Garibaldi Lake: BC’s Stunning Mountain Landscape

About the Picture

Garibaldi Lake is one of those places in British Columbia that has captured my heart over and over again. Just about a stone’s throw between Squamish and Whistler, it’s tucked away in Garibaldi Provincial Park, known for its jaw-dropping scenery and trails that call me back time and time again.

The image I share with you, was taken on an overcast day, I believe it perfectly showcases the lake’s calm waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the view that you can’t get tired of.

Garibaldi Provincial Park is quite huge, kilometers of wilderness and offers many different trails and hikes. Garibaldi Lake was the first one in the park I had a chance to visit, and it shortly became my favorite one. A perfect place to disconnect and lose oneself in the beauty of BC.

And I believe that because of places like this one, the province is called Beautiful British Columbia, cause oh yes, it is.

Garibaldi lake, located about 1,500 meters above sea level, the lakes streches out over 9 kilometeres and its turquoise waters (on a sunny day) offer views so many hikers fall in love with. The spot from the picture is about 3-4 hours away from the parking lot and most of the trail you will walk surrounded by trees, enjoying waterfalls, wild animals and lakes.

The photo I took above was on a moody, cloudy day—not the typical sunny shot you might be used to seeing. But honestly, there’s something extra peaceful about the lake when it’s under a blanket of clouds.

The lake’s brilliant color isn’t just for show. It’s created by glacial silt from nearby icefields, which reflects light in a way that gives the water its unique turquoise hue.

On overcast days, like the one in the photo, the lake shifts to a deeper, richer blue that feels like it’s asking you to slow down and just take it all in.

The hike to Garibaldi Lake is one I never get tired of. Starting at the Rubble Creek trailhead, the 18-kilometer round-trip trail winds through lush forests filled with towering evergreens and wildflowers. It’s a steady climb with about 820 meters of elevation gain—enough to get your heart racing but so worth it.

If you would like to see more pictures of Garibaldi Lake hike, please check this post with several pictures from Garibaldi Lake hike.

Certainly, the first part of the trail is a series of switchbacks that help ease you into the climb. As I make my way up, the forest occasionally opens up to reveal little glimpses of mountains and valleys, like a sneak peek of what’s to come.

And when I finally reach the lake, especially on a moody, cloud-covered day, it’s like stepping into a scene from a movie.

Feel free to download this image for free and use it to bring a touch of BC’s natural beauty to your blog or article and inspire others to explore the great outdoors.