
Little Lost Lake
A serene, secluded lake near Valemount offering a moderately challenging hike with beautiful scenery and swimming opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy solitude

Little Lost Lake
Best Time
Beat the crowds, enjoy solitude
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, secluded lake near Valemount offering a moderately challenging hike with beautiful scenery and swimming opportunities.
"A nice secluded trail with a decent amount of steepness; the lake is nice and serene."

🎯 Trailhead Signage
Keep an eye out for the parking area; the trailhead sign itself can be subtle. :camerawithflash:
🥾 Steep & Sandy Trails
Wear sturdy shoes for the steep sections. Traction can be challenging on sand and shale. :athletic_shoe:

Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 17 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine Little Lost Lake
End of the main trail
A serene, secluded lake perfect for a refreshing dip after a moderate hike. Enjoy the tranquility!

Scenic Lake Loop Trail
Around Little Lost Lake
Continue past the main lake access for stunning, often solitary, views and a more immersive nature experience.

Challenging Lookout Trail
Off the main trail
For a good workout, tackle the steep, sandy, and shale-covered path to rewarding, though sometimes frustrating, lookouts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding the Trailhead
Trail Conditions & Lake Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Trailhead Signage
Keep an eye out for the parking area; the trailhead sign itself can be subtle. :camerawithflash:
🥾 Steep & Sandy Trails
Wear sturdy shoes for the steep sections. Traction can be challenging on sand and shale. :athletic_shoe:
🏊♀️ Lake Swim Warning
The lake is chilly but refreshing! Be aware of potential leeches. :bug:
🚶♀️ Social Distancing
The trail is narrow in parts; be prepared to step aside for passing hikers. :peopleholdinghands:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Trailhead Signage
Keep an eye out for the parking area; the trailhead sign itself can be subtle. :camerawithflash:
🥾 Steep & Sandy Trails
Wear sturdy shoes for the steep sections. Traction can be challenging on sand and shale. :athletic_shoe:
🏊♀️ Lake Swim Warning
The lake is chilly but refreshing! Be aware of potential leeches. :bug:
🚶♀️ Social Distancing
The trail is narrow in parts; be prepared to step aside for passing hikers. :peopleholdinghands:
🏞️ Explore Beyond the Lake
Don't miss the trail loop around the lake for even more gorgeous, secluded views. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Little Lost Lake is praised for its pristine, secluded beauty and the rewarding, albeit moderately challenging, hike. Visitors enjoy the opportunity for a refreshing swim and the peaceful atmosphere, often having the lake to themselves. Some find the trail to lookouts steep and difficult, and a few mention leeches in the water.
"The start of the hike across the parking lot. The trail is well signed. Steep trail to the forest, we were alone there during the long weekend. Pristine lake at the end of the trail, kids enjoyed swimming there. Continue the trail around the lake! Gorgeous!"
Yael Babichev
"The Little lost lake trailhead was a bit of a challenge to find as the sign doesn't stand out. My wife, 16 yo daughter and I hiked it in just over an hour. It's a nice secluded trail that has a decent amount of steepness to it so it's a good challenge for casual hikers. The lake is nice and serene and we had the whole place to ourselves."
Scott Robson
"The entrance to the recreational area wasn't easy to spot but the parking area is. The hike to the lake is enjoyable. It is narrow for the most part so sometimes you have to step into the brush to maintain social distancing as people pass.
The hike to the lookouts should come with a significant warning! It was more difficult than the Terry Fox Trail. The path was steep and not good traction as it was sand and shale the closer we got to the first lookout. We were frustrated that we'd spent all that time climbing without the benefit of enjoying the view."
Angela Jeffery
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead sign can be hard to spot, but the parking area is more visible. Look for it carefully near Valemount.
Yes, there is a parking area available at the trailhead, making it accessible by vehicle.
The drive is generally straightforward, but the final approach to the trailhead requires attention to find the correct signage.
While specific directions vary by starting point, focus on locating the recreational area and then the parking lot, as the trailhead sign is subtle.
It can be popular, especially on long weekends, but many visitors report having the lake to themselves, suggesting it's less crowded than other spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There's no mention of tickets or entry fees in reviews, suggesting it's likely a free-access recreational area.
As an outdoor natural area, Little Lost Lake is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific operating hours mentioned.
Reviews do not mention any parking fees, indicating that parking is likely free.
While accessible, winter conditions might make the trails challenging or impassable. Summer and fall are generally the best seasons.
No reservations are mentioned or seem necessary for visiting Little Lost Lake.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is moderately steep, with some sections being steep and covered in sand and shale, especially towards lookouts. It's a good challenge for casual hikers.
The trail is generally well-signed, but it is narrow in many parts, requiring hikers to step aside for others.
Yes, the lake is described as pristine and great for swimming, though it can be chilly. Be aware of potential leeches.
Yes, there are picnic tables available at the lake, making it a nice spot for a break or a meal.
You can expect very scenic views, especially if you continue the trail around the lake. The lookouts offer elevated perspectives.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Little Lost Lake. It's a natural area, so plan to bring your own food and drinks.
Absolutely! There are picnic tables available, making it an ideal spot for a packed lunch or snacks.
Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the loop or the lookout trails.
You'll likely need to purchase food in Valemount before heading to Little Lost Lake, as amenities are scarce in the immediate vicinity.
As a natural area, it's best to pack out everything you pack in to preserve the environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself offers beautiful reflections and serene shots. The trail loop provides varied scenic perspectives.
Yes, the pristine lake, surrounding forest, and elevated lookout points offer excellent opportunities for landscape photography.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic experience.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local park rules before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto can capture distant mountain views. A polarizing filter can enhance lake reflections.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit