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Taking it offline and connecting with nature. Let the adventures begin and livelifewildher.
Interests: backpackingcanoeinghikingkayakingmountaineeringphotographysnowshoeingweekendsdogsglacier-crossingglacier-viewinglakepeakscramblingsteep-trailsroutefindingpopular-trailswater-fallwild-flowers
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■karma:128
■distance:158km
■elevation:6653m
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Watersprite Lake
Aug 4, 2020
This once hidden and unknown lake is now a popular hiking destination. Watersprite Lake is a gem of a lake - turquoise in colour and surrounded by mountains. The hike to the lake is full of spectacular views of mountains, valleys and creeks but getting to the lake is no small feat.
First you need to get to the trailhead which is located 16km from the Sea to Sky Highway along the Mamquam River Forest Service Road and this requires a 4 x 4 vehicle or one with high clearance. Once you have tackled the bumpy, and at times, narrow and rocky road, you then have a 10.2 km hike to the lake, roundtrip of 20.4 km. The distance was clocked via my Suunto Baro 9 GPS watch out and back. This is 3.2 km longer then what is being advertised on Alltrails and Vancouver Trails.
Elevation gain was 709 meters and the highest point on the trail is 1469 meters.
The trail starts at the information kiosk atop a hill. Follow the gravel trail which takes you into the forest. Here is where you will see the orange markers that will lead you to Watersprite. The trail is well marked making it easy to follow. You will cross a few wooden bridges and cross over a creek.
Most of the trail is single track and gradually starts to climb with some steep and rocky sections. As you come up along the ridge, the views start to emerge. You will come across a junction for the Demon Ridge Trail around 5 km (marked by a green marker). Continue straight to stay on the Watersprite Trail and just few meters ahead you will come to an amazing viewpoint, The Prow Lookout. This is where you will have a spectacular view of the entire valley.
Continue along the route to the lake until you reach the first boulder field/rock-slide. Follow the markers and flag tape to get to the other side. The boulders can be tricky so watch your step. Once completed the trail takes you into a forested area which then takes you to a steep boulder field. This is the final push before you reach the lake. Take caution as you make your way up the steep boulder field and continue to follow the trail until it levels out and Watersprite Lake comes into view.
At the lake you will find the BCMC cabin and an outhouse. Find a spot around the lake to take a break, enjoy your lunch and soak in the scenery. To return to the parking lot, follow the same route back. Heading back to the parking lot is faster as most of the hike is downhill.
Watersprite Lake continues to see an increased number of visitors every year. Keep this delicate and sensitive area beautiful and clean. If you are going to the lake, remember to leave no trace. The Watersprite Cabin, outhouses (at the lake and the parking lot) and trails were built and are maintained by volunteers from the BC Mountaineering Club. Please be respectful.
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