Hike Details
- Difficulty: 5/6 (Very Difficult)
- Distance: 12km
- Duration: 8.5hrs
- Elevation: 1250m
- Type: Out & Back
- Exposure: None
- Season: Jul - Sep
- Dogs: No
- Camping: Yes
- Wheelchairs: No
- Public Transport: No
- Strollers: No
Description
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The Wedgemount Trail offers a stunning showcase into the Garibaldi Provincial Park backcountry, with a variety of trail surfaces, environments and stunning views to keep you exploring all day long. From dense forest, to boulder fields valley vistas and open alpine, Wedgemount really is a stunning, and variety filled hike.
As described in more detail below, the trail is steep and difficult throughout. As you scramble up the final section and take your first steps over the ridge, you'll pass the Wedgemount Lake campsite and are greeted by the breathtaking Wedgemount Lake, a chalky aquamarine alpine wonder. Depending on the time of year, the lake may be frozen, but from mid summer onwards you can expect to see the full lake in all its glory. Wedgemount Lake seems to have become somewhat of an Instagram favorite, so expect crowds on busy weekends.
Navigation
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The trail: Some junctions or misleading side-trails. Check your map regularly. Phone signal in BC is not reliable when hiking. Always carry an OFFLINE map. I recommend and use AllTrails+ and Gaia Maps.
Hike Difficulty And Conditions
The Wedgemount Trail is a serious undertaking, categorized as very difficult due to its steep sections and the stamina required to complete the 12 km distance. The elevation gain is a substantial 1250 meters, which means hikers will be tackling a very steep gradient for the majority of the route. The trail covers plenty of narrow, rocky or root-filled terrain, as well as several boulder fields. Hikers should be prepared for a relentless uphill climb, with the most challenging sections requiring careful foot placement. In particular, the final section of the trail heads up a steep section that combines boulders, with slippery mud sections, roots and patchy snow, and with the added navigational challenge of fewer trail markers. Depending on snow melt, there may be various streams flowing. Ensure you have supportive footwear with sturdy soles and watch out for slippery sections.
Given the rigorous nature of the hike, you should allow around 8-10 hours to complete the trail, ensuring you have time for breaks, lunch and lakeside views. It's important to start early in the day to avoid descending in the dark, and as always, you should come prepared with plenty of water, snacks, and layers to adjust for changing conditions over the significant elevation.
Camping
- Camping Possible: Yes
- Tent Camping Type: By Reservation Only
- Operated by: BC Parks
Hiking Season
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Jul - Sep is the recommended season for Wedgemount Lake. Outside of this period, the trail is: Full Snow Conditions - Avalanche Training Required
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible: No
- Stroller Accessible: No
- Dog Friendly: No
Location & Access
- Public Transport: No
- From Vancouver: 2hr(s)
- Park: Garibaldi Provincial Park
- Region: Squamish & Whistler
- Fire Region: Coastal Fire Centre Info
- Trailhead: 50.17304, -122.86290
- Vehicle Requirement: Any Vehicle
Getting There
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Driving north out of Whistler, you'll soon pass the largest of the Whistler lakes; Green Lake. No more than 2km beyond the northern end of the lake, you'll see a right turn across a railway crossing and signposted for Wedge Creek. Cross the bridge and take an immediate left, following the small blue signs a further 2km to the trailhead. The road is rough but passable by any sensible vehicle.
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Rent a car, or better still, reduce the demand for cars with Evo Car Share, Vancouver's car sharing network.
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