Alouette Lake Trail

Route Description for Alouette Lake Trail

The Alouette Lake Trail heads through the beautiful forests of Golden Ears Provincial Park and is easy to follow, largely because the majority of the trail meanders alongside the road. This close proximity to the road means that this is a very safe hiking route with a high improbability of getting lost; however, it does mean that there will be a bit of road noise, especially on a busy summer day. Besides that minor issue, the only thing to keep in mind is the popularity of Alouette Lake as a summer beach destination. If you are looking to grab a spot at the beach or go for a midday swim, it might be best to leave a bit earlier in the day to beat the crowds to the lake.

This route is a nice and easy, non-technical out-and-back trail that takes hikers on a 15.3 km journey through the forest, ending up at the beautifully picturesque Alouette Lake. While the trail itself might not have the most attractive views, it does offer a variety of plant and animal life to tide you over until you reach the scenic shores of Alouette Lake. Once you get to the South Beach, you will be greeted with amazing views of the lakeside shoreline and the many peaks that can be found within the park. From here, you can spend the day at the beach, rent a canoe to get out on the pristine water, or simply head back on the return journey along the Alouette Lake Trail.

Setting out on the trailhead at the north end of the parking area, make your way through the forest until you reach a junction with the Alouette Lake Trail. Follow the path to the right as it begins to travel closely alongside the road, arriving at a creek crossing in 650 m. Cross over the creek and follow the trail to meet up with the road, making your way to the other side to pick the trail back up. After 750 m, the tree cover will begin to dissipate, and you will find yourself walking through a powerline clearing. Continue through the clearing as the trail makes its way back into the forest on the other side.

From here, the trail will continue to wind its way through the dense forest for 2.4 km where you will reach a junction in the trail. Follow this to the right to continue on the Alouette Lake trail for another 3.2 km, while taking in the beauty of the West Coast forest as you make the final approach to Alouette Lake. Continue straight through the junction and walk along the parking area to reach South Beach on your right.

As you pass through the receding tree cover, you will begin to see beautiful views that stretch out over the waters of the lake, painted with a stunning mountainous backdrop in behind. With the Alouette Hydroelectric Dam immediately to your right, you will see views of Evans Peak, Mount Nutt, and Mount Gatey to your left and Mount Crickner straight out over the water.

Having taken in the beautiful views of the lake, set up on the beach to enjoy a fun day in the sun or head over to the boat rental on South Beach to get out onto the water and explore the area. After finishing up your day at the lake, turn back and make your way along the same trail through the forest to return to the parking area, having completed the Alouette Trail.

Hiking Route Highlights

Alouette Lake

This often-photographed lake is located within Golden Ears Provincial Park and is a popular area for watersports such as canoeing, windsurfing, and water skiing. The area surrounding the lake has several campgrounds, beaches, and an extensive trail system.

Frequently Asked Questions

How warm is Alouette Lake?

Early season water temperatures can be quite cold, but the lake does warm up over the summer, reaching temperatures around 22℃ in August.

When does Alouette Lake open?

Opening hours for Golden Ears Provincial Park change seasonally. From October to April the gates are open from 8am-5:30pm; from May to September they are open 7am-11pm.

Insider Hints for Alouette Lake Trail

• The area around the beach is extremely busy in the summer. If your goal is to spend the day by the water after your hike, make sure you set out early to beat the crowds.
• As with many BC trails, bears frequent this area. Make sure to come prepared with bear spray
• There is a canoe rental shop at South Beach if you want to get out and enjoy the water.
• If you want to spend some time near the water but away from the crowds at the beach, try hiking a bit further around the southern tip of the lake to find a secluded spot.