Backpacking trails in Squamish

Perfectly situated along the Sea-to-Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler, Squamish offers relatively easy access to a vast area of rugged terrain that is tailor made for multi-day backpacking excursions. Surrounded by imposing mountains, coursing rivers, and swathes of dense forest, the wild nature of this area will provide countless opportunities for hiking, camping, and climbing through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in British Columbia.

Although it is less popular than its well-known neighbour Whistler, Squamish is fast becoming one of the most sought after destinations for outdoor exploration on the West Coast. From the beautiful scenery along the shores of Howe Sound in the southern part of the region, to the majestic peaks of the Tantalus Range and the vast expanse of Garibaldi Provincial Park; you can rest assured that there is no shortage of stunning backcountry terrain to explore on your next backpacking adventure in Squamish.

Don’t want to plan your own trip? Check out this list of backpacking tours all over the world.

What’s New in 2026

• Every overnight stay in Garibaldi Provincial Park needs a backcountry reservation through BC Parks. As of 2026, bookings open at 7 am Pacific, three months before your trip, and popular spots like the Elfin Lakes campground and shelter fill within minutes.
• BC Parks raised its backcountry camping fees for 2026, and there is now a $20 flat non-resident fee for visitors from outside British Columbia, on top of the per-person camping fees.
• A Garibaldi day-use pass is required at the Diamond Head, Rubble Creek and Cheakamus trailheads in summer, but if you hold a backcountry camping reservation you do not need a separate day pass.
• The backcountry season is short. Snow and avalanche hazard linger in the alpine into July, and campfires and dogs are not allowed anywhere in Garibaldi, so August and September are the most reliable months.

Best Backpacking Routes in Squamish

• Mamquam Lake Backpacking Trail: The area’s classic overnight: a demanding 40 km out-and-back through the Diamond Head area of Garibaldi Park, past Elfin Lakes to the quiet backcountry shores of Mamquam Lake. Best done over two days.

Two more classic Garibaldi overnights are the alpine traverse to Elfin Lakes, with its reservable shelter and campground, and the turquoise Garibaldi Lake, a gateway to Black Tusk and Panorama Ridge.

Plan Your Squamish Backpacking Trip

Squamish is one corner of backpacking in British Columbia, part of our wider backpacking in Canada collection. For shorter days out from the same trailheads, see our Squamish day hikes. If you would rather have the logistics handled, browse guided hiking tours in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions About Backpacking in Squamish

Do you need a reservation to backpack in Squamish?

For anything in Garibaldi Provincial Park, including Mamquam Lake and Elfin Lakes, yes. Every overnight stay needs a backcountry reservation from BC Parks, booked up to three months ahead. Popular sites can sell out within minutes of opening.

When is the best time to backpack in Squamish?

Mid-July to late September, once the alpine snow has melted. Earlier in the season, expect lingering snow and avalanche hazard on the higher trails. The weather is most settled in late summer.

Do you need a day-use pass as well as a camping reservation?

No. A Garibaldi day-use pass is required at the main trailheads in summer, but a valid backcountry camping reservation covers your vehicle, so you do not need both.