Sherbrooke Lake Trail

Sherbrooke Lake is a moderate out-and-back from the Highway 1 parking lot to the lake’s north shore: 8.6 km (5.34 miles) round trip, about three hours. The one-way route gains 280 m and loses 75 m. Use the 4.3 km one-way figure for the farther shoreline endpoint; shorter descriptions turn back at the first lakeside access. The Paget Lookout fork and the continuation toward Niles are separate, longer outings.

The first 1.3 km climbs through fir forest on rooted, uneven tread, with Cathedral Mountain beginning to show through the trees. At roughly 1.4 km, stay straight at the signed Paget Lookout junction. The grade eases beyond the fork, and small meadows open along the way.

Boardwalk sections cross wet patches near the water. Sherbrooke is a glacial lake rimmed by thick vegetation and avalanche debris. From the open shore, Mt. Ogden stands across the water; Cathedral Mountain is south across the Kicking Horse River valley, and Mt. Niles rises to the north. Frame the turquoise water with Mt. Ogden from the lakeside opening. In autumn, lower water can expose more shoreline and the forest understory changes color.

The lot is on the north side of the Trans-Canada Highway and has westbound-only access. If you are approaching eastbound, continue 2 km to Lake O’Hara Road, turn around, and return west. The lot is shared with Paget hikers and can feel tight at busy times. Dogs are allowed on leash.