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Wild Horizon 2025 #2: Watersprite Lake – Martin Lake Alpine Exploration · Sat. Jul. 12th, 2025 - Mon. Jul. 14th, 2025
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Start: Saturday, Jul. 12th, 7:00 am
End: Monday, Jul. 14th, 8:00 pm
Pre-trip meeting: Tuesday, Jul. 8th, 8:00 pm
Pre-trip meeting location: Zoom
Description:
Duration: 3 Days, 2 Nights
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Start Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025
End Date: Monday, July 14, 2025
Type: Out-and-Back
Total Distance: 20–21 km
Min Elevation: 800 m
Max Elevation: 1770 m
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable alpine adventure to Watersprite Lake, one of British Columbia’s most pristine and picturesque backcountry lakes. From the lake’s shores, the journey leads to Martin Lake—an untouched alpine gem tucked away behind the south ridgeline. This offers a rare opportunity to explore hidden terrain in the heart of the Coast Mountains.
This three-day trek combines well-maintained trails with off-trail navigation, offering both beauty and challenge. Watersprite Lake’s sparkling turquoise waters provide a stunning basecamp, while the climb to the south ridgeline rewards hikers with sweeping vistas and the opportunity to discover Martin Lake—a secluded treasure few have laid eyes upon.
Camping at Watersprite Lake is in high demand, with spots available only by reservation two months in advance. This adventure is a rare opportunity for a truly exclusive backcountry experience.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Saturday, July 12, 2025
• Start Point: Watersprite Lake Trailhead (800 m)
• End Point: Watersprite Lake Campground (1470 m)
• Elevation: 800-1480 m
• Estimated Hiking Time: 4–5 hours
•Trail Condition: Well-maintained, gradual ascent with clear paths
Our adventure begins at the Watersprite Lake Trailhead, reached by a 20 km rough dirt road and 92 km of paved highway. The trail meanders through lush forests, crossing crystal-clear creeks and offering breathtaking views of expansive valleys. As we ascend toward the lake, the trail gradually steepens, providing glimpses of majestic peaks like Mt. Garibaldi and Martin Peak along the way.
Arriving at Watersprite Lake in the afternoon, we’ll settle into camp by the serene lakeshore. Surrounded by pristine waters and towering mountains, it’s the perfect setting to unwind, capture the ever-changing hues of the landscape, and share stories as night falls.
Day 2 – Sunday, July 13, 2025
• Excursion to Martin Lake via south ridgeline
• Ascent: 1–1.5 km, 300 m elevation gain, off-trail navigation
• Descent: 1–1.5 km, 300 m elevation loss
• Elevation: 1470-1770 m
• Estimated Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
After a hearty breakfast, we set out on a free-route scramble up the south ridgeline above Watersprite Lake. The ascent takes us across open alpine slopes, offering panoramic views of the lake far below. Snow may still linger in higher spots, adding to the alpine beauty and creating the perfect backdrop for a challenging climb. As we crest the ridgeline, we’ll catch sight of Martin Lake—a hidden alpine jewel, nestled at the same elevation as Watersprite Lake.
Reaching Martin Lake, we’ll pause to take in the tranquility of the surroundings—ideal for a peaceful lunch and a few photos. After soaking in the beauty of this remote spot, we’ll retrace our steps back to Watersprite Lake Campground, where another night under the stars awaits.
Day 3 – Monday, July 14, 2025
After packing up camp, we’ll follow the well-marked trail back to the trailhead, bringing our incredible alpine adventure to a close.
Route Map
Click here for the full-resolution route map.
(The preview below may be compressed by the platform.)
Transportation & Vehicle Requirements
• Trailhead Access: 92 km paved road + 20 km rough dirt road
• Recommended Vehicles: High-clearance 4x4 vehicles are ideal for the final stretch to the Watersprite Lake Trailhead
• Carpooling: We encourage carpooling to minimize environmental impact and reduce vehicle requirements
While we’d love to include as many adventurers as possible, the group size will be limited by both the number of available car seats and the campsite capacity. Priority will go first to those on the confirmed list, followed by those on the tentative list. Drivers are especially welcome — your contribution is essential, and you’ll always have top priority!
Please also make sure you're able to secure one of the limited campsite reservations, which become available two months in advance.
To help everyone share transportation costs fairly and transparently, I’ve created a simple Carpool Cost Calculator. Just enter trip distance, fuel price, and number of people — the spreadsheet will do the rest.
📥 Download Link:
Click here to download Carpool_Cost_Calculator.xlsx
Essential Packing List
• Lightweight tent and sleeping gear
• Layered clothing system (base, mid, and outer layers)
• Waterproof jacket/pants
• Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
• Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
• Food and stove for 3-4 days
• Water filtration system
• Microspikes or crampons (if snow remains on the ridge)
• First aid kit
• Bear spray and proper food storage
• If bringing cellphone or electronic devices, a solar power bank is recommended for recharging
Important Notes
• Personal Responsibility: I am not a certified guide. Each participant is fully responsible for their own safety, decisions, and well-being throughout the journey.
• Watersprite Lake Campsites: Reservations are required and must be made in advance through the BC Mountaineering Club website.
• Self-Supported Adventures: Every participant must carry their own gear, food, and water.
• Ridge Route to Martin Lake: The ascent and descent involve off-trail travel.
• Bear Safety: All food must be stored in bear-proof containers or properly hung in accordance with standard safety protocols.
• Use of AI Tools: To improve clarity and flow, I used AI tools to assist with language editing — but all route planning, content, and ideas are entirely my own.
Best Time to Go
The ideal time to experience this route is from early July to late August. Early summer may bring lingering snow on the ridge or in higher valleys, enhancing the alpine scenery while keeping the undergrowth in check.
Join us on this unforgettable alpine journey, where turquoise waters, hidden lakes, and rugged peaks converge to create one of the most extraordinary adventures in the Wild Horizon 2025 series!
Pre-Trip Meeting
Our pre-trip meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 8 at 8:00 PM (via Zoom).
Please refer to the signup page for the Zoom link.If you’re planning to join the trip but can’t attend the meeting, make sure to email me in advance.
References
Meteoblue: 7-Day Weather
BC Mountaineering Club: Watersprite Lake Campground Reservation
Vancouver Trails: Watersprite Lake near Squamish
AllTrails: Watersprite Lake (Summer Route)
Road it Up: Overnight hike to Watersprite Lake
Google Maps: Watersprite Lake Photo Sphere
Google Maps: Martin Lake Satellite 3D Map
3D Route Map:
Watersprite Lake in July (Photo):
Posted: 2025-04-11 00:25:30
Last modified: 2025-05-29 21:00:29