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Squamish sits at the head of Howe Sound, on the Sea-to-Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler. The town takes its name from the Squamish Nation, whose territory surrounds it, and it developed as a logging and railway center before reinventing itself as one of Canada's leading outdoor recreation towns. Granite walls, rivers and the sound converge here in a compact, dramatic setting.
The massive granite dome of the Stawamus Chief rises above the highway, drawing rock climbers from around the world and hikers who tackle its steep trail to the summit viewpoints. Next door, Shannon Falls Provincial Park has a tall waterfall reached by a short walk. The Sea to Sky Gondola lifts visitors to a mountain lodge, suspension bridge and alpine trails with views over Howe Sound. Alice Lake Provincial Park is a favorite for swimming and camping. In winter, large numbers of bald eagles gather along the Squamish River near Brackendale, viewable from the Eagle Run dike. Kiteboarders launch from the Squamish Spit when the wind blows. South of town, the Britannia Mine Museum explores the area's copper mining past, and the West Coast Railway Heritage Park displays historic trains. Rafting trips run on the Elaho and Squamish rivers.
Squamish suits climbers, mountain bikers and active families, and it is a practical stop on any Sea-to-Sky drive.
WiserMap travel guideSquamish British Columbia Stawamus Chief and Shannon FallsPlan a Squamish trip along the Sea to Sky Highway: the Stawamus Chief, Shannon Falls, the gondola, winter eagles, Britannia Mine, local food and where to stay.Read the guide
A huge granite monolith rising about 700 metres above Howe Sound, famous with rock climbers worldwide. A steep trail with stairs, ladders and chains leads to its three summits and wide views of the sound. Start early, wear proper shoes and allow four to six hours for the round trip.
Home to one of the tallest waterfalls in British Columbia, dropping about 335 metres over a series of granite cliffs just off the Sea to Sky Highway. A short, easy forest trail leads to the viewing area. Visit in spring when snowmelt makes the falls most powerful, and expect busy parking.
A protected tidal wetland where the Squamish River meets Howe Sound, crossed by flat walking trails with views of the Chief and the surrounding peaks. It is good for birdwatching all year. The trails are easy and mostly level, so it suits families, joggers and a quiet evening walk.
A gondola that climbs about 885 metres from the highway to a summit lodge with viewing decks, a suspension bridge, walking trails and a restaurant overlooking Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains. Hikers can walk up and ride down. Go on a clear day and buy tickets online to save time.
A family favourite park just north of town with four small lakes, sandy beaches, picnic areas, a popular campground and an easy loop trail through the forest. The water is warm enough for swimming in summer. Campsites book out months ahead, so reserve early or come for the day.
A small park on the Sea to Sky Highway south of town centred on Browning Lake, with picnic spots, a lakeside trail and short walks to viewpoints over Howe Sound. Its granite cliffs are popular with beginner climbers. It makes a handy break on the drive between Vancouver and Squamish.
A riverside dyke in Brackendale where visitors watch bald eagles that gather along the Squamish River in winter to feed on spawning salmon. Peak numbers usually come in December and January. Bring binoculars, dress warmly and keep quiet so the birds are not disturbed.
A park of granite crags right in town that offers hundreds of rock climbing routes for all levels, plus loop trails with viewpoints over Squamish. It is a classic training ground for climbers. Beginners should book a guided session with a local climbing school, which provide all gear.
A long dyke at the mouth of the Squamish River that is one of Canada's best known kiteboarding and windsurfing spots thanks to strong, steady afternoon winds in summer. Access to the launch area is run by a local society for a small fee. Spectators can watch from the shore.
Local outfitters run guided whitewater trips on the Elaho and Squamish rivers through glacier fed canyons and old growth forest north of town. Day trips usually include transport, wetsuits and lunch. The season runs late spring to early fall, and no experience is needed.
A national historic site at Britannia Beach, south of Squamish, set in a former copper mine that was once among the largest in the British Empire. Visitors ride an underground train, try gold panning and see the huge concentrator building. Allow two to three hours for a visit.
A large outdoor railway museum with more than 90 locomotives and rail cars, including the restored Royal Hudson steam engine, a roundhouse and a miniature train ride for children. It is a great rainy day stop for families. Check opening days in advance, as hours vary by season.
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