Hicks Lake Trail

Hicks Lake Trail in Sasquatch Provincial Park near Agassiz is a mellow 6.6 km loop that feels more like a long lakeside stroll than a big mountain mission. With only about 141 m of gain and a max elevation around 267 m, it usually takes under two hours and suits most fitness levels, kids included. Expect more relaxed wandering than hardcore hiking, with lots of chances to stop and enjoy the water and surrounding peaks.

Hiking Hicks Lake Trail clockwise from the main parking/day-use area gives the smoothest experience. You’ll start on a service road, move onto a double-track with grass between the tire ruts, then settle into a regular dirt trail with some roots, rocks, and short hills. Most of the loop is in the trees with filtered lake views, then the final stretch opens up with better access to the shoreline, a small quiet beach, and big views of the lake and snow-capped mountains on clear days.

Recent hikers report that going counterclockwise can be confusing, with faint or nonexistent trail along the beach, sections through busy campgrounds, and then a long stretch on old road away from the lake. Clockwise tends to be easier to follow, though parts can be muddy, overgrown, and a bit hard to spot at the start; watch the wooden boardwalks when wet, and expect some vegetation brushing your legs. Sneakers are fine in dry weather, light hikers are better in the shoulder seasons, and this loop is open year-round, but always keep an eye out for bears and give wildlife plenty of space.