A Rough Guide to Garibaldi Provincial Park, B.C.
Black Tusk Area - Garibaldi Lake, Taylor Meadows, Panorama Ridge
Sep 16, 2008
The hikes from Garibaldi Lake to Panorama Ridge feature pure white snow glaciers, untouched turquoise lakes and rich green forests. The Black Tusk area of Garibaldi Provincial Park is a scenic masterpiece for hikers.
There are five major sections in Garibaldi Provincial Park: Diamond Head, Black Tusk, Wedgemount Lake, Singing Pass and Cheakamus Lake. This article will focus on the Black Tusk section. To read about the other sections of Garibaldi Provincial Park, check out “A Rough Guide to Garibaldi Provincial Park: Diamond Head” and “A Rough Guide to Garibaldi Provincial Park: Singing Pass, Wedgemount and Cheakamus Lakes.”
The parking lot for the Black Tusk area, known as Rubble Creek, is located on Highway 99, 38 kilometres north of Squamish, British Columbia. From the Highway, make a right hand turn after crossing the Rubble Creek Bridge. A 2.5 kilometre paved road leads to the parking lot and to the trail heads.
Garibaldi Lake
This challenging climb trudges through British Columbia forests along steep switchbacks before levelling off and leading to the lake. With an elevation change of 810 meters and a nine kilometre trek ahead, allow for three hours to reach Garibaldi Lake. Nestled deep within the crisp forest rests an untouched glacier lake enveloped by colossal mountains and beautiful wildlife. Various campsites surround the awe-inspiring view that is the epitome of serenity. Although it is possible to do the 18 kilometre round trip in one day, it is recommended to stay the night and explore the various other areas of this stunning landscape.
Taylor Meadows
Taylor Meadows is 7.5 kilometres from the parking lot and, for most of the way, follows the same switchbacks and towering trees as the trail to Garibaldi Lake. However, at six kilometres there is a turn that leads to the meadows, a flowery forest rich with British Columbian flora. Like Garibaldi Lake, allow for three hours to complete and expect an elevation change of 915 meters. Again, it is recommended to camp the night here or at Garibaldi Lake as the two hikes mentioned below are not to be missed.
Black Tusk
Standing at 2,319 meters above sea level, the Black Tusk is a pinnacle of volcanic rock towering over the rest of the Garibaldi Mountain Range. From the parking lot, this is a strenuous hike of 16 kilometres one way with a total of 1660 meters in elevation change. It is highly recommended to begin this hike fresh from Garibaldi Lake or Taylor Meadow and hikers should allow 3 hours from either start.
* Caution*
The trail ends on the shoulder of the Black Tusk, which still offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Only those who have the proper rock climbing equipment and experience should attempt to climb the actual Tusk.
Panorama Ridge
Another hike not to be missed is Panorama Ridge which totals 14 kilometres, one way, from the parking lot. Again, it is best to spend a night at Garibaldi Lake or Taylor Meadows in order to fully appreciate the spectacular views on top. Allow two hours from Garibaldi Lake and expect a rather arduous climb of 630 meters elevation change. The top provides breathtaking views of Garibaldi Lake and the surrounding mountains. Bring some lunch and spend an afternoon breathing in the beauty that is British Columbia.
No matter where you are on Garibaldi Mountain, always remember to pack the adeqaute gear for the cold Canadian climate. This includes a warm sleeping bag, a fleece jacket and several pairs of socks.
 |
 |
