Forbidden Plateau Loop

While the Forbidden Plateau Loop is only moderate in difficulty, there are some more technical sections after Helen Mackenzie Lake, requiring hikers to watch their footing. Although most of the trail is very well-maintained, make sure to wear proper hiking footwear and bring hiking poles to help you better traverse the path. Additionally, stretches of this route can be fairly wet and muddy during the early/late hiking seasons due to the trail’s proximity to several lakes and streams.

Setting off from the parking area next to the Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre, follow the trail to the south as you make your way through Paradise Meadows. This initial portion of the trail cuts through a marshy area, so you will need to hike along a boardwalk as you pass by several small ponds. Head right at the trail junction to make your way towards the wooded shores of Helen Mackenzie Lake before continuing around its western edge. As you begin to climb uphill, you will have the forested slopes of Mount Elma on your left, and you will be able to spot the rugged Mount Albert Edward to the southwest.

Continue hiking through the Forbidden Plateau as you pass by the Ranger’s Cabin on a course towards Kwai Lake. Here, the trail will skirt around the southern edge of the small woodland lake as you pass by the campsite and begin to loop around the eastern side of Mount Elma. You will soon pass by the Croteau and Lady Lakes as you hike through a beautiful but dense stretch of forest that will lead you in between Helen Mackenzie Lake and Battleship Lake. After passing these, continue downhill as you once again travel through Paradise Meadows on your return to the parking area.