Difficulty: Intermediate
Estimated Time: 6 hours
Round-Trip Distance: 16 km
Elevation Gain: 850 m
Season: July - September
Car Travelling Time from Vancouver: 2 hours
Credits: https://www.vancouvertrails.com/trails/rainbow-lake/
2nd time was a charm hiking to Whistler's water supply. Located right in Whistler, this is one of the most scenic and pristine lakes in the vicinity. One thing to note is that the trail is not very well-marked so be extremely careful.
The trail ascends slowly until you reach a gravel road. Stay on the trail on the right before you re-enter the forest. After that, you reach a junction with Rainbow Falls on the right. You are offered a picturesque view of the falls peering down at the gushing water.
Be careful not to follow the Flank Trail as per the signs. Instead, go right and follow the wide gravel route.
As you make your way up numerous switchbacks, wildflowers around the lake are in full bloom with Black Tusk looming in the distance. There were only a few portions whereby we were able to appreciate the open mountain views, but boy, were these views gorgeous.
Another sight worth mentioning is a spectacular suspension bridge around 10 minutes ahead.
The switchbacks definitely do seem long and winding as you climb gradually through a scenic forested trail. Eventually after another final steep section, Rainbow Lake comes into view. If you walk past the the large rock and over the bridge to the huge wooden sign, you can appreciate great lake views.
Unfortunately, swimming and camping are not permitted as the lake is a source of Whistler's drinking water. Doing yoga is definitely okay though ;) We had such fun goofing around before heading all the way back!
