Come join us on this Elfin Lakes guided trek, a 3-day adventure into the southern reaches of Garibaldi Provincial Park. We take care of all the logistics—permits, group gear, meals, and tents—so you can hike with a light pack. Spend two nights camping by the sparkling Elfin Lakes, explore glaciers, lava flows, and alpine peaks, and enjoy shared meals under the stars. This trip welcomes everyone who wants to experience the beauty of the park at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.
At 8am, we’ll meet in Squamish at the cozy Cloudburst Café to grab a coffee and get acquainted before the day’s adventure. By 9am, we’ll make our way up to the trailhead and begin our hike, heading in via the scenic Red Heather Trail toward the stunning Elfin Lakes.
Meals: Picnic lunch and dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6 mi)
Elevation gain: +850 m (+2,800 ft)
Accommodation: Camping
There are plenty of ways to explore the area, with the most popular option being a hike to the Opal Cone, a striking volcanic dome, followed by a refreshing swim in Mamquam Lake. You could also trek across the vast Garibaldi Neve glacier, or hike up to the Gargoyles for a jaw-dropping viewpoint before looping past a small tarn on your way back to camp.
Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6 mi)
Elevation gain: +700 m (+2,300 ft)
Accommodation: Camping
After a big breakfast, we’ll break camp and hike back out the Red Heather trail. We’ll be back in Squamish at around 2pm.
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 10 km (6 mi)
Elevation gain: +100 m (+330 ft)
Included:
Not included:
This Elfin Lakes guided trek is open to everyone, though some fitness is required for the hike in, which takes 4-6 hours. The most you’ll hike within a day is 10 km (6 mi) with 850 m (2,800 ft) of elevation gain, and that’s Day 1. Other days are easier. Check out the itinerary to learn about day-by-day distances and elevation changes.
Keep in mind that there will be a porter carrying food and group gear, and this will keep your pack light! The Elfin Lakes trek is one of the easier access points into Garibaldi Provincial Park, so it’s the perfect choice even if it’s your first time hiking or camping.
Liability waivers are a standard part of all guided outdoor adventures. Recently, the requirements have become a bit more rigorous for ACMG guides—meaning that you’ll need to agree to the signing of the waiver at the time of booking.
Prior to booking, we ask you to review the waiver. During the checkout process, you’ll have to acknowledge the risks and agree to the signing of the waiver. You are required to bring a printed copy on the trip.
Please note that signing and agreeing to the terms of the waiver is required in order to join this adventure. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us prior to booking.
Clothing
Personal equipment
Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!
Group sizes and pricing
Elfin Lakes guided treks can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Elfin Lakes guided trek is Squamish, BC. To get there, most people fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR). From there, you can take a shuttle service or rent a car to reach Squamish—it will take you 1.5 to 2 hours.
Make sure to arrive in Squamish at least a day prior to the hike, since you’ll be meeting your guide at 8am on Day 1.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.