Trip Highlights & Description
This run is great in both direction but we prefer to run it by doing more climbing than descending. This is our trick to avoiding the crowds on the last long descent – it’s just pain in the … to dodge continuous stream of people at full speed. Also, getting to Garibaldi Lake earlier in the day offers a more serene experience.
We will need to do some car shuffling in the morning – leaving our car at the end and taking yours to the start – but we should be running by about 9.30am.
The first 9 km portion features a steady climb gaining us about 900 m, the toughest part of the day. Our reward will be majestic scenery at the turquoise-coloured Garibaldi Lake. After the first round of snacks and photos we will do some speed hiking to overcome a steeper section.
After that, we will enter an expansive network of flowering alpine meadows with a towering Black Tusk peak to our left. Gently climbing trail will bring us to the highest point of our day – another good place for a refreshment. While, from here on, the trail will go mostly downhill it definitely won’t be a “downhill” for the views. Quickly changing geology of this section provides a wide variety of contrasting colours with the ever present Black Tusk watching our backs.
For the last 8 km we have to be back in the forest and dump some elevation. The long descent on a gradual trail ends with a bridge crossing over Cheakamus river, a perfect spot to cool off on a hot day.
Once back at the car, we can do some stretching and eating before we drive to pick up your ride.
Stats
Total distance: about 25-27 km (15.5-16.5 mi)
Vertical gain: about 1300 m (4200 ft)
Vertical loss: about 1000 m (3300 ft)
Itinerary
This is an approximate itinerary and might be adjusted based on your needs, mountain conditions and weather forecast.
- 8.00am: We meet in Whistler (or along the way)
- 8.40am: Car drop-off at Cheakamus
- 9.30am: Our group starts running from Rubble Creek
- 11.00-11.15am: Snack/photo stop at Garibaldi Lake
- 12.15-12.45pm: Crossing the highest point and just over half-way
- 2-3.00pm: Back at the car at Cheakamus
- By 3.30pm: We pick up your car
Packing List: What to Bring?
If you need to buy some of the required gear let us know and we will help you choose. Alternatively, we might be able to lend you some of it.
Required Items:
– Trail running shoes in good condition
– Running vest, belt, or a small backpack to carry all your items
– Wind-proof jacket (or light shell jacket)
– Running shorts, tights or pants
– T-shirt (merino wool or synthetic)
– Running socks
– Water (about 1.5-2.5 liters)
– Snacks (fruit, nuts, sport bars, gel)
– Sun hat or cap
– Running/hiking poles (recommended)
Suggested Items:
– Personal medications (if needed)
– Spare dry shirt
– Sunglasses
– Knee braces (if needed)
– Sunscreen (optional)
– Phone / Camera
– Other personal items (but keep your pack light)
Not Included in the Price
This trip’s price does not included:
– Transportation for people not riding in our car (we can drive 4)
– Food & beverages on one day trips
– 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST)
– Your personal insurance
Emergency Insurance, Cancellations, Refunds…
Please visit this page for more details on what kind of emergency medical insurance we recommend you have for your trip and all other important information.