Callaghan Lake Provincial Park

Just south of Whistler Village is Callaghan Valley. A pristine valley formed during the ice age by a series of massive glacier plates, clawing back and forth, releasing tons of rock and sediment down the mountain slopes. Volcanic eruptions and shifts in the earths crust continued to form the valley leaving scattered rock debris in its wake and a beautiful serene lake.

A rough and, at times steep, long gravel road leads all adventurers to the 2, 6667 hectare Callaghan Lake Provincial Park high up in the alpine forest. The road is technical in some areas with loose boulders, rocks and many pot holes to navigate. The road should be attempted by 4x4 vehicles only.

It is here, at the end of the 16 Km gravel road, where the glacier filled Callaghan Lake rests. Up high in the hills, the steep, forested mountains bleed with numerous waterfalls. It is a pristine sight complimented by snow capped mountain reflections bouncing off the lake.

Down low the shores of the lake are bog like, soft and often snow covered for most months of the year. There is no trail around the lake and any access to the lake is best by canoe. There is an undeveloped car top boat launch for canoes and small engine boats (10hp/7.5kw) at the lake.

The fishing in this glacier lake is seasonal. The spring and fall seasons are the best time to hook into some dolly varden, rainbow trout and kokanee. The shore fishing is limited. Many troll by canoe to the north end of the lakes where it is deepest.

Just south from Callaghan Lake are a series of smaller lakes, bogs, wetlands and one scenic backpacking trail. The Rainbow Lake to Madely Lake Trailhead hike is over 24 Km (15.5 mi.) long. The Madely Trailhead is located on the way to Callaghan Lake.

The region around the lake is wild and rugged. It is an area frequented by wildlife. Sightings of bobcat, cougar, coyote, wolf, black bear, black-tailed deer, mountain goat, moose and grizzly bear are reported when in the Callaghan Valley area.

Explore Callaghan Lake Provincial Park in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada