If you happen to’re on the lookout for issues to do in Squamish, this journey information is for you!
Nestled on the crossroads of breathtaking pure magnificence and exhilarating out of doors adventures, Squamish is a hidden gem ready to be found by intrepid travellers. Generally known as the “Outside Recreation Capital of Canada,” this charming city is sort of a playground for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Think about standing in awe beneath the towering granite partitions of the Stawamus Chief, one of many world’s largest granite monoliths, or feeling the misty spray of the gorgeous Shannon Falls because it cascades down the rugged cliffs. Whether or not you’re an avid rock climber, an avid hiker, or just a lover of gorgeous landscapes, Squamish presents an unforgettable escape into the center of the Pacific Northwest’s wild wonders. So, seize your mountain climbing boots, harness your adventurous spirit, and put together for an incredible journey by means of Squamish’s out of doors paradise!
These are the highest 25 issues to do in Squamish!
Issues to Do in Squamish Disclaimer: This text incorporates affiliate hyperlinks, which suggests once you make a purchase order, we get a small fee. Affiliate hyperlinks price you nothing to make use of and assist preserve these journey guides free.
1. Trip the Sea to Sky Gondola
The Sea to Sky Gondola is without doubt one of the hottest issues to do in Squamish, because it offers you a number of the greatest views of your entire space. It’s the right exercise in the event you don’t have time to hike, bike, and climb each path round.
The gondola will take you up Mount Habrich, the place you will notice views of Howe Sound, Shannon Falls, and Squamish Chief Mountain. Spend a while on the prime mountain climbing trails, testing your peak restrict on the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge or standing on the 5,000-square-foot viewing platform. You may both take the gondola again down or journey by means of the backwoods of Mount Habrich.
Click on right here to e book your Sea-to-Sky Gondola journey!
2. Mountain Biking
A great deal of individuals come to Squamish to benefit from the unbelievable mountain biking trails. It has a world-renowned path system with a whole bunch of trails for all ranges, so you already know it’s good. This is without doubt one of the hottest issues to do in Squamish in the course of the summer time months.
If you happen to’re new to mountain biking, begin with the beginner-friendly Wonderland Path. It’s gradual and straightforward and offers you an excellent style of mountain biking in Squamish. If you wish to flip issues up a notch, the Half Nelson Path is without doubt one of the greatest for all ability ranges. There aren’t too many jumps, but it surely’s quick sufficient to pump your adrenaline. You may lease bikes or be a part of a tour with one of many native operators, together with this fashionable 2-3 hour e-biking tour to see coastal temperate rainforests, salmon spawning habitat, mountains, historical volcanoes, Howe Sound (the southernmost fjord in North America) and the Squamish River estuary.
3. Go to Shannon Falls
With a peak of greater than 305 metres, Shannon Falls is the third tallest waterfall in British Columbia and one of many prime issues to see in Squamish. Powerfully slicing by means of the forest, these falls are gorgeous to see anytime in the course of the yr however are at their strongest within the late spring and summer time when melting snow causes a surge.
Shannon Falls can be a really handy place to go to. They’re positioned simply off the well-known Sea-to-Sky freeway, not removed from Vancouver, and might be reached by a brief, paved stroll. You too can proceed your stroll on one of many many trails within the space or simply admire the waterfalls with a scrumptious picnic.
4. Climb a Mountain Through Ferrata
Through Ferrata is a must-do within the space. It’s a beginner-friendly model of mountain climbing, and it’s epic. You’ll climb up the large granite partitions surrounding Squamish and expertise the joys of hanging excessive over Howe Sound, all with the protection of being strapped right into a harness. Though Through Ferrata mountaineering is exhilarating and enjoyable, it’s far more accessible to the final inhabitants as you get to climb an iron ladder constructed into the mountain.
The Through Ferrata can be conveniently positioned on the Sea to Sky Gondola base, so you possibly can mix this climbing expertise with a Gondola trip for a two-in-one Squamish expertise. Nonetheless, don’t overlook to e book gondola tickets individually!
Click on right here to e book your subsequent Through Ferrata tour in Squamish!
5. Go Rock Climbing
If you happen to aren’t massive on heights, this one won’t be for you, however in the event you’re up for it, Squamish is the right place to provide mountain climbing a attempt. Squamish is residence to a number of the greatest mountain climbing on this planet because of its gripable granite cliffs. From the enduring Stawamus Chief to the multi-pitch climbs by Shannon Falls, climbers of all ranges can benefit from the sport.
For inexperienced persons or those that aren’t too assured scaling a cliff, you possibly can be a part of a half-day mountain climbing tour to be taught the fundamentals and climb a number of the greatest routes with an skilled information. There are a selection of climbs to go well with anybody’s skills.
Click on right here to e book your subsequent rock-climbing tour!
6. White Water Rafting
For one of the vital thrilling issues to do in Squamish, you’ll wish to signal as much as go white-water rafting on the Elaho and Squamish Rivers. This adrenaline-filled journey takes you thru Class 3-4 rapids, together with the thrilling “Satan’s Elbow” part, which tends to flip over rafts (don’t fear, it’s enjoyable!) And with skilled skilled guides, you’ll really feel comfy even with the most important rapids. Journeys embody transportation, gear, and a information, making it a very simple strategy to have the joys of a lifetime. Plus, you’ll see wild forests, glaciers, waterfalls, and extra! It prices about CAD 190 however is value each penny as one of the vital adventurous issues to do in Squamish.
Click on right here to e book your subsequent white-water rafting tour!
7. Hike the Stawamus Chief
If you happen to’re a giant hiker, this must be on the prime of your record of issues to do in Squamish. The Stawamus Chief hike, which can be recognized merely as “The Chief,” is without doubt one of the hottest and difficult trails within the space. It has three completely different peaks you possibly can hike to. The primary peak presents a pure viewing platform with gorgeous cliffs on three sides, whereas the second and third peaks present unbelievable viewpoints, together with the North Gully with its hovering sheer cliff partitions. Every route begins from the principle Chief Mountaineering Path close to the Chief Campground and is well-signed. You may anticipate to hike roughly three hours to the primary peak whereas the second and third peaks take roughly six hours.
You received’t get some other views fairly like this one, and so they really feel so rewarding after making your strategy to the highest.
8. Eagle Run Dyke
Though wildlife viewings are usually greatest in the course of the summer time months, that’s not the case with eagles in Squamish. Greatest seen in early winter, a whole bunch of eagles name Squamish residence as they hunt the Squamish River for salmon. One of the best viewing spot for these unbelievable birds of prey is Eagle Run Dyke within the Brackendale neighbourhood. You may go on a tour, however they’re simply noticed with binoculars as you’re strolling alongside the park. Simply be sure you look within the timber as that’s the place they spend the majority of their time.
9. Hike in Garibaldi Lake Provincial Park
Garibaldi Lake Provincial Park is a hiker’s dream, with over 90 km of mountain climbing trails simply ready to be explored. The park is stuffed with unbelievable landscapes, together with meadows, lakes, and gorgeous Mount Garibaldi.
You may get to the park by way of completely different entry factors from the Sea to Sky Freeway with many trailheads starting on the varied parking tons. The Diamond Head space within the southwestern a part of the park is a fan favorite, in order that’s a great place to begin. It contains Mount Garibaldi, Atwell Peak, Opal Cone, Garibaldi Neve, and Mamquam Lake. The lake has a shocking, vibrant blue color, very similar to Cool Blue Gatorade, due to the glacial silt. One thing like Lake Louise.
Please be aware that in September and October, Black Bears are widespread on this space, so be certain that to bear in mind once you’re out within the park and carry bear spray.
10. Britannia Mine Museum
For one of the vital instructional issues to do in Squamish, take pleasure in a household time out on the Britannia Mine Museum and uncover the thrilling historical past of mining in Squamish. This historic copper mine has been in operation for the reason that early twentieth century and was as soon as one of many largest copper mines within the British Empire.
Get an interesting have a look at mining’s evolution through the years as you’re taken on an underground tour and be taught the story of this booming mine in the course of the Nineteen Twenties and 30s. Trip a practice into the mine and expertise what a day within the lifetime of a miner was like, together with a group of interactive reveals, movies, and hands-on actions. One of the vital fashionable actions on the museum is panning for gold and gems. Plus, in the event you discover one thing, you get to maintain it.
Click on right here to e book your mining tour!
11. Go {Golfing}
Squamish presents two golf programs with breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Squamish Valley Golf Course options an 18-hole course winding by means of large timber alongside the Mamquam River, whereas Furry Creek Golf Course provides you insane ocean views whereas teeing off. Whether or not you wish to apply your swing or play a spherical with buddies, {golfing} is without doubt one of the prime issues to do in Squamish.
12. Style Some Native Beer
No journey to Squamish is full with out a few stops alongside the BC Ale Path, a group of craft breweries discovered all throughout the province. Squamish proudly holds two of the 21 stops, making it a fantastic place to take pleasure in craft beer within the mountains.
Howe Sound Brewing, the primary brewery within the space, stays fashionable with its Garibaldi Honey Blonde and Howe Sound Lager. Their again patio could be very fashionable for taking within the views of Howe Sound and it’s the right afternoon spot after a protracted morning hike. Then there’s Backcountry Brewing, an apres ski-style brewery that gives an eclectic menu of craft beers and ciders. There appears to at all times be a celebration right here in the course of the winter months, which makes it a fantastic place to get a warm-up after having fun with one of many many winter actions within the space.
13. Discover Smoke Bluffs Park
Smoke Bluffs Park in Squamish is a must-visit for anybody who likes to be in nature. The park has a great deal of climbing routes starting from newbie to skilled, and for individuals who wish to preserve their ft on the bottom, there’s a scenic mountain climbing path that gives lookout factors, picnic areas, and playgrounds—the perfect of each worlds. The loop path takes round 30-45 minutes to finish and begins close to the Squamish Journey Centre on Loggers Lane.
14. Alice Lake Provincial Park
If you wish to dwell because the locals do, head to Alice Lake Provincial Park, positioned simply north of Squamish. The park has a bit of little bit of every little thing, from breathtaking mountain views to lush forests and pristine lakes. It’s one of many prime day stops on the way in which to Whistler, permitting you to simply take pleasure in scenic walks, biking trails, canoeing and kayaking.
And if you wish to keep longer than only a day, snag certainly one of their campsites and spend just a few days absorbing the ambiance.
15. Go Kayaking
Kayaking is the right chilled-out exercise in Squamish. You may lease kayaks from native outfitters and even take a guided tour to discover the world’s coves and bays. The calm waters of Howe Sound and the scenic Squamish Estuary make for excellent kayaking circumstances, so it’s simple for inexperienced persons to get out on the water. If you happen to’re extra skilled and wish one thing a bit of extra thrilling, you possibly can attempt a number of the space’s whitewater kayaking spots, however be sure you know your limits and go together with knowledgeable information.
16. Go Crusing
See the Coastal and Tantalus mountain ranges, the Stawamus Chief, and Shannon Falls, all from the entrance finish of a sailboat. This three-hour journey sails by means of Howe Sound and presents the possibility to take the helm and sail throughout the bay, presumably recognizing stunning orcas or dolphins alongside the way in which.
Most crusing journeys price round CAD 180 per particular person, and also you’ll wish to e book it prematurely as spots might be very restricted.
17. Go Kiteboarding or Kitesurfing
Kiteboarding and kite browsing are extraordinarily fashionable in Squamish due to the robust winds that blow by means of the world. Throughout the summer time months (Might-September), when the wind is robust and constant, you received’t discover a higher place to catch some air.
Whether or not you’re a newbie or an skilled kiter, you’ll have the ability to kitesurf right here. The Squamish Spit, positioned on the mouth of the Squamish River, is the preferred spot for kiteboarding. You’ll discover a number of colleges and rental corporations that supply classes, gear, and guided excursions that will help you get out on the water.
18. Cease on the Tantalus Lookout
The Tantalus Lookout is a must-visit spot alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway from Vancouver to Whistler. With gorgeous views of the Tantalus Vary mountains and the river under, it’s one of many prime issues to do in Squamish on a highway journey. Preserve a watch out for the turn-off, because it comes up rapidly alongside Freeway 99. Nonetheless, please be aware that the lookout is simply accessible when driving in the direction of Vancouver from Squamish.
19. Get pleasure from an Eagle Float
Throughout the winter season, whitewater rafting corporations present float journeys that supply a singular alternative for eagle-watching. The river is shifting at a gradual tempo, so that you’ll get to absorb the fantastic thing about the surroundings with out getting moist. The guides will enable you to spot the various bald eagles perched within the timber or hovering within the sky. Simply be sure you gown heat!
20. See Squamish From the Sky
If you happen to suppose Squamish is gorgeous from the bottom, think about the way it seems to be from the sky! Discover Squamish from a complete new perspective with this 35-minute flightseeing tour. It’s the right strategy to get a full view of the majestic mountains, ocean, and luxurious forests that make up this world-renowned space. Marvel at gigantic glaciers, shimmering alpine lakes, snow-capped peaks and plunging valleys throughout the Tantalus, Alpha, Ossa and Omega mountain ranges in addition to flying excessive over the breathtaking Garibaldi Provincial Park, nestled within the hills between Squamish and Whistler. As you admire a number of the greatest surroundings Earth has to supply, your pilot will make clear the area’s fascinating geology. For extra journey, take into account taking the 50-minute tour that takes you deeper into the backcountry.
Click on right here to e book your subsequent flightseeing tour!
21. Go Snow Tubing
If you happen to occur to be exploring Squamish within the winter, one of the vital fashionable issues to do is snow tubing. Proper on the base of the Ski to Sky Gondola, you’ll discover a tubing park that solely prices $5. Seize your tube and maintain on as you pace down the mountain. Sadly, there isn’t a tube tow, so that you’ll should seize your tube and hike it again as much as go once more, however hey, at the least you’ll get some train too. If you happen to’re travelling with youngsters, this needs to be on the prime of your record.
22. Eat on the Crabapple Cafe
After a day of journey, or maybe a “gas” cease earlier than heading outdoor, it’s onerous to beat homecooked-style meals. That is the place the Crabapple Cafe is available in. As one of many prime eating places on the town, they serve domestically sourced dishes and the perfect brunch round. The cafe is heat and comfy and appears like residence. Whether or not you’re stopping by for espresso or an all-day brunch, it’s a fantastic spot to loosen up and benefit from the pleasant Canadian hospitality. Strive the Pastrami Hash or the Smoked Salmon Benny.
23. Hen-watching
Squamish is residence to a number of the most stunning birds in all of British Columbia. From Bald Eagles hovering overhead to intimate songbirds nestled within the timber, your bird-watching expertise right here goes to be epic. If you happen to actually wish to get essentially the most out of your go to, you’ll in all probability wish to go for a guided tour. These skilled birders will present you the native trails and enable you to discover all of the completely different species of birds that might be very onerous to seek out by yourself.
24. Head to Rope Runner Aerial Journey Park
Rope Runner is an exciting out of doors journey park in Squamish. The park presents an thrilling multi-level aerial course with 50 completely different obstacles. It’s the right factor to do in Squamish for daredevils of all ages. From climbing partitions to suspended bridges, and monkey bars to cargo nets, your day will probably be stuffed with adrenaline and pleasure.
The heights of the programs vary from 4.5 meters to 18 meters, so it’s an effective way to check your braveness and problem your self. Don’t fear although – you’ll be hooked up to a security harness, and skilled guides will probably be with you always.
Click on right here for admission to the Rope Runner Aerial Journey Park!
25. Take a day journey to Whistler
Whistler is positioned only a quick drive from Squamish and is without doubt one of the hottest locations in Canada. The city presents a ton of actions all yr spherical. Within the winter, you possibly can hit the slopes at Whistler Blackcomb or go for budget-friendly cross-country snowboarding at Whistler Olympic Park. Significantly, individuals from everywhere in the world come to Whistler to go snowboarding and snowboarding and it’s the biggest ski resort within the nation.
Nonetheless, it’s not simply winter actions that appeal to individuals to Whistler. In the summertime, discover the gorgeous alpine lakes, hike the picturesque Joffre Lakes path, or loosen up at stunning Misplaced Lake. Whether or not you solely have a day or could make a weekend of it, Whistler is the right place to get a bit of journey in.
26. Brandywine Falls
If you happen to’re headed to Whistler, then it’s a must to make a cease at Brandywine Falls. It’s one of the vital stunning—and accessible waterfalls close to Squamish. It’s a shocking 70-metre waterfall that’s simply reached on a brief, 1km stroll from the parking zone. The trail is well-maintained and flat, making it nice for individuals who aren’t that eager on mountain climbing.
27. Go Fishing for Salmon and Trout
Whatever the time of yr, fishing is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Squamish. There are a lot of rivers, lakes, and streams within the space, providing you with the possibility to expertise freshwater or saltwater fishing.
The realm is understood for its monster-sized salmon, steelhead, and trout. As a customer, nonetheless, the best strategy to go fishing is to hitch a guided tour. They’ll have all of the permits you want and can take you to the perfect place to reel one in. Sometimes, a half-day tour is all you want, because it contains 5 hours of fishing within the morning, which tends to be when the fish are most energetic.
Please be aware that If you happen to’re going with no information, you’ll have to acquire a fishing license and pay attention to catch-and-release laws.
28. Horseback Using
In Squamish, horseback using is a good various to its typical thrill-inducing out of doors actions. You may expertise the identical breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the encompassing mountains with out all of the steps. Whether or not you might be an skilled rider or using a horse for the primary time, guided excursions will offer you every little thing you want and make you’re feeling comfy on the again of those majestic animals.
29. Go to the Railway Museum of British Columbia
If you happen to’re on the lookout for one thing a bit extra low-key, then take a go to to the Railway Museum of British Columbia. The museum is positioned on a 12-acre railway station, and it’s the right strategy to discover the world’s previous. Find out about native railroad historical past and examine artifacts from over 100 years in the past. You too can take a trip on an outdated steam locomotive and toot the horn like an actual conductor.
For an additional particular deal with, take into account visiting in the course of the Christmas season. That is when youngsters can be a part of the North Pole Categorical for a practice trip from Candyland Station to the North Pole, delivering wrapping paper and bows to Marshall Mellow, the Polar bear accountable for Santa’s workshop. They’ll adore it!
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