Gwillim Lakes

Route Description for Gwillim Lakes

Before starting this hike, be aware that the final part of the road to the Gwillim Lakes trailhead is very rocky and not recommended for a low clearance 2WD vehicle, although it is typically possible if you aren’t worried about scratching the bottom! Parking is also limited.

The Gwillim Lakes hike is a relatively easy hike with exceptional views, although it can be steep and rocky in parts.

The route to Gwillim Lakes is marked, crossing through many meadows and lakes on the way. If in doubt with the route while hiking to Gwillim Lakes – go up!

What we love about the Gwillim Lakes hike is that you can make it into a fun weekend. There are multiple places to backcountry camp along this trail, with minimal tourist traffic. The Valhallas are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the Kootenays and are relatively unknown to tourists – you can really enjoy the peace and quiet at Gwillim Lakes.

From the parking lot, start hiking up through the forest. You’ll pass two rock-slides with impressive views of the valley beneath on your way to Drinnon Lake, the first lake on this hike to Gwillim Lakes. You typically reach Drinnon Lake in about an hour, having climbed over 300 m in under 2.0 km! Drinnon Lake is where you officially cross into Valhalla Provincial Park after a ridge climb. Look out for bears, they are commonly spotted up on the mountain tops. There is a backcountry campground here.

Continue onwards and up from Drinnon Lakes and over Drinnon Pass. Here you’ll pass the second campsite on Drinnon Pass, and you’ll start exploring the meadows and small pools, winding back and forth until you reach another lake with a gorgeous view of Wicca Peak.

You’ll descend from Drinnon Pass and then continue onwards. Now’s the time to prepare for the steeper uphill climb along the ridgeline with wonderful views of the Gwillim Drainage to your right. This last ascent is roughly 220 m of elevation gain over just over 1 km, so it’s steep.

Finally, you will reach the picturesque Gwillim Lakes, and the view is stunning. You can camp for a night or two at Gwillim Lakes and explore further, or go for a swim, enjoy your lunch or head back down to enjoy the landscape from a different perspective.

Follow your path back to your car to return.

Insider Hints for Gwillim Lakes

• This is grizzly territory, please be bear aware at all times.
• 2WD is possible for this access road, although high clearance is desirable (the very last 1.0 km of road is extremely rocky)
• If you camp at Gwillim Lakes, a great route extension is to Lucifer Pass from the Gwillim Campground (3.0 km and 400 m elevation gain).
• The drive to the trailhead is a long drive, taking roughly 1h 45m from Nelson. Camping sites are available on Little Slocan Road if you are driving a long way.
• If staying in Nelson, treat yourself to some taco’s at Cantina Del Centro.
• Try and time this with another day hiking trip to Gimli Ridge, they are both wonderful hikes.