Joffre Lakes Provincial Park

A mere 3 hours away from the city, Joffre Lakes is probably one of my favourite hikes. From the parking lot, you enter the trail and a quick 5 minutes later you are instantly rewarded with the view of glacier-laden peaks and the first of three lakes. Definitely an incentive to start the steep inclined trail that followed. Matt, Emilia, Darren, Stephanie and myself, were all pumped for the challenge!

As we ascended to a higher altitude, we were rewarded with mountain views of the surrounding peaks. 45 minutes into the incline, you come around the second of the three lakes. Known for the widely photographed log that sits in the lake, that people often use to balance on and dive from. The turquoise water is breath-taking against the backdrop of Joffre's glacial peaks.

The second lake more beautiful than the first, we were eager to keep going towards the third lake. Ascending higher into the trail, we came across wooden bridges, rushing creeks and waterfalls until we finally reached the third lake. More beautiful the the second, and guided by the trail, we went around the lake towards the glacier where lots of camping tents resided. Once on the other end, the proximity of the peak feels majestic. We stopped on a large rock formation just below the glacier to have some lunch and took in the beautiful view of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

While eating, we noticed the weather start to take a turn. Grey clouds started to roll in from the north, witnessing a large piece of ice break off, causing a bit of alarm in the crowd. Cautiously paying attention for signs of ice and rock slides. Knowing about the possible danger, we decided to descend back down to the parking lot. Another typical saturday well spent!