Goat Falls & Goat Lake

The Goat Lake Trail offers a diverse and rewarding hiking experience, leading you through lush old-growth forests and past cascading waterfalls to a stunning emerald-colored alpine lake. You'll traverse varied terrain, from winding paths alongside Elliott Creek to more rugged sections with exposed roots and rocks as you approach the lake. The journey culminates at Goat Lake, nestled in a cirque basin and framed by snow-capped peaks, providing a truly memorable natural feature.

Planning your visit to the Goat Lake Trail is straightforward, though it's important to note its popularity as an early-season option. It's often accessible in May and June when many other alpine trails are still under snow, making it a great choice for spring and early summer. The trail is considered moderate, covering 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with 1621 feet (494 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 2 hours and 29 minutes. Always check for current conditions and trailhead parking availability, as popular spots can fill up quickly.

This trail is notable for its accessibility and high payoff, offering spectacular alpine lake views without the extreme strenuousness of some comparable hikes. The area also boasts historical significance, with remnants of old mining operations and wagon roads. You might even find loop options by utilizing the Upper and Lower Elliott Trails, allowing for varied scenery on your ascent and descent. It's a fantastic trail for those looking for a substantial day hike with incredible natural beauty.

The Goat Lake Trail offers a diverse journey through old-growth forests and past cascading waterfalls, culminating in the stunning, clear waters of Goat Lake, nestled beneath Cadet Peak. You'll find vibrant wildflowers in spring and summer, and the option to take the Lower Elliot Trail for a more scenic, creek-side experience. This difficult 8.8-mile (14.1 km) hike with 1989 feet (606 metres) of elevation gain is a true alpine reward.

Planning your visit to Goat Lake Trail is straightforward, though it's wise to note its popularity as an early-season option, being one of the first wilderness lake hikes off the Mountain Loop Highway to melt out. The trail is dog-friendly, so your canine companion can join you, and there are camping opportunities near the lake for those wishing to turn it into an overnight trip. Expect the hike to take around 5 hours and 4 minutes.

What makes Goat Lake Trail particularly interesting is its historical significance; the area once hosted a mining settlement and a grand hotel, with remnants of an old wagon road still visible. This blend of natural beauty and forgotten history, combined with its accessibility for an alpine lake destination, sets it apart from many other high-elevation routes in the region.