route with downloadable gps…

Here is a photo of the falls…

And a couple trail photos…

★★★★★★★★★★★

Before heading out on your hike, make sure you are well prepared. This means, having the TEN ESSENTIALS. It is also important to leave a trip plan (route details and estimated return time) with someone you trust.

Bring your smartphone, fully charged and put it in airplane mode while hiking. I always bring back-up battery packs for extra piece of mind. It is highly recommended that you bring a GPS device; I use my smartphone with a GPS app (Backcountry Navigator). The GPS will work in airplane mode. Learn how to use it before your hike.

For anyone new to hiking, there is a rule to which hikers follow; it is called “Leave No Trace” or LNT. The concept is generally to pack out what you pack in and respect nature, so all future visitors can enjoy what you have enjoyed.
To learn more about LNT, please check out this BLOG by a certified LNT Trainer.

★★★★★★★★★★★