Liumchen Lake

Liumchen Lake is one of those Chilliwack hikes that feels way more remote than it actually is. This 9.2 km out-and-back gains about 678 m to roughly 1647 m, so it’s a solid workout and generally rated challenging, but the payoff is a quiet alpine lake and big valley views with almost no crowds.

The trail starts by following the Windy Knob route before branching right toward Liumchen Lake, climbing steadily through forest and opening up to views across the valley toward Elk Mountain. On clear days you get long sightlines down the valley; on foggy days it feels moody and enclosed, then suddenly the trees break and you’re standing at the edge of a pristine, open lake that feels completely tucked away from the busier Chilliwack trails.

Recent hikers report foggy conditions at times and almost no other people on the route, so don’t count on company. The Liumchen Lake Forest Service Road is the real crux: it’s a long drive in, over 30 minutes on gravel, and the last few kilometres are rough enough that a high-clearance 4x4 is strongly recommended, especially with the gate now sitting about 4.4 km from the trailhead due to logging. From April to October the trail is usually in decent shape, but in colder months expect snow and ice, bring spikes and proper layers, and give yourself extra time beyond the typical 3 hour 58 minute average.