Cameron Falls Hike with Lake Side BBQ 5hrs

Cameron Falls Hike with Lake Side BBQ 5hrs: An Honest Look at a Northern Nature Escape

If you’re heading to the Northwest Territories and looking for a well-rounded outdoor adventure, the Cameron Falls Hike with Lake Side BBQ might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve gone through the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what it offers. It’s designed for those who enjoy a mix of light hiking, stunning scenery, and a laid-back lakeside meal.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines nature exploration with relaxing downtime — you’re not just trekking through wilderness, but also unwinding at a beautiful lakeside setting afterward. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to make the experience more meaningful with their local insights. The only thing you might want to consider is that the hike itself is quite short, which makes it more suitable for those looking for a gentle outdoor outing rather than a strenuous trek.

This tour is particularly good for travelers who want a taste of the Northwest Territories’ natural beauty without committing to a full-day adventure or intense activity. It’s a balanced option for anyone wanting a casual, scenic experience that also offers good food and a chance to relax.

Key Points

• Accessible for most: The hike is short and manageable, suitable for those with moderate mobility.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect impressive views of Cameron River Falls and Madeline Lake.
• Relaxing lakeside meal: A delicious BBQ with options for swimming, kayaking, or canoeing.
• All-inclusive comfort: Transportation, bottled water, and equipment like life jackets are provided.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refund; pay later option keeps plans flexible.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides in English and Chinese enhance the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Cameron Falls Hike and Lakeside BBQ

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

This tour is designed to be a comfortable, well-paced outing. Starting around 11:00am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel — a nice touch that takes logistics off your plate. The round-trip transportation with air conditioning helps keep the trip relaxed and comfortable, especially in warmer months.

The core of the experience is a short hike of about 20-30 minutes to Cameron River Falls. This isn’t a long trek, so it’s accessible for most people, though it’s worth knowing that sturdy shoes like hiking sneakers are recommended. The trail offers pristine scenery, with chances to spot various birds and fauna, including the curious Chaga fungi, which adds a natural curiosity to the walk.

The waterfall at its source is the highlight of the hike — expect to be impressed by the cascading water and the surrounding wilderness. According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable and engaging, often sharing insights about the area’s flora and fauna, which enriches the experience.

The Lakeside BBQ and Relaxation Time

After the hike, everyone heads to Madeline Lake Lodge — a luxurious yet cozy setting perfect for unwinding. Here, the tour switches gears from active to relaxed. The BBQ meal is served lakeside, offering a spectacular view while you dine. The menu is well-received, and the setting is ideal for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal in nature.

Following lunch, the fun continues with free-time options. You can swim, kayak, or canoe — all equipment is provided, along with life jackets for adults. It’s a laid-back way to cool off and soak in the scenery. Keep in mind that no lifeguard is on duty, so it’s best for confident swimmers and cautious explorers.

What to Expect in Terms of Comfort and Practical Details

This tour clocks in at around 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing. Departures are typically around 11:00am, ending by 4:00pm, which leaves your afternoon free. The small group size and guided service mean you’ll get personalized attention and local insights, making it more engaging than a self-guided trip.

The tour is suitable for most travelers over 5 years old, but is not recommended for children under 5, or for those with back problems, mobility issues, or wheelchair users. This is mainly because of the short hike and the physical nature of the activities involved.

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The Value and What You’re Paying For

At $115 per person, this experience offers a combination of scenic hiking, a lovely lakeside meal, and recreational water activities. When you consider that transportation, the BBQ, and equipment rentals are included, it’s fairly good value for a well-organized, all-in-one outdoor day.

Reviews consistently mention the excellent guides and stunning views as major highlights. The small group setting and flexible cancellation policy (full refund if you cancel 24 hours in advance) add peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a light, scenic outdoor activity paired with a relaxed lakeside meal. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the Northwest Territories’ natural wonders without a high physical demand. It suits those who enjoy guided trips with educational insights and appreciate a good meal in a beautiful setting.

However, if you’re looking for a strenuous hike or a more adventurous water-based experience, you might want to look elsewhere. It’s a great fit for casual nature lovers, families with older children, or anyone wanting to combine a short walk with good food and water fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 5 years old can participate, but it’s not recommended for very young kids or those with mobility issues because of the short hike and water activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes like sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended. Also, biodegradable insect repellent and a towel or swimming gear if you want to dip into the water.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, round-trip air-conditioned transportation from your hotel is included, making the day more relaxing and hassle-free.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is there a guide?
Absolutely. The tour features a live guide who speaks English and Chinese, sharing insights throughout the hike and at the lodge.

How long is the hike?
The hike round-trip is approximately 40-60 minutes, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect beautiful views of Cameron River Falls and Madeline Lake, with chances to see local birds and fungi along the trail.

Are water activities included?
Yes, you can swim, kayak, or canoe; equipment and life jackets are provided.

What’s the meal like?
The lakeside BBQ is well-reviewed, offering a hearty meal in a scenic setting, perfect for relaxing after the hike.

How early should I book?
Given the popularity and flexible booking options, it’s wise to reserve ahead to secure your spot.

If you’re after a day combining light adventure with laid-back lakeside leisure, this tour offers a genuine taste of the Northwest Territories’ natural beauty. It’s straightforward, enjoyable, and well-suited for travelers wanting to experience outdoor Canada without diving into strenuous activities.

You can check availability for your dates here: