Lost Lake Whistler BC
A picturesque mountain lake near Whistler Village, offering swimming, sunbathing, and scenic trails for hiking and biking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Lost Lake Whistler BC
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque mountain lake near Whistler Village, offering swimming, sunbathing, and scenic trails for hiking and biking.
"Lovely lake, easy to find from Whistler / Blackcomb village and easy to walk around."
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike from Village
Parking is limited; walking or biking from Whistler Village is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
🐸 Mind the Toads!
Late July/early Aug means toad migration. Trails may have temporary closures. :frog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lost Lake Beach
South end of the lake
Sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and family fun. A dock offers a fun spot to swim out to.
Scenic Loop Trail
Around the lake
An easy 5km loop offering beautiful views, wildlife sightings, and access to biking trails.
+1
Toad Migration Spectacle
Trails around Lost Lake
Witness thousands of tiny western toads crossing trails in late July/early August – a unique natural event.
Canine Cove
Designated area on the lake
A special spot where dogs can freely swim and enjoy the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike from Village
Parking is limited; walking or biking from Whistler Village is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
🐸 Mind the Toads!
Late July/early Aug means toad migration. Trails may have temporary closures. :frog:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Canine Cove is a designated area for dogs to swim and play. :dog:
🏊♀️ Swim or Paddleboard
Enjoy the lake's refreshing waters or bring your paddleboard. :woman_swimming:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike from Village
Parking is limited; walking or biking from Whistler Village is recommended. :athletic_shoe:
🐸 Mind the Toads!
Late July/early Aug means toad migration. Trails may have temporary closures. :frog:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Canine Cove is a designated area for dogs to swim and play. :dog:
🏊♀️ Swim or Paddleboard
Enjoy the lake's refreshing waters or bring your paddleboard. :woman_swimming:
📸 Capture the Scenery
Beautiful trails and lake views make for great photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lost Lake is consistently praised for its natural beauty, accessibility from Whistler Village, and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the scenic loop trail, swimming opportunities, and the unique toad migration. Some find parking limited, and the concession stand hours can be seasonal.
"Lovely lake, easy to find from Whistler / Blackcomb village and easy to walk around. Clearly marked trails to navigate further afield, including either back into town or up to Green Lake for a longer walk away from the main centre."
Oliver Carter
"Always lovely to visit, 4 seasons tranquility. This time I loved the toad migration traffic closures, so considerate!"
Eli Koleva
"Small beach area full of kids and families. There is a dock in the middle of the lake you can swim to. Washrooms and a concession stand. Great bike trails all around, the ones to the lake are not paved. Short walk from main Whistler village."
Shawn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lost Lake is a short and scenic walk or bike ride from Whistler Village, approximately 5km. You can also find Evo car share bikes nearby. Parking at the lake is very limited, so walking or biking is highly recommended.
Yes, there is a small parking lot, but it fills up quickly, especially during peak season. It's best to plan on arriving early or using alternative transportation.
While it's possible to ski into the general area of Lost Lake Lodge from Blackcomb, it often requires some off-piste navigation or 'bush whacking' and is not a designated ski-in/ski-out route.
While there isn't direct public bus service to Lost Lake itself, it's easily accessible from Whistler Village, which is well-served by public transit from Vancouver.
The area is fantastic for hiking and biking. The loop trail around the lake is popular, and there are many other trails for more adventurous exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lost Lake is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. You can enjoy the lake and its trails for free.
Lost Lake Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary seasonally, but it's typically accessible year-round for outdoor activities.
Parking at Lost Lake is typically free, but the lot is small and can fill up quickly.
During the western toad migration (late July/early August), some trails may have temporary closures or restrictions to protect the migrating toads.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at Lost Lake, especially during the summer months. There's a beach area and a dock for easy access.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe on the beach, walk or bike the loop trail, enjoy a picnic, and observe local wildlife. Dogs are welcome at Canine Cove. +1
Absolutely! The easy loop trail, sandy beach, and shallow water areas make it a great spot for families with children.
Yes, there are washrooms available at Lost Lake Park.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Lost Lake, with a designated area called Canine Cove where they can swim off-leash.
You might see various birds, tadpoles, and during late July/early August, thousands of western toads during their migration.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a concession stand open during the warmer months offering snacks and refreshments.
Yes, Lost Lake has numerous picnic tables available, making it a perfect spot for a packed lunch.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for a picnic. Please remember to pack out all your trash.
Lost Lake is a short walk or bike ride from Whistler Village, which offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
The concession stand typically offers classic park fare like snacks, ice cream, and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire loop trail offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The beach area and the dock are also popular for photos.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management for current rules regarding drone operation in the area.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and general shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive mountain views.
The annual toad migration in late July/early August presents a unique, albeit challenging, photographic opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as the concession stand can get busy. The availability of washrooms and picnic tables makes it easy to spend a full day here. If you're visiting in late July or early August, the toad migration can be a fascinating, albeit potentially crowded, educational experience for children.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be mindful of the toad migration in late summer, as trails might have temporary restrictions. Always ensure your dog is comfortable around water and other dogs, especially during peak times.
🚴♀️ Cyclists
+2Beyond the immediate loop, the area connects to a wider network of mountain biking trails in Whistler. These range from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes for experienced riders. Bike racks are conveniently located around the lake, making it easy to secure your bike while you swim or explore on foot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lost Lake Trails
+1For those seeking more adventure, the trails around Lost Lake connect to a larger network of biking and hiking paths. These can lead you further afield, towards Green Lake for a longer excursion or even back towards Whistler Village. The trails leading to the lake itself are often unpaved, adding to the natural feel of the experience.
It's worth noting the unique toad migration that occurs annually in late July and early August. During this time, thousands of tiny western toads cross the trails. While this is a fascinating natural phenomenon to witness, it can lead to temporary trail closures or advisories to protect the toads.
Wildlife Encounters at Lost Lake
The most talked-about wildlife event is the western toad migration. From late July to early August, thousands of these small amphibians make their journey across the park's trails. This spectacle is a highlight for many visitors, offering a rare glimpse into the life cycle of these creatures. However, it's important to be mindful of their presence and follow any posted guidelines to ensure their safety.
While less common, there's always a possibility of encountering larger wildlife in the Whistler area, including bears. It's crucial to maintain a safe distance, never feed wildlife, and be aware of your surroundings. Carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is recommended for those venturing onto more remote trails.
Activities and Amenities
For canine companions, Canine Cove is a dedicated area where dogs can swim and play freely, making it a hit with pet owners.
Beyond the water, the park is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find picnic tables scattered throughout, ideal for enjoying a meal amidst nature. Washrooms are available for convenience, and during the summer months, a concession stand offers snacks and refreshments. Bike racks are also plentiful for those arriving on two wheels.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit