40+ of the Best Backpacking / Overnight Hikes near Vancouver
Table of Contents
Vancouver is blessed with incredible hikes not far from our doorstep, and with that comes an abundance of fantastic backpacking / overnight hiking options as well. People are often searching for these spots, especially backcountry locations that don’t require reservations, so I decided to make a list of the best backpacking spots / overnight hikes near Vancouver, many of which do not require a reservation.
For the most part this list will be focused on out and back trails, rather than through hikes, given I don’t personally do a lot of multi night backpacking. With that said, let’s dive in!
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 18Km
Elevation Gain: 850m
Highest Elevation: 1,501m
Average Gradient: 9.4%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / Moderate
Time Needed:
– Slow: 6 – 8 Hours
– Moderate: 5 – 6 Hours
– Fast: 4 – 5 Hours
Garibaldi Lake is one of the most popular campgrounds in the province, requiring a reservation that is often difficult to snag. It’s easy to see why, as Garibaldi Lake offers incredible views and provides an excellent base camp for further exploration to the likes of the Black Tusk, Panorama Ridge or even Mount Price.
There are campgrounds at the lake itself, at Taylor Meadows and even approaching from the other side of the lake at Helm Creek. All of these are popular, however the lake itself is the busiest. Helm Creek might be an easier spot to snag and is still a worthwhile option, the only drawback being that the lake is quite far away from here.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 22Km
Elevation Gain: 821m
Highest Elevation: 1,602m
Average Gradient: 5.45%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 7 – 9 Hours
– Moderate: 6 – 7 Hours
– Fast: 5 – 6 Hours
Another very popular spot in Garibaldi Provincial Park is Elfin Lakes, which offers a long but mellow and scenic approach this stunning backcountry campground. While Elfin Lakes is a worthy destination in itself, it also provides great access to explore deeper into the park, with campers able to visit the nearby Columnar Peak / The Gargoyles, Diamond Head or Opal Cone.
If you want to stay a night somewhere else, you can also continue to Rampart Ponds, where there are more campsites available.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 12.60Km
Elevation Gain: 1,350m
Highest Elevation: 1,977m
Average Gradient: 21.43%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 6 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 4 – 6 Hours
Sticking to the Garibaldi Provincial Park theme, Wedgemount Lake is another incredible backpacking spot, however this one is significantly harder to reach than Garibaldi Lake or Elfin Lake. Set at the beautiful, glacier fed Wedgemount Lake, campers are treated to stunning backdrop and another great base camp for further exploration. Again, this requires a reservation to camp there.
You won’t find any “official” trails going beyond the lake, however adventurous parties might want to consider ascending Mount Cook (easier) or Mount Weart (harder). Extremely capable parties might consider Wedge Mountain, however this requires glacier travel, so should be left to experienced parties.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 26.20Km
Elevation Gain: 800m
Highest Elevation: 2,181m
Average Gradient: 6.11%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 10+ Hours
– Moderate: 8 – 10 Hours
– Fast: 7 – 8 Hours
Rounding out the list of backpacking spots in Garibaldi Provincial Park is Russet Lake, again requiring a reservation (though typically a little easier to acquire than the other Garibaldi spots).
Russet Lake has the benefit of being accessible using the Whistler gondola system, making the approach much easier for those willing to pay for a gondola ride. It too offers access for deeper exploration into the park, with the nearby Whirlwind Peak a decent option for most parties. More adventurous groups could continue on to Overlord Mountain, or alternatively summit the nearby Fissile Peak.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 20Km
Elevation Gain: 1,050m
Highest Elevation: 2,107m
Average Gradient: 10.50%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 7 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 6 – 7 Hours
Illal Meadows is a beautiful alpine meadow located near the Coquihalla Summit Recreation area. Speckled with a few small lakes, these meadows offer endless opportunity for camping and no reservation is required. While a relatively popular spot on a sunny summer weekend, it’s never too crowded as the area is so vast.
The best spot for camping here would be at a large tarn below Illal Mountain, as shown in the photo. Camping here allows access to several nearby mountains, with the most popular being Jim Kelly Peak, Illal Mountain and Coquihalla Mountain. Note that the stats above included summiting Jim Kelly Peak and Illal Mountain., so just accessing the meadows will be far easier.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 16.20Km
Elevation Gain: 1,044m
Highest Elevation: 2,117m
Average Gradient: 12.89%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 7 – 8 Hours
– Moderate: 5 – 7 Hours
– Fast: 4 – 5 Hours
Another great place to camp in the backcountry that doesn’t require reservations is Blanca Lake. This is steadily growing in popularity, however the long drive down Squamish River FSR deters the masses, so you needn’t worry about finding somewhere to pitch a tent. The lake offers stunning views, and there are several other lakes around if you wanted to explore further.
That stats above include summiting the nearby Blanca Peak, a relatively straightforward off-trail ascent. The hike to the lake itself follows a trail the whole way.
Difficulty: Moderate (Lower Lot) Very Easy (Upper Lot)
Distance: 11.1km (Lower Lot) 4.75km (Upper Lot)
Elevation Gain: 815m (Lower Lot) 150m (Upper Lot)
Highest Elevation: 1,555m
Average Gradient: 14.68% (Lower Lot) 6.31% (Upper Lot)
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / Moderate
Time Needed:
– Slow: 5 – 6 Hours (Lower Lot) 2 – 3 Hours (Upper Lot)
– Moderate: 4 – 5 Hours (Lower Lot) 1.50 – 2 – Hours (Upper Lot)
– Fast: 3 – 4 Hours (Lower Lot) 1 – 1.50 Hours (Upper Lot)
Brandywine Meadows is one of the more popular backcountry camping spots that doesn’t require a reservation, largely thanks to it’s stunning views, ease of access (2WD accessible), and straightforward hike to get there. With a capable vehicle you can make this even easier by parking at the upper lot.
The meadows have several creeks flowing through them from the glaciers off Brandywine Mountain. The mountain itself is a very worthwhile hike as well. This is definitively bear country, so make sure to follow common etiquette while camping here. It’s also a very sensitive alpine environment, so make sure to set your tent in a spot that won’t damage the flora/fauna, and of course pack out what you pack in.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 18.65Km
Elevation Gain: 1,270m
Highest Elevation: 2,357m
Average Gradient: 13.62%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 9 Hours
– Moderate: 7 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 6 – 7 Hours
Blowdown Lake is an incredibly scenic and easy to reach lake accessed via an FSR off of Duffey Lake Road. The road is a little rough (SUV likely necessary), however the hike itself is a cinch to reach the lake.
The lake is situated just below Blowdown Pass, and has plenty of camping options on its shores, with most people using it as a basecamp for further exploration. The whole region is an adventurers paradise, with countless peaks to climb, the most common being the nearby Gott and Gotcha Peak, and a more involved option being Cottonwood Peak (stats above include this).
Grizzly bears are not uncommon here, so obviously you will want to prepare accordingly.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.5Km
Elevation Gain: 240m
Highest Elevation: 840m
Average Gradient: 13.70%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Low / Moderate
Time Needed:
– Slow: 3 – 4 Hours
– Moderate: 2 – 3 Hours
– Fast: 1 – 2 Hours
Lindeman Lake is an extremely popular hike, especially during the summer. While making for a short and simple day hike, it’s also popular for camping. Registrations are required for backcountry camping and can be made via BC Parks, however they do not guarantee you a site so getting there early is recommended. If the sites at Lindeman Lake are taken, there are more sites at Greendrop Lake, and you can also camp at Flora Lake (though this is a much, much more difficult hike).
Unfortunately, there has been a long history of cars being broken into when left overnight at Lindeman Lake, so be careful to not leave any valuables in your vehicle if you plan to camp here.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 26Km
Elevation Gain: 1,780m
Highest Elevation: 1,716m
Average Gradient: 13.70%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 12 – 14 Hours
– Moderate: 10 – 12 Hours
– Fast: 8 – 10 Hours
Panorama Ridge (not the one in Garibaldi Provincial Park) is a stunning ridge just below Golden Ears Peak in Golden Ears Provincial Park, with a number of tent pads scattered around that offer an incredible vista. Similar to Lindeman, a backcountry camping reservation is needed to go, but this does not reserve you a tent pad, so get there early if you want one of the better ones.
The stats above include summiting the peak (involves scrambling), but the ridge itself is mostly just hiking. Still, it’s a long and difficult hike with overnight packs, so give yourself plenty of time to get there. Once the snow has fully melted, there are no water sources up here, so unless you know for sure that there is still snow around, you’ll need to carry all the water you need with you.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 6.00Km
Elevation Gain: 410m
Highest Elevation: 1,692m
Average Gradient: 13.67%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Low / Moderate
Time Needed:
– Slow: 2.5 – 3 Hours
– Moderate: 2 – 2.5 Hours
– Fast: 1.5 – 2 Hours
Semaphore Lakes is beautiful alpine basin bespeckled with small lakes and tarns, all nestled below the Train Glacier that cascades from a series of peaks. This is another popular backcountry camping destination thanks to its stunning setting and the fact you don’t need any reservation to visit. Still, you’ll want to get there early on a summer weekend to make sure to snag a spot, as camping outside of the designated sites around the lakes is strongly discouraged due to the sensitive environment. Pit toilets and bear caches have been installed in recent years thanks to the explosion in popularity.
While many people are content to just chill at the lakes, there are a couple of hike options nearby as well. Locomotive Mountain is by far the most popular, but more adventurous parties may want to consider completing the entire Train Glacier Traverse. This should only be attempted by capable parties, however.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 7.40Km
Elevation Gain: 491m
Highest Elevation: 1,572m
Average Gradient: 13.27%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Low / Moderate
Time Needed:
– Slow: 4 – 5 Hours
– Moderate: 3 – 4 Hours
– Fast: 2 – 3 Hours
Joffre Lakes is one of the most popular hikes in British Columbia, and suffice it to say camping there is also in insatiable demand. The campsites are all located at the northern end of the third (highest) lake, though it’s still a relatively straightforward hike to get there, even with an overnight pack.
Reservations for camping are made via BC Parks, and they sell out quickly. In terms of hiking beyond the lakes, there are no official trails so you’ll need to be comfortable finding your own way. The more popular options will generally be Tszil Mountain or Mount Taylor, with some parties simply opting to hike up to the toe of Matier Glacier to get an aerial view of all 3 lakes.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 21.00Km
Elevation Gain: 1,690m
Highest Elevation: 2,163m
Average Gradient: 16.10%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 9 – 11 Hours
– Moderate: 8 – 9 Hours
– Fast: 7 – 8 Hours
Radium Lake on its own is a frankly average hike with no views and a rather uninspired camping spot that can often be mosquito filled. That being said, if you have intentions of summiting either Mount Webb or MacDonald Peak and don’t think you can do them in a day hike, Radium Lake offers a decent option for breaking this up over two days.
To camp here you will need a backcountry camping reservation through BC Parks, which gives you permission to camp there without reserving you a site. Not that that is usually of concern as not that many people camp at Radium Lake. Another option if you prefer not to camp at the lake is to camp at the saddle between MacDonald Peak and Mount Webb. There won’t be a water source though (unless there’s still snow around – which there often is in the early summer).
The stats above include summiting Mount Webb, but not MacDonald Peak.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 16.80Km
Elevation Gain: 1,208m
Highest Elevation: 1,959m
Average Gradient: 14.38%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 6 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 5 – 6 Hours
Darling Lake is a beautiful alpine lake situated slightly north of the much more popular Watersprite Lake. While accessed via the same trailhead, Darling Lake doesn’t have an official trail to it and in fact the route to get there is an unsanctioned route into Garibaldi Provincial Park (which the lake is located in). While unsanctioned, this route is the standard route to Mamquam Mountain, so it does see plenty of traffic from the mountaineering community to keep it active, and many of these will use the lake as their campsite before making a summit push the next day.
This region falls under the Wilderness Camping zone of Garibaldi Provincial Park, which does need a reservation through BC Parks for those who want to abide by the rules. Many people will simply just go and camp there, though.
The stats above include summiting the unofficially named Manic Peak, which is a very worthwhile addition to Darling Lake itself.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 24.70Km
Elevation Gain: 1,365m
Highest Elevation: 1,807m
Average Gradient: 11.05%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / Moderate
Time Needed:
– Slow: 7 – 8 Hours
– Moderate: 8 – 10 Hours
– Fast: 10 – 12 Hours
Brew Lake is a mildly popular hike near Whistler, with a couple of different routes to get there. On its own, the lake offers plenty of space to set up camp and enjoy the outdoors in tranquility, with reasonably good views, all without requiring any reservations.
Many parties will summit the nearby Mount Brew, with more adventurous groups potentially also summiting the likes of Keg Peak. The above stats includes summiting both of these peaks. This is also a fairly popular area with ski tourers in the winter, with the nearby Brew Hut offering shelter from the elements (you could also stay there in the summer if desired).
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 16Km
Elevation Gain: 1,400m
Highest Elevation: 2,312m
Average Gradient: 17.50%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 7 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 6 – 7 Hours
Upper Hanging Lake is an absolutely stunning backcountry alpine lake situated below the western cliffs of Mount Lindeman in Chilliwack. That stats above assume summiting Lindeman, however even if you’re not interested in that, the lake itself is one of the finest alpine lakes around. Due to its very high elevation (almost 1,900m), this lake stays snow covered until the mid to late summer, and even then you can expect it to be ice cold from snow melt from the nearby ridges.
In terms of camping, there’s a sandy area by the shore that makes for a good camping area suitable for a few tents, and the likelihood is you won’t bump into anyone else camping there. There is no reservation required to stay here. Most parties will also summit the nearby Mount Lindeman, though this does include some simple scrambling to reach the top.
Difficulty: Very Difficult
Distance: 15.80Km
Elevation Gain: 1,568m
Highest Elevation: 1,800m
Average Gradient: 19.85%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 7 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 6 – 7 Hours
Upper Pierce Lake closely rivals Upper Hanging Lake for the title of Chilliwack’s most beautiful lake, however this one is far more popular as access is much easier thanks to the 2WD accessibility. There are in fact two Pierce Lakes, upper and lower, both of which can be camped are, however the upper lake is the only truly worthwhile one. Lower Pierce Lake is in the forest with no views whatsoever, while Upper Pierce Lake is in the subalpine and offers absolutely breathtaking views. Camping here does not require any reservations and is FCFS. Due to the massive stats to get up here, you’ll usually be able to find a spot at any time.
Most parties will also summit the nearby Mount MacFarlane, which is likely one of the best hikes down Chilliwack Lake Road, making this an all round five-star hike.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8.70Km
Elevation Gain: 542m
Highest Elevation: 1,800m
Average Gradient: 12.45%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / Moderate
Time Needed:
– Slow: 4 – 5 Hours
– Moderate: 3 – 4 Hours
– Fast: 2 – 3 Hours
Rohr Lake is another relatively popular backcountry camping spot along Duffey Lake Road that doesn’t require any reservations, nor does it have any facilities. It’s a fairly short hike to get there, and there’s plenty of further exploration to be had for those interested (notably Mount Rohr, but also potentially Rancherie Peak and Wonk Peak). Due to the high elevation of the lake, it doesn’t typically thaw until mid summer, and even then mosquitos can be a menace until later in the season.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8.20Km
Elevation Gain: 580m
Highest Elevation: 1,449m
Average Gradient: 14.14%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 4 – 5 Hours
– Moderate: 3 – 4 Hours
– Fast: 2 – 3 Hours
Closer to home, Mount Seymour is another great spot for camping and is fairly popular as you don’t need any reservations and you can pitch a tent wherever you like, as long as you are north of Brockton Point. Winter camping is even feasible here, and enough people do it that it wouldn’t be that unusual. There are more details on the BC Parks website if you need specifics.
There aren’t any facilities and water sources may be in short supply later in the season, but most people are only going for one night so it’s not typically an issue carry it in.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 11.7Km
Elevation Gain: 940m
Highest Elevation: 1,898m
Average Gradient: 16.07%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 6 – 8 Hours
– Moderate: 5 – 6 Hours
– Fast: 4 – 5 Hours
The Flatiron and Needle Peak are a duo of popular summits off the Coquihalla Highway that make for an excellent day hike. Some people like to make a fuller weekend of it, however, and camping is possible at a small tarn below the Flatiron without the requirement for any reservations. Suffice it to say, there are no facilities either.
Further exploration is obviously possible to the aforementioned summits, and Portia Peak is another possibility for parties that like to be a bit more adventurous.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 15.60Km
Elevation Gain: 915m
Highest Elevation: 1,986m
Average Gradient: 11.73%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 9 Hours
– Moderate: 7 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 6 – 7 Hours
If there was one backcountry camping spot on this list that ticks all the right boxes, it’s Seagram Lake. This lake offers breathtaking views and the possibility of endless exploration, with plenty of ridges and peaks to explore nearby, as well as numerous other stunning lakes along the way. Seagram Peak (including in the stats above) is a great addition if you want an aerial view, and if you can make your way to Sunrise Lake as well, you’re in for a treat.
Camping here is truly backcountry, with no facilities and of course no reservations. Just pitch your tent and soak it in. It should be noted that grizzlies have been sighted in this area, so of course prepare accordingly.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 11.50Km
Elevation Gain: 800m
Highest Elevation: 2,055m
Average Gradient: 13.91%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 5 – 6 Hours
– Moderate: 4 – 5 Hours
– Fast: 3 – 4 Hours
Sootip Peak is a summit situated slightly north of Whistler that offers rewarding views for fairly moderate effort. While a perfectly manageable day hike, the region is covered in a plethora of small tarns and lakes, all of which offer an abundance of camping options. Just pick which one you want to set your tent up next to and have at it. Best of all, you don’t need any reservations and in all likelihood you won’t see a single soul. The only issue some might face is getting there, as the road can be rough at times.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 16.80Km
Elevation Gain: 1,240m
Highest Elevation: 2,462m
Average Gradient: 14.76%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 9 Hours
– Moderate: 6 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 5 – 6 Hours
Sugarloaf Mountain is a bit further north than Sootip Peak, not far from Pemberton. In the right vehicle, Sugarloaf offers easy access to the alpine, with an abundance of camping options along the ridge heading towards the summit. There’s even a hut along the way, and snow patches will generally linger for much of summer to allow snow melt as your water supply. There is also a lake on the eastern side of the mountain which you could reach if you were willing to drop off the ridge.
All in all, Sugarloaf offers exceptionally easy access to the alpine and is a great option to escape the crowds and pitch a tent without any need for reservations.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 14Km
Elevation Gain: 1,385m
Highest Elevation: 2,421m
Average Gradient: 19.79%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 9 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 8 – 9 Hours
– Fast: 7 – 8 Hours
Sun God and Seven O’ Clock Mountain are both excellent hikes that can be combined together into one exceptional day trip. However, some parties prefer to camp at a lake between the peaks and make a full weekend trip out here, and it’s easy to see why. This lake is conveniently situated slap bang in the middle of both peaks, so it’s merely a case of setting up camp at the lake before exploring to your hearts content. The stats above assume you summit both peaks, but of course you don’t have to go up either if you don’t want to. It would be a shame to spend a night here and not do at least one of them though (Sun God preferred). Of course, there are no facilities and no reservations here.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 11Km
Elevation Gain: 940m
Highest Elevation: 2,122m
Average Gradient: 17.10%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 9 Hours
– Moderate: 7 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 6 – 7 Hours
Tricouni Peak will forever hold a special place in my heart as it’s easily one of the best hikes in southwest BC. While the summit itself is incredible, the approach via a series of outrageously stunning lakes is what makes this place so special. All of the lakes here offer camping potential, with Pendant Heart Lake, Spearpoint Lake and lastly Reflection Lake providing endless opportunity for world class backcountry camping, again without any need to make a reservation.
Similar to Seagram Lake (same region), grizzlies do frequent the area, so please make sure to prepare accordingly and of course pack out what you pack in.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 22.5Km
Elevation Gain: 1,390m
Highest Elevation: 2,083m
Average Gradient: 12.36%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High/High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 7 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 6 – 7 Hours
Zupjok, Llama and Alpaca Peak are a trio of peaks in the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area. These make for a great day hike, but it’s also possible to take a tent up there and setup a spot anywhere along the ridge to enjoy endless views without any need for a reservation. Some people will stop at the first peak (Zupjok), but anywhere you can find a suitable spot along the ridge will do nicely. The only real drawback is the lack of water sources up here (assuming the snow has melted), so you might need to carry your water up with you.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 12.60Km
Elevation Gain: 750m
Highest Elevation: 1,715m
Average Gradient: 11.90%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 6 – 7 Hours
– Moderate: 5 – 6 Hours
– Fast: 4 – 5 Hours
Tenquille Lake is certainly one of the better backcountry camping spots on this list in terms of amenities and access to absolutely fantastic backcountry scenery. Recreationalists can reserve a campsite through the Pemberton Wildlife Association, and there’s also a very well equipped hut that can be reserved as well. Unlike BC Parks campsites, these ones tend to be a little easier to reserve, especially on a weekday when you shouldn’t have much of an issue at all.
From the lake there are a number of fantastic hikes that can be completed, such as Mount Barbour, Tenquille Mountain, Finch Ridge or Copper Mound.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 9.50Km
Elevation Gain: 1,105m
Highest Elevation: 1,708m
Average Gradient: 11.63%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 3 – 4 Hours
– Moderate: 2.5 – 3 Hours
– Fast: 2 – 2.5 Hours
Long Lake is another fantastic base camp for exploration into the backcountry, with a number of accessible peaks suitable for all abilities. This is a FCFS spot, both in terms of the hut and the campsites outside, though the Varsity Outdoor Club does appreciate donations for the maintenance of the hut. In the summer it can be quite popular, so you may prefer to visit on a weekday if you like solace.
From the lake there are a number of peaks you can climb, namely Mount Gandalf, Mount Aragorn, Mount Shadowfax, Peregrine Peak and Frodo Peak, to name a few.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 19.20Km
Elevation Gain: 1,450m
Highest Elevation: 2,501m
Average Gradient: 15.10%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 10 – 12 Hours
– Moderate: 8 – 10 Hours
– Fast: 7 – 8 Hours
Valentine Lake is a small, heart shaped lake set at the base of Saxifrage and Cassiope Peak in the Pemberton Valley. It’s a relatively popular spot for backcountry camping, with the aforementioned peaks fairly frequently summited thanks to their inclusion in the Scrambles in SWBC book. The stats above assume climbing up Saxifrage.
Obviously there are no reservations or facilities here, but there’s usually enough space for whoever shows up to set up a tent next to the lake. Accessing the lake requires some rough FSR driving, especially if you intend to drive to the end of the road. Usually you can park lower down in an SUV. As always in the Pemberton Valley, this is grizzly country, so prepare accordingly.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 11.90Km
Elevation Gain: 969m
Highest Elevation: 1,053m
Average Gradient: 16.29%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Moderate
Time Needed:
– Slow: 5 – 6 Hours
– Moderate: 4 – 5 Hours
– Fast: 3 – 4 Hours
Deeks Lake is a relatively popular camping spot near the beginning (or end) of the Howe Sound Crest Trail. On its own, Deeks Lake is a fairly average hike, but if you combine it with other options it becomes a much more worthwhile offering, particularly if you complete the entire Howe Sound Crest Trail through hike. There are several camping options along the HSCT, namely Deeks Lake, Brunswick Lake, Magnesia Meadows and Unnecessary Mountain. None of these require a reservation as they’re all considered Wilderness Camping.
If you just plan to go to Deeks Lake, the obvious extension option would be Mount Windsor.
Backcountry Camping in Washington
The above list sticks to backcountry camping and overnight hiking in Vancouver, but just south of the border there are an abundance of fantastic camping options as well, likely far more than SWBC can offer. Many of these aren’t all that much further (sometimes even closer) than the BC options, so I figured they’re worth consideration as well.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 32.50Km (20.2 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,520m (4,987 Ft)
Highest Elevation: 2,390m (7,841 Ft)
Average Gradient: 9.35%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Very High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 12 – 16 Hours
– Moderate: 10 – 12 Hours
– Fast: 8 – 10 Hours
The Enchantments is a world class backcountry region offering endless opportunity for exploration for all sorts of recreationalists. This is one of Washingtons most popular spots (rightfully so), with countless day hikers and campers visiting every single day during the summer. Fit parties can hike the entire Enchantments thru hike in a day, but most prefer to try and snag a camp spot and enjoy a few days there. Unfortunately, due to its popularity, getting a camp spot can be incredibly difficult, with a lottery system in place and reportedly less than 2% of applicants managing to stay there. There’s no harm in trying though! Details for camping can be found on the USDA Forest Service website.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 15.10Km (9.4 miles)
Elevation Gain: 960m (3,150ft)
Highest Elevation: 1,600m (5,250ft)
Average Gradient: 12.70%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 7 – 8 Hours
– Moderate: 6 – 7 Hours
– Fast: 5 – 6 Hours
Gothic Basin is another outrageously scenic backcountry spot in Washington, and this one doesn’t require any kind of reservations to stay there. That being said, it is very popular, so you want to get there early if you plan to go on a weekend in the summer. There’s a few different locations in the basin to camp at, but the most popular by far is on the shores of Foggy Lake. While there are quite a few spots to set up a tent, given it is very popular you may have to backtrack down to one of the smaller lakes if it’s full. This is a very sensitive environment, so don’t set up a tent outside of a clearly designated site.
There are options for summiting peaks here too, with the nearby Gothic Peak and Del Campo Peak relatively popular. Both of these require scrambling, with the latter especially requiring exposed Class 3 scrambling. People have died climbing Del Campo, so don’t take that one lightly.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 14.30Km (8.9 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,150m (3,775ft)
Highest Elevation: 2,140m (7,020ft)
Average Gradient: 16.10%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 7 – 8 Hours
– Moderate: 6 – 7 Hours
– Fast: 5 – 6 Hours
Hidden Lake Lookout is another very popular hike in Washington that many people also like to camp at. You can actually stay in the lookout (only enough room for a few people) on a FCFS basis, but it is often full, so you should bring a tent just in case. There are also camping options at the saddle just before the climb up to the lookout. Hidden Lake itself is within the North Cascades National Park, so camping there requires a backcountry camping permit that can be obtained from the National Park Service.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8Km (5 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 800m (2,625 Ft.)
Highest Elevation: 1,907m (6,256 Ft.)
Average Gradient: 20.00%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 4 – 6 Hours
– Moderate: 3 – 4 Hours
– Fast: 2 – 3 Hours
Minotaur Lake is a moderately trafficked hike near Stevens Pass in Washington, with the nearby Labyrinth Mountain an excellent option for extension. Camping here is FCFS and doesn’t require any reservations. Alternatively, you can also drop down to the nearby Theseus Lake, which no doubt will be quieter than Minotaur due to the added effort to get there.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 20.60Km (12.80 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,270m (4,167 Ft.)
Highest Elevation: 2,183m (7,162 Ft.)
Average Gradient: 12.33%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8.5 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 7.5 – 8.5 Hours
– Fast: 6.5 – 7.5 Hours
Navaho Peak is a popular hike down in the Teanaway Region of Washington. There are lots of scenic hikes in this region and undoubtedly plenty of camping spots too, but Navaho draws quite a lot of people thanks to its spacious and scenic creek filled meadows shortly below the peak. This is a beautiful spot to spend a couple of days relaxing in the alpine, with plenty of further exploration if your heart desires. It doesn’t need any reservations, just show up and find a spot to set up camp and soak it in. The stats above include summiting the peak, but if you stop at the meadows you can shave off a few kilometers and a few hundred meters of ascending.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 12.20Km (7.60 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 650m (2,133 Ft.)
Highest Elevation: 1,641m (5,384 Ft.)
Average Gradient: 10.66%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 4 – 5 Hours
– Moderate: 3.5 – 4 Hours
– Fast: 3 – 3.5 Hours
Park Butte is a very popular hike in Washington on the southern slopes of Mount Baker, and it’s also popular with backcountry campers thanks to its easy access, scenic alpine and plethora of water sources. The lookout itself is available for overnights on a FCFS basis, but it is very popular and often filled, so make sure to bring a tent as a backup. Most of the campsites are located at Bell Pass Junction, shortly before gaining the ridge that leads to the lookout. There is space for one or two tents right outside the lookout if it is full and you don’t want to head back down to Bell Pass Junction.
While Park Butte is all FCFS without the need reservations, it is very popular, so getting there early is advised. If you want to stay in the lookout itself, I would suggest going midweek.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 5.60Km (3.48 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 405m (1,329 Ft.)
Highest Elevation: 1,978m (6,490 Ft.)
Average Gradient: 14.46%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Low / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 2 – 3 Hours
– Moderate: 1.5 – 2 Hours
– Fast: 1 – 1.5 Hours
Winchester Mountain is a great little hike beginning from Twin Lakes in Washington. Twin Lakes itself is a fantastic camping spot for any car campers, but a short hike can take you to the top of Winchester Mountain where you will be greeted to incredible panoramic views. There is a small fire lookout on the summit that can host a few people, but many prefer to set up a tent just outside to soak in the views. There’s probably space for a handful of tents at the top.
All of this is FCFS without any need for reservations, even at Twin Lakes. The only caveat is that the road is quite rough to get there.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 13.20Km (8.20 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 865m (2,838 Ft.)
Highest Elevation: 1,868m (6,129 Ft.)
Average Gradient: 13.10%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 5 – 6 Hours
– Moderate: 4 – 5 Hours
– Fast: 3 – 4 Hours
Yellow Aster Butte is another popular hike in Washington, especially during the fall when the colours turn to their autumnal hues. While the hike to the peak itself doesn’t offer too many camping options, just below the peak there is a series of small lakes and tarns that offer endless camping options, all of which are FCFS without any need for reservations. This is a popular camping spot, so in the peak of summer you’re likely to see a few people around, but there’s plenty of space for everyone. If you want to explore further the nearby Keep Kool Butte is a good option, and more adventurous parties can summit Tomyhoi Peak (exposed scrambling).
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 20.60Km (12.80 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,250m (4,101 Ft.)
Highest Elevation: 2,320m
Average Gradient: 12.13%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 10 Hours
– Moderate: 7 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 6 – 7 Hours
Sahale Arm, set in North Cascades National Park, is one of Washington’s finest hikes, and its popularity is evidence of that. Most people will complete this as a day hike as camping is limited, with a backcountry permit required from the National Park Service. Details for camping can be found on the NPS website. If you are able to snag a campsite though, you’re in for one of the most stunning camping trips of your life especially if you time it for the fall colours.
Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 17Km (10.6 Miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,100m (3,600 Ft)
Highest Elevation: 2,291m (7,516 Ft)
Average Gradient: 12.94%
Effort/Reward Ratio: High / Very High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 8 – 9 Hours
– Moderate: 6.5 – 8 Hours
– Fast: 5.5 – 6.5 Hours
The Cougar Divide trail is a lesser known route into the Mount Baker Wilderness, offering breathtaking views from a series of stunning alpine meadows situated shortly below Chowder Ridge. Following this ridge will bring you to the summit of Hadley Peak, an absolutely fantastic perch right in front of the glaciers cascading off of Baker’s northern slopes.
While this is a fantastic day hike, it also makes for a stunning camping spot in the meadows, with stunning easterly views towards Mount Shuksan offering a glorious sunrise. There are no permits or reservations needed for this, just show up and enjoy it. The only issue for campers could be a lack of water sources, though if you continue hiking towards Chowder Ridge you should be able to find some creeks flowing off the snow melt that usually lingers late into the summer.
Other Backcountry Camping Hikes Near Vancouver
While the above is a fairly comprehensive list of fantastic backcountry camping opportunities in and around Vancouver, there are a few others you may want to check out if you’re still looking for more:
- Watersprite Lake – Beautiful camping in a very popular spot near Squamish. Reservations are required through the BCMC who maintain the area.
- Skyline II Trail (Mowich Campground) – The Skyline II Trail is a fairly popular hike in Manning Park, and the Mowich Campground is one relatively popular campsite along the way. You’ll need a backcountry camping permit for this, but no reservations are necessary. The views along the whole ridge are stunning.
- Hanging Lake – Set at the base of Rainbow Mountain, Rainbow Lake is a fairly popular hike, however you cannot camp there due to it being a water supply to Whistler. Alternatively, the nearby Hanging Lake permits camping, and it’s not far away. This offers great access to the backcountry, with the nearby Gin Peak, Rainbow Mountain and Spectrum Peak all nearby.
- The Heather Trail – This is a popular through hike in the summer, with several campsites along the way, namely Buckhorn, Kicking Horse and Nicomen Lake. The first two require a reservation through BC Parks, but the latter does not. Most parties will spend a few days along the trail.
- Howe Sound Crest Trail – During the summer the HSCT is a very popular through hike, with parties starting and finishing at either Cypress Resort or the Deeks Lake trailhead. Many parties will camp along the way, with campsites at Unnecessary Mountain, Magnesia Meadows, Brunswick Lake and Deeks Lake. None of these require a reservation. In the late summer, water sources can be low on unnecessary Mountain and Magnesia Meadows, so make sure to plan accordingly.
There are no doubt plenty more camping options in and around SWBC, as realistically you can camp almost anywhere if you are well prepared. Obviously, you need to be considerate of rules and regulations around where you can camp, when you need a permit/reservation etc. and you should always practice good backcountry camping etiquette, especially if you’re in bear country. Hopefully the above list gives you some ideas of where might make a suitable spot for your own ambitions.