Little Diamond Head Hiking Trail
Gain alpine flower meadows and the best views of Squamish Valley and Garibaldi
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Looking up at Atwell Peak from Diamond Head the size of the mountain starts to settle in. Photo: Keegan Pearson
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An electric sunset settles over the Squamish Valley and Tantalus Range moments before a life changing lightning storm rolled through on either side of the ridge. Photo: Keegan Pearson
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At the right time of year, alpine thistles can be founds absolutely swarming in happy honey bees. Photo: Keegan Pearson
Essential info
- Destination: Southwest British Columbia
- Season: April-November
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Distance: 9.5 kilometers (out‑and‑back)
- Elevation Gain: 740 meters
- Duration: 4-7 hours
About Little Diamond Head
Diamond Head is the diamond shaped bump you can see from Squamish in the ridge line that climbs steadily up towards Garibaldi Mountain. In a past life it was also home to a ski lodge and rope tow. Now, it's the highest you can go without scrambling or climbing into the alpine around Garibaldi mountain.
Additionally, hikers gain unparalleled panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Getting there
Follow instructions to Elfin Lakes. Most hikers use Elfin Lakes as a base camp and then do a day trip up to Little Diamond Head at 2100 meters above sea level.
Trail description
From Elfin Lakes, follow the signs for the Gargoyles (the two monolithic towers of ancient lava northwest of the Elfin Lakes campsite). Upon gaining the alpine ridge, follow the saddle up until you reach Little Diamond Head, the most obvious and last prominent rise amidst wild flowers before the saddle turns into a knife edge ridge that continues upwards towards Atwell Peak.
Facts
- Last water source is Elfin Lakes (unless snow).
- Do not get caught up here in a lightning storm.
- Great winter skiing, follow backcountry protocol.
- The edge of the ridge is loose rock that plunges away precipitously, exercise caution.
- Mamquam FSR ices up in winter, chains mandatory.
Amenities
Cabin, tent platforms and potable water down below at Elfin Lakes.
Map
Questions or comments? Let us know.
By Keegan Pearson
Keegan is a photographer and storyteller who was born and raised on Salt Spring Island. He now lives in Squamish, BC.
