STAY SAFE

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)

Training

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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