Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
128 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.1 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead

Cedar Lakes Trail

Measurement:

Download an interactive map and guide on your phone today!

Table of contents

The Cedar Lakes Trail is a 4.4mi hiking route in the Moonraker Trails Recreation Site near Golden, BC, that will take you through a beautiful forest landscape to the shores of four charming lakes. With minor changes in elevation and well-maintained paths, this route is perfect for hikers of all skill levels. This trail is part of a complicated and extensive network of hiking and mountain bike routes, so make sure to bring a trail map or GPS for easier navigation.

Route Description for Cedar Lakes Trail

Hiking along the Cedar Lakes Trail is an easy-going, half-day trek through the forest made up of several different hiking and mountain bike routes to form a complete trail that visits several woodland lakes. Make sure to pay attention when out on the trail, as it can be easy to take a wrong turn and stray off the main path. Additionally, hikers should keep an eye out for any bikers along the trail and move to the side to allow them to pass. In terms of additional supplies or equipment to bring along for this hike, you should strongly consider bringing bug repellent, as the trail passes by several water sources, and mosquitoes tend to be a problem along the shady trails.

While this trail might not have the most spectacular views, it’s a magical route through the beautiful forest terrain surrounding Golden that will allow you to experience the natural beauty of this special part of BC. The route follows a heavily forested path that offers plenty of shade during the summer months and visits the charming shores of the four Cedar Lakes, which entice you to jump into the refreshing water to cool off in hot weather. This 7.1 km hike features scenic and easy to traverse terrain accessible for nearly all types of hikers.

Setting out from the parking area on Cedar Lake FSR, follow the road to the southeast for 450 m until you reach the edge of the first Cedar Lake. Take in the beautiful views over the tranquil water as you make your way along the eastern shore of the lake. After passing by the lake, you will descend slightly along the trail and reach a junction next to the second Cedar Lake. Take the path to the right to make your way along the Cedar Camp Trail.

As you walk along the edge of the lake, you will eventually come to a second junction in the trail. Keep right, and in roughly 50 m, you will come to an intersection marked with a trail sign. Take the path to the left, which will lead you to yet another marked intersection, this time with the Cedar Snag Trail. Follow the path to the left, as this will take you to the third and fourth Cedar Lakes.

Hiking through the beautifully atmospheric woodland landscape, you will come to the edge of the third lake in about 350 m before continuing to the fourth lake a short distance ahead. Once you reach the lake, take some time to explore the area before turning back and retracing your steps along the same route to return to the second Cedar Lake.

Arriving at the junction, follow the path to the right for a change of scenery on the return trek to the parking lot. After hiking along the edge of the quiet wooded lake for 230 m, you will come to a junction with the Arrowhead Trail. Take the path to the left and follow it through the dense tree cover for 1.9km. Here, the trail will meet back up with the Cedar Creek FSR, and you can either go left to hang out by the first lake or head right to return to your vehicle.

Insider Hints for Cedar Lakes Trail

  • Pack bug spray as the area around the lakes can be riddled with mosquitoes.
  • This area has a dense network of trails that can make navigation difficult, so remember to bring a trail map or GPS.
  • Pack your swimming gear in the summer for a quick dip in the lake.

Getting to the Cedar Lakes Trail Trailhead

To get to the Cedar Lakes Trail from the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, head southeast along Kicking Horse Trail and turn right on Dogtooth FSR after 2.3mi. Continue for 1.1mi and keep left at the fork before immediately turning right onto Cedar Lake FSR. Here, you will find the parking area.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    May-October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Cedar Lake Recreation Site

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Cedar Lakes Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews

0.0
No reviews
Write a review
×

Add a review

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

10Adventures Trail App

Take your trails online! Keep track of your route along the way.

Download for free today.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter