Turquoise High Country: Hiking Joffre Lakes Park
A compact high-alpine day hike with glacier-fed turquoise lakes and moraine vistas—accessible from Whistler.
By the time the car grinds to a halt at the pullout, the colour has already stolen your breath. Three bands of water—each a different, impossible blue—sit like gemstones in a grey-green bowl of rock and fir. Above them, the Coast Mountains tilt into the sky: serrated ridgelines, glaciers that feed the lakes, and the occasional goat silhouette on a distant ledge. This is Joffre Lakes Park, a compact, glacier-carved theater of alpine drama a scenic hour or so north of Whistler along the Sea-to-Sky corridor.
Trail Wisdom
Start early
Parking is limited—arrive before 8:00 AM or take a shuttle/tour from Whistler to secure a spot and enjoy calmer water.
Layer for sudden weather
Bring a breathable waterproof jacket and insulating midlayer—mountain weather shifts quickly, even in summer.
Expect mixed terrain
Trail includes roots, rocky pitches and a final moraine—sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles help with balance.
Respect fragile alpine areas
Stay on designated trails and avoid stepping on alpine mosses and meadows to prevent long-term damage.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Visit the moraine viewpoint above Upper Joffre Lake for an alternate perspective of the glacier and basin
- •Combine a Joffre day with a stop at Brandywine or Nairn Falls along the Sea-to-Sky for varied scenery off the main trail
Wildlife
black bear, mountain goat
Conservation Note
High visitation stresses fragile alpine ecosystems and parking infrastructure—travelers can reduce impact by using shuttles, following established trails and packing out all waste.
Joffre Lakes sits within the Coast Mountains sculpted by repeated glaciation; the Sea-to-Sky corridor has long been a travel route linking coastal and interior communities.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: late snow displays, early wildflower blooms, quieter trails
Challenges: snowfields on upper trail, slick boggy sections, limited parking access
Spring brings melting snow and shifting water levels—expect lingering snow and potentially muddy approaches; crampons may be necessary higher up.
summer
Best for: clear views, warmest conditions, full lake colour
Challenges: crowds, limited parking, afternoon storms
Summer is the busiest time with the most stable weather and brightest lake colour—go early to avoid crowds and afternoon weather swings.
fall
Best for: larch and fall colours, fewer crowds, crisp air and visibility
Challenges: rapid temperature drops, early snow, shorter daylight
Fall offers cooler air and great visibility; be ready for early-season snow and shorter days, especially late in the season.
winter
Best for: snow-covered landscapes, iced turquoise surfaces, guided crampon hikes
Challenges: deep snow and avalanche hazard in some zones, short daylight, cold temperatures
Winter turns Joffre into an alpine whitescape—guided trips with crampons are advised unless you have winter mountaineering skills and gear.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Provides traction and ankle support on rocky, rooty and sometimes icy sections.
Waterproof jacket & insulating midlayerEssential
Protects against wind, rain and sudden temperature drops in the alpine.
Trekking poles
Helpful for balance on steep or loose sections and for reducing knee strain on descent.
Crampons or microspikes
Necessary for traction on icy or snow-packed trails in winter and early spring; often provided on guided winter tours.
Common Questions
How long is the hike to Upper Joffre Lake?
The round-trip distance is roughly 11 km (about 7 miles) with approximately 400–500 m (1,300–1,600 ft) of elevation gain; allow 4–7 hours depending on pace and photos.
Is parking available at the trailhead?
There is a small parking lot that fills quickly on peak days—arrive early, use a shuttle, or join an organized tour from Whistler to avoid parking issues.
Can I swim in the lakes?
Technically yes, but the water is glacier-cold year-round and can be dangerously brisk; dress accordingly and understand the risks of hypothermia.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Dogs are generally allowed but should be kept on leash—check current BC Parks regulations and be mindful of wildlife and other visitors.
Do I need a guide for winter visits?
If you lack winter backcountry experience, hire a guide—many winter tours provide crampons and instruction to navigate icy approaches safely.
Are there camping options nearby?
There is backcountry camping in the park in designated areas; plan and book according to BC Parks rules and practice Leave No Trace principles.
What to Pack
water (2L) for hydration, layered jacket for sudden weather changes, sturdy boots for mixed terrain, sunscreen and hat to protect from high-alpine UV
Did You Know
The vivid turquoise colour of the Joffre Lakes is caused by 'glacial flour'—finely ground rock particles from nearby glaciers suspended in the water that scatter light.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Arrive early or book a shuttle from Whistler; 2) Pack water and snacks—no services at the trailhead; 3) Check weather and avalanche forecasts in winter; 4) Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Local Flavor
Pair your hike with a Whistler village stop: local cafes serve hearty bannock and farm-to-table fare, and many outfitters in town offer guided trips and shuttle options—supporting local guides helps manage visitor impact.
Logistics Snapshot
Trail length ~11 km RT; elevation gain ~400–500 m; trailhead near Pemberton/Whistler along Sea-to-Sky Hwy; limited parking; cellphone reception intermittent.
Sustainability Note
Choose guided shuttles or tour operators to reduce parking pressure, stick to trails to protect alpine vegetation, and pack out all waste—high-use parks need conscientious visitors.