Elfin Lakes

getting there

Drive north on I-5 to the Canadian boarder to Trans-Canadian Highway 1. Head west on the Trans-Canadian Highway. Take the BC-99 exit to Squamish. By-pass Squamish and cross the Mamquam River. In ~0.25 miles after the bridge, turn right on Mamquam Road. Follow this steep, rough road 9 miles to the parking lot (3,234 ft, 980m).

On the Trail

Hike the Elfin Lakes Trail just over 6 miles along Round Mountain's ridgeline to the alpine flats and lakes where there's a hut and campsites. Consider hiking to Mamquam Lake where there are campsites.

Notes

• Elfin Lakes has both a hut and multiple tent pads. Reservations are required.
  
• This is a very popular area for hiking, backpacking, and cross-country skiing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.
• The best times to hike this trail are June through October.
• You'll need to leave pups at home—dogs aren't allowed on this trail.

Information for Leaders

Considerations for travel to Canada

• Start by reviewing the latest regulations. Look for information on border crossing and travel to Canada on these websites:
  
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection
  • U.S. Department of Homeland Security
  • WSDOT (Washington State Department of Transportation)
  • Government of Canada
• Everyone must have a passport or other valid ID like a NEXUS card.
• NEXUS cards can save a lot of time but only work if everyone in the car has one.
• Make sure your vehicle insurance is valid for Canada.
• Make sure your health insurance is valid for Canada.
• Border crossing regulations are strict in both directions. Know what you’re allowed to take and declare everything to avoid problems.
• You may be able to save time by checking alternate border crossings.
• See the Travel Industry Council of Ontario's 9 Travel Tips for Crossing the Canadian/U.S. Land Border blog post for some good tips on traveling to Canada.

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Cross-country Skiing, Day Hiking, Snowshoeing
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Moderate, U-XC 3 Intermediate Ungroomed
• Length: 12.5 mi
• Elevation Gain: 2,700 ft

• Land Manager: Garibaldi Provincial Park
• Parking Permit Required: see Land Manager
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12