Overlord, Lakeside & Decker Loop

The Overlord, Lakeside & Decker Loop on Blackcomb Mountain is one of the best bang-for-your-buck hikes in Whistler, especially if you’re already grabbing a gondola ride. This 9.5 km loop gains about 510 m and tops out around 2060 m, so you’re in true alpine terrain without a massive approach. It’s rated moderate, but with the Decker section included it can feel moderate-to-hard for many hikers.

From the Blackcomb Gondola, the first part of the Overlord and Lakeside trails is well-groomed, relatively flat, and fast, winding through ski runs, meadows, and past small lakes with big views toward Overlord and the Spearhead range. Once you commit to the Decker Loop, the character changes quickly from dirt to boulders, scree, and talus, with steeper climbs and more technical footing. The payoff is huge, with wide open views along the ridge, Blackcomb Lake below, and that classic “above the clouds” feeling on clear days.

Recent hikers report the trail as dry and in excellent shape, even after rain, with marmots everywhere and no bear encounters, but don’t let that stop you from carrying the usual wildlife precautions. Go clockwise on the Overlord, Lakeside & Decker Loop so you hit the steep, rocky Decker climb on the way out and enjoy an easier return, and keep an eye on the time since the last gondola down is around 5:15 p.m. Sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen, and more water than you think you’ll need are key, especially on hot, exposed days. The loop is usually best from late June through October, when snow is gone and wildflowers and views are at their peak.