Screaming Cat Lake via Skywalk North

Screaming Cat Lake via Skywalk North is one of those Whistler hikes that makes you work for it, then pays you back in a big way. This 14.2 km out-and-back gains about 900 m and tops out around 1,568 m, so expect a solid, challenging day of around five and a half hours for most hikers. It’s well maintained, surprisingly quiet, and has that “how is this not more famous?” feeling the whole way.

The first third out of the Skywalk North trailhead is a grind: steep, dry, and rocky, with some exposed sections and a few mountain bike crossings to keep you on your toes. Not long after starting, there’s a quick viewpoint over Green Lake, then you push on until you hit the signed detour for the 19 Mile Ridge Lookout, which you absolutely shouldn’t skip. From there you get huge 360-degree views from Mount Currie across to Black Tusk, then the character of the trail changes, easing into old-growth forest and more rolling terrain until you pop out at Screaming Cat Lake with Rainbow Mountain as a backdrop and a perfect cold dip waiting.

Recent hikers say the route is in good shape but the signage is poor in spots, especially if there’s lingering snow, so have a GPS track or offline map ready. The trail is dry for most of the way with no reliable water until the lake, so pack extra for yourself and any dogs you bring. Bugs are a recurring theme: mosquitoes can be intense at the lake in early and mid-summer, though the lookout often has enough wind to give you a break, so aim for shoulder season or go prepared with spray, long sleeves, and a plan to linger at the ridge before heading down.