Elfin Lakes Trail

The full round trip to Elfin Lakes is approximately 22 km and typically takes around 6 hours to complete as a day hike. Many hikers also choose to make it an overnight backpacking trip, staying at the Elfin Lakes Shelter or the tent pads.

The Elfin Lakes Trail is generally rated as an intermediate difficulty hike. While it's a long route, the elevation gain of about 600 meters is spread out, making the incline manageable and never overly steep. This allows for a good pace to be maintained, making it obtainable for various fitness levels.

The trail begins at the Diamond Head parking lot. In winter, tire chains are often mandatory for vehicle access to the trailhead, so be prepared for snowy and icy conditions.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Garibaldi Provincial Park, including the Elfin Lakes Trail. This is a common regulation in BC Provincial Parks to protect wildlife and ensure a natural experience for all visitors.

Yes, for overnight stays, you will need to book a backcountry camping permit for either the tent pads or the Elfin Lakes Shelter. During peak season, day-use passes may also be required for Garibaldi Provincial Park, so it's best to check the BC Parks website for current regulations before your visit.

For hiking, the best time to visit is typically from July to October when the snow has melted and the alpine flowers are in bloom. In winter, it's a popular destination for snowshoeing and ski touring, though avalanche safety training and equipment are recommended for winter excursions beyond the Red Heather Hut.

The trail offers diverse scenery, starting with old-growth forest and transitioning to spectacular alpine views. You'll pass the Red Heather Hut, enjoy continuous 180-degree mountain vistas from Paul Ridge, and eventually reach the two picturesque Elfin Lakes. You might even spot playful Grey Jays!

The first 5 km follows a wide, gravel road with a gradual uphill climb. After the Red Heather Hut, it becomes a narrower hiking path before rejoining the wider gravel road. As you gain elevation, the vegetation thins, leading into a sensitive alpine area. The trail is generally well-maintained but can be rocky and loose in places, so appropriate footwear with ankle support is recommended.

Yes, the upper of the two Elfin Lakes is suitable for swimming, offering a refreshing dip on a hot day. The lower lake, however, is reserved for drinking water, so swimming is not permitted there.

Yes, about an hour into the hike, you'll find the Red Heather Hut, which serves as a warming hut in winter and offers outhouse facilities year-round. At the end of the trail, the Elfin Lakes area has a well-equipped shelter with 33 bunks and 35 tent pads for overnight stays.

Yes, the Elfin Lakes Trail serves as a gateway to extended hikes deeper into Garibaldi Provincial Park. From Elfin Lakes, you can continue to destinations like Opal Cone, the Gargoyles, Columnar Peak, Diamond Head, and Mamquam Lake. The route itself also passes through sections of the Mamquam Lake Trail.