5 Hours Small Group Hike at Cameron Falls

If you’re thinking about adding a nature-filled outing to your Yellowknife itinerary, the Cameron Falls hike and lakeside relaxation tour offers a nice balance of scenic walking, wildlife spotting, and lakeside leisure. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on plenty of traveler reviews and the detailed itinerary, it seems like a solid choice for those who enjoy a laid-back outdoor experience packed with variety.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines a manageable yet rewarding hiking adventure with enough downtime to unwind at Madeline Lake, plus the chance to indulge in a tasty BBQ by the water. The guided element, with knowledgeable guides like Mo and Leon, adds a layer of comfort—especially if you’re new to the area or just want some local insights. However, one factor worth considering is that the tour is rated moderate, which might be a bit much for those with mobility issues or if you’re traveling with very young children.

Ultimately, this experience suits travelers who enjoy nature, light to moderate hikes, and lakeside relaxation. It’s excellent for outdoor enthusiasts, small groups craving a personal touch, or anyone looking to enjoy Yellowknife’s natural beauty without committing to a full-day adventure. If you’re after pure adrenaline or high-difficulty hikes, this probably isn’t the right fit. But if a scenic, laid-back day with a good chance to see local wildlife appeals to you, keep reading.

Key Points

• Balanced experience combining hiking, relaxation, and lakeside activities
• Small group size (up to 14 travelers) ensures personal attention and a friendly vibe
• Guided hikes by knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights about Yellowknife’s landscape and fauna
• Includes a delicious BBQ lunch and access to kayaks (life jackets provided) for some extra fun at Madeline Lake
• Transportation is air-conditioned and from hotel to hotel, making logistics easy and comfortable
• Good value for the experience, especially considering the guided nature and included lunch

What to Expect from the Tour

The Hike: Cameron Falls Trail

Your day begins around 11:00 am with a convenient hotel pickup. The highlight here is a roughly 1-hour walk along the Cameron Falls Trail, rated easy to medium difficulty. The trail offers stunning views of the waterfall’s source, which is a visual treat and a chance to snap some memorable photos. Several reviews emphasize how worthwhile the hike is, with one reviewer mentioning, “We walked the Cameron Falls Trail and took many good photos.”

What makes this part of the tour particularly appreciated is the chance to see local birds and fauna, including the fascinating Chaga fungi, which are known for their ecological importance and unique appearance. The trail’s moderate difficulty, with some elevation gain, gets travelers moving while remaining accessible, especially with guides like Mo, who are patient and accommodating—”Mo was very friendly and helpful,” one reviewer notes.

Relaxing at Madeline Lake

After the hike, you’ll head to the luxurious Madeline Lake Lodge, where the emphasis shifts from activity to relaxation. This lakeside spot is described as very comfortable, with plenty of space to unwind. You’ll be served a hearty BBQ lunch, with some reviewers praising the delicious grilled fare and the scenic lakeside setting. The lunch is an included part of the tour, making it a good value, especially when paired with the stunning views.

Post-lunch, there’s time to just sit back and enjoy the surroundings—be it by reading, chatting, or dipping your toes in the water. Kayaks are available for those wanting to add a bit of adventure, with life jackets provided, but no lifeguard on duty, so swimmers should exercise caution.

Extra Activities: Kayaking & Swimming

Guests have the option to use kayaks or swim, making this part of the trip flexible. Several reviews mention how refreshing it is to dip into Madeline Lake, especially after the hike—“The swim at Madeline Lake was refreshing,” one reviewer shared. Kayaking is at your own risk, and while the equipment is provided, it’s worth noting that there’s no lifeguard on site. This makes it best suited for those comfortable around water and with moderate physical fitness.

Logistics & Comfort

The whole tour runs from roughly 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, with transportation arranged by air-conditioned vehicle. This makes the day comfortable and stress-free, especially when moving between various stops. The group size is capped at 14 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience where guides can answer questions and provide personalized insights.

The Value of This Experience

At $118.77 per person, considering the guided hike, the lakeside BBQ, kayaking, and transportation, this tour offers good value. As one reviewer put it, “The hike was moderate with lots of elevation gain. Our guide, Mo, was very patient with us,” highlighting the personalized attention. The inclusion of a delicious lunch and the opportunity to relax by Madeline Lake add to the day’s appeal.

While it’s not a cheaper activity, the combination of outdoor adventure and leisure is well-balanced. Plus, the reviews consistently mention the friendliness and knowledge of guides like Mo and Leon—an important factor when choosing a tour that feels personal and informative.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy moderate outdoor activities, appreciate beautiful scenery, and want a relaxing lakeside experience. It’s great for small groups looking for a personal touch, as well as those interested in wildlife and local flora like Chaga fungi. If you’re traveling with kids who are comfortable with water and walking, this could work, but given the moderate difficulty and water activities without lifeguards, a bit of caution is advisable.

Those seeking a full-day adventure with intense hiking or high-energy activities might find this tour too relaxed or limited in scope. Conversely, if you’re after a well-rounded, scenic, and peaceful outdoor experience in Yellowknife, this one hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour includes a moderate hike and water activities, it’s best suited for children with moderate physical fitness and water comfort. Young kids might find the hike tiring or the water activities less suitable, especially without lifeguard supervision.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided Cameron Falls hike, a lakeside BBQ lunch, bottled water during the hike, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and access to kayaks at Madeline Lake.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Canceling less than 24 hours before the start means you won’t get your money back.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, from hotel pickup around 11:00 am to drop-off around 4:00 pm.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes for the hike, water, sun protection, and swimwear if you plan to swim. The guide provides life jackets for kayaking.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The hike is rated easy to medium, with some elevation gain, so it might not be suitable for those with limited mobility. The rest of the experience is more relaxed.

Do I need to be an experienced hiker?
Not at all. The hike is manageable for most, especially with guides like Mo who are attentive and patient. It’s a good choice for those wanting a scenic walk without overly strenuous effort.

Final Thoughts

The 5 Hours Small Group Hike at Cameron Falls offers a well-rounded taste of Yellowknife’s natural beauty. The mix of a manageable hike, lakeside relaxation, and optional kayaking makes for a perfect half-day outing—especially if you’re traveling with a small group and enjoy the outdoors. The guided aspect adds comfort, and the included BBQ lunch is a nice touch that caps off the experience.

While it’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, it’s a satisfying blend of activity and leisure that suits many travelers seeking a relaxed outdoor day. The friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and the chance to unwind by Madeline Lake make this tour a memorable part of a Yellowknife trip — one you’ll likely look back on fondly.

Whether you’re after peaceful lakeside views, wildlife sightings, or just a good walk in nature, this tour hits many of those notes. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your water bottle. It’s a lovely way to connect with Yellowknife’s stunning scenery without overdoing it.