Devil's Lake Loop

Devil’s Lake Loop near Mission, BC is one of those short hikes that still feels like a real adventure. The loop is only about 4.7 km with minimal elevation gain, but don’t let the stats fool you. This is a mix of relaxed lakeside walking, fun scrambles, and a few sections that will get your heart rate up, all wrapped around a quiet forested lake that feels surprisingly remote for being so close to town.

The trail circles Devil’s Lake with constant variety underfoot: roots, rocks, logs, little streams, and short, punchy climbs. One side of the loop is an easy stroll with frequent views and access points to the beach, plus a floating dock with chairs where people sit and soak in the breeze and watch loons. The east side gets more technical, with narrow tread, boulders to climb, a slanted rock section with a drop on one side, and a bit of bum-scooting under fallen trees, which many hikers say is the most exciting part of the hike.

Recent hikers around Devil’s Lake in Mission say the trail is well marked and mostly in good shape, but be ready for obstacles, slick rock when it rains, and lots of mosquitoes, so bring bug spray and real hiking shoes with good grip. Families with active kids and agile dogs manage the loop, but older hikers and anyone with bad ankles often prefer to hike the easier side out-and-back to the beach instead of committing to the full circuit. Expect muddy patches in shoulder seasons, some overgrown brush in summer, gross pit toilets at the trailhead, and a lake that’s cold but perfect for a quick swim after you’re done.