Squamish-Lillooet: Joffre Lakes Guided Hike

Discover the Beauty of Joffre Lakes with a Guided Hike in British Columbia

The Squamish-Lillooet: Joffre Lakes Guided Hike offers an accessible yet breathtaking adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Priced at $180 per person and lasting around 5 hours, this tour takes you through some of BC’s most iconic scenery. Led by an ACMG-certified guide, the hike showcases three stunning turquoise lakes, each fed by glaciers, with Matier Glacier and rugged mountain peaks providing a dramatic backdrop.

This small-group experience is limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and ample photo opportunities along the way. The tour is well-suited for those seeking a manageable hike with incredible views, though it does require good footing—making it suitable for beginners with no prior hiking experience. The guided nature of the tour means you benefit from local expertise, safety support, and tips on capturing the best scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price: $180 per person for a 5-hour guided hike
• Duration: Approximately 5 hours, usually in the morning
• Group Size: Limited to 6 participants for a personalized experience
• Highlights: Three glacier-fed lakes, views of Matier Glacier, waterfalls, and alpine scenery
• Inclusions: Expert guide, park pass, parking, safety supplies, and scenic views
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, camera, water, snacks, weather-appropriate clothing
• Meeting Point: Joffre Lakes Trailhead; optional hotel pickup available
• Accessibility: Suitable for beginners with good footing; not for those with mobility impairments

Starting at the Joffre Lakes Trailhead with an Expert Guide

The tour begins at the Joffre Lakes Trailhead, where a friendly, ACMG-certified guide welcomes your group. The guide provides a helpful trailhead briefing and instructions to ensure everyone feels prepared. The small group size allows for personalized guidance and the opportunity to ask questions about the terrain, wildlife, and best photo spots.

From this point, the hike heads toward Lower Joffre Lake, which is peaceful and offers a calm start to the journey. The trail then gradually ascends through lush old-growth forest and rocky patches, with the ascent rewarded by increasingly impressive views. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and helps you appreciate the landscape’s features, from cascading streams to towering mountain peaks.

Exploring the Lower Joffre Lake and Forest Trails

The Lower Joffre Lake marks the initial stop on this scenic route. Its tranquil waters reflect the surrounding nature, providing an ideal spot for a quick photo and a moment to enjoy the peaceful environment. As you move along the trail, the forest lining the path is dense and vibrant, with streams and waterfalls adding to the natural symphony.

Hiking through this lush environment gives a sense of immersion in BC’s wilderness, setting the stage for the more dramatic scenery ahead. The trail’s steady climb is suitable for beginners, yet there’s enough variation to keep the experience engaging. The fresh mountain air and the sounds of flowing streams make every step enjoyable.

Reaching the Middle Joffre Lake for Scenic Photo Opportunities

The hike continues to the Middle Joffre Lake, where visitors often pause to take amazing photos of the surrounding mountains and glacier-fed waters. The mountain backdrop here is striking, with towering peaks framing the lake and offering excellent vantage points. The guide suggests optimal angles for photos and points out key features in the landscape.

A well-earned break is taken at a bench overlooking the lake, allowing time to soak in the scenery and relax before continuing. This stop highlights the beauty of the area and gives hikers a chance to appreciate the scale of BC’s alpine environment. The trail beyond the lake leads toward the Upper Joffre Lake and its spectacular glacier views.

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Reaching the Upper Joffre Lake and the Matier Glacier Viewpoint

The final ascent takes hikers past a waterfall that adds a dynamic element to the landscape. The Upper Joffre Lake is the tour’s highlight, offering spectacular views of the Matier Glacier and surrounding peaks. The water here is also glacier-fed and takes on that famous turquoise hue.

From this vantage point, the waterfall cascades off the mountains, and the glacier looms majestically in the background. The guide points out the features of the glacier and mountains, enriching the experience with insightful commentary. Visitors have ample opportunity to take photos of waterfalls, glaciers, and alpine scenery before heading back down the trail.

The 11km Trail with 471m Elevation Gain

The entire route covers about 11 km round trip, with an elevation gain of 471 meters. The trail is designed to be beginner friendly but requires good footing for the rocky and uneven sections. The steady ascent through varied terrain offers a manageable challenge for most, with plenty of scenic reward. The hike’s pacing allows plenty of time to enjoy the views, take photos, and rest at key points.

The trail’s length and elevation make it a satisfying day hike that balances moderate physical activity with incredible visual payoff. The guide ensures everyone stays safe and comfortable throughout, sharing tips for managing the ascent and descent.

What’s Included in the Guided Hike Experience

This tour includes a professional, ACMG-certified guide who provides safety support, local knowledge, and storytelling. The guide also handles the park pass and parking fees, making logistical planning easier. You’ll benefit from safety supplies, including a first aid kit and emergency gear, adding peace of mind on the trail.

The experience fee covers scenic views of three glacier-fed lakes, with ample opportunities for photos and close encounters with Matier Glacier. You also get a trail through old-growth forest and views of waterfalls along the way, making for a diverse and immersive experience.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Optional Transport, and What to Bring

The tour starts at the Joffre Lakes Trailhead, with options for hotel pickup available for added convenience. Participants should bring comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and essentials like water, snacks, and a camera. The guide will advise on food options if catering has been arranged.

Transportation to the trailhead is not included, but can be booked separately for those who prefer not to drive. The tour is not suitable for mobility scooters or those with mobility impairments due to trail terrain. The tour’s small group size ensures a more personalized experience and easier communication with your guide.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies for Peace of Mind

Reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing plans. You can reserve now and pay later, which is helpful for planning your trip without immediate financial commitment. The tour generally runs in the morning, fitting well into a day of exploring BC’s wilderness.

Why Choose This Guided Hike at Joffre Lakes?

The expert guidance from a certified guide ensures safety, local insights, and maximum enjoyment of the scenery. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention and plenty of photo opportunities. The scenic route through lush forests, waterfalls, and glacier views makes every step worthwhile.

The $180 price covers all the key highlights, safety features, and the convenience of park and parking fees, making it a straightforward choice for those seeking a well-organized, scenic adventure. Its beginners-friendly nature, combined with such stunning scenery, makes it an ideal outing for families, first-time hikers, or anyone wanting to see some of BC’s most iconic landscapes.

Joffre Lakes Guided Hike: A Beautiful Day in BC’s Wilderness

The Joffre Lakes Guided Hike offers unparalleled access to BC’s dramatic alpine scenery. With expert guides, manageable distances, and spectacular views, it promises a memorable experience. The three glacier-fed lakes are truly a sight to behold, with their vibrant colors and mountain backdrop providing perfect photo moments.

While the hike is suitable for beginners with good footing, it still offers enough challenge and adventure to keep nature lovers engaged. The small group size ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere, and the inclusion of safety gear and park passes adds value and peace of mind.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a guided, scenic day trip that combines physical activity with unspoiled natural beauty. Whether you are visiting British Columbia for the first time or are a local looking for a scenic escape, the Joffre Lakes Guided Hike delivers a rewarding outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this hike suitable for beginners?
Yes, the trail is beginner friendly but requires good footing. It’s accessible to those with no hiking experience, as long as they are comfortable with a steady ascent.

What is included in the tour price?
The guide, park pass, parking, safety supplies, and opportunities for photos of three lakes and Matier Glacier are included in the $180 fee.

How long is the hike?
The entire hike covers 11 km round trip with an elevation gain of 471 meters, taking about 5 hours including breaks.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation to the trailhead included?
No, transportation is not included but can be arranged for an additional fee.

Are there any accessibility restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for mobility impairments or mobility scooters due to trail terrain.

When does the tour usually run?
The tour is generally available in the morning and lasts about 5 hours.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers a Reserve & Pay Later option, allowing you to book now and pay later.

What is the best time to visit Joffre Lakes?
While not specified, the reviews from July and August suggest summer is popular, offering the best weather and scenery.

This guided hike provides a wonderful opportunity to explore BC’s iconic lakes and glaciers with the safety and expertise of a professional guide, making it a highly recommended choice for your outdoor adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby