The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Seton Lake
4.3
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39
hikers
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hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Seton Lake are characterized by its distinctive milky turquoise waters, a result of glacial flour, set against a rugged mountain backdrop. This natural fjord stretches for approximately 22 to 25 kilometers, framed by the Mission Ridge and the Cayoosh Range. The surrounding area features diverse ecosystems, transitioning from lakeside forests of Douglas fir and pine to more open slopes at higher elevations.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Seton Lake
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Seton Lake Lookout loop from Seton Lake 5, an easy 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail that takes about 50 minutes to complete. This route offers expansive views of Seton Lake and the surrounding Coast Mountains.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Hiking loop from Lillooet, a moderate 5.5 miles (8.9 km) path. This trail meanders through wooded areas, providing glimpses of the valley and Cayoosh Creek.
- Local hikers also love the Hiking loop from Fountain 11, a moderate 5.0 miles (8.1 km) trail leading through diverse ecosystems, often completed in about 2 hours 11 minutes.
- Hiking around Seton Lake is defined by its milky turquoise waters, rugged mountain backdrop, and lakeside forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate paths.
- The routes in Seton Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Seton Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
2
hikers
2.94km
00:50
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
10
hikers
8.97km
02:25
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(4)
9
hikers
9.94km
02:42
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
8.00km
02:10
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Seton Lake or the Seton Lake Reservoir is part of BC Hydro's Bridge River Power Project. The entire complex consists of three dams and four hydroelectric power plants with a capacity of 492 MW or 6-8 percent of British Columbia's electricity supply. The Seton Dam was completed in 1956 and is the final phase of this power generation project with the Seton Powerhouse above the mouth of the Seton River into the Fraser River. (Visit June 4, 2018)
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https://visitlillooet.ca/directory/p/abundance-artisan-bakery Mandatory stop at this place, good coffee, wood-fired bread and delicious food. If you don't stop here to gain strength, you don't know what you're missing.
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About 2,300 inhabitants according to the 2021 census. Lillooet is one of the oldest communities in the interior of British Columbia. Initially, it was a settlement site for First Nations, specifically the St'at'imc nation, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years.
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Lillooet is said to have had a population of 20,000 during the height of the gold rush. In the 1860s, Lillooet became an important hotspot during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush. It was one of the main routes to the gold fields, attracting numerous miners and traders.
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Below Seton Lake, another dam was built on the Seton River, which was completed in 1956. This dam raised the water level of Seton Lake by another 2m. The Seton Dam has a crown length of 130 m and a height of 7.6 m. A 3700 m long power station canal, the Seton Canal, delivers a maximum of 143 m³ / s to the power plant on a daily basis. This has a single Francis turbine with a capacity of 42 MW.
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The site was created by the gold rush of 1858, when the canoe route over the Harrison Lake, a route that bypassed the Fraser Canyon, hit the Fraser. At boom times of gold rush Lillooet should have had 20,000 inhabitants. 1912 the place received a railway connection by the Canadian Pacific Railway. In addition to some pioneer buildings, above the village stands the Hangingman Tree, a pine tree on which Judge Matthew Baillie Begbie allegedly hanged wrongdoers. In the former Anglican church is a small museum on the gold rush history and the construction of the railway. Opposite the museum stands the "0 Miles Stone", here the road began to the north, which led over places like 100 Mile House. Since its opening in 1981, the bridge over the Fraser bears the name The Bridge of the 23 Camels in memory of the 23 camels that were imported during the gold rush as transport animals, but did not prove themselves. The 1913 suspension bridge, a wooden and steel construction, has been called the "The Old Bridge" since and is closed to motorized traffic.
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Shortly before today's stage destination Lillooet you can breathe again here and put your feet in the lake. The railway line running along the north shore of the lake makes wonderful Canada romance come up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Seton Lake?
While this guide highlights a couple of excellent options, the Seton Lake area offers a variety of trails suitable for families. You can explore routes like the easy Seton Lake Lookout loop from Seton Lake 5, which provides stunning views with a gentle incline.
What makes the Seton Lake area a good destination for family hikes?
Seton Lake is renowned for its striking milky turquoise or emerald-green waters, framed by majestic mountains, offering a beautiful backdrop for family adventures. The trails often feature diverse ecosystems, from lakeside forests to open slopes, and the relatively low elevation makes many paths accessible for various ages and skill levels. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and eagles!
Are there any trails with great viewpoints suitable for families?
Absolutely! The Seton Lake Lookout loop from Seton Lake 5 is an easy option that leads to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains. The region is known for its spectacular views, making it a rewarding experience for all ages.
Are there any circular routes for families around Seton Lake?
Yes, there are several loop trails that are great for families. For an easy and scenic option, consider the Seton Lake Lookout loop from Seton Lake 5. If your family is up for a slightly longer adventure, the moderate Hiking loop from Lillooet offers a wonderful experience.
What kind of natural features or landmarks can we expect to see on these trails?
Hikers can enjoy the unique glacial-fed waters of Seton Lake, which get their vibrant color from 'glacial flour'. The trails often wind through diverse forests of Douglas fir and pine, offering glimpses of the rugged Mission Ridge and Cayoosh Range. Some trails along Cayoosh Creek may even lead to a beautiful waterfall, especially impressive during wetter seasons.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family around Seton Lake?
The Seton Lake area is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring brings lush greenery and potentially impressive waterfalls, while summer offers warm weather perfect for combining hikes with water activities on the lake. Fall showcases vibrant autumn colors, making it a picturesque time to visit.
Are the family-friendly trails around Seton Lake suitable for strollers?
While some paths might be wide and relatively flat, many hiking trails, even easy ones, can have uneven terrain, roots, or small inclines that are not ideal for all types of strollers. For the most comfortable experience with young children, a baby carrier is often recommended. Always check the specific trail conditions before heading out.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Seton Lake?
The Seton Lake area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake views, the clear, refreshing air, and the accessibility of trails that make it enjoyable for families with children.
Are there any longer, moderate family-friendly hikes available?
Yes, for families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Hiking loop from Lillooet is a moderate option that covers nearly 9 kilometers and offers varied terrain and beautiful scenery. Another great moderate choice is the Hiking loop from Fountain 11.
Is there parking available at the trailheads for family hikes?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Generally, popular access points and recreation areas around Seton Lake offer designated parking. It's always a good idea to check specific route details or local signage for the most accurate parking information before you start your hike.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly trails?
Many trails in the Seton Lake area are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always remember to pack out any waste and check for specific park regulations or signage regarding pets on individual trails.
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