The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Whistler Interpretive Forest

When I walked to the lake on July 3, 2026, the road was being newly paved and had no potholes. I think the road looks different after every rain, storm, or winter, and you have to inquire about the road conditions on-site. Cyclists and hikers use a narrow path parallel to the road. You have to book the parking lot online in advance, and it's full anyway. Even with a booking, it's no guarantee of a parking spot. For example, at Garibaldi Lake, where I was before, people had to park on the street because the parking lot was full despite the mandatory booking.

Crater Rim Trail loops through the Whistler Interpretive Forest above Loggers Lake, and is a rugged trek along the rim of an extinct volcanic crater. The path is a mix of forest, ridgeline walking, and rocky terrain that climbs steadily through second-growth forest before reaching several viewpoints overlooking nearby mountains, Logger’s Lake and the Cheakamus valley. There are some narrow ridge sections and a rocky slide area that’s not too technical, but definitely adds variety to the route. Though relatively short, the combination of elevation gain, changing terrain, and dramatic scenery makes it feel more adventurous than many hikes of a similar length.

East June Lake is a small backcountry lake located near the Cheakamus Crossing area. The lake sits in a quiet forested setting and is part of a group of lakes connected by the Jane Lakes trail network. Surrounded by trees and low mountain terrain, it makes for a peaceful place to stop and enjoy the scenery.

The Jane Lakes Trail begins just off Black Tusk Microwave Tower Road and travels through forested terrain, leading to a series of small alpine lakes known as the Jane Lakes. The terrain is moderately challenging in places and consists of a mix of singletrack trail and old logging roads.

West Jane Lake is a small alpine lake located in the backcountry near Cheakamus Crossing, set in a quiet mountain landscape surrounded by forest, rocky terrain, and views of the surrounding peaks. Its clear water and remote setting make it a great spot to relax, take photos, or enjoy a peaceful break in nature.

Memorial Rock has become an informal place of remembrance. There are often flowers, handwritten notes, and painted stones left in memory of loved ones. Please enjoy this unofficial area peacefully and respectfully, as it is important to the community.

Don MacLaurin's Crossing, more widely known as the Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge, is a pedestrian bridge spanning the turquoise waters of the Cheakamus River. The bridge sways, but it is sturdy and safe. The river is especially amazing to watch from the bridge above during spring runoff when water levels are high.

The Cheakamus River is known for its blue and turquoise water and the dramatic canyon it thunders through. The color comes from glacial melt from the nearby Coast Mountains. Hikers and bikers will pass rock cliffs and gorges carved by centuries of rushing water. The Cheakamus River is often dotted with fly fishers fishing for rainbow trout and bull trout. When the water is flowing strongly, whitewater paddlers brave the cold waters. In the fall, the surrounding trees turn amazing colors.