Joffre Lakes Trail
Joffre Lakes Trail is a British Columbia day hike in Joffre Lakes Provincial Park that follows a single trail past Lower, Middle, and Upper Joffre lakes. The hike is mapped as a round-trip outing from the trailhead area, built around reaching Upper Joffre Lake at the base of Matier Glacier (often treated as the key destination).
Most of the effort concentrates on the climb from Lower toward Middle Joffre Lake, where the route steepens and becomes more demanding as you approach Middle. Expect sustained ups and rougher footing on this section compared with the short start to Lower Joffre Lake.
Lower Joffre Lake is close to the parking area, making it an early stopping point before the steeper work begins. Continuing toward Middle, the trail runs through forest and along talus/streamside terrain and eventually brings you to the Middle Joffre Lake viewpoint area.
Middle Joffre Lake is the main photo stop on the route. The lakes are fed by glacier melt, and their saturated blue/turquoise color comes from suspended glacial silt (“rockflour”). There are also nearby features along the way that connect the lakes area (including a waterfall spur leading off the main path).
From Middle, the route pushes to Upper Joffre Lake with a final section that is narrower and rougher near the end. Upper Joffre Lake sits beneath Matier Glacier, with ongoing icefall and rockfall from above; the park discourages going onto unstable glacial terrain beyond the established trail.
Access is managed because Joffre Lakes is extremely popular. Day-use passes are required during the peak season window in 2026, and the park can be temporarily closed during set dates; camping is only at Upper Joffre Lake Campground (with reservations required throughout the camping season).
Plan for limited services in the park: there is no cell service, no emergency services, and drinking water is not available—bring water and treat it before drinking. Dogs/pets are not allowed, camping is prohibited outside designated tent pads at Upper Joffre Lake Campground, and there is a permanent campfire ban.
More information: Exploring the Turquoise Waters of Joffre Lakes - PeakVisor, Joffre Lakes Park | BC Parks, Joffre Lakes Hike: The Complete Trail Guide for 2025/2026