Cedar Lakes Trail

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.