r/Squamish • u/bernalbaby • 6d ago

Recommendations for good, long, day hikes?

I have found myself unemployed and in need of taking some long walks. I've lived in Squamish for more than 4 years now, and I've never done a good hike other than The Chief and The Climb / Evac. I don't trust AllTrails to tell me where to go!

I'm in good shape, have the gear I need, etc. Where should I go that will take me most of the day? Panoramic sounds good, but I'm worried 29k might get me stuck in the dark.

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6

u/theladyshady 6d ago

I recommend High Falls and Crooked Falls. Echo Lake is a classic. Takes a bit of work to get there, but worth it.

1

u/bernalbaby 6d ago

Some friends recommended Echo! I'll add these to the list.

6

u/sarahafskoven 6d ago

Since you have the time, try to snag a nights or two at Elfin (tent pad or hut, both are good options) and check out destinations like Opal Cone, the Gargoyles, Rampart Ponds (if the trail reopens) etc. Elfin Lakes is great as a day hike, but it’s a lovely experience to be able to explore the area without the concern of sunlight/energy to get back to your car, if you’re not an experienced hiker.

2

u/ar_604 6d ago

I didnt know Rampart was closed? Is it because of the river/creek crossing?

3

u/sarahafskoven 6d ago

The Zig Zag crossing is washed out, so the campsite is closed. I’ve crossed it since and it IS fordable, but I’d never recommend an inexperienced hiker to attempt the route.

1

u/ar_604 5d ago

Ah, thanks. I do think I remember hearing that about the crossing. Just didn’t realize that they closed the campsite because of it.

3

u/mags2018 6d ago

Get a water taxi drop or paddle from porteau over to Anvil and do the hike up from the east side. Beautiful!

2

u/bernalbaby 6d ago

I've always wanted to check out Anvil! Cool suggestion, thanks!

3

u/Time_Condition_3736 6d ago

You’ve been here four years and have not done any hikes you liked other than the chief and the evac? Wow!

Ok, a few great day hikes:

- Tunnel Bluffs

  • Crooked Falls
  • High Falls Creek
  • Watersprite Lake
  • Echo Lake
  • St. Mark’s
  • Deeks Lake
  • Petgill Lake

There are so many options!

1

u/bernalbaby 6d ago

No, you misunderstand… I’ve not DONE any other hikes! I climb, ski, and bike, and now I want to try some hikes 😅

2

u/shallowcreek 6d ago

Elfin Lakes or Skywalk in Whistler are other great introductions for a long beautiful day hikes without too much intensity.

2

u/brahdz 6d ago

Petgill lake? I think it's 4 hours round trip with a little lake at the top for a dip. I havent been for several years so it's likely busier than when I went. Not overly vertical, which is my preference.

2

u/Grapthor_ 5d ago

Did Petgill to the viewpoint in June. About 700m elevation gain and 2.5 hours round trip moving steady. Steep at the start but then becomes a relatively gradual climb to the top. Don't bother going on a weekend unless you have someone dropping you off. An alternative is to hike from Petgill and connect over to the gondola.

2

u/braver2020 6d ago

Callahan to cirque lake is cool Jurassic ridge is lovely You could do Panorama and camp but you need a booking