This laid-back mountain town is a hotbed for climbers, kayakers, bikers, and nature lovers. Squamish is located along the Sea to Sky Highway, marked by the imposing Stawamus Chief Mountain whose sheer granite cliffs top the things-to-do list in summer. From the top, the expansive Howe Sound provides a stunning backdrop. In recent years, funky breweries, local boutiques, and festivals have turned Squamish into a quirky cultural gem.
From June to September, the weather is warm and Squamish is full of life. The town is built around outdoor sports so summer is perfect to get into the mountains or onto the waters of Howe Sound. Because it's not as well known as neighboring Whistler or Vancouver, staying in Squamish means you’re more likely to be hanging out with locals rather than other visitors.
Squamish is the perfect size to explore on foot. From Vancouver, it’s a 1-hour drive along the Sea to Sky Highway with panoramic views of the mountains and Howe Sound. Bus services also run between Vancouver, Squamish, and Whistler. Public transit runs from downtown Squamish to some of the more popular trailheads in summer and throughout the town itself, year-round.
Stawamus Chief Mountain occupies a powerful place in the culture of the town. According to stories from the Indigenous Squamish Nation, the mountain is a home to spirits, with the faces of animals emerging from the rocks. The mountain's sheer granite face is famous among climbers, and the steep trail up the back provides a challenge for hikers. The full hike takes you to three separate peaks, with views of the surrounding mountains and Howe Sound far below.
