Sea-to-Sky Waterfalls & Joffre Lakes Day Trip from Whistler
Drive the Sea-to-Sky for a day of thunderous falls and glacier-fed blues. This private, 8–9 hour loop hits Shannon, Mamquam, Brandywine and Joffre Lakes — a compact sampler of BC’s most dramatic water and mountain scenery.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early to beat traffic
Allow extra time on Sea-to-Sky Highway for scenic pullouts and avoid late-afternoon return traffic; the tour lasts 8–9 hours.
Bring at least 2–3 L of water
Joffre’s 9 km round-trip hike and exposed moraine sections are dehydrating—carry a refillable bottle or hydration pack.
Wear waterproof hiking shoes
Trails can be muddy or rocky, and stream crossings early in the season make sturdy, grippy footwear important.
Check meet-up details on your voucher
The operator meets guests at a designated McDonald’s parking lot — confirm the exact location and arrival time on your booking confirmation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for small roadside pullouts between Squamish and Whistler where coastal inlets frame mountain ridges
- •The moraine ridgeline above Middle Joffre provides quieter vantage points away from the main viewpoint
Wildlife
- •black bear
- •bald eagle
Conservation Note
Trails at Joffre and surrounding parks are sensitive to erosion and high summer foot traffic—stay on marked trails, pack out waste, and respect seasonal closures to protect fragile alpine vegetation.
This corridor follows old travel and trade routes used by the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations; modern Highway 99 later opened access for logging and tourism, transforming remote valleys into roadside destinations.
Photographer's Notes
- • Brandywine Falls viewing platform above the gorge
- • Upper Joffre Lake shoreline looking back at the glacier
- • Sea-to-Sky pullouts between Squamish and Whistler for ocean-mountain contrasts
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Grip and ankle support for muddy, rocky trails and moraine sections at Joffre Lakes.
Water reservoir or bottles (2–3 L)Essential
Keeps you hydrated through the climb and during roadside stops.
Light waterproof jacket and layersEssential
Weather can shift quickly in the Coast Mountains—layers handle sun, wind, and drizzle.
Camera with polarizer
A polarizer helps cut glare and deepen the turquoise tones at the glacier-fed lakes.
Common Questions
How strenuous is the Joffre Lakes hike on this tour?
The main hike is moderate: roughly 9 km round-trip with about 400 m elevation gain to Upper Joffre Lake. Expect steady climbing and some exposed sections on loose moraine.
Are park fees or permits required?
Day visitors typically only encounter occasional parking or park-use fees; the tour handles transportation, so no special backcountry permits are required for the standard visits.
Where does the tour meet guests?
The operator meets travelers at a designated McDonald’s parking lot — the exact location and pick-up time are listed on your booking confirmation.
Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Families with older children who are comfortable walking moderate distances will be fine; seniors should assess mobility for uneven trail sections and the Joffre ascent.
Are restrooms and food available during the day?
Basic restroom facilities are available at major stops and Whistler; the tour provides short free time in Whistler Village for lunch and shops.
Can I join if I’m pregnant or have back/heart conditions?
This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with significant spinal, cardiovascular, or mobility issues due to trail and elevation challenges.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Whistler, British Columbia
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate — able to handle a 9 km round-trip hike with ~400 m elevation gain and several short walks
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