Passes are released at 7:00 AM.
BC Hydro says passes are released daily at 7:00 AM for the following day, with morning, afternoon, and full-day options.
Parking guide
Buntzen Lake parking reservations
For summer 2026, BC Hydro says vehicle access to the Buntzen Lake parking lot requires a free online reservation from May 14 through September 7. Plan the pass before you plan the hike.
Passes are tied to plate and phone.
Reservations are linked to a vehicle licence plate and mobile phone number. Bring the QR code digitally or printed.
Do not drive up hoping.
If passes are gone, choose Sasamat for swimming, Belcarra for picnics, or start with Trails Coffee while you pick the next move.
Local rhythm
The best Buntzen days start the day before.
The common mistake is deciding to go after breakfast, then discovering the parking system has already decided for you. If Buntzen is the goal, book the pass first, then build the food, coffee, swim, and trail plan around the pass window.
Recommended flow
Book the pass at 7:00 AM the day before, confirm trail notices the night before, stop at Trails Coffee before heading up, and leave enough time to exit before the pass window ends.
FAQ
Parking questions that decide the day.
When are Buntzen parking passes released?
BC Hydro says passes are released daily at 7:00 AM for the following day during the summer reservation period.
What if passes are gone?
Do not drive up hoping. Pivot to Sasamat for swimming, Belcarra for a picnic, or a shorter hike only if access still works.
Can Trails Coffee replace a pass?
No. Trails is the food, coffee, washroom-timing, and regroup stop. Buntzen parking still follows BC Hydro rules.
What is the best family backup?
If kids still want an adventure, consider Eagle Bluff only when the group can handle roots and uphill trail. Otherwise pick Sasamat or Belcarra.