Lake Lovely Water is a fantastic mountain lake in southwestern British Columbia, about 11.5 km (7.1 mi) northwest of Squamish. Located at the height of 1164 m (3,822 ft), it is surrounded by rugged granite peaks in Tantalus Provincial Park. The area around the lake is perfect for hiking, fishing, canoeing, camping, mountaineering, and skiing.
Depending on the snowfall and temperatures, the best time for hiking at Lake Lovely Water runs from mid-July through October. The trailhead starts on the west side of the Squamish River, and the only way to get there is to cross the river on a boat. Several jet boat operators offer their services at the river, people also bring their own canoes and kayaks. The short trail has a steep part when it climbs up the valley wall. However, a forest by the river provides plenty of places where hikers can rest. If you camp for the night, you can continue hiking up the creek the next morning until the campsite to Niobe Basin. Mt. Niobe, Mt. Omega and Mt. Pelops also offer lots of beautiful hiking trails.
Practical info
When is the ideal period to plan a visit to Lake Lovely Water?
Lake Lovely Water is best visited from mid-July to October annually, with the possibility of extending the window between mid-June to November, depending on snowfall and temperatures of the area. One can engage in outdoor activities during summer months, including camping, fishing, canoeing, and hiking. During winter months, skiing and snowshoeing are perfect outdoor activities to explore. Show more
Is there more than one way to access the trailhead to reach Lake Lovely Water, and which mode of transportation is the best?
Transportation to the trailhead leading to Lake Lovely Water is available exclusively by boat. Jet boat operators are present along the Squamish River and take approximately ten minutes to arrive. Alternatively, visitors can access the trail by bringing along their canoe or kayak. The trek is reasonably short, but the trailhead involves a steep climb through the valley wall. Show more
What are the other outdoor activities besides hiking that tourists can indulge in at Lake Lovely Water?
Apart from hiking, visitors to Lake Lovely Water premises can enjoy an array of outdoor activities such as trout fishing, camping, and canoeing. The creeks feeding the lake are ideal sites for fishing. The lake being calm and transparent makes it suitable for canoeing and kayaking. Numerous campsites, ranging from basic to fully equipped amenities, are situated around the area. Show more
What is the trail's average distance and difficulty, leading to Lake Lovely Water?
To reach Lake Lovely Water, the trail extends for approximately two to three hours, making it relatively short. The forest has several places by the river providing rest stops for hikers. However, the steep climb through the valley wall can be challenging for first-timers. The trail has an elevation gain of about 610 meters or 2000 feet making it moderately difficult. Show more
What is the altitude of Tantalus Mountain Range that surrounds Lake Lovely Water?
The Tantalus Mountain Range coinciding with Lake Lovely Water has over 2,700 meters or 8,858 feet tall peaks above sea level. They are an incredible sight with rocky granite peaks illuming the place encircled by ice fields and magnificent glaciers. The mountains around the lake include Mount Niobe, Mount Omega, and Mount Pelops. The area caters to visitors of all levels and offers multiple climbing courses and routes. Show more
