The Great Garibaldi

By Tara Thorne

Excited about our adventure into the Canadian wilderness I was glad that nobody bothered to mentioned to me that the climb up to Garibaldi Lake was 6 kilometers in length, was a hike that never gave up, was steep all the way, and was a challenge to say the least.

Huffing and puffing we passed other hikers who were on their way back down the mountain. I was soon to realize why their faces brimmed with such joy and elation.

Even though the climb itself was not the most relaxing or easy, the scenery was beautiful. On the odd opportunity that I had to look at my surroundings, (without the fear of falling down the sheer drop to one side of me), I realized just how spectacular Canadian forests can be. Tall old growth fir and cedar trees towered over us like gatekeepers to the skies letting in little sunlight creating a dark, mysterious atmosphere. In others parts of the forest rays of warm, bright light illuminated the path in front of us. The air smelt fresh and crisp and little waterfalls turned into gushing streams that we sat by whilst trying to catch our breath.

To brighten up our day, alpine flowers such as Lupine, Indian Paintbrush, Snow Lily, and Arnica lined our trail, and forest creatures including chipmunks and mosquitoes joined us on our pilgrimage to the top; the chipmunks being the more welcomed of the two, (be sure to bring your insect repellant).

Just when I thought I could not go on, we stumbled across what turned out to be one of the most magnificent sights I have ever seen. An amazing azure-colored lake appeared out of nowhere like a mirage of freedom and hope! The temptation to jump straight in was large until I felt the temperature of the freezing water.

Thinking that we had made it to the great Garibaldi Lake I was a little daunted to hear that this in fact was not the lake, and we still had a ways to go. A feeling of disappointment and slight fear washed over me, but I trekked on knowing I had no other choice.

Finally we made it to the even more spectacular Garibaldi Lake. Here we flopped down at a wooden picnic table to rest our weary bodies and re-fuel our hungry bellies.

Eating lunch at Garibaldi Lake is not your every day dining experience. The stunning lake billows out in front of you its' bright blue hue a true miracle of nature, and snow capped mountains and a glacier on the opposite side of the lake remind you of the mountain that you just climbed to get here; here being 1484m above sea level.

For those interested in camping, there is a campsite at the lake, and if fishing is more your thing both Trout and Chironomid are in plentiful supply. We had a heap of fun watching the trout swim and jump in and out of the water. They created quite a spectacle and gave many a tired traveler an excuse to rest and watch.  

The hike to Garibaldi Lake is definitely not for the faint hearted. I imagine it to be somewhat like childbirth; the amazing gift at the end helps you to forget the pain it took to get there. Until the next day of course, when your muscles decide to remind you.