What To Do In Alouette Lake: What You Need to Know

Nestled in the heart of Golden Ears Provincial Park, Alouette Lake is a hidden gem offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a water sports enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, Alouette Lake has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

From must-try activities and essential tips to insider information, get ready to explore all that Alouette Lake has to offer.

Alouette Lake, located within Golden Ears Provincial Park, is a popular destination in Metro Vancouver, attracting visitors for fishing, swimming, windsurfing, boating, and other water activities.

If you’re interested in these activities and want to learn more about Alouette Lake, keep reading for all the essential information.

What is Alouette Lake?

Alouette Lake stretches for about 16 kilometers from northeast to southwest at the base of the Golden Ears mountain range in Maple Ridge. The stunning views of the water and mountains create the perfect backdrop for picnics, outdoor adventures, and water sports. Nearby attractions include the Alouette Campground, Alouette River, and hiking trails like the Alouette Mountain trail, making a visit to the lake even more exciting.

The name “Alouette” is charming in itself, derived from the French word for “lark.” The lake officially acquired this name in 1914 as a melodic switch from its original name “Lillooet,” to avoid confusion with another lake up north bearing the same name.

Best Time to Go

The lake is open from April to October, with spring and early summer offering longer daylight hours for outdoor activities. Summer is the busiest season, so arriving early is advisable, especially if you want a picnic table. For fishing enthusiasts, Kokanee fishing is popular year-round, but spring is the prime season for this activity.

How to Get to Alouette Lake

By Car: From downtown Vancouver, it’s about an hour’s drive via BC-1 E (leading to Mary Hill Bypass) or BC-17 (leading to Golden Ears Way).

By Bus: Parkbus operates a bus service from downtown Vancouver to Golden Ears Provincial Park. The bus departs at 9 AM from Dunsmuir Street near Burrard Station and takes about 1 hour to reach the park. The return trip is scheduled for 5 PM. Make sure to catch the return bus if you don’t have a ride back, as there’s no cell service in the area. The regular rate for a round trip ticket is CAD 64.

Things to Know

Rates	Visitors from June 14 to September 4, 2023, were required to obtain Day-use passes. Starting September 5, this requirement is lifted, but it’s best to check the website for updates before heading to Alouette Lake.
Parking	There are ample free parking spaces near Alouette Lake, but they fill up rapidly. Plan which activities and specific locations you need access to, and check out parking alternatives and access points (northern, southern, or western).
Swimming	Swimming is allowed at Alouette Lake. Exercise caution outside of the marked-off swimming areas, as there are no lifeguards.
Fishing	Alouette Lake offers fishing opportunities, especially for Kokanee and Cutthroat Trout. Be sure to obtain a BC Non-Tidal Fishing License before heading out.
Cell Service	There is no cell service in most of Golden Ears Provincial Park, including trails, campgrounds, and the main Alouette Lake beach area.
Pets	Pets are prohibited within marked-off swimming areas. Dogs are allowed in a portion of the South Beach day-use area near the canoe rental shop, as well as in the North Beach day-use area. Keep your dog on a leash at all times and be cautious in the backcountry.
Wildlife	Black bears and cougars inhabit the area. Do not leave food unattended to avoid attracting wildlife.

Where to Stay along Alouette Lake

1. Loon Lake Lodge & Retreat Centre

Address: 14500 Silver Valley Road, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-463-8148
Website: https://loonlake.ubc.ca/

2. Best Western Plus Pitt Meadows Inn & Suites

Address: 19267 Lougheed Hwy., Pitt Meadows, BC V3Y 2J5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-460-9859
Webiste: https://www.bestwestern.com/

3. Sandman Signature Langley Hotel

Address: 8828 201 St, Langley Twp, BC V2Y 0C8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-455-7263
Webiste: https://www.sandmanhotels.com/signature-langley

4. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Langley-Surrey

Address: 19500 Langley Bypass, Surrey, BC V3S 7R2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-530-6545
Webiste: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels

Where to Eat near Alouette Lake

1. Humble Roots Cafe & Deli

Address: 13179 224 St, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2P6, Canada
Phone: +1 604-476-0405
Website: https://humbleroots.ca/

2. Big Feast Bistro

Address: 11920 227 St, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 8S5, Canada
Phone: +1 604 477 4334
Website: https://big-feast.ca/about/

3. Brownies Chicken and Seafood

Address: 22899 Dewdney Trunk Rd, Maple Ridge, BC V2X 3K8, Canada
Phone: +1 604 479 6511
Website: https://www.brownieschicken.com/

4. Home Restaurant

Address: 21667 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2S2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-476-1600
Website: https://homerestaurants.ca/

5. Sunflower Cafe

Address: 10225 272 St, Maple Ridge, BC V2W 1R1, Canada
Phone: +1 778-522-4472
Website: https://www.sunflowercafe.ca/

6. Jimmy’s Lunch Box

Address: 22504 Lougheed Hwy., Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2V1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-479-2157
Website: Jimmy’s Lunch

What to Do at Alouette Lake

1. Enjoy a Swim at North Beach

Park in the Gold Creek Parking lot and follow the signs to the trail leading to North Beach. The beautiful waters at the end are a rewarding sight. The trail doesn’t offer much elevation gain but branches into smaller trails that keep the hike interesting. Bring paddle boards for an alternative to swimming.

2. Paddle along Alouette Lake

The calm, clear waters are perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking. The lake offers stunning mountain views, making for a peaceful experience. Park at the Alouette (South Beach) Day-use Parking for easy launch. Boats launch from the left side of the lake, so stay to the right. Gear rentals are available on-site.

3. Walk the Trail to Gold Creek Falls

The trail to Gold Creek Falls, a 5.5-kilometer out-and-back route, is accessible via the Lower Falls Trail. It’s relatively easy, taking approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete. The optimal time to visit is during spring when the mountain runoff is at its peak.

4. Have a Picnic at Golden Ears Provincial Park

Golden Ears Provincial Park has extensive grounds for picnics. During summer, picnic tables at Alouette Lake fill up quickly, so arrive early. For a quieter spot, head to North Beach.

5. Set up Camp at Front or Backcountry

Golden Ears Provincial Park offers three campgrounds: Alouette, Gold Creek, and North Beach. Book reservations up to four months in advance. For backcountry camping, consider sites like Viewpoint Beach, Alder Flats, Halfmoon Beach, or Panorama Ridge.

6. Ride a Horse at the Park

For a different hiking experience, try horseback riding. Familiarize yourself with the park map to know which trails allow horses. If bringing your own horse, reserve at the Woodlands groupsite.

What the Weather Is Like at Alouette Lake

Spring: From March to May, the weather is cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Occasional rains, but great for hiking and fishing.

Summer: June to August is warm and sunny, perfect for swimming, boating, paddle boarding, and camping. Temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C.

Fall: From September to November, the weather is mostly rainy and cloudy, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Great for hiking and fishing.

Winter: December to February is off-season, with temperatures as low as -5°C. Expect some snow on the trails.

Plan your visit to Alouette Lake with this comprehensive guide to ensure a memorable experience filled with outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery.

What To Do In Alouette Lake: What You Need to Know

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