Joffre Lakes Provincial Park is one of the most popular hikes in Canada, and yet it is located in a remote region of BC. There are key things to know BEFORE you visit the park

• There is no cell phone reception anywhere in the park and no emergency services available
• Parking along the highway is strictly prohibited and walking along the highway is extremely dangerous
• Due to elevation, the weather in the park is can be 10-20 degrees lower than in Vancouver. Check weather forecast before you go!
• The lakes in the park are cold and dangerous to swim in year-round
• There is no food or water sold anywhere in the park or parking lot
• Sturdy footwear is necessary to safely pass sections of the trail
• Grizzly bears, black bears and mountain goats inhabit the park - approaching them is dangerous and illegal

For latest safety updates, be sure to check the official BC Parks page for Joffre Lakes Provincial Park

AdventureSmart 3 T's:

AdventureSmart increases awareness to help reduce the number and severity of search and rescue incidents in Canada.

Trip Planning (more)

• Plan your travel route
• Know the terrain and conditions
• Check the weather
• Always fill out a trip plan (more)

Training

• Obtain the knowledge and skills you need before heading out.
• Know and stay within your limits.

Taking the Essentials

Always carry the essentials and know how to use them:

• Flashlight
• Fire making kit (note that fires are strictly prohibited in Joffre Lakes)
• Signalling device (i.e. whistle)
• Extra food and water
• Extra clothing
• Navigational/communication devices
• First aid kit
• Emergency blanket/shelter
• Pocket knife
• Sun protection
• Add other equipment specific to your chosen activity, season and location.

Whether you're out for a leisurely day-hike or trail run through park trails or a strenuous multi-day trek through the backcountry wilds, ensure your trip is a safe one:

• Check the weather before you leave and be prepared for it to change.
• Carry extra food & clothing – a good rule of thumb for day-trippers is to be able to stay out overnight, in case of trouble.
• Be bear aware and cougar aware. Bears and cougars aren't just in the backcountry – our parks and cities encroach on their habitat. Ensure you know what to do if you meet one.

Canada's trails are for everyone, so while you're out there remember:

• Keep to the trail. Shortcuts contribute to erosion and can destroy sensitive growth.
• Slow your pace and announce your presence/intentions when approaching other users.
• Share the trail. Downhill yields to uphill.

BE AdventureSmart and BE prepared!

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