Alta Lake
Nestled in the heart of Whistler, British Columbia, Alta Lake is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws visitors from all over the world. As one of several pristine mountain lakes in the area, it stretches between Creekside and the Village with several parks perfect for picnicking or taking a leisurely stroll. At an elevation of 642 meters, Alta Lake is the biggest lake in Whistler and offers breathtaking views from every angle. Whether you’re looking to relax on its sandy shores or take a dip in the crystal clear waters, Alta Lake has something for everyone.
Alta Lake, originally named Summit Lake, is a picturesque body of water located in the Pacific Range of the Coast Mountains. Covering an area of approximately 1.1 square kilometers and stretching for 2.2 kilometers north to south with a maximum width of about 675 meters east to west, this stunning lake offers visitors plenty of space to explore and enjoy its natural beauty.
The towering mountains that surround it add to its natural charm while providing ample opportunities for adventure seekers to explore their rugged terrain. Measuring at 103.9 hectares, Alta Lake offers various recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, kayaking or paddleboarding during summers when temperatures are mild. The water volume at Alta Lake is impressive; measuring up to 7,732 acre-feet which provides enough space for boating enthusiasts too!
Alta Lake is a year-round attraction that offers visitors a plethora of outdoor activities to explore. As part of the Vancouver Coast & Mountains tourism region, it attracts tourists from all over the world who seek adventure and relaxation in equal measure. The lake has an average depth of 31 feet and a maximum depth of 80 feet, making it ideal for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Nine well-planned parks are available around Alta Lake where families can enjoy picnics or take leisurely walks on scenic trails.
Alta Lake State Park
Alta Lake State Park is a serene escape nestled in the beautiful state of Washington. Located just two miles southwest of Pateros, this 181-acre park boasts stunning views of Alta Lake and its surrounding mountains. The park’s elevation sits at 1,348 feet, providing visitors with breathtaking panoramas that seem to stretch on for miles. Managed by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, Alta Lake offers an abundance of recreational activities for all ages.
Alta Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, especially those who adore mountainous terrains. The park is surrounded by towering mountains that offer breathtaking views from every angle. The native rocks in the area are primarily igneous, which adds to the rugged beauty of the landscape. For families looking for a fun day out, Alta Lake has plenty of picnic tables and a playground for kids to enjoy. Visitors can also take advantage of the lake’s nice swimming beach with a corded-off swim area to ensure safety while enjoying water activities like swimming or boating.
As you explore the park, you’ll be surrounded by an abundance of plant life and wildlife. The park’s diverse plant community includes berries, birch trees, cherry blossoms, daisies, Douglas firs, and lupines which create a picturesque landscape. The vibrant colors of the wildflowers can be seen throughout the summer months while the evergreens provide year-round shade and shelter for birds. Speaking of birds, Alta Lake State Park offers an ideal habitat for various avian species such as crows/ravens, doves/pigeons, ducks, eagles, geese, grouse and gulls.
With a 60-foot dock and plenty of space for boating, swimming, waterskiing, windsurfing, paddleboarding and even personal watercraft use at your leisure — there’s something to suit every aquatic fancy. Fishermen can test their skills in freshwater fishing and catch some of the local favorites such as trout or bass. Golfers can indulge in their favorite sport at the nearby Alta Lake Golf Course. The course features lush greens that are surrounded by spectacular mountain views, making it an ideal place to unwind after a day on the lake.
Alta Lake Beaches
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s stunning Whistler region, this picturesque lake boasts an array of beaches that will take your breath away. From family-friendly spots to secluded coves perfect for couples, there’s something here for everyone. Alta Lake boasts three picturesque beaches that are perfect for a day- Lakeside Park, Rainbow Park and Wayside Park.
Lakeside Park
Lakeside Park is a hidden gem located on Lakeside Road, right on the shores of Alta Lake. This park has everything you need for a day filled with fun and relaxation. The sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles with your kids while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Children will love playing on the play structure while parents relax nearby. The swim docks and swim rafts provide endless fun for swimmers of all ages. For those who want to enjoy a meal outdoors, there are picnic tables and barbecue stands available. You don’t have to worry about washrooms either as they are conveniently located within reachable distance. Food trucks also make regular appearances at Lakeside Park, offering an array of delicious snacks and meals to satisfy any hunger.
Lakeside Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers various activities all year round. During the warmer months, visitors can indulge in canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding on the tranquil waters of the lake.
Rainbow Park
Located on the west side of Alta Lake, 20-minute bike ride along the Valley Trail from the Village will take you to this tranquil spot surrounded by nature’s beauty. The sandy beach and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families with young children who want to splash around in the lake. Picnic tables and barbecue stands are available for those who wish to have a meal or prepare their own food while taking in breathtaking views of Alta Lake.
For those seeking shade on hot summer days, there are plenty of areas under towering trees where visitors can cool off while enjoying their surroundings. The park boasts an impressive array of amenities including docks, beach volleyball courts, and slackline posts to satisfy your adrenaline cravings. For those seeking adventure on the water, renting canoes and kayaks at Rainbow Park will allow you to explore the nearby lakes in style.
Wayside Park
Hiking/Walking Trail in Alta Lake
The Alta Lake Trail is a hidden gem nestled near Pateros, Washington. This out-and-back trail spans 1.6 kilometers and offers a moderately challenging route for hikers of all skill levels. With an average completion time of just over an hour, this trail is perfect for those who are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Not only does it offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake, but it’s also a hotspot for birding enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, ospreys, and various waterfowl as you make your way through the peaceful wilderness.
This scenic trail winds its way around the pristine waters of Alta Lake, offering stunning views at every turn. As you make your way through this natural paradise, be sure to bring plenty of water – it can get hot out there! And don’t forget the sunscreen – even on cloudy days, UV rays can do serious damage to your skin. The most important thing to note about this hike is that the trail itself can be quite difficult – it’s narrow, steep, and sandy in some places. So take your time and wear proper footwear.
The best time to visit this stunning trail is during September through October when nature puts on a beautiful show with changing leaves and breathtaking colors. The weather during these months also makes hiking much more comfortable – not too hot or too cold.
Camping in Alta Lake State Park
With stunning views, crystal-clear waters, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, this park is a must-visit destination for any camping enthusiast. Whether you’re an experienced wilderness explorer or new to the camping scene, there’s something for everyone here.
Alta Lake State Park Campground
Alta Lake State Park is an ideal destination for campers looking to spend quality time in nature. With 93 standard campsites and 32 full-hookup sites, there is something for everyone at this picturesque park. The park also offers amenities such as trailer dump, four restrooms, and 12 showers – making it an excellent choice for families or groups of friends.
Moreover, the park has ensured that everyone can enjoy their camping experience by providing one ADA hookup campsite and one ADA standard campsite. These facilities are designed to cater specifically to individuals with disabilities so that they too can have a memorable outdoor experience. The maximum site length of 38 feet means that even larger RVs can be accommodated easily.
Alta Lake State Park is the perfect place for camping enthusiasts, open from April through November. The park has everything you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. There is a constant supply of drinking water available at all times, so you don’t have to worry about running out. If you need to empty your RV or trailer’s waste tanks, there is a convenient dump station located on-site.
Alta Lake State Park Campground offers a plethora of outdoor activities for all ages and interests. Boating, canoeing, paddle-boarding, and windsurfing are perfect ways to explore the vast lake while enjoying the stunning scenery around you. For those who prefer land-based adventures, hiking and biking trails will take you through lush forests and breathtaking panoramic views.
The park offers two group camps, each with its own unique features and accommodations.
The Wooded Group Camp is tucked away in a serene forest setting and can accommodates a minimum of 15 guests, maximum of 45. This campsite is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature’s tranquility. With plenty of space for tents, this campsite provides an excellent opportunity for large families or groups of friends to bond over shared experiences.
On the other hand, The Field Group Camp provides ample open spaces that offer fantastic views of the surrounding landscape while accommodates a minimum of 20 guests, maximum of 85. RVs are allowed at this site even though there are no hookups available.
Fishing in Alta Lake
Fishing in Alta Lake can be an unforgettable experience for anglers, especially during the early summer months. The lake is teeming with various fish species, including Cutthroat Trout, Dolly Varden, Kokanee, Prickly Sculpin, Rainbow Trout, Sockeye Salmon, and Stickleback.
Rainbow Trout are one of the most sought-after catches in this freshwater paradise. They can grow to impressive sizes between 11-13 inches and put up a good fight when caught on light tackle gear. These stunningly colored fish have been known to leap out of the water and provide a thrilling catch-and-release experience. If you’re planning a fishing trip to Alta Lake, it’s important to know that while shore fishing is possible, the best catches are usually made from a boat. With its clear waters and abundant fish species, this lake has become a popular destination for anglers in British Columbia.
To legally fish at Alta Lake, make sure you have a valid freshwater fishing license issued by the province of British Columbia. Additionally, it’s important to remember that this lake operates on a catch-and-release policy – so be prepared to release any fish you catch back into the water. With an area of approximately 1.1 km2 (0.42 sq mi), there are plenty of spots around the lake where you can drop your line in search of trout or salmon.
Best Time to Visit
April through October is the perfect time to visit Alta Lake if you are an outdoor enthusiast. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for water sports such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake’s crystal-clear waters offer a serene atmosphere that is sure to rejuvenate your mind and soul.
For those who love hiking or mountain biking, the surrounding trails provide breathtaking views of the mountains and lush green forests. You can explore the area on your own or join guided tours with experienced local guides.
Tips for a Great Trip
One of the best tips for making the most of your trip to Alta Lake is to plan ahead. Make sure you research all of your activity options and book any necessary reservations in advance. This will ensure that you don’t miss out on anything while you’re there.
Another great tip is to pack appropriately for the weather. While it may be warm during the day, temperatures can drop significantly at night, so make sure you bring layers and warm clothing just in case.
Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of everything Alta Lake has to offer! From kayaking and paddleboarding to hiking and skiing, there are plenty of activities available year-round. So get out there and explore this amazing destination!
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Alta Lake FAQ
where is Alta lake?
Alta Lake is located in the heart of Whistler, British Columbia.
how deep is Alta lake?
The lake has max depth of the water is about
how big is Alta lake?
Alta Lake, a stunning body of water nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s Whistler region, stretches about 2 miles (3.2 km) long and .5 miles (0.80 km) wide.
what fish are in Alta lake?
Alta Lake is home to a diverse range of fish species, each with its unique characteristics and behaviors. Cutthroat Trout, Dolly Varden, Kokanee, Prickly Sculpin, Rainbow Trout, Sockeye Salmon, and Stickleback are some of the most popular fish that you can find in this lake.
are dogs allowed at Alta lake?
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone at Alta Lake, pets must be on leash and under physical control at all times.
is Alta lake open?
Alta Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in British Columbia, is open to public access year-round.
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