Hiking Eva and Miller Lakes during Autumn in British Columbia
Hiking Eva and Miller Lakes in the fall should be at the top of your autumn hiking list. Not only are there 2 lakes in super close proximity of each other, in addition to a third if you want to trek the kilometers but there isn't much of an elevation gain as you drive up to the trailhead. That's right, you get a pretty flat/even trail with a few gentle up-and-down sections, only having to conquer the distance.
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Quick Glance: Eva & MIller Lake fall HIke
Time: 5-7 hrs
Distance: 6km one-way from the trailhead (if shuttle bus), 7km one-way from the parking lot, 400m one-way to Miller Lake.
Trail: There and back
Difficulty: Moderate
What to bring: water, snacks, sun protection, winter hiking clothes, micro spikes (for Jade's Pass), and hiking sticks (optional)
Road conditions: Paved road, accessible by car (there are restrictions for vehicle types)
Other information: The shuttle bus is not in service for the 2022 season. This means that you will have to add an extra 2 km to your hike. If you plan to go to Jade Lakes Pass, it's about an extra 1.5-2 km one-way. There will be very little internet on the trail, even in the parking lot areas.
Bonus tip: This is in a National Park and a pass is required. It is cheaper for a group pass, valid until 4 pm the next day and you can use that pass in another national park (Glacier National Park is a 45-minute drive).
Getting to the Mount Revelstoke National Park
Mount Revelstoke National Park is located just outside of Revelstoke, BC on HWY 1. They have a beautifully paved road (Meadow in the Sky Parkway) that leads all the way up to the Balsam Lake parking lot and takes about 30 minutes from the park entrance. There is a restriction on which types of vehicles can go all the way up and which parking lot to use.
Eva & Miller Lake Trailhead
There are outhouses and a trail map in the parking lot. Across the road from the trail map, take Summit Trail (1km) to end up at Eva/Miller/Jade Lakes trailhead. Unfortunately for the 2022 season, the shuttle bus is no longer in service and this will add an extra kilometer each way. *You cannot drive to where the shuttle bus drops you off as the road is closed.*
Once at the shuttle parking lot, there are a few different trail options in addition to Eva and Miller Lakes. If you change your mind, there is an information board with all the other hiking trail options.
The trail is well-used and easy to follow with a slight elevation incline. This is quite a popular trail so do expect to see a few people along the way, not to mention if you're a solo hiker, this would be a good trail to explore.
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Photos: Information boards at the start of Eva and Miller Lake trailhead; trail sign with distances.
i. Directions to Eva, Miller, and Jade Lakes
The trail winds through evergreens, meadows, and boulder fields giving glimpses of mountain tops along the way.
As you arrive at the junction for Miller Lake, there's a sign giving directions and the distance to all three lakes. There is also another sign further up, guiding you toward Jade Lakes. I would advise you to visit Eva Lake first before it gets crowded with people (if you started early).
ii. Eva Lake
What an incredible view to have your lunch at! If you have a calm day, the lake acts as a mirror reflecting the mountain. There is an option 1km loop around the lake you can do otherwise, if you're not up for that, keep following the trail to the left (past the cabin) a little bit around the lake to get an incredible view of the lake with the mountains behind it.
There's an outhouse, a couple of benches to sit at, and an old park wardens cabin which is now a Federal Heritage Building.
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III. Miller Lake
Most people bypass this lake but it's only 400 m one-way and well worth the small trek to get there. If you're looking for a quieter place to enjoy, this lake is for you.
IV. Jade Lakes Pass
If you would like to continue on to Jade Lakes Pass, this is about another 1.5- 2 km one-way but I thought it was totally worth it. The view you get is absolutely amazing in addition, you overlook Miller Lake. It is a steady incline with switchbacks to the pass. Since you are reaching a higher elevation, there is the possibility of snow. Make sure you pack your microspikes and hiking poles to help you get up to the top. Once at the top, you get cell service again!
Backcountry Camping
There are two designated backcountry campgrounds: Eva Lake and Jade Lake. Both have tent pads, outhouses, and bear-proof food storage lockers.
Campfires are not permitted and fees are $10.50/night/person in addition to a national park pass. You can either phone or book online.
Tips
Internet is limited, even in the parking lot. I did get internet once I was up at Jade's Pass.
Dogs are not allowed to the summit, even in the vehicle. They are allowed until Columbia Viewpoint (12 km).
The trail is pretty flat as you drive up in elevation (1600m) on the Meadows in the Sky Parkway
Hours of operation are from May to late October and then the road closes.
Check Parks Canada's Website for up-to-date trail information.
If you're looking for more tips on hiking in different weather, check out the Top 10 Tips for Hiking in Cooler Weather or the Top 10 Tips for Hiking in Hot Weather the next time you explore.