Highlight • Lake
Evans Lake is a picturesque, roughly triangular lake nestled on a rise between the Cheakamus and Squamish Rivers in British Columbia, Canada. Situated approximately 15 kilometers north of Squamish, this tranquil body of water sits at an elevation of 132 meters, surrounded by 240 hectares of lush forest. It is well-known for its role as a prominent forest education center and summer camp, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and learning opportunities.
Visitors consistently praise Evans Lake for its…
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December 18, 2025

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Evans Lake

2
hikers
10.7km
03:20
380m
380m
Embark on the Evans Lake Trail for a moderately challenging adventure through varied terrain, where serene lake views and vibrant wildflowers reward those prepared for seasonal road access and potential…
Details
Informations
Elevation 130 m
While the intro highlights summer activities, the area around Evans Lake can offer a different experience in winter. The site is available year-round for various groups, suggesting some accessibility. However, specific winter hiking conditions or designated winter activities are not detailed. Visitors should be prepared for snow and ice, and check local conditions before planning a winter visit.
Yes, Evans Lake is very family-friendly. Beyond general hiking, the site operates as a prominent forest education center and summer camp for youth aged 8-16. It offers an Eco-Fun program focused on biodiversity and ecosystems through interactive, hands-on learning. Activities like canoeing, paddleboarding, rock climbing, a low ropes course, and archery are available, making it an excellent destination for families with children.
The site features a forest campground right on the lakeshore, which includes rustic camping with tent sites, fire rings, and picnic tables. While the intro mentions basic amenities, specific details about public parking availability or potential fees are not provided. Given its popularity, especially in summer, arriving earlier in the day is generally advisable for better parking opportunities.
The provided information does not explicitly state whether dogs are permitted on trails or within the Evans Lake facility. As it is primarily a youth camp and education center, it's recommended to check directly with the Evans Lake Forest Education Center regarding their pet policy before bringing your dog.
The information available does not specify any permits required for general hiking around Evans Lake. However, for camping at the forest campground or participating in organized activities through the Evans Lake Forest Education Center, reservations or fees would likely apply. It's best to contact the center directly for details on specific permits or bookings.
Evans Lake is surrounded by 240 hectares of forest and features 10 kilometers of hiking trails. While specific difficulty ratings are not given, the environment is described as a 'picturesque mountain lake' with 'thick forest.' This suggests varied terrain, potentially including some elevation changes. Given its use by youth camps, there are likely trails suitable for a range of abilities, from easy walks to more moderate hikes.
Evans Lake itself is a scenic mountain lake, offering beautiful views of the water surrounded by thick forest. The site provides a feeling of wilderness seclusion. While specific named viewpoints are not mentioned, the 10 kilometers of trails winding through 240 hectares of forest likely offer numerous opportunities for picturesque vistas and encounters with natural flora and fauna.
Evans Lake has a maximum depth of 24 meters (79 feet). The intro mentions that swimming is a popular activity, especially during the summer months. This suggests it is suitable for wild swimming. However, as with any natural body of water, swimmers should exercise caution, be aware of water temperatures, and swim at their own risk.
Evans Lake is situated 15 kilometers north of Squamish, British Columbia. While the Evans Lake site itself offers basic amenities, accommodations, and full catering primarily for its camp and education programs, visitors looking for external cafes, pubs, or additional accommodation options would likely find them in the nearby town of Squamish.
Evans Lake is unique due to its dual role as a picturesque mountain lake and a prominent forest education center. It offers a blend of recreational activities like hiking, paddling, and camping, alongside educational programs focused on the environment. While the intro doesn't directly compare it to other specific lakes, its focus on hands-on learning and a structured camp environment sets it apart from purely recreational lakes, offering a more immersive and educational outdoor experience.