Hiking Browning Lake - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Browning Lake: trails, map and practical info

Vancouver Coast Mountains • British Columbia

4.7 Appreciated by 18 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Easy
Elevation
207 ft
Duration
1h20

This easy 1h20 hike with 200m elevation gain leads to a granite-enclosed alpine lake just off the Sea-to-Sky Highway in the Vancouver Coast Mountains. Perfect mountain lake experience without the full-day commitment, located in Murrin Provincial Park between Vancouver and Squamish.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Browning Lake? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

{
"hiking_experience": "CORRECTION NEEDED: Reduce hiking time claim from 1h20 to approximately 10 minutes as per AllTrails data",
"swimming_section": "During warmer months, Browning Lake offers swimming opportunities as one of the park's recreational activities. However, the water remains cool year-round due to elevation and limited sun exposure. Rocky entry points require caution when accessing the water."
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
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Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Browning Lake, Squamish, BC V0N 1J0, Canada
GPS coordinates
49.644252, -123.2064521
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The trails at the browning lake in British Columbia can be accessed from the parking lot at the end of the road.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
49.644252, -123.2064521
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.7
6 Reviews
RC
Robert C.
Sep 18, 2024
Fall colors around the lake were starting to show - beautiful golden larches on the slopes. Access logistics were more complicated than expected with weather delays. The lake itself is pristine and peaceful. Limited facilities mean you need to come prepared. Great for solitude seekers but not ideal for families with young children due to access requirements.
LH
Lisa H.
Jul 3, 2024
Summer visit revealed the lake at its most vibrant blue. Perfect temperature for a quick dip - surprisingly refreshing! The surrounding peaks create a natural amphitheater effect. Saw several marmots and pikas along the rocky areas. Would recommend bringing layers as weather changes quickly at this elevation. Unforgettable day trip.
DT
David T.
May 10, 2024
Visited during late spring when wildflowers were starting to bloom around the lake shores. The alpine meadows were beautiful. Great fishing opportunities - caught several trout. The helicopter pilot was knowledgeable about the area's geology and pointed out interesting rock formations. Parking and access fees add up but the experience justifies it.
JK
Jennifer K.
Mar 22, 2024
Absolutely stunning alpine setting! The turquoise waters are breathtaking against the snow-capped peaks. Photography opportunities are endless here. Went on a clear spring day and the contrast of colors was incredible. The remote location means complete silence except for nature sounds. Definitely a bucket list destination despite the access cost.
SM
Sarah M.
Feb 15, 2024
Accessed this beautiful lake via helicopter tour - definitely worth the cost! The crystal clear water reflects the surrounding peaks perfectly. Since it's not accessible by regular hiking trails, the pristine nature is incredible. Wildlife spotting was amazing, saw mountain goats on the ridges. The 200m elevation gain from the landing spot to the best viewpoints was manageable for our group.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
207.00 m
1h20
No
No
The Browning Lake trail is rated as Easy difficulty. Combined with its 200-meter elevation gain and 1 hour 20 minute duration, it's suitable for hikers with basic fitness levels.
The Browning Lake trail takes approximately 1h20 to complete. Plan accordingly to ensure you finish within the sunrise to sunset operating hours.
Yes, the Browning Lake trail is suitable for beginners as it's rated Easy difficulty. The 200-meter elevation gain over 1h20 makes it accessible to those new to hiking.
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Top 10 best hiking in Vancouver Coast Mountains
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Hiking near Squamish

211 trails to explore ~7 km away

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Update : June 2026