Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
Top 20 Lakes around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
Best lakes around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy) are characterized by diverse natural landscapes, ranging from glacier-fed alpine waters to accessible forest-surrounded lakes. This region, encompassing Pemberton Valley, Mount Currie, and D'Arcy, offers a variety of lake experiences. The area's geography includes rugged peaks, old-growth forests, and valleys, providing settings for both serene retreats and active exploration. These lakes are notable for their clear waters and surrounding mountain scenery.
Best lakes around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
- The most popular…
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Garibaldi Lake
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Lost Lake
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Lower Joffre Lake
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The lake receives water from nearby glaciers, mainly …
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Joffre Lakes Trail
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Seaplanes on Green Lake
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Popular around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
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Hiking around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
Cycling around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
Running Trails around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
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Other adventures around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
Tips from the Community
Tucked in the forest just outside Whistler Village, Lost Lake is a beautiful, quiet spot surrounded by tall evergreens and mountain views. It’s a popular spot for swimming and paddleboarding in summer, with trails around its perimeter perfect for hiking and biking. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy network of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, offering a quiet escape just minutes from town.
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Access to the Joffre Lakes Trail is located at the top of a pass. Joffre Creek drains west into the Lillooet River, while Cayoosh Creek flows east and empties into Duffey Lake, which drains into the Fraser River. During the summer months, you must register for the Joffre Lakes Trail free of charge – for information, see the following website: https://bcparks.ca/reservations/day-use-passes/#joffre-lakes Registration is required to ensure a manageable number of hikers in the park – a maximum of 500 people per day. The trail leads to the park's three lakes: Lower Lake, Middle Lake, and Upper Lake. The Lower Joffre Lake is just a few hundred meters from the parking lot. Joffre Lakes Park is known for its turquoise lakes and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks; the base of the Matier Glacier is visible. Below the Upper Joffre Lake, Holloway Falls plunge into the depths. The trail ends at Upper Joffre Lake, but it is possible to continue along the western shore to the Joffre Lakes Backcountry Campground and further to the southern end of the lake, where rushing streams carry the waters of the Matier Glacier. (Visit May 28, 2025)
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Two airlines offer scenic flights over the mountains, glaciers, and fjords during the summer months of May to September from the Green Lake Floatplane Dock. Flights to Vancouver and Vancouver Island are also available during this period. https://harbourair.com/locations/whistler/ https://www.whistlerreservations.com/summer-activities/whistler-float-plane-tour
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Lost Lake was formed when glaciers retreated from the valley, leaving behind a buried block of ice. After the ice melted, a circular depression was created that filled with water, forming a so-called kettle lake. https://fireandicegeoregion.ca/geosite/lost-lake/ https://www.legendswhistler.com/whistler/news/2019/4/11/lost-lake-whistler/
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The direct route from the parking lot to Garibaldi Lake is easily doable even in early May, as the snow on the trails is already packed. Before that, we hiked up to Panaroma Ridge, which is almost impossible without snowshoes or something similar at this time of year (1.80 meters of snow), but at least you're completely alone there.
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Lower Joffre Lake is part of the Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. Access to the Lake is via the Duffey Lake Road, BC Highway 99. The car park is located at the mountain pass (approx. 1,300 m) between the valleys of Cayoosh Creek and Joffre Creek. Joffre Lakes Park is a protected area, class A park, since 1996. Class A parks are dedicated to the preservation of their natural environments and are open to the public. (Visit June 4, 2018 & May 28, 2025) https://bcparks.ca/joffre-lakes-park/
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So beautiful there Canada, unforgettable!!!!!!!
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The distinctive turquoise color of Lower Joffre Lake is due to the presence of finely ground rock particles, known as glacial flour, which are carried by glacier meltwater. These particles refract light in a way that gives water its bright, unique color.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes are most popular for visitors in Area C?
Among the most popular lakes are Lost Lake, known for swimming and paddleboarding, and Garibaldi Lake, a stunning glacier-fed lake at high altitude. Lower Joffre Lake is also highly regarded for its vibrant turquoise color and views of the Matier Glacier.
Are there any lakes that require reservations or permits to visit?
Yes, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, which includes Lower, Middle, and Upper Joffre Lakes, requires reservations for day use. This helps manage visitor numbers and preserve the natural environment. You can find more information on the BC Parks website.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes in Area C offer diverse natural features. You'll find vibrant turquoise, glacier-fed waters at Joffre Lakes, surrounded by rugged peaks and glaciers. Anderson Lake is framed by two converging mountain ranges, while Birkenhead Lake is nestled within old-growth forests and diverse wildlife habitats. Many lakes also offer stunning mountain views and clear waters.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including those leading to waterfalls, as detailed in the Waterfall hikes around Area C guide. For cycling enthusiasts, there are options for gravel biking and mountain biking, with routes around lakes like Green Lake and Lost Lake. Explore the Gravel biking around Area C guide and MTB Trails around Area C guide for more details.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Several lakes are great for families. Lost Lake is a popular spot for swimming and paddleboarding with easy trails. One Mile Lake, located at the entrance of Pemberton, is also ideal for families with easy walking trails and swimming. Blackwater Lake is another good option for a day picnic and family time.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Area C?
The best time to visit most lakes for hiking, swimming, and water activities is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During winter, some lakes like Joffre Lakes transform into popular spots for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing, but accessibility and conditions can vary.
Are there any lakes known for good fishing?
Yes, several lakes in the region offer excellent fishing. Anderson Lake is known for salmon, while Birkenhead Lake is popular for rainbow trout, dolly varden, kokanee, and whitefish. Mosquito Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and kokanee salmon, and Blackwater Lake also offers rainbow and cutthroat trout. Ivey Lake is particularly favored by locals for fishing.
Where can I find serene or less crowded lake experiences?
For a more serene experience, consider Birkenhead Lake, nestled amidst old-growth forests, or Lillooet Lake, which offers rustic camping spots like Strawberry Point and Driftwood Bay. Blackwater Lake is a remote option for a quiet day picnic. Semaphore Lakes, while requiring a hike, offers exquisite alpine scenery and backcountry camping.
Can I go swimming in the lakes?
Many lakes in Area C are suitable for swimming. Lost Lake and One Mile Lake are popular choices for cooling off. Anderson Lake has Heritage Beach for swimming, and Birkenhead Lake's clear waters are also suitable. Mosquito Lake is considered a delightful oasis for swimming.
Are there any lakes with unique features or historical significance?
Lost Lake is a kettle lake formed by retreating glaciers, while Garibaldi Lake is part of a system formed by lava flows during the last Ice Age. The vibrant turquoise color of the Joffre Lakes comes from glacial silt, a unique natural phenomenon.
Which lakes offer the best views or viewpoints?
Joffre Lakes Provincial Park is renowned for its progressively spectacular views of the three turquoise lakes, glaciers, and mountains. Semaphore Lakes also offer incredible glacier views in the South Chilcotin Mountains. Lillooet Lake provides magnificent and expansive views, and One Mile Lake offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Are there options for camping near the lakes?
Yes, camping is available at several locations. Birkenhead Lake Provincial Park offers camping facilities. Lillooet Lake has various camping spots like Strawberry Point, Twin One & Twin Two, Lizzie Bay, and Driftwood Bay. Semaphore Lakes is a popular backcountry camping location, serving as a base for exploring the peaks.
Most popular routes around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
Most popular attractions around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)
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Still not found your perfect lake around Area C (Pemberton Valley/Mount Currie/D'Arcy)? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
