Whistler is known for world-class skiing, but when the snow melts, it becomes one of the best hiking destinations in Canada. Surrounded by glacial lakes, alpine meadows, ancient forests, and rugged peaks, the hiking trails here offer a deep immersion into British Columbia’s supernatural beauty.
From iconic destinations like Garibaldi Lake and Joffre Lakes to quiet gems like Ancient Cedars or the Train Wreck Trail, the Coast Mountains that run through Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton offer some of the best hiking in Canada.
This guide covers 10 of the best hikes in and around Whistler and Sea To Sky Country. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a season, here are some of the best hiking trails you will want to check out.
1. Garibaldi Lake
Duration: 8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 820m
Highlights: Turquoise glacial lake, alpine meadows and volcanic formations
Ideal for: Fit hikers seeking a full-day alpine adventure
This hike takes you to the stunning turquoise waters of Garibaldi Lake, nestled within Garibaldi Provincial Park. The trail spans approximately 19 km round trip with an elevation gain of about 820 meters, offering a moderately challenging experience suitable for hikers with good fitness levels.
Along the way, you’ll traverse through dense forests of Douglas firs and red cedars, cross wooden bridges over babbling creeks, and pass by the impressive Barrier, a volcanic dam that holds back the lake’s waters.
The final reward is the breathtaking view of Garibaldi Lake’s vibrant blue waters, framed by snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows but be prepared with proper hiking gear, lots of water, and snacks for this 8-hour adventure (there are a lot of mind-numbing switchbacks to get to the lake).
2. Joffre Lakes Near Pemberton
Duration: 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 400m
Highlights: Three glacier-fed lakes, waterfalls and Matier Glacier views
Ideal for: Photographers and nature lovers
The Joffre Lakes hike is renowned for its trio of stunning glacier-fed lakes, each exhibiting a mesmerizing turquoise hue.
This hiking trail is less than an hour from Whistler and it covers about 10 km round trip with an elevation gain of approximately 400 meters, making it a moderately challenging hike suitable for most hikers. Keep it mind it gets very busy on weekends, so try to do it on a weekday.
Starting from the trailhead, you’ll ascend through dense forests, pass by cascading waterfalls, and reach the three lakes, each offering unique and picturesque views. The Upper Lake provides a close-up view of the Matier Glacier, which is a perfect spot for photography and a well-deserved rest.
3. Panorama Ridge Overlooking Garibaldi Lake
Duration: 10 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation Gain: 1,520 m
Highlights: Sweeping views of Garibaldi Lake, Black Tusk and surrounding glaciers
Ideal for: Experienced hikers seeking panoramic vistas
Panorama Ridge offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in Garibaldi Provincial Park. This challenging hike spans approximately 30 km round trip with an elevation gain of about 1,520 meters, making it only suitable for experienced hikers with excellent fitness.
The hiking trailhead begins at the Rubble Creek parking lot, winding through lush forests, alpine meadows, and past serene Garibaldi Lake. The final ascent to Panorama Ridge will reward you with sweeping views of Garibaldi Lake, Black Tusk, and the surrounding glaciers.
While it can be done in a very long and challenging day, I’d recommend booking a place at the Garibaldi Lake campground and spending a few days taking in the awe-inspiring scenery.
4. Whistler Train Wreck, Suspension Bridge And Hidden Waterfall
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Highlights: Graffiti-covered boxcars, waterfall and suspension bridge
Ideal for: Families and history enthusiasts
This unique and accessible hike leads you to the site of a 1950s train derailment, where colourful graffiti-covered boxcars rest amidst the forest just outside the town of Whistler.
This hiking trail is approximately 2 km round trip with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. At the end, you can play around exploring the abandoned train cars that lay scattered in the coastal rainforest.
The path meanders through lush forests and crosses a scenic suspension bridge over the Cheakamus River, offering picturesque views and photo opportunities. The combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes this hike a favourite among visitors.
5. The Ancient Cedars
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Elevation Gain: 150 m
Highlights: Old-growth cedar forest and peaceful forest bathing
Ideal for: Nature lovers and those interested in ecology
The Ancient Cedars Trail offers a peaceful hike through a grove of old-growth western red cedars, some over 1,000 years old. The hiking trail is approximately 5 km round trip with an elevation gain of about 150 meters, making it a moderately easy hike suitable for most hikers.
Located just north of Whistler, the trail provides a peaceful escape into nature, with opportunities to learn about the region’s ecology and the significance of these ancient old-growth trees. The hike also features a beautiful waterfall, adding to the trail’s charm.
British Columbia has the largest remaining stands of temperate old-growth forests in the world. But only 3% remain, so there is huge importance in protecting these last ancient forests and why so many people in BC’s Ancient Forest Alliance are fighting to protect them.
6. Rainforest Hike to Cheakamus Lake
Duration: 6 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Highlights: Glacier-fed lake, old-growth forest and tranquil forest setting
Ideal for: Families and casual hikers
This hiking trail offers a tranquil hike through old-growth forests to the glacier-fed waters of Cheakamus Lake. The trail is approximately 7 km round trip with minimal elevation gain, making it an easy and family-friendly hike.
As you walk along the well-maintained path, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees and the soothing sounds of nature. Upon reaching the lake, the crystal-clear waters and mountain backdrop provide a perfect setting for lunch, relaxation and photography.
This hike is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and accessible outdoor adventure on their Whistler summer vacation because it’s not too far from the village (and it’s a great spot for some Wim Hof Method and a cold plunge!).
7. Whistler Alpine High Note Trail
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 420 m
Highlights: Alpine meadows, panoramic mountain views and Cheakamus Lake view
Ideal for: Hikers seeking high-alpine experiences
For this hike, you’ll need to purchase a Whistler day pass for a scenic gondola ride up Whistler Mountain so can access the Peak Express Chair. The trail winds along ridgelines, through alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers in summer, and gives you jaw-dropping views almost the entire way.
Keep an eye out for the locally famous whistling marmots, experience panoramic views of the Whistler valley and explore the incredible wildflower meadows in mid-summer. This is one of Whistler’s most rewarding hikes, thanks to the high-alpine access that lets you soak in massive scenery with minimal climbing.
This Whistler hike is ideal for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone craving that “on top of the world” feeling. Be sure to pack layers as the alpine weather can change quickly at higher elevations on Whistler Mountain.
8. The Medicine Trail Snowshoe Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Highlights: Winter forest ecology and Indigenous plant medicine knowledge
Ideal for: Those interested in cultural experiences and winter hiking
This one’s a winter classic for tourists looking to take a break from skiing. You strap on snowshoes and follow a peaceful forest trail while learning about traditional plant medicine used by Indigenous peoples in the winter.
You can hire a snowshoe guide in the town of Whistler who shares stories, legends, and medicinal plant knowledge passed down through generations. It’s less about physical challenge and more about slowing down, listening, and tuning in to nature’s wisdom.
The tour is great for all levels and a unique way to explore Whistler in the snow without the crowds of the ski slopes. Bonus points: hot drinks are usually part of the package. This experience is perfect for anyone looking to blend education, nature connection, and light winter adventure.
9. Lost Lake Loop
Duration: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 100 m
Highlights: Forested trails, scenic lake views, wildlife sightings and swimming
Ideal for: Families, beginner hikers and those looking for a peaceful nature walk close to the village
Just a stone’s throw from Whistler Village, this gentle 5 km loop around Lost Lake is a local favorite. It’s flat, scenic, and great for walking, running, or biking in summer. In the winter, it’s a great spot for cross-country skiing.
On this easy hike, you’ll walk through peaceful forest trails, past wildflowers, and beside the lake with clear views of surrounding peaks. It’s beginner-friendly and easy to do without leaving town.
In summer, bring a swimsuit. Lost Lake has a small beach and is a local go-to for a dip or a picnic. Guided walks can include nature interpretation and wildlife spotting as there are lots of animals frequenting the area.
10. Hike From The Sea to Sky Gondola
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 500 m
Highlights: Trail leading up to the treeline near Sky Pilot Mountain
Ideal for: Hikers seeking alpine terrain without technical climbing
The Sea To Sky Gondola near Squamish gives you access to a lot of incredible hikes in the upper alpine overlooking Howe Sound. Here you will find incredible views of Sky Pilot Mountain, which can be climbed during the summer if you’re an experienced hiker.
If you don’t want to pay for the gondola, the other must-do hike is the Stawamus Chief. It takes about 3-5 hours if you go to the first and second peaks and a couple of hours more for the furthest third peak.
This area of Coast Mountains near Squamish offers extraordinary scenic spots, interesting geology and history, and a lot of variety with something for everyone from beginners to advanced hikers.
I love hiking adventures, flying my drone and sharing my adventures on my Instagram.
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