Leaving Fernie towards Cranbrook over the West Fernie Bridge, drive for two kilometres south-west along Highway 3 until you reach the Stanford Waterslide Resort. Turn right onto Mt. Fernie Park Road. Carry on driving straight through Mount Fernie Provincial Park Campground until you reach the parking area by Gorby Bridge. The trailhead marker is toward the back of the car park on the south edge. 

There is an outhouse located at the parking lot.

This trail is rated difficult. The hike is out and back and starts with a mellow approach via the Lizard Lake Trail for the 1st kilometer. From there it's all uphill with some steep sections that are rather slippery when wet. You will be passing through beautiful sections with ancient Red Cedar trees.

Yes, dogs are allowed on the Lizard Lake trail and within Mt Fernie Provincial Park, however they should be kept on leash and under control, especially with wildlife in the area.

Please make sure to pick up and clean up after your dog, and don't leave the bags along the trail. There is a garbage bins located at the trailhead. There is a water source available for the pooches at the beginning of the trail as it crosses the Lizard Creek and then at the top from the Lizard Lake. 

Depending on the snowpack from the previous winter, the trail is best accessible from July to October. Beware, the trail can be very slippery in some sections when wet. 

While you technically can get in the water, and some hikers do take a quick dip after the climb, Lizard Lake is not a typical or ideal swimming lake. 

Fernie is within the bear & wildlife country, so it’s always good to be prepared. Carry bear spray (and know how to use it), make noise, and stay aware of your surroundings. You can buy bear bells at the Visitor Centre. Bear spray can be purchased at Canadian Tire or some of the bike shops in town. 

As with any trip into nature, be well prepared for changes in weather. Remember that you are travelling in an area where wildlife is abundant. Be aware of your surrounding, be loud, follow the proper safety protocols and respect the environment.