Lillooet Lake (north end) - Image 1
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Lillooet Lake North End

4.6
·80 reviews·, Canada

Discover Lillooet Lake's stunning green waters and majestic mountain backdrop. A serene escape with warm swimming and breathtaking sunsets.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Fewer crowds, crisp air

CrowdLow
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Lillooet Lake (north end) - Image 1

Lillooet Lake North End

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Fewer crowds, crisp air

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Lillooet Lake's stunning green waters and majestic mountain backdrop. A serene escape with warm swimming and breathtaking sunsets.

4.6
(80 reviews)

"Beautiful green coloured lake with breathtaking views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Gravel Road Caution

The road to the north end is unpaved. Drive slowly and carefully, especially after rain.

💰 Camping Fees Apply

Camping fees are active from April 1 to October 31. Plan accordingly for your stay.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Strawberry Point Recreation Area

Strawberry Point Recreation Area

South end of Lillooet Lake

Offers camping and day-use with beach access. A popular spot for enjoying the lake's beauty.

Breathtaking Lake Views

Breathtaking Lake Views

Various points along the lake

Experience stunning mountain backdrops and the unique green-hued waters of Lillooet Lake.

Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Western shores of the lake

Witness magical sunsets painting the sky from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing the North End

The north end of Lillooet Lake is primarily accessed via unpaved gravel roads. While some reviews mention Google Maps providing outdated routes, stick to marked roads. Be prepared for a 5-6 km drive on gravel after turning off the main road. Check BC Recreation Sites and Trails for camping fee information, as it applies from April to October.

Respecting Private & Indigenous Lands

Many areas around Lillooet Lake are private campgrounds or on Indigenous land. Respect signage and private property. While beautiful, finding public access points to the lake can be challenging, so plan your visit around designated day-use or camping areas like Strawberry Point.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, crisp air
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Warm water, beautiful sunsets
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

We're heading to Pemberton for a weekend away and I've heard that Lillooet lake is beautiful for stargazing. Has anyone gone? Recommended places to sit and gaze?

🚗 Gravel Road Caution

The road to the north end is unpaved. Drive slowly and carefully, especially after rain. Reddit

💰 Camping Fees Apply

Camping fees are active from April 1 to October 31. Plan accordingly for your stay. Reddit

reddit.com

Lillooet Lake Camping

reddit.com

If you haven't driven on the 40 from Lillooet to Gold Bridge, you really should. If your vehicle can handle it, continue on the Hurley to Pemberton.

⚠️ Respect Private Property

Many areas are private or on Indigenous land. Stick to designated public access points. Reddit

🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In

Leave no trace. Some visitors report finding broken glass on beaches. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Gravel Road Caution

The road to the north end is unpaved. Drive slowly and carefully, especially after rain. Reddit

💰 Camping Fees Apply

Camping fees are active from April 1 to October 31. Plan accordingly for your stay. Reddit

⚠️ Respect Private Property

Many areas are private or on Indigenous land. Stick to designated public access points. Reddit

🗑️ Pack Out What You Pack In

Leave no trace. Some visitors report finding broken glass on beaches. Reddit

🛶 Kayaking Potential

Water can be cold and windy in early spring, but ideal for kayaking later in the season. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(80 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lillooet Lake is lauded for its stunning green waters and breathtaking mountain scenery, offering a beautiful escape. Visitors enjoy the warm lake for swimming and the picturesque sunsets. However, access can be challenging due to private lands, and some areas suffer from litter, requiring visitors to be mindful of their impact.

"Beautiful lake with mountain views but hard to find a spot to stop and look at. So many private camping spots or government places on indigenous land so we couldn’t walk down to the lake to get better views."

Joshua C.K.

"Beautiful green coloured lake with breathtaking views.
It has a camping and day use recreational area at strawberry point as well. Google sometimes confuses and still shows the ood route which is few 100 meters ahead of the actual marked unpaved road. The recreational area is 5-6 km after you turn from the main road on the unpaved gravel road. We visted in the first week of Apr 2023, water was cold and day was windy so couldn't enter the lake or do the kayaking.
Will try next time."

Ankit Rajvanshi

"Lillooet Lake is by far the most beautiful lake I’ve swam in. The water is warm and teal blue. Rocky/sandy beaches with lots of trees. Breath taking sunsets from 8-9:30pm."

Karlee P

What People Like

Beautiful green lake
Mountain views
Warm water for swimming

What People Dislike

Limited public access
Litter on beaches
Gravel road conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to the north end involves unpaved gravel roads. Be aware that Google Maps might show outdated routes. Follow marked roads for about 5-6 km after turning off the main highway. It's advisable to have a vehicle suitable for gravel roads. Reddit

No, the road leading to the north end of Lillooet Lake is an unpaved gravel road. Drive with caution and at a reduced speed. Reddit

Drive slowly and be mindful of potholes or loose gravel. If you have a vehicle with higher clearance, it can be beneficial, but many cars can manage if driven carefully. Reddit

Yes, some visitors have noted that Google Maps can sometimes direct you to an older, incorrect route. Always follow the clearly marked, current access roads. Reddit

While possible in most cars, driving slowly and cautiously on the gravel road is essential. If you plan on exploring further off the main path, a vehicle with higher clearance might be preferable. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Camping fees apply at designated recreation sites like Strawberry Point from April 1 to October 31. Day-use areas may also have fees. Check the BC Recreation Sites and Trails website for current pricing. Reddit

Camping fees are enforced annually from April 1st through October 31st. Outside of these dates, camping might be free, but always verify with official sources. Reddit

Day-use areas, such as Strawberry Point, typically have fees during the operational season. It's best to check the BC Recreation Sites and Trails website for the most up-to-date information on day-use access and costs. Reddit

While fees may not apply outside of April-October, it's crucial to confirm if camping is permitted and if any regulations are still in effect. Always check official BC Parks or Recreation Sites and Trails information. Reddit

The most reliable source for camping fees and regulations is the official BC Recreation Sites and Trails website. They provide details for all managed recreation areas. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Strawberry Point is a well-known recreation area with camping and day-use facilities offering lake access. Finding other public access points can be challenging due to private and Indigenous lands. Reddit

Yes, some visitors describe the water as warm and teal blue, making it a beautiful place to swim. However, water temperatures can vary, and it may be cold in early spring. Reddit

The lake features rocky and sandy beaches, often surrounded by trees, offering a natural and scenic environment. Reddit

Kayaking and boating are popular activities. Be mindful of wind and water temperature, especially in the shoulder seasons. Reddit

While generally a great spot, some campers have reported issues with others walking through their sites. Be considerate of your neighbors and their space. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while evenings provide stunning sunset views. The unique green color of the lake is captivating in any light. Reddit

Focus on the lake's vibrant green water against the mountain backdrop. Sunsets from the western shores are particularly dramatic. Reddit

Capture the reflections of the surrounding mountains on the lake's surface. The contrast between the water color and the rugged landscape is a key photographic element. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky. Reddit

While pull-offs are limited, you can capture scenic shots from the road. However, stopping at designated areas like Strawberry Point offers better opportunities for lake access and varied compositions. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lillooet Lake offers a beautiful natural escape for families. Strawberry Point is a good starting point, providing camping and day-use facilities that are generally family-friendly. The sandy and rocky beaches are great for kids to play on, and the lake's warm, teal-blue water is inviting for a dip on warmer days. Reddit

When visiting with children, be extra vigilant about the 'Leave No Trace' principle, especially regarding litter like broken glass, as mentioned in reviews. Reddit Ensure you have appropriate supervision near the water. The gravel road access requires slow and careful driving, so keep this in mind for car journeys with young children. Planning around designated recreation areas will offer the most straightforward experience for families looking to enjoy the lake's scenery and activities.

🏕️ Campers

Lillooet Lake is a sought-after camping spot, with Strawberry Point being a popular choice. Camping fees are in effect from April 1 to October 31, so be prepared for this cost during the main season. Reddit While many campers find great spots with beach access, be aware of potential minor inconveniences, such as other campers walking through sites. Reddit

Remember to pack out all your trash, as litter, including broken glass, has been reported on some beaches. Reddit The natural beauty, including stunning sunsets, makes it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a serene camping experience amidst mountain views. Ensure your vehicle is prepared for the gravel road access leading to the campsites.

🚗 Day-Trippers

For a day trip to Lillooet Lake, Strawberry Point recreation area is a recommended destination, offering day-use facilities. Be aware that access to the lake can be limited due to private and Indigenous lands, so planning around designated public areas is key. Reddit

The drive involves navigating unpaved gravel roads, so allow extra time and drive cautiously. Reddit The lake's unique green color and surrounding mountain vistas provide beautiful scenery for a relaxing day out. Remember to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles and pack out everything you bring in, especially considering reports of litter on some beaches. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Gravel Roads

Accessing the north end of Lillooet Lake requires navigating unpaved gravel roads. While many vehicles can manage, it's crucial to drive with caution. Reviews suggest that GPS navigation, particularly from Google Maps, can sometimes be unreliable, directing visitors to older or incorrect routes. Always follow the clearly marked, current access roads. Expect a drive of about 5-6 kilometers on gravel after turning off the main highway. Slow down, be mindful of potholes, and watch for loose gravel to ensure a safe journey. Reddit

Having a vehicle with slightly higher clearance can be beneficial, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main access points. However, with careful driving, most standard cars can handle the road. The key is to prioritize a slow and steady pace, allowing you to react to any unexpected road conditions. This approach not only ensures safety but also allows you to better appreciate the scenic drive as you approach the lake. Reddit

Understanding Access and Land Use

Lillooet Lake is surrounded by a mix of private campgrounds and Indigenous lands, which can make finding public access points challenging. While the lake itself is a natural wonder, much of its shoreline is not publicly accessible for casual wandering. Visitors often find themselves needing to utilize designated recreation areas like Strawberry Point for direct lake access. It's essential to respect all signage indicating private property or Indigenous territories to avoid trespassing. Reddit

Strawberry Point is frequently mentioned as a reliable spot for both camping and day-use, offering a designated area to enjoy the lake. Planning your visit around these established recreation sites is the most straightforward way to experience Lillooet Lake. Be aware that while the lake is beautiful, spontaneous beach access might be limited, so research your intended access point beforehand. Reddit

Camping Etiquette and Lake Enjoyment

Lillooet Lake is a popular camping destination, and while many visitors have positive experiences, some practical advice emerges from reviews. One common point is the importance of respecting fellow campers' space; some have noted instances of people walking through their campsites to reach the creek for fishing. Being mindful of your surroundings and maintaining a considerate attitude contributes to a better experience for everyone. Reddit

Furthermore, a significant concern raised by visitors is the presence of litter, particularly broken glass on beaches. This highlights the 'Leave No Trace' principle: pack out everything you pack in and be mindful of your impact. The lake itself is praised for its warm, teal-blue water and rocky/sandy beaches, making it ideal for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty. Sunsets are also a highlight, with many enjoying the spectacle from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Reddit

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