Petgill Lake Trail
A challenging Squamish hike with rewarding ridge views, featuring steep ascents, lush forests, and a beautiful lake destination.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & find parking
Petgill Lake Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds & find parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging Squamish hike with rewarding ridge views, featuring steep ascents, lush forests, and a beautiful lake destination.
"The overlook view beats the lake view. Go early, the parking lot fills up quick."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park at Murrin Park and carefully cross Sea to Sky Highway to access the trailhead. Arrive early!
⬆️ Go Beyond the Lake
Don't stop at the lake! A short climb further rewards with a superior ocean view.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ridge Overlook
After the lake
A stunning panoramic view of the ocean and surrounding mountains, often better than the lake itself.
The Forest Path
Mid-trail
Wander through a gorgeous, lush forest, offering a peaceful contrast to the steeper sections.
Petgill Lake
Summit
While not always the most picturesque, the lake is the goal and offers a sense of accomplishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Conditions & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park at Murrin Park and carefully cross Sea to Sky Highway to access the trailhead. Arrive early!
⬆️ Go Beyond the Lake
Don't stop at the lake! A short climb further rewards with a superior ocean view.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Expect steep, rocky terrain and large boulders. Good hiking boots are essential.
⚠️ Trail Markers
Look for bright orange squares; they're not always obvious but guide you through the trail.
Favourite hike that rewards with a swimmable lake?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Park at Murrin Park and carefully cross Sea to Sky Highway to access the trailhead. Arrive early!
⬆️ Go Beyond the Lake
Don't stop at the lake! A short climb further rewards with a superior ocean view.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Expect steep, rocky terrain and large boulders. Good hiking boots are essential.
⚠️ Trail Markers
Look for bright orange squares; they're not always obvious but guide you through the trail.
☁️ Foggy Views
Don't let fog deter you; PNW fog can create a magical, moody atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Petgill Lake Trail offers a challenging but rewarding intermediate to difficult hike with stunning ridge views that many find surpass the lake itself. While the trail can get busy, arriving early or visiting on a weekday can provide a more serene experience. Be prepared for steep, rocky terrain and subtle trail markers.
"Intermediate hike with some scrambles! Not usually busy destination so you can avoid crowds. The lake itself is not that pretty and can’t really be accessed to but the view from the ridge was nice."
Kanako Sakurada
"Park in Murrin and carefully walk across Sea to Sky to start this trail. It’s well marked but start out steep with large boulders and then you enter into the gorgeous forest, hit a gravel road and then back into the forest! Make sure to go up a little further after reaching the lake for another bonus view!"
Sarah Grace
"Very hard trail. We spent totally 5.5 hours.
In the mountain. And it is hard to find the road signs at somewhere, however,they are not real signs , just bright orange square..good experience..."
Phoebe Tang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common access point is parking at Murrin Park and then carefully crossing the Sea to Sky Highway to reach the trailhead. Be very cautious when crossing the highway.
Parking is limited and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Yes, Petgill Lake Trail is located near Squamish, British Columbia, accessible via the Sea to Sky Highway.
Many hikers park at Murrin Park and then walk across the highway. Ensure you are visible and cross safely.
Public transport options directly to the trailhead are limited. Driving and parking at Murrin Park is the most common method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Petgill Lake Trail is a public hiking trail and does not require an entrance fee or ticket.
As an outdoor trail, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. However, hiking in the dark is not recommended due to the challenging terrain.
Parking at Murrin Park may have associated fees depending on the season or specific park regulations. It's best to check local park information.
No, there's no booking system for this trail as it's a natural hiking path. Popularity means early arrival is key.
Generally, no permits are required for day hiking on Petgill Lake Trail. Always check for any local advisories.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail is considered intermediate to difficult, with steep sections, large boulders, and some scrambling. It can take around 5.5 hours to complete.
The hike is approximately 10-12 kilometers round trip, depending on the exact route taken and any detours.
While the lake itself is not always considered the most beautiful, the ridge overlook offers stunning panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.
Due to its steepness and rocky terrain, it's generally not recommended for absolute beginners. Intermediate hikers with good fitness will find it more manageable.
There are typically no facilities directly on the Petgill Lake Trail itself. Ensure you carry enough water and use restrooms before you start your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The ridge overlook provides breathtaking panoramic views, especially during golden hour. The forest sections also offer beautiful, moody shots.
Absolutely! Fog can create a dramatic and ethereal atmosphere, making for unique and captivating photographs.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers the best light for photography. However, the ridge view is impressive at any time.
A smartphone camera can capture great shots, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow for more control over landscape photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require permits, so check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the journey through the forest as a highlight for kids, and emphasize the accomplishment of reaching the ridge overlook. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for a longer outing than initially anticipated. The potential for snow in shoulder seasons also adds an element of caution for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Remember to factor in potential parking fees at Murrin Park, though often this is also free or low-cost. The key is to be self-sufficient: pack your own food and water to avoid purchasing expensive items nearby. This trail provides a fantastic, cost-effective way to experience the stunning Squamish landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail: What to Expect
While the destination is Petgill Lake, many visitors suggest that the true photographic gem is the overlook found by continuing slightly past the lake. This vantage point provides expansive views of the ocean and surrounding mountains, often surpassing the lake's own appeal. Be prepared for varied conditions; snow can linger into late spring, and the trail can be slippery when wet.
Key Takeaways for Hikers:
* Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots are essential due to the rocky and uneven terrain.
* Navigation: Pay attention to subtle trail markers and your surroundings.
* Beyond the Lake: Don't miss the ridge overlook for superior views.
* Conditions: Check weather and trail conditions, especially in shoulder seasons.
The 'Horde' and the Serenity: Managing Crowds
Arriving at the trailhead before 8 AM is often recommended to secure parking and enjoy a more peaceful experience. This allows you to truly appreciate the tranquil forest sections and the expansive views without the constant presence of other hikers. Weekdays also offer a significantly less crowded experience compared to Saturdays and Sundays.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds:
* Early Bird: Aim to start your hike as early as possible.
* Weekday Warrior: If your schedule allows, opt for a weekday hike.
* Patience: If you do encounter crowds, remember that the trail offers moments of solitude, especially if you venture slightly beyond the main lake area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit