Travel Guide of Cheakamus Lake in Canada by Influencers and Travelers

Cheakamus Lake is a lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park on the southeastern outskirts of the resort municipality of Whistler, British Columbia. It has an area of 5.7 km².

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Pictures and Stories of Cheakamus Lake from Influencers

Picture from Kate Joyce who have traveled to Cheakamus Lake

green pine trees near mountain under white clouds during daytime in Cheakamus Lake Canada

Forestry road from Cheakamus Lake, Whistler BC ...click to read more

Experienced by @Kate Joyce | ©Unsplash

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How to visit Cheakamus Lake ?

To get to Cheakamus Lake, first fly into Vancouver International Airport, then rent a car or take a shuttle to Whistler, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive. From Whistler Village, drive south on Highway 99 for about 9 kilometers, and then turn left onto the well-marked Cheakamus Lake Road. The gravel road leads you to the trailhead parking lot, where you can start your hike to the lake. The hike is an easy 3-kilometer trek, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels.

It's essential to book your backcountry camping permit in advance if you plan to camp overnight at one of the designated campsites near the lake. These permits are available online through the BC Parks website. Ensure you have a valid parking pass for the trailhead as well.

The costs associated with visiting Cheakamus Lake mainly include transportation, accommodations, and meals. If you plan to camp, the backcountry camping fee is around $10 per person per night. Parking at the trailhead is typically around $5 per day.

The best things to do at Cheakamus Lake include hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. If you're looking for more challenging hikes, the Helm Creek Trail and the High Note Trail offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery!

For dining options, you'll find plenty of choices in nearby Whistler Village. A couple of great choices are the Rimrock Cafe, known for its seafood and game dishes, and Creekbread, which offers delicious wood-fired pizzas. For a unique dining experience, consider the Bearfoot Bistro, which features an extensive menu and an ice bar.

When it comes to accommodations, you can either camp at Cheakamus Lake, or stay at one of the many hotels or lodges in Whistler Village. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, consider the Fairmont Chateau Whistler or the Westin Resort & Spa. For a more budget-friendly option, try the Pangea Pod Hotel or the HI Whistler Hostel.

Off the Beaten Path:

For a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience while visiting Cheakamus Lake, consider exploring the Whistler Train Wreck. This collection of graffiti-covered train boxcars has been in the forest since 1956 when a train derailed nearby. A well-maintained trail leads to the train wreck, and you can wander through the colorful boxcars, snap photos, and enjoy a different side of the area's history. To reach the train wreck trailhead, head south on Highway 99 from Whistler Village and turn left onto Jane Lakes Road. The trailhead is just a short distance down the road.

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Map of Cheakamus Lake

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Learn More about Cheakamus Lake

Lake Cheakamus is located at 915 meters above sea level and is generally accessible from June to October.

It is well known that it has its microclimate, which can add an element of surprise to any visit. To enjoy the experience in comfort and to be prepared for all eventualities, bring warm, waterproof clothing, gloves, and a hat. Also add to your list the essentials for a nature hike, including a first aid kit, water, and food. And as preparation for every adventure dictates, be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.

The Cheakamus Lake trailhead is about eight kilometers from Whistler.

Take the Sea-to-Sky Highway and turn left at the Function Junction/Cheakamus Crossing to follow Cheakamus Lake Road. Stay left at the next intersection and take the forest service road, which spurs off less than half a mile from the Sea-to-Sky Highway. You will come directly to the Cheakamus Lake Road parking lot where you will find a trail map and restrooms. Take advantage of both before you begin your journey.

The 6.5-kilometer trail is steady, wide, and well maintained. The hike is easy and you will gain about 80 meters in elevation.

There is only one junction about 1.6 kilometers from the trailhead where you could branch off to Helm Creek/Taylor Meadows and continue to Black Tusk, a rock formation. This is a great hike, but much longer, and requires more resources and endurance. You'll start to see Cheakamus Lake about 2.8 kilometers into the trail when you see the clearings at Cheakamus Lake Campground. The trail continues for about four kilometers to Singing Creek Campground. The section between the two campsites is probably the most scenic, so it's well worth the effort to hike to the end of the trail along the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions by Travelers planning a trip to Cheakamus Lake

What to do at Cheakamus Lake ?

Hike Cheakamus Lake

There's a good reason why the Cheakamus Lake Trail is a Whistler classic: it's only a half-day hike, so you have time to spend there and then come back at a reasonable hour to enjoy the "after" - all the festive Whistler Village stuff. With great views and a flawless trail, a hike to Cheakamus Lake is as much about the first visit as the tenth.

Visit Cheakamus Lake by bike

Cheakamus Lake is one of the few places in Garibaldi Provincial Park where you can bike. If you do get on your bike, keep in mind that pedestrians have the right of way and don't go off the trail, as you will be venturing into a protected area with a fragile ecosystem. You can embark on a long walk by starting your journey at the Cheakamus Crossing neighborhood parking lot. Take the Far Side Trail, then the Fars Out Trail, pedal a tiny bit on the logging road, and return to the Cheakamus Lake Trail as soon as you cross the parking lot that is used in the summer.

Camping at Cheakamus Lake

You can have an even more beautiful experience by watching the sunset or sunrise at Cheakamus Lake. You can go through BC Parks to reserve a site at Cheakamus Lake Campground or Singing Creek Campground. Reservations are required and space is limited, so be sure to book early. Please note that campfires are not permitted at either campground. Bring a lantern if you want to snuggle up to a light source.