Beth Lake 18km total distance - jittery GPS track fine for navigation [Spring 2021]

Beth Lake hike ascent and return done in early May 2021, under early spring conditions.

Trailhead and first portion walking along FSRs (forest service road) to gain elevation gradually and several scenic creek crossings. A couple junctions are tagged as waypoints in the GPX track, you'll want to keep out of the BC Hydro facilities and quarry, maintain a gradual steady elevation gain.

You'll be following along a wider FSR with high tension powerlines on your left hand as you come to a junction where the Furry-Downing FSR branches of the left of the trail and heads back across Phylis creek, the trail narrows substantially compared the the route thus far.

As you walk along the road, there’s a slight incline but it is easy to navigate. It becomes progressively narrower and there are a few sections that feel overgrown.

This trail becomes more forested and interesting as you pass through two landslide areas and cross several small creeks before reaching Beth creek. Spring melt means this will be a more substantial crossing, downstream of the trail the creek widens and should provide ample opportunities for cautions rock-hopping. Use your own best judgement to find a suitable crossing point.

100 or so meters after the Beth Creek crossing, the trail ascending to Beth lake splits off from the forrest track to the right (there should be some flagging tape indicating the junction. This is the steep part! It's about 1.5-2 km with 400 m of elevation gain the the lake views from this junction.

Early spring conditions also mean substantial wet snowpack at the higher elevations of the hike, no need for crampons but good waterproof gear definitely helps keep warm and dry.

The lake itself was partially frozen and snow covered; spectacular views on the rocky surroundings.