Pemberton Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is one of Pemberton's most underrated winter pastimes. The huge backcountry surrounding the Valley is perfect for winter hikes and it allows you to take advantage of trails typically busy in the summer. There's nothing more serene than breaking trail through a quiet, snow draped forest as you explore some of British Columbia's beautiful backcountry. 

What You'll Need

The great thing about snowshoeing is that almost anybody can do it, the equipment is minimal and the cost is affordable. Even the coldest of days require you to wear little more than a base layer under your clothes, a set of winter boots, and a winter jacket. Gear is pretty simple - hat, gloves, jacket, water, and snowshoes. Depending on your trip you may want to bring snacks or pack a lunch for the longer trails. 

*Tip bring some ski poles for extra balance*

Don't own your own snowshoes? No worries, we have a limited amount of pairs available at the front desk for Pemberton Valley Lodge guests. If you need more pairs, Pemberton Bike Co also rents showshoes. Give them a call to rent your pair - 604-894-6625.

For a much more in-depth review of the gear you'll need check out Snowshoeing: First Steps

Snowshoe Spots in Pemberton

Basically anywhere with snow is snowshoeing country but people typically like to use the local bike trails and dyke system when they strap on their snow stompers. Popular areas in town to snowshoe are behind the Water Tower on top of Snob Hill, Nairn Falls, and One Mile. These easily accessible local trails can be done by pretty much everybody and don't require much of drive to get to. Check out the map below to find out some great snowshoeing locations!

Shadow Lake Interpretive Forest

Midway between Pemberton and Whistler lays Shadow Lake. Shadow Lake isn't so much of a lake but a river with lake like switchbacks but the forest does have a network of trails that take visitors through old- and second-growth forest in one of the area's original interpretative forests. This is a great place to explore for a couple hours or the whole day.

Farm Road East (The Plateau)

Known by locals simply as, The Plateau, Farm Road East is the first road you come once you cross the Lillooet River traveling from Pemberton to Mt. Currie. Turn left, travel to the end of the road, hang a left onto an old gravel road and park at the first pullout. This is great beginner terrain with spectacular valley views. Also at the end of Farm Road is the gravel pit. Cross the gravel path to the north and follow the path along the Festival Grounds - a lovely, treed route that's magnificent on a sunny day.

Duffy Lake Road Spots

On Highway 99, north from Pemberton heading towards Lillooet is The Duffy Lake Road. The Duffy climbs steeply from the Pemberton valley, gaining about 3500 feet of altitude over 16 km and provides people with some of the best hiking and backcountry adventuring possible. Check out the Duffy Lake Road map below for some backcountry snowshoeing spots.

 Joffre Lakes

More adventurous snowshoers can tackle the Joffre Lakes trail, which climbs past three lakes right to the alpine. Get out from under the branches and enjoy some wide-open spaces - the picturesque frozen lakes of Joffre are perfect. Take advantage of the slow winter season at Joffre and enjoy on of the best snowshoeing experiences around.

Cayoosh Pass

Only a half-hour drive from Pemberton, the Cayoosh Pass has old logging roads that reach into the side valleys, providing gentle open spaces that are ideal for snowshoe routes. Snowshoeing the Cayoosh is possibly the most interesting and picturesque snowshoe experience you might ever have. As one of Pemberton's most popular snowshoeing spot there's plenty of people who have done the winter trek. If you want to do the Cayoosh I suggest you read this guide first, it's always better to know what you're getting yourself into.

There's plenty of other spots around the Pemberton Valley to go snowshoeing but we don't wanna spoil all the secrets. Don't be afraid to ask around for people's suggestions on where you should go!