Hike with views of turquoise-blue lakes all the way to the glacier

The Joffre Lakes Trail is a dream for anyone wanting to experience the untouched wilderness of Canada up close. After just a few steps you find yourself in a world of dense forests, rugged mountains and glowing glacial lakes. The water shimmers in intense turquoise shades – a play of colours created by the meltwater from the glaciers. As you climb the steep path, you are accompanied by the roar of waterfalls and the occasional croak of a Canada jay sitting curiously on the branches.

The well-developed trail leads you over around five kilometres and 400 metres of elevation past three crystal-clear lakes – Lower, Middle and Upper Joffre Lake. Each offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, but the real highlight awaits at the end: the mighty Matier Glacier towering above the last lake. Once at the top, you can rest on one of the rock slabs and enjoy the view of the glacier. When the afternoon sun hits the ice, you can hear it cracking and crunching – an impressive sound that makes the sheer power of nature tangible.

Start early, as the trail is very popular and parking spaces are limited. From May to October you need a free day-use permit, which you must reserve online in advance with BC Parks. Without a permit you are not allowed to park or use the trail. Good footwear is essential, especially for the final steeper sections.