Helm Creek Campsite
The route along Helm Creek is much less frequented but still offers incredible scenery of Black Tusk and the meadow area around the campsite. Longer day-hikes can be done the next day to Panorama Ridge and even Black Tusk from the Helm Creek campsite.
The Helm Lake campground has 9 tent platforms, pit toilets, and places to hang your food. There is no hut located at the campsite. The campsite is open year-round.
The Helm Creek campsite is best accessed from the Cheakamus Lake parking area by going right at the junction along the trail to Cheakamus Lake, then downhill, across a bridge over the Cheakamus river, then starting a steep uphill climb. The route is 8.5km (5.28 miles) with an elevation gain of about 920 meters (3018 feet).
It is possible to plan a multi-day camping and hiking trip through the area by traversing via Helm Creek to Rubble Creek but transportation will have to be arranged prior to making the trip.
Some other things to consider:
- Bring your own clean water or plan to boil water for drinking as there is no clean water in Garibaldi Provincial Park. Helm Creek has water in it, including in the summer months but it should be boiled or treated. Do not assume the water is clean because it’s coming from a glacier, alpine river, or lake. Drinking unfiltered or non-boiled water can lead to sickness, such as an Giardia Infection.
- No dogs allowed in Garibaldi Provincial Park.
- There is very limited cell service in the park. Officially, there is no cell service in the park but you can occasionally get a signal from one of the cell towers that is located on the other side of Black Tusk. Do not expect to get service though.