Geraldine Lakes Trail

Geraldine Lakes Trail is a 12.4 km out-and-back to the Second Geraldine Lake campground, with 608 m of climbing through forest, waterfalls, steep headwalls and large boulder fields. It is a difficult, full-day hike; allow 5–6 hours, and more if you want time at the lakes. The boulder travel makes route-finding part of the work. The trailhead is at the end of Geraldine Road, a rough gravel road where high clearance is recommended and trailers or RVs are not suitable.

The first 1.8 km climbs steadily through forest to First Geraldine Lake, tucked between Mount Fryatt and Whirlpool Peak. Beyond the lake, the trail steepens for a roughly 90 m rise, then crosses a large boulder field marked by cairns. At about 4.2 km, a waterfall and steep headwall signal another hard push. The rocks become very slippery after rain or snow, so take your time through this section.

Above the headwall, the route follows a rocky ridge and crosses more boulder fields before a second steep climb of about 150 m near Second Geraldine Lake. The final 1.2 km beside the lake is nearly level. To reach the campground at the far end, cross a small creek. The campground sits at 1,890 m beside the creek and has four sites, a barrel toilet and food lockers.

The signed day-hike route ends at the Second Lake campground. Beyond it, there are upper-valley lakes but no official signed trail, and route-finding skills are required. Overnight stays need a backcountry camping permit and are limited to two nights. Dogs are permitted but may find the route challenging; bikes and horses are not allowed. Early-season snowmelt can flood the campground. For a shorter outing, the moderate First Lake walk is 3.6 km return with 200 m of gain and takes about 1–2 hours.