Easy hikes and walks in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site
4.5
(451)
3,776
hikers
47
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site traverse a diverse landscape characterized by rocky dry forests and serene lakes. The area features ancient Western Redcedars, some estimated to be a thousand years old, providing a unique natural setting. Hikers can explore trails around three small lakes—Showh Lakes and Newt Lake—or venture through the 778 hectares of varied terrain. The site offers a remote escape with options for different skill levels, primarily focusing on easy routes.
Best easy…
Last updated: October 31, 2026
5.0
(7)
73
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
3
hikers
3.54km
01:27
290m
290m
4.0
(6)
95
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
7
hikers
6.90km
01:53
100m
100m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
3
hikers
4.98km
01:19
50m
50m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Parking for Bears 'n Ugliness Trail is just a pull-off on the highway, where you can park right by the "Whistler Welcome Sign", which says "Whistler Host Mountain Resort 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Bienvenue".
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Bears 'n Ugliness is open to both mountain bikers and hikers and is rated as a black diamond trail. It has a steep climb up to a lookout point, and some hikers continue past that point to Cougar Peak, where there is an unofficial trail to the top.
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Green Lake is the largest lake in the Whistler region. To the north, it is the source of the Green River, which drains into the Lillooet River. Green Lake was formed during the last Ice Age, when sediment was deposited in the U-shaped valley, forming lake basins. The lake's green color is due to the glacial silt of Fitzsimmons Creek. From the wooden boardwalk on the southwest shore, we have a magnificent view of the lake and the seaplane landing. In the background, we can see the peaks of the Garibaldi Range, from Wedge Mountain to Mount Currie, including Mount Weart with the Armchair Glacier. https://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/local-news/naturespeak-awesome-geology-sites-around-whistlergreen-lake-part-2-7576124
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The Whistler Cenotaph honors the soldiers of both World Wars and the Korean War. The memorial has stood at Whistler Olympic Plaza since 2017. The memorial was created in 1985 and originally stood in front of the Whistler Fire Hall. “We honour you who served. We remember you who died. You sacrificed your lives for our liberty to allow us to look to the future for peace and harmony.” https://heritagebc.ca/war-monuments-memorials/whistler-cenotaph/
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During the 21st Winter Olympic Games in 2010, the Olympic cauldron stood at Whistler Olympic Plaza. The Whistler cauldron was one of two cauldrons used during the 2010 Games. The main cauldron was located at BC Place Stadium during the opening and closing ceremonies. The Whistler cauldron was lit by Wayne Gretzky after the opening ceremony. Today, this cauldron still stands at Whistler Olympic Plaza and, according to the Vancouver Convention Centre, serves as a memory of the city's Olympic experience.
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Sightlines, the 1998 bronze sculptures and stainless-steel handrails by Kip Jones and Jennifer Macklem, are located on the bridge in Village Park at the Village Stroll. The sculptures are part of Whistler's public art collection, established in 1996. Sources: https://www.whistler.ca/parks-recreation-culture/arts-and-culture/public-art/collection/sightlines/ https://depts.washington.edu/canada/cca/coll.htm
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The 2009 sculpture by Sesiyám Ray Natraoro, Squamish Nation & Bansht Delmar Williams, Squamish and Lil’wat Nation, pays homage to the cultural exchange that took place during the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. The sculpture is part of Whistler's public art collection, established in 1996. Source: https://www.whistler.ca/parks-recreation-culture/arts-and-culture/public-art/collection/olympic-lightning-figure/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site?
There are 27 easy hiking trails in the Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site, offering a variety of experiences suitable for different preferences. In total, the area features 50 hiking routes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes in this region?
Easy hikes here traverse diverse landscapes, including rocky dry forests and serene areas around three small lakes: Showh Lakes (also known as Cougar Lakes) and Newt Lake. You'll also encounter the majestic Ancient Cedars Grove with its towering, thousand-year-old Western Redcedars.
Are the easy trails in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site suitable for families?
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. The paths around the lakes are generally flat and accessible. The 2.5 to 2.6-kilometer trail through the Ancient Cedars Grove is also considered easy to moderate and offers an engaging experience for all ages with its impressive trees.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Yes, the Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site is notably dog-friendly. You are welcome to bring your canine companions on the trails, especially the less busy ones, making it a great option for hiking with pets.
Are there any circular easy walks in the area?
Yes, there are several circular options. For example, the Showh Lakes Viewpoint – Showh Lake Lookout loop is a popular 4.6 km circular route offering views of the lakes and forest. Another option is the Lost Lake Beach – Lost Lake loop, which is 4.1 km and takes you through forested areas around Lost Lake.
What are some notable natural features or attractions to see on an easy hike?
Beyond the ancient cedars and tranquil lakes, you might discover a beautiful waterfall located below a wooden footbridge on some trails. Meadows of skunk cabbage and devils club can also be found along certain stretches, adding to the natural diversity.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the remote feeling, the ancient trees, and the serene lake environments, making it a popular choice for an easy escape into nature.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for easy access?
Yes, the site offers opportunities for free drive-in camping, which implies parking is available for visitors accessing the trails. Specific parking details for individual trailheads are usually well-marked on-site.
What is the best time of year to visit for easy hiking?
The site offers diverse experiences year-round. While summer and fall are ideal for hiking, the area transforms in winter, offering opportunities for snowshoeing around the Ancient Cedars loop and the lakes. For easy hiking, late spring through early fall generally provides the most comfortable conditions.
Are there any easy trails with good viewpoints?
Yes, the Bears n Ugliness Trail, despite its name, is an easy 3.5 km path that features significant elevation gain, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of the valley, Rethel Mountain, Mr. Moe, and Wedge Mountain.
Can I find a remote and tranquil easy hiking experience here?
Absolutely. The Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site is known for providing a 'remote feeling escape from civilization.' While the Ancient Cedars Trail is popular, connecting trails to Showh Lakes and the more remote Newt Lake offer particularly tranquil experiences away from crowds.
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