Elfin Lakes
Distance: 20km 808m
July 7th-July 8th
First backpacking trip of the season!
Elfin Lake is a classic in the Sea to Sky. The area is teeming with volcanic geology and views are in all directions.
I’ve been to Elfin once before on a day hike up the Gargoyles and up Round Mountain many times in the winter.
On this trip myself plus four heading out to camp at Elfin.
The campsites at Elfin are pretty close together and offer little privacy, but the views are amazing!
Luckily we were able to stay at campsite #1 which ironically was one of the last available and in my opinion the best site. It had some trees around offering privacy but still had views.
At this time there is still lingering snow on the way up to the Gargoyle saddle.
Things to note:
The swimming lake is the first lake you come to
The drinking lake is the second lake. Please do not swim in this lake.
If you do decide to go for a swim, try to wipe yourself off of any sunscreen or bug spray you may be wearing. Studies show this leads to poor alpine lake health.
There is a bear hang, but you will need to bring your own bag to hang food from. Be sure to put everything with a scent in here including toothpaste, sunscreen, and food dehydrated or not.
Permits are required for overnight and permits are required for day use on weekends/holidays.
You can mountain bike all the way to Elfin Lakes which is pretty surprising being a BC Park.
Elfin Shelter and the trail to the Opal Cone center through the valley above the creek
Mamquam Mountain
Tantalus
