Arnica Lake Trail

Arnica Lake Trail is a 9.2 km (5.7 mi) out-and-back from Vista Lake viewpoint to a lake beneath Storm Mountain. The route first drops to Vista Lake, then climbs through larch forest to the basin; you return the same way. Allow about five hours. Parks Canada describes the hike as moderate and lists 580 m of gain and 110 m of loss on the way out. It’s a good choice if you want a sustained climb with a strong lake-and-mountain payoff, not a gentle lakeside walk.

The first 1.4 km descends through forest on a narrow path with exposed roots and rocks, then follows Vista Lake’s north shore past small drainages. The little footbridge is a good place to pause for the view. If you want a shorter outing, turn around here for about 2.8 km return; remember you’ll climb back up to the viewpoint on the way to the car.

Beyond Vista Lake, the trail switches back through forest and larches. There are a few flatter breaks, but most of this section is a steady climb. In late September the larch needles usually turn gold, which is the main seasonal draw. Expect the final return to include a climb back from Vista Lake after the long descent from the lake basin.

Arnica Lake sits in a subalpine basin under Storm Mountain’s cliff face, with small meadows and rock slides around it. In summer, yellow arnica flowers may bloom near the shore. For a photo, include the lake in the foreground and the cliff behind it; the larches add color in fall. The trail continues toward Twin Lakes, but that is a longer route; the Arnica Lake outing described here turns around at the lake.

Start at Vista Lake viewpoint on the east side of Highway 93 South. The trailhead’s unlined paved parking is limited, and roadside parking is illegal and unsafe. A Parks Canada pass is required for park access. Dogs are allowed on this trail but must remain on leash.