Lightning Lakes Chain to Thunder Lake

Lightning Lakes Chain to Thunder Lake in E.C. Manning Park is a long but steady out-and-back that links a string of classic Manning lakes into one solid day. At 22 km with about 386 m of gain, it’s more about distance than steep climbing, so “moderate” here really depends on your fitness and comfort with a full day on trail. Expect around five hours of moving time, more if you linger at the lakes or poke around Thunder Lake at the end.

The route starts from the Lightning Lakes area and rolls gently past Flash and Strike, with big open views over the water and surrounding ridges. The trail is mostly smooth and well maintained, with some rougher, rockier sections after Strike Camp as you push toward Thunder Lake. The last stretch gets a bit overgrown but the path is still obvious, and the scenery opens up again as you get into the more exposed Thunder Lake basin.

Recent hikers report that Thunder Lake is accessible, but you need to drop down before the danger sign, follow the rock cairns along the river, and carefully cross a simple wood-branch bridge; many people leave heavy packs at the damaged sign to keep the crossing light. Expect some blowdowns around the Flash Lake section until maintenance clears them, and know that Strike Camp is currently getting new tent pads and the trail beyond has been brushed out. This Manning Park trail is hot and exposed near Thunder Lake, so carry more water than you think you need, watch for seasonal road closures to the Lightning Lakes trailhead, and aim for the May to October window for the best conditions.