Twin Lakes via Arnica Lake

This demanding out-and-back starts at the Vista Lake viewpoint and follows the Arnica Lake Trail to Arnica Lake, Upper Twin Lake, and Lower Twin Lake. The route begins with a short descent to Vista Lake, climbs through forest and larch stands to Arnica Lake, then rolls through subalpine meadows to Upper Twin before descending to Lower Twin. The stored line follows the physical corridor once from the trailhead to Lower Twin; the return is by the same route.

Plan on about 10.3 miles (16.6 km) round trip and 6 to 7 hours for the complete hike. The mapped one-way corridor is about 8.35 km, with roughly 700 m of ascent and 295 m of descent from the trailhead to Lower Twin Lake. Because the hike starts downhill, the final return to the parking area includes a sustained climb.

Expect a narrow, rooty and rocky path near Vista Lake, sustained switchbacks through larch forest, and more open, uneven terrain between Arnica and the Twin Lakes. Upper and Lower Twin are separate lakes linked by the continuation of the route; Lower Twin is the turnaround for this visitor experience. The backcountry campground at Twin Lakes is a separate overnight facility and requires the applicable Parks Canada reservation and permit.

The trailhead is the designated Vista / Arnica Lake parking area at the Vista Lake viewpoint on the east side of Highway 93 South. Parking is limited; parking on the highway is illegal and unsafe. Carry bear spray and make noise in this bear habitat, bring water and layers, and expect limited cell service. Mountain weather can change quickly, and the trail can be wet or muddy. Check current Parks Canada access, trail conditions, and warnings before departure.