As the west coast heats up for the summer months, why not cool off in these beautiful swimming lakes within a 2 hour drive from our home here in Vancouver, BC!
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Joffre Lakes
2.5 hours from Vancouver
Steeply rising from Lower Joffre Lake, the glacier-laden peaks are visible from an easily accessible viewpoint 500 metres from the parking lot. A highlight of the park is the turquoise blue waters of Lower, Middle and Upper Joffre lakes, all three of which are located along the trail, and each more stunning than the last. Joffre Lakes Provincial Park has opportunities for hiking, camping, mountaineering, wildlife viewing, and fishing.
Cabin Lake
PHOTO BY VANCOUVER TRAILS
40 min drive + 30 min hike from Vancouver
Black Mountain and Cabin Lake is a 6.0 kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail located near West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada that features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for swimming, hiking, running, bird watching, and snowshoeing and is accessible year-round.
Buntzen Lake
1 hour from Vancouver
Buntzen Lake is flanked by Eagle Ridge/Mountain to the east and Buntzen Ridge to the west. Indian Arm Provincial Park and Belcarra Regional Park make up a large portion of the surrounding hiking trails, which are suited for all levels of experience and physical abilities.
Buntzen Lake can get very busy, especially on sunny summer weekends. If it’s a weekend or holiday and the weather is gorgeous, get to the lake before 11:00 so you can enjoy your day.
Alice Lake
PHOTO BY BC PARKS
1 hour from Vancouver
Alice Lake is surrounded by towering mountains, dense forests and grassy areas. There are four fresh water lakes that dominate the landscape and make swimming and fishing very enjoyable and family friendly pastimes. The trail around Alice Lake is a popular one for an evening stroll and for the more adventurous there is the Four Lakes Trail. There are excellent views of the Squamish River and the Tantalus Range from the DeBeck’s Hill Trail.
Cultus Lake
1 hour 30 mins from Vancouver
Cultus Lake Park is your recreation destination for fishing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, hiking, swimming and so much more! Located only 11 kilometers south of the Chilliwack River, it is the gem of the Fraser Valley. While you are here come support our local restaurants, shops and amusement parks! Cultus Lake attractions include the town’s giant waterpark, amusement park, golf course, boating opportunities, beaches and its provincial park.
Cat Lake
PHOTO BY EXPLORE SQUAMISH
1 hour from Vancouver
Cat Lake is a 1.4 kilometer lightly trafficked loop trail located near Squamish that features a great forest setting and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, camping, and nature trips - and of course swimming - Cat Lake where you'll find access to rope swings, wooden rafts, hiking and biking trails as well as 36 forested walk-in campsites.
Sasamat Lake
1 hour from Vancouver
Sasamat Lake is a 3.1 kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail located near Port Moody with beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until October such as walking trails, a beach area, swimming in the lake, a concession stand, and much more!
Alta Lake
PHOTO BY WHATTODOINWHISTLER
1 hour 30 mins from Vancouver
Alta Lake is the biggest lake in Whistler and boasts three beaches: Lakeside Park, Rainbow Park and Wayside Park. Here you'll find a sandy beach, picnic tables, barbeques and a concession stand renting canoes and kayaks. This park is open year round, and you'll find park goers lounging in the grass, picnicing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Garibaldi Lake
2 hours from Vancouver
Garibaldi Provincial Park, named after Mount Garibaldi, was established March 7, 1927.
The Park’s rich geological history, diverse vegetation, snow-capped mountain, iridescent waters, abundant wildlife and scenic vistas all contribute to the immense beauty. Offering over 90 km of established hiking trails, Garibaldi Provincial Park is a favourite year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mystery Lake
PHOTO BY VANCOUVER TRAILS
45 mins from Vancouver
Located in Mount Seymour Provincial Park, Mystery Lake is a scenic lake that is only a short distance from the parking lot and a great place for a swim on a hot summer day. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from July until November, however is a popular spot in the summer months for families to hike to and spend time, picnicing with kids near the waters edge.
Lindeman Lake
PHOTO BY BEST HIKES BC
2 hours from Vancouver
Nestled within Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park, just over 2 hours from Vancouver, lies the picturesque Lindeman Lake - a small but stunning body of water that serves as a popular hiking destination via an easy 3.4 km trail. The vibrant green hues of the lake's waters create a breathtaking natural backdrop, making it a photographer's paradise and a serene escape for those seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure.
Harrison Lake
PHOTO BY AROUND THE WORLD WITH ALISON
2 hours from Vancouver
Harrison Lake, the largest lake in the southern Coast Mountains of Canada, offers a perfect escape. Dive into the refreshing waters for swimming, boating, and more. Elevating the fun factor, the lake is home to a Wipeout-style floating water park featuring a variety of obstacles and attractions that are sure to bring out the inner child in everyone. Don't skip the hot springs either!
Alouette Lake
PHOTO BY BC PARKS
1 hour 15 mins from Vancouver
Alouette Lake is part of the Golden Ears Park which has beatiful walks, hikes, waterfalls, rivers and swimming destinations. One of our fav spots is Alouette Lake, perfect for a picnic, boating, or a day cooling off from the sun. Check it out!
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