Hiking Camelshoof Mountain near Lillooet
Contents
Camelshoof Mountain Hike Information
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 10.60Km
Elevation Gain: 835m
Highest Elevation: 1,555m
Average Gradient: 15.75%
Effort/Reward Ratio: Moderate / High
Time Needed:
– Slow: 5.5 – 6 Hours
– Moderate: 4.5 – 5.5 Hours
– Fast: 3.5 – 4.5 Hours
Dogs Permitted?: Yes
Season: ~April to November
4×4 / High Clearance Required? No
Scrambling / Exposure: None
Camelshoof Mountain Trail
Trailhead Coordinates: 50°46’10.4″N 121°51’59.5″W
Camelshoof Mountain Overview
Camelshoof Mountain is the southernmost summit of the Camelsfoot Range near Lillooet. Around 30 minutes from the town itself, Camelshoof is perhaps the most popular hike in the region, given the straightforward access and relatively simple trail to the summit (a rarity in this rugged area). While popular by Lillooet standards, given the significant drive from populated cities you are unlikely to be met with crowds, though you may see some people along the way on a summer weekend.
Despite its relatively low elevation, Camelshoof Mountain offers outstanding views over Fountain Valley from the summit, as well as a memorial bench lower down on the trail. Most parties will begin this hike from the graveled West Pavilion FSR (suitable for all vehicles), but those with higher clearance vehicles can potentially drive the first ~3km of this hike to a small parking area just below the memorial bench, reducing the hike stats to a mere 5km/600m. This drive is narrow and loose, with steep drops to one side, so you wouldn’t want to meet oncoming traffic. If you’re not confident, just park on West Pavilion FSR and hike up the road.
There is an old fire lookout on the summit which some parties choose to camp in. It’s a bare bones, windowless shack, but it does at least have a roof and side walls, and would mostly protect you from the elements.
In terms of seasonality this is likely best saved for spring / fall, though summer of course is fine as well. Lillooet tends to receive less snow than the coast, and any snow melts away earlier in the year, so even by late April you can expect the hike to be mostly snow free. Of course, the temperatures here can be scorching in the summer, so if you plan to go then an early start is strongly recommended.
Dogs are welcome on the hike.
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Is Camelshoof Mountain worthwhile?
Camelshoof Mountain offers outstanding views for a relatively simple hike, especially for those that can drive up the spur road. The views from the memorial bench alone are well worth it, though reaching the summit isn’t much further. The only reason this hike doesn’t see considerably more visitors is the distance from the Lower Mainland, requiring around a 4.5 hour drive to get there. Considering this hike can be completed in a few hours, most people will not commit to the drive out. That being said, Lillooet is an easy place to car camp, so if you’re willing to drive out and spend a couple of days in the area, Camelshoof is well worth a visit.
How difficult is the hike to Camelshoof Mountain?
This is a steady hike with a consistently steep gradient for the most part. The last kilometer gets a bit steeper but overall it’s not too bad. There is no scrambling or exposure along the trail. The biggest challenge for most parties will likely be the heat, so make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Camelshoof Mountain Route Information
This hike begins from the side of the well groomed West Pavilion FSR, which is around a 30 minute drive from the town of Lillooet. The FSR itself is very scenic as it meanders through Fountain Valley, high above the Fraser River down below. Take care on the drive and avoid speeding, as if you were to go over the edge you quite likely would not stop rolling until you reach the bottom of the valley. As noted, parties with vehicles that have decent clearance can drive up the spur road at the start of this hike to a small parking area (2-3 vehicles max) just below 1,100m. This drive is very narrow, loose and scattered with small water bars, but likely doesn’t require 4×4.
Assuming you parked on the main FSR, your first task is to trudge up the spur road, with nothing of note along the way. After 3km of steady hiking you will pass by the small parking area noted above, before topping out at a beautiful viewpoint over Fountain Valley. The memorial bench is located here, and offers staggering views high above the Fraser River and peaks beyond. Some parties may even stop here as the views are that good, and there is evidence of camping at this lookout as well.
Continuing ahead, the trail now descends slightly, and the road you’ve been hiking on gives way to a narrower track. An ATV or dirt bike can likely continue on a lot further, though I’m not well versed in their capabilities so take that with a pinch of salt. The hike now climbs through sparse forest to a subsummit at around 1,350m.
You’ll now drop down around 50m before beginning the final climb up to the actual summit. This last stretch is perhaps the steepest part of the day, and the ground can be a bit dry/loose, especially on the descent, so take care with your footing. Soon enough you will top out on Camelshoof Mountain where you will be greeted by an old fire lookout. Some people camp in this lookout, though it is certainly basic, with no windows and nothing inside.
The summit views are stunning, with Fountain Valley down below, and the backdrop of huge peaks like Mount Brew and Mount McLean on the horizon. Once you’re finished at the top, you just retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
When should I hike Camelshoof Mountain?
Spring or early summer is perhaps the ideal time to tackle Camelshoof as temperatures tend to be more tolerable at this time of year. It’s a nice opportunity to escape the snow covered peaks on the coast at this time as well. Of course, summer works fine, just make sure to keep an eye on the temperatures as the heat can be extreme in Lillooet in the middle of summer. ALl in all, late April to October is probably your best bet, though early November may also work.
Top Tip
If you are planning to tackle Camelshoof as an overnight stay, you have a few options for camping. You can camp in the old fire lookout on the summit, you can probably pitch a tent near the memorial bench, and for people wanting the comfort of their car there are plenty of camping options near the town of Lillooet as well. The BC Hydro Rec site is free, though it can be popular on a weekend.
In terms of the drive, I like to drive out to Lillooet via the Duffey and return via the Fraser Canyon. This creates a stunning looped drive that is a worthwhile trip in itself. It also avoids the worst of the traffic heading back into the city. This of course depends on where you live.
Lillooet is bear country, including grizzlies, so make sure to prepare accordingly.
