Elfin Lakes
Alpine lakes in the Diamond Head area of Garibaldi Provincial Park. The round-trip hike is about 22 kilometers, passes snowy alpine meadows, and is Squamish's classic all-day trek.
Elfin Lakes lies in the Diamond Head area in the south of Garibaldi Provincial Park. From the east side of the town of Squamish, drive about 30 minutes on a gravel road to the trailhead at roughly 950 meters elevation. From there, climb about 11 kilometers along the gentle slope of Paul Ridge to reach two small lakes, with views of Diamond Head (Mount Garibaldi) and the surrounding glaciers. The round trip takes 5 to 7 hours. There are cabins (reservation required) and a campground by the lakes, and you can stay overnight and continue to Opal Cone. Note: the final stretch of gravel road requires a high-clearance vehicle, and chains are needed in winter. On summer weekends and holidays, book a free day-use pass in advance on the BC Parks website. Mountain weather changes quickly, so bring plenty of water and warm clothing.
Opening hours
Open all day (trailhead road may be restricted in winter)
Nearby sights
- Watersprite Lake
- Alice Lake Provincial Park
- Brohm Lake
- Smoke Bluffs Park
- Tantalus Lookout
- Downtown Squamish (Cleveland Avenue)
- West Coast Railway Heritage Park
- Stawamus Chief