Archie MontroseHaving visited Joffre Lakes myself, I can honestly say that it’s absolutely stunning. Everywhere you look feels like it’s straight out of a dream, as if you’ve walked into a real-life desktop wallpaper.
The vibrant turquoise waters, the lush trees, and the snow-capped peaks create an atmosphere of pure bliss. If you’re craving a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle and bustle, stay with me as I share all about my unforgettable visit to this surreal slice of paradise.
Where is Joffre Lakes?
Joffre Lakes is situated east of Pemberton, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Vancouver. The area features a hike that takes you to three stunning lakes and is located north of Pemberton, along Duffey Lake Road.
How to Get to Joffre Lakes
By car: head to the Lions Gate Bridge and go west on Highway 1. Before Horseshoe Bay, follow the signs to switch to Highway 99 North. Stay on Highway 99 North through Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton.
At the T-junction in Mount Currie, turn right to continue on Highway 99. After crossing the bridge over the Lillooet River, the road will climb steeply with curving switchbacks.
About 10 minutes after the switchbacks, look for signs for Joffre Lakes Provincial Park.
By bus: Parkbus offers dozens of departure dates to Joffre Lakes, with most trips on weekends, with some weekday options.
Things to Know
Joffre Lakes Day Passes
You can get free day passes to Joffre Lakes on the BC Parks website. If you’re visiting from May 16 to October 31, you’re gonna need this. Passes run out fast, so make sure to book as early as two days before your trip.
Joffre Lakes Trail Stats
Location: Joffre Lakes Provincial Park
Trailhead: From the parking lot just off the Duffey Lake Road north of Pemberton
Distance: 9.5 km / 5.9 mi round trip
Elevation Gain: 360 m/ 1,216 ft
Day-Use Pass: Required from May 16 to October 31, 2024
Dogs: Not allowed on any trails
Toilets: At the trailhead, Middle Joffre Lake Viewpoint, Upper Joffre Lake Viewpoint, and the Upper Joffre Lake Campground
Parking
Joffre Lakes has two car parks: the main one right by the trail entrance and an overflow lot 250 meters away. These fill up fast, but the reservation system has helped reduce the crowd, so you should find a spot.
If both are full, you might need to wait for someone to leave. Avoid parking on the highway shoulder, as you will get towed!
What to Do and See in Joffre Lakes
Check out the Lower Joffre Lake Viewpoint
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Address: Duffey, Lake Road, Mount Currie, BC V0N 2K0, Canada
Phone: +1 800-689-9025
The first viewpoint you’ll come across is just right after you go down an intersection. This viewpoint is a real treat—complete with a bench so you can relax or take photos.
If you look up from here, you’ll catch a glimpse of glacier-topped peaks that make you feel like you’re staring into a postcard.
Some people might prefer to just stay here, but hey, if you’re low on time or stamina, this viewpoint is still an awesome spot.
Marvel at the Turquoise Waters at Middle Joffre Lake Viewpoint
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Address: Duffey, Lake Road, Mount Currie, BC V0N 2K0, Canada
Phone: +1 800-689-9025
After an hour or so of hiking Joffre Lakes from the trailhead, you’ll finally see the turquoise waters of Middle Joffre Lake.
This post has a main viewpoint where you can either take a quick power snack or take photos. After that, it’s worth hiking a few more minutes until you reach the famous floating log.
Now, this log is quite popular, so expect that there’s gonna be a line of people who want to take a photo standing on the log.
Drop by Holloway Falls
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Address: Duffey, Lake Road, Mount Currie, BC V0N 2K0, Canada
Phone: +1 800-689-9025
As you progress into the trail, you’ll soon have to ascend a small hill, and after a few minutes you’ll come across the fantastic Holloway Falls.
Nestled between Middle Joffre Lake and Upper Joffre Lake, Holloway Falls is a stunning waterfall that bursts from the forest in a wide, frothy torrent. It crashes dramatically past the trail, adding a dynamic touch to your hike.
Head to the Upper Joffre Lake Viewpoint
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Address: Duffey, Lake Road, Mount Currie, BC V0N 2K0, Canada
Phone: +1 800-689-9025
This is our favorite spot. It offers a magnificent view of Slalok Mountain, adorned with the Stonecrop and Matier Glaciers. As you look across, you’ll see glaciers stretched all the way to the valley to where the highway is.
Take a Guided Hiking Tour
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Meeting point: 601 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1G1, Canada
If you’d like a more structured hike, consider taking the “Scenic Joffre Lakes Hike” tour. This 5-hour tour will take you to the three glaciers and you won’t have to worry about transportation as it’s included.
A packed lunch is also included in the tour, and you’d be taking this at the upper lake.
Where to Eat and Drink near Joffre Lakes
SanehThai
Address: 2021 Pemberton Portage Rd, Mount Currie, BC V0N 2K0, Canada
Phone: +1 778-319-8330
Pricing: $$
This restaurant is a true hidden gem! We enjoyed deep-fried chicken wings, spicy noodles, and finished with some amazing homemade ice cream that’s rare in these parts.
Be sure to treat yourself to the handmade ice cream and crispy roti for dessert—you won’t regret it!
The Bread Warehouse
Address: 1920 Carpenter Rd #1, Pemberton, BC V0N 2L1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-894-7043
Pricing: $$
This charming spot tucked inside Pemberton’s industrial park is a must-visit for freshly baked bread, pastries, and café drinks. They also offer a selection of hearty sandwiches for a full meal.
The bakery proudly uses organic Canadian grains for all its bread, making it one of the best in the Sea-to-Sky region. With great coffee and even better baked goods, it’s definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.
The Hwy. Cafe
Address: 7318 Industrial Way, Pemberton, BC V0N 2L0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-894-7021
Pricing: $$
This café off the highway is the perfect spot to stop for a bite, offering beautiful views alongside a simple yet tasty menu.
They have a few options, including some vegetarian choices. We tried the Crunch Burger, BBQ Wrap (which was delicious), and Inferno Fries (great!). It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re passing through.
The Pony
Address: 1392 Pemberton Portage Rd, Pemberton, BC V0N 2L0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-894-5700
Pricing: $$
This place serves some of the best gastropub food in BC, with an excellent beer selection and fantastic dishes. We loved exploring the specials and seasonal menu, which offered a ton of great options.
And here’s a fun bonus: you can buy a dozen farm-fresh eggs for just $6. Why not take advantage of that?
Town Square Restaurant
Address: 7439 Frontier St, Pemberton, BC V0N 2L1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-894-3364
Pricing: $$
This restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere with seating options inside featuring charming decorations or on the outside patio with stunning mountain views.
We tried the bison burger with fries, and it was absolutely delicious. The brioche bun, house sauce, and juicy, fresh meat combined for an incredibly well-rounded flavor.
Where to Stay near Joffre Lakes
The Cabin at Sweetwater Lane Farm
Address: 1937 Sweetwater Ln, Mount Currie, BC V0N 2K0, Canada
Phone: +1 604-966-4396
Pricing: $$
The Cabin at Sweetwater Lane Farm is the ultimate nature escape. It’s like a combination of a fancy room and a rustic cabin in the woods.
The firepit, sauna, and hot tub are some of its amenities. Inside the cabin is three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The farm animals are an added bonus and they’ll even give you a tour around the property.
Ivey Lake Lodge
Address: 1702 Reid Rd, Pemberton, BC V0N 2L0, Canada
Phone: 604-894-6456
Pricing: $$
Ivey Lake Lodge is perfectly situated, surrounded by towering evergreens and just a short walk from the lake and dock, offering some of the best views you’ll ever experience.
The scenery is stunning, with breathtaking vistas right from the lake. You’ll find a range of cozy cottages to stay in. The loft bedrooms, in particular, offer plenty of room to stretch out.
Pemberton Valley Lodge
Address: 1490 Sea-to-Sky Highway, Pemberton, BC V0N 2L1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-894-2000
Pricing: $$
Located at the base of Mt. Currie and just 28 minutes north of Whistler Ski Resort, this all-suite hotel in Pemberton Valley offers suites with kitchens.
You can enjoy a range of amenities, including a free ski shuttle, bike rentals, a gym, and a heated outdoor pool with stunning mountain views. There’s also a hot tub and an electric car-charging station available.
Summit Lodge
Address: 4359 Main St, Whistler, BC V8E 1B5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-932-2778
Pricing: $$
Founded in 1997, Summit Lodge is a charming, independent boutique hotel in Whistler Village North. Its modern, relaxed rooms come with fireplaces, pull-out sofas, balconies, and kitchenettes.
You can enjoy complimentary ski storage and lift shuttles, along with pet-friendly amenities like bowls and treats. The lodge also features a casual Pacific Northwest restaurant and a stylish sushi bar.
Glacier’s Reach
Address: 4388 Northlands Blvd, Whistler, BC V0N 1C6, Canada
Phone: +1 866-944-7853
Pricing: $$
Located in Whistler Village and just 50 minutes from Joffre Lakes, this property offers units with private hot tubs for a truly relaxing stay.
Each apartment features a large hot tub on the lower balcony, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. The grounds are beautifully maintained, with lush mature trees and vibrant flower beds enhancing the serene atmosphere.
