Okay, let's craft a comprehensive destination guide for tourists visiting Upper Joffre Lake in British Columbia, Canada. Given the potential for viewing this guide in high resolution (3648x2736), I'll focus on delivering information that is easily digestible and visually appealing if used in a document with accompanying photos.

Destination Guide: Upper Joffre Lake, British Columbia

(Stunning panoramic photo of Upper Joffre Lake with the glacier backdrop. Include a small caption: "Experience the unparalleled beauty of Joffre Lakes Provincial Park.")

1. Introduction: A Jewel of the Sea-to-Sky Corridor

Upper Joffre Lake, nestled within Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, is the crown jewel of a breathtaking chain of turquoise-colored lakes. Famous for its vibrant, milky-blue waters, framed by towering glaciers and rugged mountain peaks, Joffre Lakes offers an unforgettable hiking experience suitable for a range of abilities. Located approximately 35km east of Pemberton on Duffey Lake Road/Highway 99, it’s a must-see destination for nature lovers visiting British Columbia.

(Small photo of a hiker on the trail with a viewpoint of Middle Joffre Lake in the background. Caption: "The trail offers stunning views at every turn.")

2. Planning Your Visit: Essential Information

• Location: Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Duffey Lake Road (Highway 99), north of Pemberton, BC.
• Distance from Vancouver: Approximately 180 km (112 miles) – about a 3-4 hour drive, depending on traffic.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October. (Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds, but weather can be unpredictable.) Mid-July to September generally offers the most consistent weather. Check the BC Parks website for up-to-date trail conditions and closures before you go.
• Difficulty: Moderate. The entire trail to Upper Joffre Lake and back is approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) with about 400 meters (1300 feet) of elevation gain.
• Duration: Allow 4-5 hours for the entire hike, including time for enjoying the lakes.
• Permits & Reservations: DAY-USE PASSES ARE REQUIRED. Free day-use passes are mandatory and must be booked in advance online through the BC Parks website. They are typically released a few days before the date of visit. Parking is strictly enforced, and without a day-use pass you risk a fine.
• Parking: The parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early (before 8 AM) to secure a spot. Overflow parking may be available further down the highway, adding to your hiking time.

(Inset map showing the location of Joffre Lakes Provincial Park relative to Vancouver and Whistler.)

3. The Hiking Trail: Journey to Upper Joffre Lake

The Joffre Lakes Trail is well-maintained, but can be rocky in places. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

• Lower Joffre Lake (5-minute walk from the parking lot): Easily accessible and offers beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains.
• Middle Joffre Lake (1-hour hike from Lower Joffre Lake): A more challenging climb, but rewarded with stunning views of the lake and the Matier Glacier. Keep an eye out for the famous log floating in the lake – a popular photo spot.
• Upper Joffre Lake (30 minutes from Middle Joffre Lake): The final destination, featuring the turquoise waters and the imposing backdrop of the Matier Glacier. You can walk along the shoreline and find a spot to relax and enjoy the view.
• Backcountry Camping (Upper Joffre Lake): Camping is permitted at designated campsites at Upper Joffre Lake. Reservations are required well in advance.

(Three smaller photos illustrating: Lower Joffre Lake reflections, the log at Middle Joffre Lake, and a close-up of the Matier Glacier at Upper Joffre Lake.)

4. What to Bring: Packing Essentials

• Hiking Boots: Sturdy footwear with good ankle support is recommended.
• Water: At least 2-3 liters per person.
• Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, fruit, or sandwiches.
• Sunscreen: The alpine sun is strong.
• Hat & Sunglasses: Protection from the sun.
• Rain Gear: The weather in the mountains can change quickly.
• Layers of Clothing: Be prepared for fluctuating temperatures.
• First-Aid Kit: For minor injuries.
• Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially during warmer months.
• Camera: To capture the incredible scenery.
• Bear Spray: While encounters are rare, it's a good precaution to carry bear spray and know how to use it.
• Day-Use Pass (Printed or on your phone): Mandatory for entry.

(Iconography: Simple icons depicting each of the essential items listed above.)

5. Safety & Considerations:

• Wildlife: Be aware of your surroundings and keep a safe distance from wildlife. Store food properly to avoid attracting animals.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions.
• Altitude: Joffre Lakes sits at a relatively high elevation. Pace yourself and drink plenty of water.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in. Stay on designated trails. Respect the environment.
• Swimming: Swimming in the lakes is permitted, but the water is extremely cold (glacier-fed). Be prepared for a shock to the system.
• Cell Service: Cell service is limited or non-existent in the park. Inform someone of your hiking plans.
• Emergency: In case of emergency, dial 911.

(Photo of a sign demonstrating Leave No Trace principles.)

6. Beyond Joffre Lakes: Exploring the Area

• Pemberton: A charming town with restaurants, shops, and accommodation options.
• Duffey Lake Provincial Park: Offers additional hiking and camping opportunities.
• Whistler: A world-renowned ski resort and outdoor recreation destination, about an hour south of Pemberton.
• Nairn Falls Provincial Park: A short drive from Pemberton, featuring a powerful waterfall.
• Local Restaurants and Breweries: Explore Pemberton for delicious food and craft beer.

(Collage of small photos showcasing other attractions near Joffre Lakes: Pemberton town, Duffey Lake, Whistler Village, and Nairn Falls.)

7. Responsible Tourism:

• Respect the Environment: Practice Leave No Trace principles.
• Support Local Businesses: Eat at local restaurants and shop at local stores.
• Be Mindful of Wildlife: Observe from a distance and do not feed animals.
• Stay on Marked Trails: Protect the fragile alpine environment.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the local ecosystem and history.

(Closing photo: A hiker gazing at the Upper Joffre Lake and Glacier, emphasizing the beauty and serenity of the location. Caption: "Create lasting memories in this incredible natural landscape.")

Important Notes for the High-Resolution Format (3648x2736):

• Photo Quality: Use high-resolution, professional-quality photographs to take full advantage of the format.
• Text Clarity: Choose clear, legible fonts and ensure ample spacing. Avoid overcrowding the page with text.
• Visual Hierarchy: Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to organize information effectively.
• White Space: Embrace white space to create a clean and visually appealing design.
• Interactive Elements (if applicable): If this guide will be viewed digitally, consider adding interactive elements like clickable links to BC Parks website, maps, and local business directories.

This detailed guide should provide visitors with all the necessary information to plan a safe, enjoyable, and responsible trip to Upper Joffre Lake. Remember to always check the official BC Parks website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery!