Nestled in the heart of the Resort Municipality of Whistler, British Columbia, Alta Lake stands as a serene and vibrant oasis. This expansive lake, once known as Summit Lake to avoid confusion, is the largest in the Whistler area and is surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
Alta Lake is easily accessible from Whistler Village, a short 10-minute bike ride or a leisurely 30-minute walk via the Valley Trail. The lake boasts three distinct beaches: Lakeside Park, Rainbow Park, and Wayside Park. Lakeside Park offers a sandy beach, picnic tables, barbeques, and a concession stand for canoe and kayak rentals. Rainbow Park, the largest of the three, features volleyball courts, picnic areas, and ample parking, making it a hub for summer activities. Wayside Park, though smaller, provides a quaint beach, a dock, and kayak rentals.
During the summer, visitors can engage in a variety of water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers. For those looking to explore the lake further, there are several boat launches and marinas in the vicinity.
In the winter, Alta Lake transforms into a winter wonderland, offering cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails that crisscross the frozen landscape. The nearby ski resorts of Whistler Blackcomb provide some of the best downhill skiing in North America. Whether you are looking to relax on a sun-kissed beach or explore the rugged beauty of the Canadian wilderness, Alta Lake and its surroundings offer a diverse range of activities for every season.
- Surface area (km)
- 0.1
- Max depth (m)
- 24
- Elevation (m)
- 642
- Shoreline length (km)
- 4.8
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Picnics
Nearby amenities
When you find yourself near Alta Lake in Whistler, British Columbia, a vibrant tapestry of experiences awaits you. The culinary scene delights with a variety of food trucks scattered across local parks, including the scenic Lakeside Park and the lively Rainbow Park. As part of the Park Eats program, these food trucks serve up delicious meals that are perfect for picnicking or enjoying in the sun.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Alta Lake boasts three main beaches that cater to diverse interests. At Lakeside Park, you’ll discover a sandy beach ideal for sunbathing, alongside picnic tables and barbeques that invite you to enjoy a meal with a view. With its concession stand offering canoe and kayak rentals, Lakeside Park is the perfect starting point for a day on the water. Rainbow Park complements this with its volleyball courts and picnic areas, where you can bask in nature while indulging in tasty concession treats. If you’re seeking a more tranquil experience, Wayside Park offers a cozy small beach, a convenient dock, and more picnic facilities, allowing you to relax with ease as you rent kayaks from its concession stand.
To enhance your exploration, the Valley Trail presents a seamlessly interconnected network of paved paths ideal for walking, biking, or running. This extensive trail system links the parks and other picturesque locales around Whistler, making it effortless to soak in the area’s stunning scenery on foot or by bike. While there are no marinas or museums in close proximity to Alta Lake, the area more than compensates with its breathtaking natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, ensuring your visit is both memorable and invigorating.
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Alta Lake (Whistler) has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, it is generally safe to swim in Alta Lake in Whistler. Alta Lake has clearly marked swimming areas and has passed water quality tests at least 95% of the time. However, always wear a lifejacket if needed and follow local water safety rules since the area is not monitored by lifeguards.
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Alta Lake in Whistler is a popular destination because it has three main beaches and offers various activities. These beaches, including Lakeside Park, Rainbow Park, and Wayside Park, allow for boating, picnics, water sports, and renting canoes and kayaks. The parks also feature picnic tables, barbeques, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
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For Alta Lake in Whistler, British Columbia, you can retain 2 trout, none over 40cm, and one char, none over 60cm. These regulations are part of the new rules implemented to manage fish populations effectively. This ensures sustainable fishing practices in the area.
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The best beach at Alta Lake in Whistler for families is Rainbow Park. It has a sandy beach, shallow waters, and swimming platforms, making it safe for kids. There are also picnic tables, barbecue pits, and a large grassy area for family activities.
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The town of Whistler is near Alta Lake in British Columbia. Alta Lake is only 4km from Whistler Village and is integrated into the municipality of Whistler. Another nearby community is Pemberton, about 20 minutes north of Whistler.