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

Vancouver Coast Mountains • British Columbia

4.3 Appreciated by 27 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2013 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Hard
Distance
19 km
Elevation
213 ft
Duration
7h45
Max altitude
771 ft

Challenge yourself on this 19 km hard trail in the Vancouver Coast Mountains, requiring a canoe crossing to access the remote trailhead. Expect 7h45 of hiking with 1200 m elevation gain rewarding you with pristine alpine scenery near Pitt Meadows, BC.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

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

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Trail description

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"getting_there_section": "

Getting There

\n\n

Access to Widgeon Lake begins from Widgeon Creek Campsite. You have two options: hike in via the established trail, or access by canoe or kayak from the Grant Narrows Regional Park parking lot across from the Pitt River. Most hikers use the hiking trail approach, which starts at the campsite trailhead. If you choose the water route, factor in the logistics of arranging or renting watercraft. Either way, an early start is essential given the full-day commitment ahead.

\n\n

Once at the trailhead, the approach through Widgeon Valley is relatively flat before the serious climbing starts, and you'll pass the popular Widgeon Falls as the trail continues upward.

",
"remove_canoe_requirement_from_planning": true
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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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
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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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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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Widgeon Lake, Greater Vancouver A, BC V0N 3Z0, Canada
GPS coordinates
49.4489636, -122.6690453
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, you can start at the Widgeon Falls Trailhead. Begin by heading to the parking lot located at Grant Narrows Regional Park. The address for this location is 27915 Lougheed Highway, Pitt Meadows, BC V3Y 1Z1. From there, you'll need to cross Widgeon Slough by canoe or kayak to reach the trailhead on the opposite shore. Canoe rentals are available seasonally at the park if needed.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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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
49.4489636, -122.6690453
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.3
11 Reviews
M
Marcus
Oct 15, 2025
The autumn foliage along Widgeon Creek was absolutely stunning during our visit. This unique hike requires a canoe crossing at the start, which adds an adventurous element you won't find on typical trails. The trail becomes quite muddy after rainfall, so waterproof footwear is essential. We encountered fresh bear signs along the route, making bear spray a necessity. The remote wilderness feeling once you cross the water is unmatched.
D
David
Sep 3, 2025
The unique canoe crossing at Grant Narrows sets this hike apart from any other trail experience. Paddling across Widgeon Slough takes about 15 minutes in calm morning conditions and adds an exciting adventure element. Make sure to properly secure your watercraft on the opposite shore before starting the trail. Despite the demanding 19km journey with significant elevation gain, reaching the absolutely pristine lake makes every challenging step worthwhile.
S
Sarah
Aug 22, 2025
Wildlife enthusiasts will absolutely love this trail! We spotted playful river otters during our paddle across the slough and observed multiple woodpecker species in the old-growth forest sections. The massive cedar trees create a cathedral-like atmosphere that's truly breathtaking. Widgeon Lake itself remains completely undeveloped and pristine, feeling like a true hidden gem. Don't forget your camera for the incredible photo opportunities throughout the journey.
J
Jake
Jul 8, 2025
Started our summer adventure at dawn to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful morning atmosphere. The water crossing offers excellent wildlife viewing, including great blue herons fishing in the calm waters. The trail features steep sections with almost constant elevation gain over the 19km distance. Brought fishing gear and was rewarded with nice trout catches in the crystal-clear lake waters surrounded by towering mountain peaks.
E
Emma
May 18, 2025
This demanding hike requires careful planning and preparation. The canoe rental system at Grant Narrows works efficiently, but arriving early during busy periods is crucial. The trail presents relentless uphill climbing with 1200m of elevation gain that challenges even experienced hikers. Widgeon Creek provides welcome water refill opportunities and cooling spots. The lake water remains quite cold in late spring but feels refreshing after the strenuous climb.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Hard
213.00 m
771.00 m
7h45
No
No
No, the Widgeon Lake trail is rated as Hard difficulty with 19 km distance, 1200 m elevation gain, and 7h45 duration. This trail requires good fitness and hiking experience. It is not recommended for beginners or casual hikers.
The Widgeon Lake trail takes approximately 7h45 to complete. This estimate accounts for the 19 km distance and 1200 m elevation gain, so plan accordingly and start early to finish before sunset.
The Widgeon Lake trail has 1200 m of elevation gain over 19 km. This significant elevation gain contributes to the Hard difficulty rating and requires good physical conditioning.
No, dogs are not permitted on the Widgeon Lake trail. Please leave your pets at home or arrange alternative care before your visit.
Yes, there is a fee to access the Widgeon Lake trail. Additionally, canoe or kayak rentals are available seasonally at Grant Narrows Regional Park if you don't have your own watercraft to cross Widgeon Slough.
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Update : June 2026