However, before setting out with a bottle of water and a backpack of sandwiches, it's a good idea to discover a little more about the surrounding area. Most of these hikes require two days with necessary camping gear for the cold climate. So, read on to find out which hike is best suited and what to expect from this magnificent mountain.
Located around Squamish and Whistler, British Columbia, there are five major sections in Garibaldi Provincial Park: Diamond Head, Black Tusk, Wedgemount Lake, Singing Pass and Cheakamus Lake. All of these areas provide amazing views, adequate camping grounds and stimulating hikes. This article will focus on the Diamond Head section, which includes Elfin Lakes, Mamquam Lake, Opal Cone and Little Diamond Head. To read about the other sections of Garibaldi Provincial Park, check out “A Rough Guide to Garibaldi Provincial Park: Black Tusk and Surrounding” and “A Rough Guide to Garibaldi Provincial Park: Singing Pass, Wedgemount and Cheakamas Lakes.”
The best way to reach the Diamond Head side of the mountain is by taking Mamquam Road. Coming from Vancouver, turn right off Highway 99 at the Golf Course onto the Mamquam Road. Follow the road to the very end, crossing a bridge and arriving at a dirt road. Take this road, which remains gravel and somewhat steep, for 16 kilometres. You will come to an overnight parking lot that signals the start of your path of choice.
Elfin Lakes
Highly recommended for the perfect day hike, Elfin Lakes are 11 kilometres from the parking lot- five kilometres of constant uphill followed by six kilometres of smooth ridge hiking. Allow for three hours one way and plenty of rest and relaxation at the top. Expect a 600-meter elevation change and two breathtakingly blue lakes at the end. These are truly two of the most beautiful lakes in Canada surrounded by crisp frosty air and magnificent mountain peaks. Camping grounds are one kilometre away from the lakes.
Opal Cone
The Opal Cone is an extinct volcano, located 17.5 kilometres from the parking lot. However, it is recommended to spend the first day at Elfin Lakes and travel from there (6.5 kilometres from Elfin Lakes). Allow two hours one way with a slight elevation change of 250 meters. The trail heads down towards Ring Creek before climbing to the heavily cratered extinct volcano. Opal Cone is a definite must see with spectacular views of Mamquam Lake at the top.
Little Diamond Head
From the parking lot, this hike is 18 kilometres long. Like the Opal Cone, it is suggested to camp out at Elfin Lakes and make this a day hike from there. The hike generally takes two hours one way from Elfin Lakes with a steep incline of 625 meters. Expect a gruesome climb past some of nature’s spectacular creations such as the Gargoyles and lava-sculpted visages. Remember to pack plenty of warm clothes, food and a camera!
Mamquam Lake
From the parking lot, this strenuous hike takes 22 kilometres; from Elfin Lakes, 11 kilometres. It is suggested to allow yourself four hours to get from Elfin Lakes to Mamquam Lake and two days to do the complete hike. The trail leads past Opal Cone and east to the Rampart Ponds. Be prepared for a 570-meter elevation change and some pretty heavy hiking. However, also expect stunning views and a rewarding clear lake and campground at the end.
No matter which hike or how long, always remember to keep Canada’s parks as beautiful as you left them. Leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but memories. That way everyone can enjoy the beautiful surroundings British Columbia has to offer.
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