Hiking in Greendrop Lake: trails, map and practical info

Description

Greendrop Lake sits tucked away in Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park, offering one of the more rewarding day hikes in the Vancouver Coast Mountains region. This pristine alpine lake delivers the kind of backcountry experience that feels remote and wild, yet remains accessible enough for a solid day trip from the Lower Mainland.

The Trail Experience

The journey to Greendrop Lake covers approximately 11 kilometers round trip, starting from the Post Creek parking lot. Right from the trailhead, you'll be walking through dense coastal forest where towering Douglas firs and western hemlocks create a natural canopy overhead. The undergrowth here is lush and vibrant, typical of the wet climate that defines this part of British Columbia.

The trail follows a steady upward trajectory with 410 meters of elevation gain spread throughout the hike. While the grade isn't punishing, you'll encounter several steep sections mixed with rockier terrain that demands attention to foot placement. The path can be muddy and slippery during wet conditions, which is common in this region, so sturdy hiking boots with good tread are essential.

About halfway to your destination, you'll reach Flora Lake, a smaller body of water that serves as both a natural rest stop and a preview of what's to come. This spot offers your first real glimpse of the surrounding mountain landscape and makes for an excellent photo opportunity. Many hikers use Flora Lake as a gauge for their energy levels—if you're feeling strong here, the remainder of the trek to Greendrop Lake should be manageable.

The final approach to Greendrop Lake involves navigating some of the trail's most challenging terrain. Rocky outcrops and root systems require careful stepping, but the forest begins to open up, offering tantalizing glimpses of the peaks ahead. The sound of moving water grows stronger as you approach the lake's outlet stream.

At the Lake

Greendrop Lake reveals itself as a classic alpine gem—crystal-clear waters that mirror the sky and surrounding ridgelines on calm days. The lake sits in a natural bowl surrounded by rugged mountain peaks that rise dramatically from the water's edge. The setting feels genuinely remote, despite being accessible as a day hike.

The shoreline offers several spots suitable for taking a break or enjoying a packed lunch. Large boulders and fallen logs provide natural seating with prime views across the water. The lake's clarity is remarkable—on sunny days, you can often see well into the depths, and the water takes on different shades of blue and green depending on the light and weather conditions.

Anglers will find Greendrop Lake holds a healthy population of trout, making it worth bringing along a fishing rod if you have a valid British Columbia fishing license. The fish tend to be most active during the cooler parts of the day, particularly early morning and evening hours.

Planning Your Visit

This hike works best as a full day adventure. Most hikers should plan on 4-6 hours for the complete round trip, depending on fitness level, rest stops, and time spent at the lake. Starting early in the day is recommended, both for parking availability and to ensure you have plenty of daylight for the return journey.

Water is essential—bring more than you think you'll need, especially on warm days. While there are water sources along the trail, including the lake itself, you'll want to treat or filter any water collected from natural sources. A first-aid kit is standard gear for this type of backcountry hiking, and a map and compass or GPS device provide important backup navigation.

Weather in this region can change quickly, particularly at higher elevations. Check current conditions and trail reports before heading out, as snow can linger well into late spring and return early in fall. Rain gear is advisable year-round given the coastal mountain climate.

The moderately challenging nature of this trail makes it suitable for hikers with some experience, but it's not so technical that it requires advanced skills. Families with older children who are comfortable with longer hikes will find this trail manageable, though the distance and elevation gain mean it's not appropriate for very young hikers.

Respecting the Environment

Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park sees steady use, making responsible hiking practices particularly important. Pack out everything you bring in, including food scraps that might seem harmless but can attract wildlife and disrupt natural processes. Stay on established trails to prevent erosion and protect fragile vegetation.

Wildlife encounters are possible throughout this region, including black bears. Make noise while hiking, especially around blind corners or dense vegetation, and know how to properly store food if you're planning an extended stay at the lake.

The pristine condition of Greendrop Lake depends on visitors treating it with care. Avoid using soap or detergents near the water, even biodegradable varieties, and be mindful of where you step along the shoreline to minimize impact on vegetation and soil.