Wedgemount Lake
Emerald alpine lake surrounded by peaks & glaciers, accessible via a challenging uphill trail. A true test of endurance for stunning rewards.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Wedgemount Lake
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Emerald alpine lake surrounded by peaks & glaciers, accessible via a challenging uphill trail. A true test of endurance for stunning rewards.
"This trail was absolutely worth every bit of soreness that came after."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and rocky; good hiking boots are essential for stability and comfort.
💧 Refill Water Safely
Glacier-fed streams offer fresh, cold water. Refill your bottles, but always be cautious.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.9 · 92 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wedgemount Lake
Alpine lake
An emerald alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. The turquoise water is stunningly beautiful.
Glacier Views
Surrounding peaks
Witness the majestic Wedgemount Glacier and surrounding icy peaks. A stark reminder of nature's power and climate change.
Alpine Scenery
Trail and summit
Experience dramatic alpine landscapes, from lush forests to rocky scrambles and panoramic mountain vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Steep Ascent
Pack Smart for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and rocky; good hiking boots are essential for stability and comfort.
💧 Refill Water Safely
Glacier-fed streams offer fresh, cold water. Refill your bottles, but always be cautious.
Safety tips for Wedgemount hike solo this Sunday?
Was planning to do panorama ridge (which I’ve done solo before) but wasn’t able to get a pass for it. Sifting through Alltrails, Wedgemount seems like a good alternative that doesn’t require a day pass. Just wondering if anyone has done it recently and could speak to how…
🦟 Mosquito Repellent Needed
Mosquitoes can be bothersome, especially around the halfway mark. Pack bug spray!
🧥 Layer Up for Cool Temps
The summit is significantly cooler than the trailhead. Bring a jacket, even on warm days.
Wedgemount Lake vs Panorama Ridge – How do they compare in terms of difficulty, steepness, and things to watch out for?
Hi everyone – first-time poster here! 👋 Last summer (July 2024), I did the hike to Panorama Ridge and absolutely loved it. I started at 7am and finished around 8pm, so it took me roughly 13 hours round-trip. I’m not the fastest hiker, and by the end, a rain shower rolled in…
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and rocky; good hiking boots are essential for stability and comfort.
💧 Refill Water Safely
Glacier-fed streams offer fresh, cold water. Refill your bottles, but always be cautious.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent Needed
Mosquitoes can be bothersome, especially around the halfway mark. Pack bug spray!
🧥 Layer Up for Cool Temps
The summit is significantly cooler than the trailhead. Bring a jacket, even on warm days.
🚗 Road Access
The road to the trailhead is generally fine for most vehicles, but watch for potholes.
⏰ Start Early
Allow a full day for this hike. Starting early helps avoid hiking in the dark.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wedgemount Lake for its absolutely breathtaking, rewarding views after a very challenging hike. The stunning turquoise lake and surrounding glaciers are highlights, though the steep, rocky trail and potential for mosquitoes are noted drawbacks. Many recommend camping to fully appreciate the experience.
"This trail was absolutely worth every bit of soreness that came after. My boyfriend and I are pretty active on a daily basis, and this was our second time hiking up a mountain together. It took us about three and a half hours to reach the summit. The hike was intense but incredibly rewarding. We spent about an hour at the top soaking in the views and bundling up, since it gets surprisingly cold up there. The way down took us around three hours as we moved at a slower pace to take it all in.
A few tips if you're planning to go: around the halfway point, the mosquitoes become noticeably more annoying, so make sure to bring bug spray. Also, don’t worry too much if you start running low on water. There are glacier-fed streams along the trail, and the spring water is fresh, cold, and safe to drink. My boyfriend and I refilled our bottles a few times, and it was honestly some of the best water we’ve ever had.
Be sure to set aside your whole day for this hike and start early to avoid being out after dark. Along the way, we spotted a marmot sunbathing and looking surprisingly reflective, and we even had a black bear encounter. It was an unforgettable experience from start to finish."
Ana
"Hiking to Wedgemount Lake is tough but absolutely worth it. The trail is steep, rocky, and demanding, it took us about 14 hours round trip including a break at the top. The views at the glacier-fed turquoise lake are breathtaking, and we even spotted a marmot along the way!
Parking was fine in late August, but you’ll need an SUV or all-terrain vehicle for the rough road in. I wouldn’t recommend this for beginners, especially since hiking back in the dark is no joke. If you can, I highly recommend camping overnight at the top instead of trying to squeeze it into a day, it’ll let you enjoy the lake and views without the rush."
Rakin Hassan
"I was a bit worried about driving my Tesla Y up to the trailhead, but the well-maintained gravel road made access easy, and the large parking area showed how popular this trail is. Despite it being one of the hottest days of the summer, hiking through the shaded forest and tackling the steep final scramble was challenging but rewarding.
Visiting Tupper Lake, exposed by the retreating glaciers due to climate change, and I feel sad about the glaciers shrinking. The towering Wedgemount Mountain rising majestically above the lake and surrounding glaciers made the effort absolutely worthwhile. The trail was buzzing with fellow hikers, making it a lively and memorable end-of-summer adventure."
jinny lim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is accessible via a gravel road. While generally manageable for most vehicles, be aware of potential potholes, especially on the first turn. Parking is available but can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended.
Most vehicles can handle the road, but an SUV or all-terrain vehicle might offer more comfort on the rougher sections. Some drivers have reported success with sedans and EVs like the Tesla Y, but caution is advised.
There is a parking area at the trailhead, but it tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is your best bet to secure a spot.
Yes, it's possible to hike Wedgemount Lake as a day trip, but it's a very strenuous hike that requires a full day. Many recommend camping overnight to fully enjoy the experience without rushing.
Both hikes are challenging. Wedgemount Lake is known for its steepness and rocky terrain, while Panorama Ridge is a long, demanding day hike. The choice depends on your preference for steep ascents versus sustained mileage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific day pass requirements can vary, it's always wise to check the official BC Parks website or local park advisories before your visit. Some popular hikes may require reservations or passes.
Yes, camping at Wedgemount Lake typically requires reservations. It's highly recommended to book your spot well in advance, as campsites are limited and popular.
Wedgemount Lake is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round, though the trail conditions can vary significantly with the seasons. The hiking season is typically from late spring to early fall.
There is typically no entrance fee to access the Wedgemount Lake trail itself. However, camping fees apply if you plan to stay overnight.
The best source for current information on trail conditions, parking, and any potential access restrictions is the official BC Parks website or local outdoor recreation forums.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Wedgemount Lake is demanding and can take anywhere from 7 to 14 hours round-trip, depending on your fitness level, pace, and how much time you spend at the lake.
The Wedgemount Lake trail is considered difficult. It's characterized by steep ascents, rocky sections, and a final scramble that requires good physical condition and hiking experience.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking clothing, and layers. Bring a waterproof jacket and pants, as weather can change quickly. Don't forget a hat and sunglasses.
Yes, black bears have been spotted in the area. It's important to be bear aware, make noise while hiking, and carry bear spray. Store food properly if camping.
Yes, you can swim in Wedgemount Lake, but be prepared for the extremely cold, glacier-fed water! It's a refreshing, albeit bracing, experience.
🍽️ 💧 Food & Dining
No, there are no food services or facilities at Wedgemount Lake. You must pack in all your own food and water and pack out all your trash.
The water from glacier-fed streams is generally considered safe to drink, but it's always recommended to use a water filter or purification tablets for added safety.
Pack high-energy, non-perishable snacks and meals. Think trail mix, energy bars, sandwiches, and plenty of water. If camping, plan your meals accordingly.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find scenic spots around the lake to enjoy your packed lunch. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Use bear-resistant food canisters or hang your food properly to protect it from wildlife. Proper food storage is crucial for your safety and the well-being of the animals.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area is a photographer's dream! Capture the stunning turquoise lake, the dramatic glaciers, surrounding peaks, and the reflections on the water. The final scramble also offers great panoramic shots.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can create magical reflections on the lake.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the glaciers and peaks. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Yes, as long as you pack it securely in a comfortable backpack. Be mindful of the challenging terrain and protect your gear from the elements, especially if weather changes.
The trail itself offers varied perspectives, from forest scenes to rocky outcrops and increasingly dramatic mountain views as you ascend. The final scramble provides a rewarding vantage point.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit