The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site
4.6
(386)
3,151
hikers
36
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site traverse a landscape characterized by ancient western redcedar forests, serene lakes, and varied topography. The region features an old-growth forest with trees estimated to be between 750 and 1,000 years old, alongside smaller lakes like Showh Lakes and Newt Lake. Hikers will encounter a mix of rocky dry forest, mossy terrain, and lookout points offering views of surrounding peaks and valleys. The area provides a diverse range of trails…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.7
(6)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(29)
155
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.8
(5)
78
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
28
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
15
hikers
10.8km
02:55
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lost Lake Beach is part of Lost Lake Park, with a sandy beach bordered by a grassy lawn. Swimming is allowed, but it will be refreshing! Other amenities the park has to offer include picnic areas, BBQs, and restrooms as well as a parking area.
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The Elephant Bridge spans 75 meters and is used by hikers and mountain bikers. The bridge was built in the 1940s to transport timber to a sawmill. Today, it's a scenic and historical site that still functions to transport people.
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Green Lake is the largest lake in the Whistler region. To the north, it is the source of the Green River, which drains into the Lillooet River. Green Lake was formed during the last Ice Age, when sediment was deposited in the U-shaped valley, forming lake basins. The lake's green color is due to the glacial silt of Fitzsimmons Creek. From the wooden boardwalk on the southwest shore, we have a magnificent view of the lake and the seaplane landing. In the background, we can see the peaks of the Garibaldi Range, from Wedge Mountain to Mount Currie, including Mount Weart with the Armchair Glacier. https://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/local-news/naturespeak-awesome-geology-sites-around-whistlergreen-lake-part-2-7576124
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The artwork, created by three Indigenous artists, has been on display at the Audain Art Museum since November 2021. The Three Watchmen is a bronze sculpture by James Hart (7idansuu). The sculpture sits atop The Great Flood, a concrete base surrounded by an aluminum band, a collaboration by Xwalacktun and Levi Nelson (Svpyan). The artwork is part of Whistler's public art collection, established in 1996. Source: https://www.whistler.ca/parks-recreation-culture/arts-and-culture/public-art/collection/the-three-watchmen-the-great-flood/ https://www.uapcompany.com/projects/three-watchmen
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The Whistler Cenotaph honors the soldiers of both World Wars and the Korean War. The memorial has stood at Whistler Olympic Plaza since 2017. The memorial was created in 1985 and originally stood in front of the Whistler Fire Hall. “We honour you who served. We remember you who died. You sacrificed your lives for our liberty to allow us to look to the future for peace and harmony.” https://heritagebc.ca/war-monuments-memorials/whistler-cenotaph/
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During the 21st Winter Olympic Games in 2010, the Olympic cauldron stood at Whistler Olympic Plaza. The Whistler cauldron was one of two cauldrons used during the 2010 Games. The main cauldron was located at BC Place Stadium during the opening and closing ceremonies. The Whistler cauldron was lit by Wayne Gretzky after the opening ceremony. Today, this cauldron still stands at Whistler Olympic Plaza and, according to the Vancouver Convention Centre, serves as a memory of the city's Olympic experience.
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The Lost Lake PassivHaus is the first passive house in Canada. It is located at the main entrance of Lost Lake Park. The building was initially used as accommodation for the Austrian Olympic Committee and Austrian Broadcasting, which broadcasted live to Austrian audiences during the 2010 Winter Olympics. After the Games, the Austrian Passive House Group donated it to the Municipality of Whistler. The building now serves as a day lodge, office and meeting space for the Whistler Off-road Cycling Association (WORCA) and Whistler Nordics, as well as a cross-country ski and mountain bike rental shop and a café. Source: https://www.passivehousecanada.com/projects/lost-lake-passive-house/
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The 2012 carving by Tawx'sin Yexwulla and Poolxtun Aaron Nelson-Moody, Squamish Nation, depicts the Squamish Nation and Lil'wat Nation. Whistler Village lies in their shared territory. The artwork showcases the spirit of their collaboration. The Welcome Figure is part of Whistler's public art collection, established in 1996. Source: https://www.whistler.ca/parks-recreation-culture/arts-and-culture/public-art/collection/welcome-figure/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site?
The Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site offers nearly 40 family-friendly hiking trails. These range from easy strolls perfect for younger children to more moderate paths for active families.
Are the trails in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Yes, the area boasts a diverse trail system designed for various skill levels. You'll find many easily accessible paths suitable for families, though some trails, like the one to Newt Lake, offer a more challenging and steeper experience. While generally family-friendly, the terrain is not ideal for strollers.
What are some of the natural features and landmarks we can expect to see on a family hike?
Hikers can immerse themselves in an old-growth forest featuring impressive ancient western redcedar trees, some estimated to be up to 1,000 years old. You might also discover serene lakes, including the two Showh Lakes, and a picturesque waterfall. Various lookout points offer expansive views of the surrounding valley and peaks like Rethel Mountain.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails within the Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site. Please ensure they remain on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site with family?
The site is beautiful year-round. Spring and fall offer a particularly serene and quiet experience, with lovely mossy greens. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for potential mosquitoes from June to August. In winter, the area transforms into a destination for snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, there are several easy options. For a pleasant and accessible loop, consider the Whistler Village Stroll – Whistler Olympic Plaza loop from SPA Parking. This easy route covers 7.3 km and takes around 1 hour 55 minutes, offering a gentle experience for the whole family.
Where can we find parking for the trails?
Access to the Ancient Cedars trailhead is generally possible with 2WD vehicles. However, if you plan to reach the lakes, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to rough logging roads. Parking availability can vary, so it's always good to plan ahead.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 430 ratings. Reviewers often praise the 'mystical and magical' natural environment, the profound sense of history from the ancient cedars, and the feeling of a 'remote escape' despite being close to Whistler.
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes available?
For families looking for a slightly longer adventure, the Lost Lake Beach – Lost Lake loop from SPA Parking is a great moderate option. This 9.6 km route takes approximately 2 hours 37 minutes and offers beautiful lake views.
What should we bring when hiking with children in this region?
Given the varied terrain and potential for limited cell service, it's wise to bring plenty of water, snacks, appropriate layers of clothing for changing weather, and insect repellent, especially during summer. Always pack out what you pack in, as there are limited on-site services.
Can we find any trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely! Many trails lead to fantastic viewpoints. For example, the Cougar Mountain Basecamp – Showh Lake Lookout loop from Welcome to Cheakamus Community Forrest is a moderate 13.2 km route that includes the Showh Lake Lookout, providing expansive views of the surrounding valley and peaks.
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