Trout Lake Beach Vancouver

Trout Lake Beach: East Vancouver's Freshwater Beach

Category: Beaches & Parks | Area: Cedar Cottage, East Vancouver | Cost: Free | Best for: Families, picnics, dog owners, a lake day without leaving the city

Trout Lake Beach is the only freshwater beach run by the Vancouver Park Board. It sits at the south end of Trout Lake in John Hendry Park, a 27-hectare green space that locals simply call Trout Lake. With a sandy shore, a swimming raft, big lawns and a relaxed neighbourhood feel, it is a favourite summer spot for East Vancouver families.

Where Is Trout Lake Beach?

The beach is at the south end of the lake near Victoria Drive and East 19th Avenue. The park's main address is 3300 Victoria Drive, next to Trout Lake Community Centre.

A Bit of History

The lake once supplied water to the Hastings Sawmill, owned by industrialist John Hendry. In 1926 his daughter donated the land to the Park Board on the condition that it be named after her father.

Things to See and Do

Swim and Sunbathe

The beach has a swimming raft, and the water warms up faster than the ocean. Water quality at the lake changes through the summer, so always check for advisories before swimming.

Picnic and Play

John Hendry Park has a picnic area, playing fields, baseball diamonds and a concession, so it is easy to spend a full day here.

Walk Your Dog

A large dog off-leash area is at the north end of the lake, one of the few places in Vancouver where dogs can reach the water.

Visit the Farmers Market

The Trout Lake Farmers Market is held in the park on Saturdays in season.

Getting There

By transit: Nanaimo and Commercial–Broadway SkyTrain stations are each roughly a 10-minute walk away.

By car: Free parking is available in the park.

Good to Know

• Vancouver Coastal Health issues water quality advisories for Trout Lake when bacteria levels are high. Check before you swim.
• In 2026 the Park Board kept lifeguards at its nine ocean beaches but not at Trout Lake, so swim at your own risk.
• Boats and other watercraft are not allowed on the lake without authorization.
• Public washrooms and a concession are on site.

Best Time to Visit

Warm summer afternoons are busiest. Saturday mornings in market season combine a beach stop with fresh local produce.

More Beaches Nearby

For ocean water on the east side of the city, head to New Brighton Park on Burrard Inlet. Compare every option in our guide to the best beaches in Vancouver and Metro Vancouver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim at Trout Lake?

Yes, but check Vancouver Coastal Health's water quality advisories first, as the lake is sometimes closed to swimming.

Are there lifeguards at Trout Lake?

No lifeguards were scheduled at Trout Lake in 2026.

Are dogs allowed at Trout Lake?

Yes, in the off-leash area at the north end of the lake. Dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach.

Is parking free at Trout Lake?

Yes, parking in John Hendry Park is free.

Photo: Trout Lake beach, Vancouver by Iota 9 at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.