Hidden Banff-like Spots Around Vancouver

When visiting Vancouver, most people don't miss the popular attractions. However, there are some lesser-known spots that are definitely worth a visit. One such place is Joffre Lake, a glacial lake located 160 kilometers from Vancouver. To get there, take Highway 99 north from Vancouver, passing through the Sea-to-Sky Highway, Shannon Falls, and Whistler before reaching the trailhead. (Bonus tip at the end) ⛺: Due to the small parking lot and environmental protection measures, this remote park has a limited entry policy. You need to secure a reservation ticket (free) to enter the park. These tickets are released at 7 AM, two days before your planned visit. 🛬: It takes only five minutes to walk from the parking lot to the first lake, Lower Lake, which is an easy and delightful start. From the first lake, walk back 100 meters and turn left to enter the trail leading to the second lake. This is the longest stretch of the hike. Middle Lake, the second lake, appears suddenly after a challenging hike, without any prior warning. The lake is surrounded by floating logs and has a stunning emerald green color. Continue uphill for about 30 minutes to reach the third lake. This part of the trail includes two rocky sections but is manageable. Along the way, you'll pass a waterfall fed by melting snow from the mountain top, which flows into the third lake. Upper Lake, the third lake, is expansive, with the lake surface reflecting the snow-capped mountains and sky. It's a breathtaking scene. There are many large rocks around the lake where you can sit, rest, and enjoy the serene beauty. The entire Joffre Lakes hike took me and two visitors four and a half hours to complete, including two hours spent taking photos and eating. I highly recommend this hike to anyone visiting Vancouver. If you can't make it to Banff, Joffre Lakes is a must-visit for its pristine mountain scenery and fresh air. The last tip: If you leave Vancouver at 4 AM, you can avoid the reservation requirement. Although it's hard to secure a reservation ticket two days in advance, arriving before 7 AM means you don't need one. So, if you're determined to go, skip the reservation, go to bed early, and leave at 4 AM. You'll arrive by 7 AM, enjoy a refreshing morning hike, and can return early in the afternoon. If you stay in Whistler the night before, leaving at 6 AM should be sufficient.