Garibaldi Highlands and Alice Lake

Garibaldi Highlands and Alice Lake is a solid, easy loop in Squamish that gives you a real feel for the local trail network without needing big mountain fitness. At about 13 km with 350 m of gain and a max altitude around 315 m, it’s more about distance than climbing, so expect a steady 3.5 hours on your feet.

The loop links classic Squamish routes like the Mashiter, Tracks from Hell, and the Four Lakes Trail, starting from the north end of Perth Drive in the Garibaldi Highlands. You’ll move between wider forest tracks and narrow singletrack, with boardwalks over wet sections and a mix of smooth cruising and a few rooty, rocky bits. Forest is the main show here: tall trees, filtered light, and the occasional peek toward the surrounding hills as you work your way toward Alice Lake and back.

Right now, you can reach the Garibaldi Highlands and Alice Lake loop by bus from downtown Squamish on Line 2, getting off at Highlands @ Pomona at Perth. The hike is mostly easy but long, so bring enough water and snacks, and be ready to share Mashiter and Tracks from Hell with mountain bikes; keep your ears open and step aside when you hear them coming. The Four Lakes section between Edith Lake and Alice Lake is for hikers only, and swimming at Alice Lake is currently not allowed, so plan on this being a walking day, not a beach day. Best season is roughly April through October, when the trail is snow-free and the boardwalks are less icy and slick.