Loggers Lake - Calm lake with a dense forest and house.
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Loggers Lake

4.7
·42 reviews·, Canada

Swim in a warm, volcanic crater lake surrounded by unique basalt columns. A refreshing hike leads to this natural wonder near Whistler.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds and enjoy the warmth

CrowdMedium
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Loggers Lake - Calm lake with a dense forest and house.

Loggers Lake

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds and enjoy the warmth

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Swim in a warm, volcanic crater lake surrounded by unique basalt columns. A refreshing hike leads to this natural wonder near Whistler.

4.7
(42 reviews)

"Our favourite lake to swim in after hiking all day. Actually quite warm as it is heated from the crater!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Swim Gear! 🏊‍♀️

The lake is perfect for a refreshing dip after your hike. Water is surprisingly warm!

Winter Traction is Key ❄️

If visiting in winter, bring microspikes or crampons for icy trails. Snowshoes might be needed after heavy snow.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Volcanic Crater Lake

The Volcanic Crater Lake

Loggers Lake

Swim in a unique lake formed within an extinct volcanic crater. The water is surprisingly warm!

Columnar Basalt Formations

Columnar Basalt Formations

Loggers Lake

Marvel at striking hexagonal basalt columns, a testament to the area's volcanic past.

Scenic Hiking Trails

Scenic Hiking Trails

Surrounding Loggers Lake

Explore various trails offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

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Planning Your Visit

Best Time for a Dip

Loggers Lake is a popular spot for swimming, especially on warm summer days. While the water can be a bit chilly, it's incredibly refreshing after a hike. Arrive early to snag a good spot, as it can get busy.

Trail Conditions & Gear

The hike to Loggers Lake is generally well-maintained, but conditions can vary. In winter, snowshoes or microspikes are recommended due to icy patches. Always check local conditions before you go.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the crowds and enjoy the warmth
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Fewer people, beautiful scenery
Crowd
Low
When
Winter (with gear)
Why
Unique snowy landscape
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Best Trail in Crater Lake National Park is Closing!! 📍SAVE to plan your trip to Crater Lake! At the end of 2025 Crater Lake is closing the only trail that leads to the bottom of the rim for renovations and it’s not expected to open again until 2029! That means this is your last summer for a while to swim in the lake or visit and hike Wizard Island via boat tour! Info about the trail and Wizard...
@voyageswithval
53.6K likes • 1.6M views

Bring Swim Gear! 🏊‍♀️

The lake is perfect for a refreshing dip after your hike. Water is surprisingly warm!

Winter Traction is Key ❄️

If visiting in winter, bring microspikes or crampons for icy trails. Snowshoes might be needed after heavy snow.

Foggy hike to Loggers lake. 🇨🇦 . . . #whistler #loggerslake #bc #LauraAndJamieAdventures #explore #hikingcouple #wanderlust #weekendvibes #canada #googlepixel #hikingobsessed #ilovehiking #adventures #glt #girlslovetravel #gtlove #thoughtfultravel #exploretheworld
lauraandjamieadventures
52 likes • 0 views
Basalt columns and fungi at Logger's Lake. 🇨🇦 . . . . . #whistler #loggerslake #basalt #basaltcolumns #mushrooms #fungi #bc #LauraAndJamieAdventures #explore #hikingcouple #wanderlust #weekendvibes #canada #googlepixel #hikingobsessed #ilovehiking #adventures #glt #girlslovetravel #gtlove #thoughtfultravel #exploretheworld
lauraandjamieadventures
47 likes • 0 views

Explore the Basalt Columns 🗿

Don't miss the unique hexagonal basalt formations around the lake.

Bug Spray Recommended 🦟

Especially during warmer months, be prepared for insects on the trails.

reddit.com

Loggers lake, snowshoes or not?

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Swim Gear! 🏊‍♀️

The lake is perfect for a refreshing dip after your hike. Water is surprisingly warm!

Winter Traction is Key ❄️

If visiting in winter, bring microspikes or crampons for icy trails. Snowshoes might be needed after heavy snow.

Explore the Basalt Columns 🗿

Don't miss the unique hexagonal basalt formations around the lake.

Bug Spray Recommended 🦟

Especially during warmer months, be prepared for insects on the trails.

Dog-Friendly Fun 🐶

Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(42 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Loggers Lake for its unique volcanic setting, warm swimming waters, and striking basalt columns. It's a refreshing escape after a hike, though some find the water a bit chilly. The short hike and dog-friendly nature make it a popular, accessible natural gem.

"Our favourite lake to swim in after hiking all day. Actually quite warm as it is heated from the crater"

Tina Burke

"The incline to get to this lake is worth it! This lake exists in a long extinct volcano. There are also many side trails for exploring. Bug spray may be needed but it wasn’t bad when we went. Rainbow trout visible & the water looks spectacular for a perfect summer dip."

Lili B

"Beautiful lake, a few really nice spots to spread out and relax in the sun. Water is a little cold but refreshing. A nicely kept biffy is available in case you need to use it. Just a short hike up from the parking lot, or a nice punchy MTB climb up ridge trail."

Howie Outerbridge

What People Like

Unique volcanic crater lake
Warm, refreshing swimming water
Striking basalt columns

What People Dislike

Water can be chilly for some
Can get crowded in summer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Loggers Lake is accessible via a short drive from Whistler Village. The final stretch is on a Forest Service Road (FSR), which is generally well-maintained but can be rough in places. A short 10-minute hike from the parking lot leads to the lake. Reddit

The road leading to the Loggers Lake parking lot is a Forest Service Road and is not paved. While generally passable for most vehicles, it can be bumpy. Reddit

Public transport options directly to Loggers Lake are limited. It's best to have a car or consider a taxi/rideshare from Whistler Village.

There is a parking lot available near the trailhead for Loggers Lake. It can fill up during peak times, so arriving early is advised.

Yes, Loggers Lake is accessible in winter, but trail conditions can be icy and snowy. Snowshoes or microspikes are highly recommended. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee to access Loggers Lake or its surrounding trails. It's a free public recreation area.

Loggers Lake is open year-round, from dawn till dusk. There are no set opening or closing times for the natural area.

No, tickets are not required for Loggers Lake as there is no admission fee. It's a first-come, first-served natural attraction.

While generally open, always be mindful of local advisories, especially regarding fire bans or trail closures. Dogs are welcome on leash. Reddit

A 'nicely kept biffy' (outhouse) is available near the parking lot for visitor convenience. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike from the parking lot to Loggers Lake is a short, punchy climb, often described as about 10 minutes. It's a rewarding trek that leads to a beautiful volcanic crater lake. Reddit

Absolutely! Loggers Lake is a popular spot for swimming. The water is heated by the volcanic crater, making it surprisingly warm and refreshing. Reddit

You might spot rainbow trout visible in the clear waters. The surrounding forests also offer opportunities for birdwatching and observing other local fauna.

Yes, there are many side trails for exploring around Loggers Lake, offering diverse hiking and mountain biking opportunities. Reddit

The columnar basalt formations are striking geological features, created by ancient volcanic activity. They resemble hexagonal pillars and are a unique sight. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly at Loggers Lake. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks for your visit.

Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are nice spots to spread out and relax, especially on sunny days. Remember to pack out all your trash.

For a wider selection of restaurants and cafes, head back to Whistler Village, which offers numerous dining choices.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique volcanic crater lake, the striking columnar basalt formations, and the surrounding lush forest scenery. The reflections on the water can be stunning. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local bylaws and park regulations before flying a drone in the area.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Fog can also create dramatic shots. Instagram

Yes, if you're lucky enough to spot wildlife like trout, you can photograph them. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals.

The shoreline offers various vantage points. Exploring the surrounding trails can also lead to elevated views of the lake and its unique geological features.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Loggers Lake is a fantastic family outing! The short hike makes it accessible for most ages, and the opportunity to swim in the unique volcanic lake is a huge hit with kids. Reddit Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. The chance to see fish in the water and explore the interesting rock formations adds an educational element to the fun. Remember to bring towels and swimsuits for everyone! Reddit

Consider visiting on a weekday or earlier in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. The surrounding trails also offer opportunities for short, family-friendly walks. Ensure children are supervised, especially near the water and on any uneven terrain. Bug spray is a good idea during warmer months to keep everyone comfortable. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Loggers Lake is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as there is no admission fee to visit. Reddit The primary cost will be transportation to the lake. Packing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as there are no dining options available, saving you money on expensive tourist town prices. Reddit

This destination offers a high return on investment for your time and effort. You get a unique natural wonder, a refreshing swim, and scenic hiking all for free. It's a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the Whistler area without breaking the bank. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Loggers Lake is a great spot for dog owners, as dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash. Reddit Your furry friend can enjoy the hike and the surrounding natural beauty alongside you. While dogs can't swim in the lake, they can certainly enjoy the fresh air and explore the trails. Reddit

Remember to bring water and waste bags for your dog. The trails can be dusty or muddy depending on the season, so be prepared for that. It's a fantastic opportunity for your dog to stretch their legs and enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful setting. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Volcanic Origins of Loggers Lake

Loggers Lake is a fascinating geological marvel, nestled within the caldera of a long-extinct volcano. This unique setting is responsible for the lake's distinctive characteristics, including its surprisingly warm water. The volcanic activity in the region also led to the formation of striking columnar basalt formations, which are a must-see for visitors. These hexagonal pillars are a direct result of lava cooling and contracting, creating a visually stunning natural sculpture garden. Instagram

Travelers often express awe at the lake's origin story, noting that it feels like stepping into a different world. The presence of rainbow trout in the clear waters further adds to the natural allure, making it a popular spot for both swimmers and nature enthusiasts. The combination of volcanic history and accessible natural beauty makes Loggers Lake a truly special destination. Reddit

Beyond the immediate lake area, the surrounding landscape offers further exploration. Various side trails branch off, catering to hikers and mountain bikers alike. These trails provide opportunities to delve deeper into the volcanic terrain and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna of the Whistler area. Reddit

Hiking and Trail Experiences

The loggers lake hike itself is relatively short, typically taking around 10 minutes from the parking lot to reach the lake. It's described as a punchy climb, offering a good, albeit brief, workout before reaching the reward of the lake. Reddit

For those looking for more extensive loggers lake trail experiences, numerous side trails offer varied terrain and scenery. These paths are popular with both hikers and mountain bikers, providing ample opportunities to explore the unique volcanic landscape surrounding the lake. Reddit Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, the network of trails around Loggers Lake has something to offer. Instagram

It's important to be prepared for varying trail conditions. While generally well-maintained, winter visits can present icy and snowy sections, making snowshoes or microspikes advisable. Reddit During warmer months, bug spray might be necessary, especially on less-trafficked paths. Reddit

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