Attractions and Places To See around Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion) - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion) include a variety of natural features and cultural sites. The region features pristine lakes, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes, alongside sites reflecting its First Nations heritage and role in the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush. Visitors can explore 12 distinct attractions, offering diverse outdoor and historical experiences. This area provides opportunities to discover glacial lakes and significant historical points.
Best attractions and places to see around Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion)
- The most popular attraction is Holloway Falls, a waterfall located between Middle and Upper Joffre Lake. It cascades over rocks and offers a cooling spray on warm days.
- Another must-see spot is Lower Joffre Lake, a lake formed by glacial meltwater. It offers views of the Matier Glacier and is known for its vibrant blue color.
- Visitors also love Middle Joffre Lake, a lake situated at an elevation of approximately 1,520 meters. It provides views of Mount Matier and Slalok Mountain.
- Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion) is known for its glacial lakes, waterfalls, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of natural monuments and trails to see and explore.
- The attractions around Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion) are appreciated by the komoot community, with 43 upvotes and 37 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Lower Joffre Lake
Highlight • Lake
The lake receives water from nearby glaciers, mainly from the Matier Glacier, which also feeds the other two lakes.
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Upper Joffre Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Joffre Lakes Trail
Highlight • Trail
bcparks.ca/reservations/day-use-passes/#joffre-lakes
Registration is required to ensure a manageable number of hikers in the park – a maximum of 500 people per day.
The trail leads to the park's three lakes: Lower Lake, Middle Lake, and Upper Lake. The Lower Joffre Lake is just a few hundred meters from the parking lot. Joffre Lakes Park is known for its turquoise lakes and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks; the base of the Matier Glacier is visible. Below the Upper Joffre Lake, Holloway Falls plunge into the depths. The trail ends at Upper Joffre Lake, but it is possible to continue along the western shore to the Joffre Lakes Backcountry Campground and further to the southern end of the lake, where rushing streams carry the waters of the Matier Glacier.
(Visit May 28, 2025)
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Middle Joffre Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Holloway Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
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Access to the Joffre Lakes Trail is located at the top of a pass. Joffre Creek drains west into the Lillooet River, while Cayoosh Creek flows east and empties into Duffey Lake, which drains into the Fraser River. During the summer months, you must register for the Joffre Lakes Trail free of charge – for information, see the following website: https://bcparks.ca/reservations/day-use-passes/#joffre-lakes Registration is required to ensure a manageable number of hikers in the park – a maximum of 500 people per day. The trail leads to the park's three lakes: Lower Lake, Middle Lake, and Upper Lake. The Lower Joffre Lake is just a few hundred meters from the parking lot. Joffre Lakes Park is known for its turquoise lakes and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks; the base of the Matier Glacier is visible. Below the Upper Joffre Lake, Holloway Falls plunge into the depths. The trail ends at Upper Joffre Lake, but it is possible to continue along the western shore to the Joffre Lakes Backcountry Campground and further to the southern end of the lake, where rushing streams carry the waters of the Matier Glacier. (Visit May 28, 2025)
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Middle Joffre Lake lies at an elevation of approximately 1,520 m and is easily accessible via a well-trodden trail—with an elevation gain of approximately 250 m from the parking lot on Duffey Lake Road. On the north shore of the lake, where Joffre Creek emerges, there are magnificent views of the mountains, including the peak of Mount Matier and its glacial base, as well as Slalok Mountain. During our descent in the afternoon (visit on May 28, 2025), numerous swimmers had entered the lake.
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Upper Joffre Lake lies at an elevation of 1,570 m and is easily accessible along a shady forest trail. Below the lake, the ascent takes you past the rushing Holloway Falls. There is an elevation difference of approximately 60 meters between Middle and Upper Joffre Lake. The lakeshore offers a stunning panorama, including Joffre Peak and Slalok Mountain, as well as the glacial base of Mount Matier; the mountain peak itself is not visible from here. (Visit May 28, 2025)
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The rushing Holloway Falls lies between Middle and Upper Joffre Lakes - just a short walk off the Joffre Lakes Trail. As you approach the waterfall, the spray provides some cooling on hot days. Large, eroded boulders lie at the edge of the cascading waterfall, and several logs are stuck in the stream bed. (Visit May 28, 2025)
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Lower Joffre Lake is part of the Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. Access to the Lake is via the Duffey Lake Road, BC Highway 99. The car park is located at the mountain pass (approx. 1,300 m) between the valleys of Cayoosh Creek and Joffre Creek. Joffre Lakes Park is a protected area, class A park, since 1996. Class A parks are dedicated to the preservation of their natural environments and are open to the public. (Visit June 4, 2018 & May 28, 2025) https://bcparks.ca/joffre-lakes-park/
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So beautiful there Canada, unforgettable!!!!!!!
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The distinctive turquoise color of Lower Joffre Lake is due to the presence of finely ground rock particles, known as glacial flour, which are carried by glacier meltwater. These particles refract light in a way that gives water its bright, unique color.
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It is a place where you can experience up close the majesty of Canada's glacial landscapes, with their unparalleled color and serene atmosphere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion)?
The region is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its glacial lakes and waterfalls. You can visit the vibrant turquoise waters of Lower Joffre Lake, Middle Joffre Lake, and Upper Joffre Lake, all formed by glacial meltwater. Don't miss Holloway Falls, which cascades between the middle and upper lakes. The area also features other serene lakes like Seton Lake, Burkholder Lake, and Duffey Lake, offering picturesque views and tranquility.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit in the area?
Yes, Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion) has a rich history tied to the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush and First Nations heritage. The community of Pavilion was a significant stop on the River Trail during the Gold Rush. You can also visit the Cayoosh Creek Municipal Campground, which is a provincially-designated Gold Panning Reserve, allowing visitors to experience prospecting. The region is also home to the Ts'kw'aylaxw First Nation, whose presence and history are deeply embedded in the local landscape and place names.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available?
The area offers diverse hiking experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents. A popular choice is the Joffre Lakes Trail, which leads to all three Joffre Lakes and Holloway Falls. For more options, you can explore various routes listed in the Hiking around Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion) guide, including trails to Rohr Lake and along Cerise Creek.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities?
Many of the natural attractions are suitable for families. Lower Joffre Lake is particularly family-friendly, being a short distance from the parking lot. The Joffre Lakes Trail, while intermediate, offers accessible sections, and the overall experience of seeing the vibrant lakes and waterfalls can be enjoyable for all ages. The Cayoosh Creek Municipal Campground also offers a unique gold panning experience that can be fun for families.
What is the best time of year to visit Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion)?
The best time to visit for hiking and enjoying the glacial lakes is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. During this period, trails are generally clear of snow, and the vibrant turquoise colors of the Joffre Lakes are at their most striking. The region's natural beauty, including snow-capped peaks, is particularly accessible and enjoyable in these seasons.
Can I go swimming in the lakes?
Yes, swimming is possible in some of the lakes, particularly during warmer weather. Visitors have been known to swim in Middle Joffre Lake. However, as these are glacial lakes, the water can be very cold, even in summer. Always exercise caution and be aware of water temperatures and conditions.
Are there any cycling routes in the vicinity?
Yes, the area offers cycling opportunities for various skill levels. You can find routes like the 'Lillooet loop from Fountain 11' or the 'Blackwater Lake loop from Gates Lake Recreation Site' in the Cycling around Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion) guide. These routes provide a great way to explore the region's landscapes on two wheels.
What makes the Joffre Lakes so uniquely colored?
The distinctive vibrant turquoise color of the Joffre Lakes—Lower, Middle, and Upper—is due to 'glacial flour.' This is finely ground rock particles suspended in the water, created by the grinding action of glaciers. These particles refract sunlight, giving the lakes their stunning, milky blue-green hue.
Is there a permit or registration required for hiking the Joffre Lakes Trail?
During the summer months, registration is required to ensure a manageable number of hikers in Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. This free registration helps limit daily visitors to a maximum of 500 people. For the most current information and to register, please check the official BC Parks website.
What kind of views can I expect from the Joffre Lakes?
From the Joffre Lakes, you can expect magnificent panoramic views. Lower Joffre Lake offers stunning views of the Matier Glacier. From Middle Joffre Lake, you'll see Mount Matier and Slalok Mountain. Upper Joffre Lake, the highest of the three, provides views of majestic peaks like Mount Matier, Slalok Mountain, and Joffre Peak, along with the glacial base of Mount Matier.
Are there any less-known natural spots or 'hidden gems' in the area?
Beyond the popular Joffre Lakes, the region is dotted with numerous other tranquil lakes that offer a sense of seclusion. These include Burkholder Lake, Retaskit Lake, Serpentine Lake, Moon Lake, Holly Lake, Rohr Lake, Harman Lake, Pear Lake, Kwotlenemo (Fountain) Lake, Chilhil Lake, Cinquefoil Lake, and Duffey Lake. These provide opportunities for peaceful reflection and enjoying nature away from the main trails.
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Most popular attractions around Area B (Cayoosh/Pavilion)
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