Watersprite Wonder Lake

A September hike through rain, rock, and awe

Waterspite Lake, Sept 14, 2025. All photos proviided by author.

On the second Sunday of September, my hiking buddy and I checked off a bucket list hike — Watersprite Lake — and wow, what an unforgettable experience.

We joined a local hiking group, led by a well-prepared, seasoned hiker, along with seven others. We met at 5:30 am, and about an hour later, we made the turnoff to the access road. The path to the trailhead is rocky, rough, and scary, but in a fun way. If you’re planning this trip, you’ll need a high-clearance 4x4 and a brave, experienced driver (not me!)

Trail Overview

• Distance: 17 km
• Rated: 4.7/5 “Hard” on AllTrails
• Our hiking time: 6 hrs 49 mins + 30 min break at the lake
• Conditions: Rainy (for most of the hike)

The trail started out clear for the first few kilometers, but then the rain began, and it persisted for the rest of the way. The terrain is a mix of flat sections, rocky paths, hill climbs, and some scrambling. I’d rate it “easy to moderate,” except for the final stretch — a sketchy bouldering section that required careful footing.

Compared to the Wedgemount Lake hike, I found this one much gentler on the knees, especially on the way down. Wedgemount’s descent was brutal, but Watersprite’s was easily doable without poles.

“The hike”

The lake

When we arrived, despite being soaked and cold, the view of Watersprite Lake was breathtaking. Even under a gray, rainy sky, it felt like I was stepping into a fairy tale with the two little getaway islands. The clear water, dramatic peaks, and happy hiker vibes gave the scene a surreal beauty.

We took a 30-minute break at the lake for lunch — but no swim this time. It was tempting to jump in, but the thought of changing back into my sweat and rain-wet clothes and then hiking back 8+ km in them wasn’t appealing. My packed fleece shirt was soaked, my backpack was drenched, and my so-called waterproof jacket betrayed me.

On the upside, my new Altra hiking shoes were amazing! After nearly 7 hours on the trail, zero foot pain, and no bruised toes — unlike my previous hike to Panorama Ridge, which left my feet wrecked. The wide toe box made a huge difference. My toes were happy. Although 31 days after the Panorama hike, my big toenail fell off — it was gross, but relieving, as that’s a big part of the healing process. I’m looking forward to my next pedicure and now I’m wondering how long it will take to grow back.

Left: “I made it!’ Right: Hiking stats.

Final thoughts

Despite the rain, or perhaps because of it, this hike was a highlight of the season. Between the leadership, the group energy, and the sense of accomplishment, every footstep was worth it. I can’t wait to return when I’m better prepared, rain or shine, and finally take that swim.

Friends sometimes wonder why I hike in the rain, snow, or scorching sun. The answer is simple: places like this. Standing before a lake this glorious, I’m reminded how fortunate I am to call British Columbia home. I have the strength and health to reach these remote corners of nature. I can see, hear, smell, feel — and truly experience — the world around me. Moments like this ground me in gratitude and remind me never to take life or my health for granted.

Watersprite Lake left me awe-inspired.

Thank you, Waterspite Lake for the awe-inspiring hike. Sept 14, 2025. Worth every footstep to see this wondrous lake.

About the writer

Mary Chang is a writer, parent, fitness enthusiast, and yoga teacher who chases new adventures one hike at a time. Her self-mantra is “Try, Mary, Try!”