Here is the first waterfall.
Rainbow Lake Trail head is located off of WestSide rd, in Whistler British Columbia. There are maps and descriptions of the trail at the base and km markers along the way. A 16km round trip that takes approximatly 6hrs at a moderate pace. You ascend mostly through forest to the lake at the top of the trail. There are a few waterfalls and great scenery through out the hike.
The trail begins with a short hike to the first waterfall, just a half a km off the main trail. Then you ascend through the forest over two suspension bridges and then into the meadows. There are many bridges through the meadows that take approximatly 5 minutes each. Once you get to the lake you’ll see that there is no camping at Rainbow lake itslef because it is a water resovoir, there is also no swimming. Just 3 km farther you will come to Hanging Lake, where you’ll find camping and swimming. Both lakes however are quite cold.
You also have the option of going down the trail on the other side of Rainbow Mtn. to Madely Lk. This 9km strech is an excellent way to experience a wonderful day making your trip a solid 17km from one side to the other.
Tips:
Wear Sunscreen, bring bug spray (depending on the time of year the bugs can be quite bad), A walking stick or trekking poles are recommended, and be sure to stop occasionally and enjoy the scenery throughout the hike but especially through the meadows.
Here are some photo’s. Enjoy
One of the two main bridges on the hike.
This waterfall is breath taking. It is also the largest we saw just off the trail.
The meadows.
Rainbow lake.
For more information on The Rainbow Lake Trail and others like it, Visit the Escape Route, located in the market place in Whistler British Columbia. Or online at www.escaperoute.ca
