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LEMONADE Loves: Whistler's Best Local Lakes for a Summer Dip

A sailboat on a serene lake in Whistler surrounded by dense forest and mountains, a wooden cabin visible on the shore, under a clear blue sky with Whistler Mountain in the background.

Lost Lake

Nestled in an old-growth forest, Lost Lake is a local favourite. It's small, serene and super accessible from the village. The water isn’t glacier fed, so it’s on the warmer side, perfect for a long float or an afternoon paddle.There's a sandy beach area and a huge grassy area that’s great for laying out a picnic rug, reading a book, or just watching the world go by. A dock offers easy access to the water, and the surrounding trails make it ideal for a short hike or bike ride before your dip.Parking is pretty limited, so walking or biking via the Valley Trail (about 10–15 minutes from the village) is your best bet.


Alta Lake

Alta Lake is Whistler’s second-largest lake and a great spot for water activities like canoeing, paddleboarding, and even wing foiling. You’ll often see little sailboats cruising around, it's home to the Whistler Sailing Association.There are a few parks dotted around Alta Lake, with Lakeside Park and Rainbow Park being the most popular. Both offer grassy beachfronts, picnic tables, and BBQs. Rainbow Park even has volleyball courts, which makes for a lively summer afternoon.It can get busy, especially on weekends, and parking is limited, so consider biking or getting dropped off.


Alpha Lake

Alpha Lake is a bit of a hidden gem tucked away in Creekside. It’s got a laid-back vibe and is a great place to unwind after a day of adventure.There’s a small beach area, some shaded spots, and even picnic tables to settle into with friends. It’s connected to the Valley Trail too, so it’s an easy and scenic bike ride from town.


Nita Lake

Just down the road from Alpha Lake is the beautiful and tranquil Nita Lake. Although it sits just behind Nita Lake Lodge, it is open to the public.This lake feels a little more secluded and serene, which makes it perfect if you’re looking to escape the crowds. It’s quiet, peaceful, and absolutely stunning, especially in the early morning or golden hour.While you're down in Creekside, you might as well check out both Nita and Alpha Lakes, they’re that close together!


Green Lake

Now if you’re in the mood for a real cold plunge, Green Lake is your spot. As Whistler’s largest lake and being directly glacier fed, it’s chilly, vibrant, and stunningly turquoise.It’s also the only lake in town where motorised watercrafts are allowed, so don’t be surprised if you see wakeboarders or jetskis out having a blast.


You’ll find scenic views all along the Valley Trail on the Nicklaus North side. It’s a gorgeous spot to walk or bike after a round of golf or a meal at the Table Nineteen.


For a quick look, you can also drive to the lookout point which is about 5-7 minutes north of the main village.


Aerial view of lost lake in Whistler, surrounded by dense green forest and snow-capped mountains under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

Our Fave Whistler Lake?

Honestly, we love them all, but if we had to choose, we’d call it a tie between Lost Lake and Alta Lake.


Lost Lake is close to the village, super chill, and sometimes even has an ice cream truck parked nearby. And let’s be real, everything is better with ice cream.


Alta Lake, though? The vibes are immaculate. Whether you’re soaking it all in at Lakeside Park or rallying for a game of volleyball at Rainbow Park, it just feels like summer.


(Quick tip: Rainbow Park is best accessed by car, shuttle, or taxi, it’s a bit of a trek on foot!)



The LEMONADE Lake Loop by E-Bike 

(allow approx. 3-4 hours with stops)

This loop follows the Valley Trail, Whistler’s multi-use paved pathway. It’s easy to navigate with signs, totally scenic, and bike-friendly the whole way.


  • Start in Whistler Village – hop on the Valley Trail and first ride toward Lost Lake

  • Lost Lake – first dip of the day, just a short ride through the forest!

  • Continue north via the Valley Trail to Green Lake – stop at the Nicklaus North lookout for a photo or brave the glacier-fed water. Peckish? Check out Table Nineteen's patio at Nicklaus North Golf Club, you won't be disappointed.

  • Next ride south on the Valley Trail to Alta Lake – hit Lakeside for a classic summer scene. Lakeside Park also has paddleboards, canoes and kayaks to rent too!

  • Don't stop there, next follow the trail further south to Alpha Lake – mellow vibes and fewer crowds are found at this Creekside classic.

  • As you start to head back north you will pass  Nita Lake – small, peaceful, stunning, and the perfect golden hour stop. The patio at Nita Lake Lodge is perfect for snack and drink, or if you have time head into Creekside - the original Whistler!

  • Last but not least take the scenic route back to the village via Rainbow Park. Rainbow Park is the original location of the first tourism lodges in Whistler. The history is on display, the views are stunning and on the way you'll pass Alta Park which has LEMONADE's favourite dock just past 'Poet's Corner'. See if you can spot the logging trucks from the 1950's in the trees. ;)

  • Time to return to the village. Loop back via the Valley Trail through local neighbourhoods.


💡 Pro Tip: Pack a towel, water, sunscreen, and maybe even a picnic. E-bikes make this ride a breeze, and there are plenty of spots to stop for snacks, swims, or selfies along the way.



Wherever you end up dipping your toes, you really can’t go wrong. Whistler’s lakes are beautiful, each offering its own unique charm, and they’re all right here, waiting for you.


Need help planning your summer adventures? Hit us up! LEMONADE is here to make your stay unforgettable. 💛



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