Near Gwillim Lakes Trail
View from Drinnon Lake.
Near Gwillim Lakes Trail
Tarns in the meadow by Drinnon Pass.
Near Gwillim Lakes Trail
Somewhat smoky view on the way to Gwillim Lakes.
Near Gwillim Lakes Trail
Gwillim Lakes, Devil's Dome in background.
Near Gwillim Lakes Trail
Rocky outcropping just before Gwillim Lakes.

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Driving Directions
Hike Trail

Gwillim Lakes Trail

5.0 (1 Rating)
Excellent alpine trail with terrific mountain views and beautiful lakes.
3.3
mi
Distance
2,155
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
BirdingCommonly BackpackedFall ColorsLakeSwimmingViewsWaterfallWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.31mi
Distance
2,155ft
Elevation Gain
454ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
7,055ft
High Point
5,327ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Most of the road to the trailhead is easy 2WD on a well-graded gravel road, but last few KMs or so get progressively rougher and bushier, so where you start depends on what vehicle you have and how comfortable you are with driving on the road. This track leads from the end of the road/upper parking. The trail is relatively busy for the area, well-graded and easy to follow. There are some steep spots and a few ups and downs, so cumulative elevation gain is quite a bit more than net gain (I believe 800 m vs around 500 m). After an hour or so you'll reach Drinnon Lake, which is a nice spot to take a break, has camping spots available, or could be a turnaround point if you want a shorter day. You then ascend up to a plateau and plateau/alpine meadow where the views start to open up while you rest your legs on the flat stretch. You then descend after the pass and finally make the final ascent through a valley up to Gwillim Lakes and an expansive meadow with plenty of other tarns and rewarding views. Lots of camping potential at Gwillim Lakes.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Tony Redford