Gibbon Pass via Twin Lakes

Plan on about 13.1 miles (21.1 km) total out-and-back and roughly 9 hours for the full hike. The mapped corridor is 10.5 km one way; the stored visitor distance is double that because this is an out-and-back, while the physical line is stored once from the trailhead to Gibbon Pass. Expect substantial cumulative climbing—roughly 1,300–1,400 m—because the route repeatedly drops and climbs between the lakes. The initial descent to Vista Lake becomes the final climb back to the car.

Vista Lake is the first stop, followed by Arnica Lake and the Upper and Lower Twin Lakes, with Storm Mountain rising above the basins. The ridge between Arnica and Upper Twin is especially good for larches and open mountain views. Gibbon Pass is the destination and turnaround; do not continue onto the routes beyond the pass unless you have deliberately planned a different trip.

This is a difficult, full-day backcountry hike rather than a casual lake walk. The distance, repeated elevation changes, and final climb to the pass demand steady fitness and an early start. The tread is generally straightforward to follow but includes rough, boggy, and muddy sections around Lower Twin Lake, plus more rustic trail farther toward the pass.

The small Vista/Arnica Lake Trailhead lot sits on the south side of Highway 93S just west of Castle Junction; arrive early and use designated parking only. Dogs must remain under physical control and are best kept on leash. Carry bear spray, plan for rapid mountain-weather changes, and bring navigation, extra layers, food, and water. A Parks Canada backcountry permit is required if you turn the hike into an overnight trip at Twin Lakes or another backcountry campground.