Echo Lake: The Steepest Secret Near Squamish
Echo Lake is a vertical challenge across the Squamish River, offering dramatic views of the Chief and Howe Sound for those who can handle the climb.
Destinations • Squamish, BC • Published 2026-07-24
Echo Lake: The Steepest Secret Near Squamish
If you look west from the top of the Stawamus Chief, you’ll see a hanging valley tucked high into the mountains across the Squamish River. That is the home of Echo Lake. It is one of the most visible yet least visited alpine lakes in the region, primarily because it requires a multi-sport approach: a river crossing followed by a near-vertical climb.
While the Echo Lake hike is geographically close to the popular Brohm Lake and Alice Lake area trail networks, it feels worlds apart. There are no switchbacks here to ease the burden on your calves. Instead, the trail goes straight up, utilizing roots and rocks as natural stairs. It is a grueling, sweat-soaked endeavor that rewards you with a perspective of Squamish that few ever see.
The Hike
The adventure begins at the Squamish River. Most hikers park at one of the pull-outs along the Squamish Valley Road (roughly across from the Alice Lake/Brohm corridor) and use a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) to ferry themselves across the water. The river can be fast-moving, so timing and paddling skills are essential.
- One-Way Distance: 4 km (from the river bank)
- Elevation Gain: 850 meters
- Difficulty: Hard / Technical
- Best Season: June to October (lower elevation than Lovely Water means it melts earlier)
- Trailhead: West bank of the Squamish River, accessed via boat from Squamish Valley Road.
Once across the river, the trail enters the forest and begins its ascent immediately. The path is well-marked but extremely steep, gaining 850 meters in just 4 kilometers. You will pass several viewpoints looking back over the Squamish Valley, the Mamquam River, and the iconic profile of the Chief. The final push to the lake involves a few sections where you may need to use your hands for balance. Echo Lake itself is a serene, emerald-colored basin surrounded by old-growth forest and granite slabs.
What to Bring
The dual nature of the Echo Lake trip—paddling and then vertical hiking—means your gear list needs to be versatile. Renting gear near Squamish allows you to pick up a paddleboard and hiking poles in one go.
- Inflatable SUP or Kayak: Necessary for the river crossing. Inflatables are easier to transport to the river bank if you don't have a roof rack.
- Trekking Poles: These are non-negotiable for the descent. Your knees will thank you on the 850m drop.
- High-Quality Hiking Boots: You need excellent traction for the steep, often damp root-ladders.
- Life Jacket (PFD): Even if you are a strong swimmer, the Squamish River is cold and powerful; always wear a PFD during the crossing.
- Dry Bag: To keep your hiking boots dry while you paddle across the river in sandals.
- Hydration Bladder: You will sweat significantly on the ascent; bring at least 2-3 liters of water or a filter to use at the lake.
- GoPro/Camera: The views of the Tantalus Range and the Squamish valley from the 'secret' viewpoints are unparalleled.
Why Rent From Rented Local
When you use Rented Local, you’re engaging with the heartbeat of the Squamish outdoor scene. The person renting you their kayak or their Osprey backpack is likely the same person who can give you the most up-to-date report on the river’s water level or which logs to look for to find the Echo Lake trailhead. It’s about more than just gear; it’s about local knowledge.
Peer-to-peer gear rental also makes sense for multi-sport days like Echo Lake. Most people don’t own both high-end alpine trekking gear and a river-worthy SUP. By renting from locals, you can mix and match the best equipment for your specific objective without the massive investment. It’s better for your wallet and better for the community, keeping gear in use and supporting local families in the Sea-to-Sky corridor.
Final Thoughts
Echo Lake is a challenge that demands fitness and a bit of nautical logic. It is the perfect 'local's hike'—tough, technical, and immensely rewarding. By crossing the river and leaving the highway behind, you find a level of solitude that is becoming increasingly rare in Squamish. Just remember: what goes up must come down, so save some energy for that steep descent!