Hike – Joffre Lakes

The drive to Joffre Lakes is half the trip, being a three hour drive north of Vancouver, the driving time is longer than the hiking time! This scenic drive will not disappoint! As a passenger, you will be able to admire the sights or simply catch a few extra Z’s before the hike starts.

At the trailhead you will not have to wait long to reap the rewards of this trail. First lake is only a couple hundred meters from the parking lot.

The trail to the second lake starts out leisurely before you gradually begin to climb. What we love about this trail is, despite some steep sections with awkward sized steps, there are sections between that are less incline allowing you to catch your breath and truly admire where you are.

Whisky Jacks, chipmunks and even the odd Pika are cute distractions along the way too. At second lake, you will understand why it is the most photographed lake of the three. After a quick break, it’s onward to third lake. This last section is short, but possibly the most technical with stairs, big roots and rocks to get around making it a bit muddier and slippery after a good rain, so be sure you are wearing supportive footwear with good tread.

Third lake is where you will find a nice boulder to perch upon for that well-earned lunch you packed. Looking across this beautiful turquois lake at the glacier, it may be a bit breezy, so make sure you have that extra layer packed.