Elsay Lake – North Vancouver
Elsay Lake, Mount Seymour Provincial Park, North Vancouver
Elsay Lake located deep within Mount Seymour Provincial Park is a 20 km hike leading to a scenic lake surrounded by mountains. The trail descends from Mt Seymour into the Indian arm valley and then loops behind Mt Elsay. Reaching Elsay Lake is a round trip of about 10 hours depending on trail conditions and endurance of the hiker. There is an emergency shelter beside the lake and hikers are allowed to camp in the area. Fishing for wild fish is also allowed in the lake. Due to its difficulty, Elsay Lake is one of the less traveled trails in the park which makes the lengthy and difficult hike a good place to escape the crowds. The Elsay Lake trail presents views of the surrounding mountain range and down into the Indian Arm.
Distance (Round-Trip): 20 km
Difficulty: Difficult
Season: June to October
Elevation Gain: 605 m (1,985 ft)
Scenery: ★★★★☆
Camping: YesFrom Vancouver: 50 minutes
Public Transit: No
Dog Friendly: Yes
At about 40 minutes from downtown Vancouver and containing numerous hikes ranging from all difficulties, Mount Seymour Provincial Park is the go to hiking outdoors recreation destination in the area. To get to Elsay Lake take the trail from the Mount Seymour parking lot and head to Brockton Point. After this point continue towards Mt Seymour’s first peak and take the first turn off to the right. There will be a post with signage announcing the way to Elsay Lake. The trail will quickly start to descend into the valley and carry across the base of Mt Seymour’s edge. This area is prone to avalanche during the snow season causing the trail to close during the winter.
Continue along the trail weaving through the trees and over rivers. You will reach a boulder field that you must descend. Mind your steps and carry on carefully.
Mount Seymour Provincial Park is very dog friendly and backcountry camping is welcome in several areas. Remember to always pack the necessary gear for your day hike or even your overnight hike.
There are many alternate hikes within Mount Seymour Provincial Park, some more casual such as Brockton Point, Mystery Lake, Dog Mountain, and Seymour's 3 beautiful peaks.
Elsay Lake trail closed to winter travel due to extreme avalanche and terrain hazards.
DOG FRIENDLY AT ELSAY LAKE: YES
Elsay Lake is a long hike which contains a steep technical boulder section. If you and your dog are capable of completing this section, dogs are allowed on-leash within Mount Seymour Provincial Park.
CAMPING AT ELSAY LAKE: YES
SWIMMING AT ELSAY LAKE: YES
People may swim in the lake, although there are no lifeguards on duty.
FISHING ALLOWED AT ELSAY LAKE: YES
Visitor are allowed to fish in Elsay Lake but it is not stocked. Anyone fishing or angling in the lake must hold a valid fishing licence. All fresh water fishing regulations apply.
VIEWPOINT AT ELSAY LAKE: YES
There are numerous scenic viewpoint along the trail to Elsay Lake, such as Brockton Point and after the descent past the junction.
EMERGENCY SHELTER AT ELSAY LAKE: YES
There is an emergency shelter located by Elsay Lake. Hikers are allowed to utilize the shelter if necessary, although must clean after themselves and leave no trace behind.
TOILETS AT ELSAY LAKE: YES
There are pit toilets located by the emergency shelter at Elsay Lake and toilets located in the lodge at the parking lot.
PARKING AT MOUNT SEYMOUR PROVINCIAL PARK: YES
There is a large main parking area at the top of Mount Seymour Road where most of the parks attractions are accessed from. The gate to this main parking area is gated and closed every night. Overnight hikers must park in the designated overnight lot on the 5th and last switch back of Mount Seymour Road.
