This guide covers seven snowshoe trails on in the Fraser Valley. They are all trails that are high enough for consistent snow AND are also safe to snowshoe.

This guide to snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley includes:

• Quick reference guide: An easy overview of the stats for all the trails
• Snowshoeing safety: key info to help get you prepared to snowshoe in Vancouver
• Where to rent snowshoes in the Fraser Valley including which shops have the best price
• Snowshoe trails in the Fraser Valley: details for 7 places to go snowshoeing
• No-go trails: summer trails that aren’t safe for snowshoeing

If you’re looking for even more places to go snowshoeing in in the Vancouver area, don’t worry, I got you! Check out these other guides to snowshoeing trails near Vancouver:

• Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Snowshoeing in Whistler
• Snowshoeing in Squamish
• Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Snowshoeing at Dakota Ridge on the Sunshine Coast

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley Quick Reference Guide

But First… Be Prepared

• Make a trip plan: While these trails may be steps from busy ski areas, they access serious wilderness. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Use the great trip planning tools from Adventure Smart.
• Check the weather, trail conditions, and avalanche forecast: If the weather and trail conditions don’t look good, don’t go. Use my list of the best weather apps for hiking. Check the avalanche forecast for the South Coast Inland zone. Unless you have taken an avalanche safety course, you probably shouldn’t go out unless the forecast is rated “Low”. 
• Wear winter clothing and pack the essentials: Prepare for emergencies by packing the 10 essentials. Read my recommendations for what to wear snowshoeing and tips for winter hiking and snowshoeing.
• Use safe snowshoeing techniques: Snowshoes keep you from sinking into deep snow, but they aren’t great for walking sideways or downhill – it’s easy to slip and injure yourself. Read up on snowshoeing safety and check out my guide to choosing snowshoes.) They also have crampons and other traction aids underfoot to help grip icy snow.
• Take an avalanche safety course: If you plan to stray from flat terrain, you need avalanche safety training. great FREE online beginner tutorial on Avalanche.ca. You should also take a 2.5 day AST1 course with avalanche Canada.

READ NEXT: Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Snowshoe Trails at Sasquatch Mountain

The Trail: Formerly called Hemlock Valley Resort, this ski resort near Harrison Hot Springs has a network of snowshoe trails. The short and flat Village Loop trail is great for beginners. More adventurous snowshoers can tackled the intermediat Ridge Run or Old Yeller Trails. For advanced snowshoeing, head to the peaks of Mount Klaudt or Mount Cartmel.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The Mount Klaudt and Mount Cartmel trails climb some steep slopes, but there is no significant avalanche danger or other hazards. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a trail map on the Sasquatch Mountain website.

Permits/Fees: Trail passes are $15/day.

Dogs: Not allowed

Getting There: It’s a 45min drive from Agassiz to Sasquatch Mountain Resort. The last 7km of the road are gravel, steep and winding but it is plowed and sanded regularly. Provincial law requires you to carry chains (and you’ll probably want them). 

Snowshoeing to Elk Mountain, Chilliwack

The Trail: This steep trail is sometimes referred to as Chilliwack’s version of the Grouse Grind. (Although it’s not quite as steep!) Once you break out of the trees on to the ridge it’s flatter you’ll get great views of Chilliwack and of the Chilliwack River Valley. If you want to extend your trip, you can continue along the ridge for another kilometer or so.

The Elk Mountain trail is by far the most popular place to go snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley, so the trail is often so packed down that you can get by with just microspikes and only use snowshoes once you are on the ridge. (Read my guide to differences between microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes.)

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: The last section of the trail before you reach the ridge top can be very slippery. It may be worth bringing microspikes or crampons and poles for this section (especially going downhill). There are very steep slopes and drop offs once you reach the open ridge top. Stay in the center of the ridge and well back from steep drops and slopes. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a good trail guide on Vancouver Trails.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed.

Getting There: It’s a 25min drive from Chilliwack City Hall to the trailhead. The last 2km are on a gravel road that is not plowed and can be very icy. Bring chains or be prepared to walk the extra 2km on the road to the trailhead. There is a gravel pullout for parking at the trailhead.

Snowshoeing to Needle Peak on the Coquihalla

The Trail: The Coquihalla is a great destination for Fraser Valley snowshoers since the road reaches high into the mountains to access lots of fresh snow. This challenging trail climbs through the trees on to the ridge of Needle Peak. It isn’t safe to go all the way to the summit in the winter unless you have mountaineering skills and equipment, so turn around somewhere on the ridge and retrace your steps back to the car.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: This is a true backcountry trail and is only appropriate for experienced snowshoers. As long as you stay on the ridge you can avoid the worst of the avalanche terrain, but you’re never totally safe from avalanches on this trail.  Check the avalanche forecast before you go and don’t go unless the forecast is low. After the trail gets above the treeline, the trail gets harder to follow, but just stay in the center of the ridge.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s trail info on the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Getting There: From Hope, it’s a 35 min drive on the Coquihalla. Take exit 217 to the Zopkios Rest Area on the south side of the highway. You will need winter tires or chains to drive the Coquihalla. See this parking map for instructions on legal places to park.

Snowshoeing to Falls Lake on the Coquihalla

The Trail: The trail to Falls Lake is the only easy snowshoe trail on the Coquihalla. The first half of the trail follows a road. After reaching a summer parking lot, it heads into the trees before emerging on the shores of Falls Lake. This lake is surrounded by tall peaks and feels much more remote than the short 2km walk from the road.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Be prepared to share the initial road section of the trail with snowmobiles. There is no significant avalanche danger on this trail, but once you reach the lake stay away from the west bank as the steep slopes there can send avalanches down. Check the avalanche forecast before you go.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s trail info on the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope, it’s a 40 min drive on the Coquihalla. You will need winter tires or chains to drive the Coquihalla. Take exit 221 and follow the tunnel under the highway and turn left. You will immediately see a snowed-in road heading uphill. This is the trailhead. See this parking map for instructions on legal places to park.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

Snowshoeing to Zoa Peak on the Coquihalla

The Trail: The trail to Zoa Peak starts at the same trailhead as the trail to Falls Lake. But unlike the snowshoe to Falls Lake, the trip to Zoa Peak is not easy. The trail climbs a steep hill on an access road, before turning left into the forest.

Soon you’ll reach the treeline and stroll along the ridge looking waaay down towards Falls Lake. While the summer trail goes all the way to the true summit, in winter it’s much safer to be content with the views from the sub-summit since there’s a steep gully between the two.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Be prepared to share the initial road section of the trail with snowmobiles. There is no significant avalanche danger on this trail, but once you reach the ridge stay away from edges, especially on the west side, as the steep slopes there can avalanche.  Check the avalanche forecast before you go. The trail can be hard to find, especially if it has snowed recently.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s trail info on the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area website. There’s also a good write up on Vancouver Trails.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Driving Directions: From Hope, it’s a 40 min drive on the Coquihalla. You will need winter tires or chains to drive the Coquihalla. Take exit 221 and follow the tunnel under the highway and turn left. You will immediately see a snowed-in road heading uphill. This is the trailhead. See this parking map for instructions on legal places to park.

Snowshoeing to Artist Point at Mount Baker, Washington

The Trail: If have a passport, Washington’s Mount Baker makes a great cross-border trip for Fraser Valley snowshoers. In the summer Artist Point is a gorgeous viewpoint that you can drive right up to. In the winter meters of snow blanket the region and you have to park further down and hike up… which means it’s way less busy… and possibly way more beautiful.

After a moderate 300m of elevation gain, you’ll be treated to great views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan wearing their winter coats – in fact the Washington Trails Association calls it one of best viewpoints in the state!

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: This route crosses avalanche terrain in several areas. Check the avalanche forecast for the West Slopes North region before you go and don’t go if the hazard is above low unless you have avalanche training. The route is not marked but it is a popular trail so there should be tracks to follow. The slope is mostly un-treed so bring a map and compass in case the clouds roll in and make navigation difficult.

Trail Map/Guide: There’s a great guide on the Washington Trails Association website.

Permits/Fees: None.

Dogs: Allowed on leash.

Getting There: From Abbotsford, drive 1.5 hours across the border to the Mount Baker Ski Area. Drive past the ski area to the very end of the plowed road. Don’t forget your passport for the border crossing and bring chains for your car. This is a very a high elevation mountain road. There is a designated and plowed parking area at the end of the road.

Snowshoeing at Manning Provincial Park

The Trails: In my opinion, Manning Park is the best place to snowshoe in Southwestern BC… and it’s not too far from the Fraser Valley. There are tons of trails to snowshoe in Manning Park… in fact there are so many that I had to put them all in a separate Snowshoeing in Manning Park post! There are flat easy strolls for beginners, more adventurous backcountry trails and lots in between.

Avalanche Danger and Hazards: Most trails are fairly free of avalanche danger and other hazards, but there is avalanche terrain in the park. Check the avalanche forecast before you go. Some trails are unmarked and require backcountry route finding.

Trail Map/Guide: The best source of info is my post all about Snowshoeing in Manning Park.

Permits/Fees: Most trails are free, but there are paid trails for $10/day.

Dogs: Allowed on leash on all trails except Poland Lake.

Getting There: Manning Park is roughly 50 minutes from Hope. Provincial law requires you to have winter tires or chains to drive highway 3 east of Hope. There are plowed parking areas at all trailheads in the park.

Join: Snowshoeing in Vancouver Facebook Group

No-Go Trails for Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley

There are lots of summer hiking trails in the Fraser Valley that may sound like a fun snowshoe adventure in winter. However, many of them have significant avalanche danger, are closed in winter, or just don’t have enough consistent snow for good snowshoeing.

• Lindeman Lake: The trail is too low elevation to get much snow and the trail is steep so microspikes are a safer choice than snowshoes.
• Flora Peak: This trail has significant avalanche danger so it is best for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training.
• Radium Lake: This trail has significant avalanche danger so it is best for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training.
• Pierce Lake and Mount MacFarlane: This trail has significant avalanche danger and requires a lot of route finding in winter. It is best for experienced snowshoers with avalanche training and experience with off-trail navigation.
• Mount Slesse: The logging road to the trailhead is not plowed, making this trail inaccessible. It also has substantial avalanche danger.
• Golden Ears Provincial Park: The road into the park is closed when there is snow on the ground making all of the trails in the park inaccessible.
• Cheam Peak: The road to the trailhead is not plowed in winter, making this trail inaccessible.

Final Thoughts

Which of these trails is your favourite? Do you have more suggestions for snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley? Tell me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

More Snowshoeing Guides:

• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Manning Park
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Vancouver
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler

Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking Advice

• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (20+ Ideas)
• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• Winter Camping For Beginners
• 100+ Snow-Free Hikes in Vancouver: Trails You Can Hike Year Round

The post Where to Go Snowshoeing in the Fraser Valley Near Vancouver appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In this post, you’ll find personal recommendations for 10 Indigenous tourism activities from tours to museums to historical sites and more. Each one is Indigenous-run and will deepen your understanding of Indigenous culture.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Quick Facts About Indigenous People in Canada

Here’s a quick run-down of the Indigenous context in Canada and North America. This is a HUGE topic that could fill many books, so it’s hard to distill it down to a few bullet points… but I tried. Like many settler Canadians, I’m working on learning more about Indigenous people to contribute to reconciliation, but I still have a long way to go.

• Indigenous people have lived in what is now Canada for 10,000 to 20,000 years. But in Indigenous oral history, that amount of time is basically forever, so it is common to say that Indigenous people have been here since time immemorial. As well, the creation stories of many Indigenous Nations place their origins in what is now Canada, so to suggest otherwise may be viewed as impolite.
• There are about 1.8 million Indigenous people in Canada. They make up about 5% of the total population. After European contact, the Indigenous population declined sharply due to disease, war, and genocidal government policies like residential schools. But today, Indigenous people are the fastest-growing population in Canada.
• “Indigenous” is a word that encompasses three main groups: First Nations, Metis, and Inuit. Previously, the word “aboriginal” was used instead of Indigenous, “Eskimo” was used instead of Inuit, and “Indian” or “Native” was used instead of First Nations. Today, all of these words are no longer commonly used and some Indigenous people may find some or all of them offensive. However, some Indigenous people may still embrace and identify with some of these words.
• There are over 600 Indigenous groups across Canada, called Nations and they speak over 50 Indigenous languages. You can find the Nation and language of a place you are visiting using the interactive Native Land Digital Map. Due to historical (and contemporary) government policies, Indigenous people may live on Reserves or outside of reserves and they may be deeply connected to their culture or disconnected from their culture. There is no single way to be Indigenous in Canada. It varies from Nation to Nation and from person to person.

Indigenous Tourism Tips

It is important to be respectful when you visit Indigenous land, especially in light of the terrible way that settlers have treated Indigenous people since our arrival. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Listen carefully and listen more than you talk. It is a privilege to hear Indigenous people’s stories and they choose which parts of their culture and history to share with you.
• Stay on paths and in designated areas. Some areas are private and not open to visitors. Or they may be sacred for cultural practices. When in doubt, ask first.
• Do not take photos without permission. In some places, photos are encouraged and many Indigenous people are happy to have their photo taken. But that isn’t always the case – cultural practices differ from Nation to Nation and even from person to person. Ask first.
• Spend your money at Indigenous businesses. Stay at Indigenous-run hotels, eat at Indigenous-run restaurants, buy souvenirs from Indigenous gift shops, and book Indigenous tours.
• Do your research and avoid tourism businesses that profit off Indigenous culture or art without giving back to Indigenous people. Unfortunately, Canada has lots of museums full of stolen Indigenous cultural artifacts and lots of gift shops full of knock-off Indigenous art made overseas.
• If you can, learn a few words in the Indigenous language of the people you are visiting. If you were in France, you would say “merci” so you can learn to say “kleco kleco” in Nuu-chah-nulth territory on Vancouver Island or “hawa” in Haida Gwaii.

Wikwemikong, Manitoulin Island, Ontario

Known as the only federally recognized unceded territory in what is now Canada, Wikwemikong on Manitoulin Island is the perfect spot to learn about the true history of these lands. While they offer several experiences, I recommend beginning with the Unceded Journey guided tour. 

Local guides from Wikwemikong will take you to important destinations on the territory. As you learn about Odawa Mnis (the original name for Manitoulin Island), it will quickly become clear its importance to those of the Three Fires Confederacy (Ojibwe, Odawa and Potawatomi). Visit locations such as the Two O’Clock Lookout and the Holy Cross Church as your guide shares key historical events and impactful treaties that have shaped Wikwemikong and the surrounding area.

I had the pleasure of being guided by Jack who was a fountain of information and constantly willing to answer any questions my group had. He shared about his personal experiences with the Residential School System and its aftermath. This tour is incredibly impactful and I couldn’t believe how much I learned!

Wikwemikong offers a variety of tours including guided hikes, paddles and culinary experiences. Learn more about these tours in my guide to Wikwemikong. If you’re planning to stay for a few days on Manitoulin Island, I highly recommend booking a room at the Indigenous-owned and operated Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre in Little Current.

Recommended by Lindz of I’ve Been Bit! Travel Blog

Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Currently on its way to becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site, Wanuskewin Heritage Park is one of the coolest indigenous sites I’ve ever experienced. Located on the outskirts of Saskatoon, Wanuskewin Heritage Park provides an incredible museum and cultural centre and acts as Canada’s longest-running archaeological dig site. The site dates back more than 6,000 years and is constantly churning up more and more artifacts.

During our visit, we watched some traditional hoop dancing, learned how to build a teepee and what each pole represents, learned all about the culture of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples, and got to take a peek at their bison herd, which was introduced back to the site in 2019.

Whether you want to stop by to visit the museum, take a walk on one of their trails, enjoy a meal at their on-site restaurant, or enjoy one of their teepee sleepovers, this is easily one of the top things to do in Saskatoon.

Recommended by Matthew Bailey from Must Do Canada

Sundre Medicine Walk, Sundre, Alberta

Mahikan Trails Indigenous Experiences offers a medicine walk through the woods of Sundre. Sundre is a small town in the Canadian Rockies‘ foothills along the Cowboy Trail (or AB-22). It’s only a 1.5-hour drive from Calgary. This easy 1.5 km walk departs from the Sundre Visitor Information Centre.

I participated in this guided medicine walk in the fall; it was a fun experience and I learned a lot. Jordan was our guide for this Sundre medicine walk. He shared all of his family’s knowledge of medicinal plants. During this 1.5- to 2-hour walking tour, he showed us plants and trees that have medicinal properties.

With his Cree heritage, he has much to share about the different plants and trees and how they can be used for medicinal purposes. Halfway through the walk, we enjoyed mint tea and heard wonderful Cree stories.

The walk is suitable for all ages. We did it with our 3.5 and 5.5-year-old boys, and they were able to follow along. Mahikan Trails Indigenous Experiences also offers medicine walks in Banff at Cascade Pounds and canyon walks in Canmore. While in Sundre, you can also experience a unique glamping stay at Painted Warriors.

Recommended by Emilie from Love Life Abroad

Gwaii Haanas National Park, Haida Gwaii, BC

Located in the southern half of the Haida Gwaii archipelago, Gwaii Haanas National Park is jointly managed by the Haida Nation and Parks Canada. In fact, Indigenous people were instrumental in the creation of the park through a decades-long protest movement to take control of their traditional territory and halt unsustainable logging in the area.

While the huge park protects lots of forests, beaches, and underwater habitats, the most popular sites are the five Haida Watchmen sites. These are important cultural sites staffed by two watchmen (who can be of any gender) from the Haida Nation.

Each of the Haida Watchmen sites is different, but they are all important cultural sites. The highlight is SGang Gwaay, a former village site on Anthony Island in the southern part of the park. It is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Site of Canada.

When disease decimated the Haida population, they abandoned many of their traditional village sites. Later, settlers came and removed their carvings and other cultural items to display them in museums without Haida consent. Today, SGang Gwaay is the only village that still has most of its carved poles and house ruins.

When you arrive, a Haida Watchman will guide you around the island, explaining the carvings on the poles and the layout of the former village. I found it very moving to learn about a culture that was nearly wiped out and the Haida people who are now working to ensure it continues. Of all the places I’ve experienced Indigenous tourism in Canada, this is my favourite.

Like the rest of Gwaii Hanaas National Park, SGang Gwaay is only accessible by boat or kayak. You can travel independently, but since the area is remote and the weather is unpredictable, it’s best to take a tour from the town of Sandspit.

Recommended by Taryn Eyton of Dawn Outdoors

Nass Valley (Nisga’a Territory), BC

The Nass Valley in Northern BC is unique because in 2000 the Nisga’a Nation signed the first modern treaty in Canada. Under the terms of the agreement, the Nisga’a govern their own territory. But while the political history is fascinating, most people visit the Nass Valley for its gorgeous volcanic scenery.

Located north of Terrace, the valley includes four villages and Anhluut’ukwsim Lax̱mihl Angwinga’asanakwhl Nisga’a (Nisga’a Memorial Lava Bed Provincial Park). This huge area is the site of one of Canada’s most recent and deadliest volcanic eruptions, dating back to the late 1600s or early 1700s.

Today you can take a hike to Tseax Cone Volcano to see the source of all the lava with Steve Johnson, a local Nisga’a guide. His tour includes lots of info about geology and plants as well as Nisga’a oral history. I really enjoyed listening to Steve tell us the Nisga’a legend that explains the eruption.

All the geothermal in the area created the Higu Isgwit Hot Springs, which are great for a soak and are one of the best hot springs in Canada. The Nisga’a believe they are the dwelling place of a spirit, so you must book ahead and be respectful when you visit.

To really understand Nisga’a culture, you must visit the Nisga’a Museum in Laxgatls’ap. It has a huge collection of carvings, canoes, and regalia. Be sure to take the free guided tour. Two young Nisga’a women gave us a tour and explained the significance of everything we were seeing. Since my visit, Scotland’s National Museum returned a pole they stole nearly 100 years ago. When I visited, our guides explained that the museum was built with an empty space to accommodate the pole, so it was very exciting that it was finally returning home.

The Nass Valley is a one-hour drive from Terrace so you can visit it as a day trip. But I recommend spending at least one night in the valley, either at the Vetter Creek campground or at one of the Nisga’a-owned lodges and B&Bs.

Recommended by Taryn Eyton of Dawn Outdoors

Kitselas Canyon, Terrace, BC

Kitselas Canyon, a National Historic Site of Canada managed by the Gitselasu People, was a pleasant, spontaneous stop during my BC road trip. Tucked away along the Skeena River near the community of Gitaus, the canyon was once home to six ancestral villages and a fortified site. Today, it’s the perfect blend of history, culture, and nature.

Drive to the visitor center, just 15 minutes from Terrace. Since I visited during the shoulder season, I did a self-guided tour. The guided tours depart at 10 am and 1 pm, May-August. The admission fee of $10 helps support the maintenance and economic development of the community.

I first stopped at the four interpretive buildings representing the wolf, eagle, raven, and orca clans. Each longhouse hosts a unique collection of artifacts, historical information, and ecological displays. A highlight was a replica of the cave petroglyphs found in the region, likely created by shamans.

After a stroll through the forested trail, I came across an ancient dugout canoe, four stunning clan poles, and a trail fork. The right led me on a more strenuous adventure to the banks of the Skeena River; the left took me to an easy-to-access viewing platform. The information was limited for the self-guided experience. However, the highlight for me was the beautiful natural landscape and the feeling of connectedness to a place inhabited for over 6,000 years.

Recommended by Susanna Kelly-Shankar from Curiosity Saves Travel

U’mista Cultural Centre, Alert Bay, BC

Alert Bay, BC is a small community on an island just off the coast of northern Vancouver Island. You can get there on a short ferry ride from the town of Port McNeill. About half of the island is a ‘Namgis First Nation reserve (the ‘Namgis are part of the larger Kwakwaka’wakw Nation).

Alert Bay is a great place to learn about Potlatch culture, a practice that is common to Indigenous people up and down the Pacific Northwest Coast. A Potlatches is a huge gift-giving feast where the hosts share food and gifts with attendees, who may travel great distances to be there.

Potlatches were illegal in Canada between 1884 and 1951. The Canadian government stole ceremonial masks and dance regalia used in potlatches and gave them to museums around the world. Since then, the Kwakwaka’wakw have worked hard to bring these ceremonial items home. Today some of them are on display at the U’mista Cultural Centre.

This excellent museum has great displays that explain potlatching as well as Kwakwaka’wakw history and culture. But the real highlight is the temperature-controlled cedar room with the dance masks and regalia on display.

After visiting the museum, you should also take a walk around the town to see the totem poles – there are dozens. Alert Bay is also the home of the world’s largest totem pole. It is 173 ft (53 m) tall. If you are hungry, be sure to stop at Duchess’ Bannock for some delicious bannock (fry bread) with berries and whipped cream.

Recommended by Taryn Eyton of Dawn Outdoors

Wild Side Trail, Tofino, BC

If you want to combine backcountry hiking and Indigenous culture, visit the Wild Side Trail. The hike is in Ahousaht territory on Flores Island, which is a short water taxi ride from Tofino.

The trail starts in the village of Maaqtusiis and heads along the coast for 11 km before finishing at Cow Bay. From there you can hike back to the start or arrange to have a water taxi pick you up. You can hike the trail in one day, or split up your journey with a stay at one of three backcountry campgrounds along the way.

While the rainforest and coast scenery are reason enough to go, the hike is also an important historical route for the Ahousaht Nation. The trail passes many important locations in the Ahousaht-Otosaht war in the early 19th century. You can find more info on the significance of each place on beautifully painted interpretive signs.

You can also find culturally modified trees along the route. The best example is a huge old-growth cedar near the Kutcous River. It has a large square box cut out of it part way up. This was a way to test the inner wood of the tree to see if would make a good canoe. Further down the tree, the Ahousaht removed two long planks from the tree. This was done in such a way that the tree remains alive and healthy today.

You must obtain a permit from the Ahousaht Nation to hike the trail. You can do this on their website or at the Ahous Fuel Stop which is at the dock where the water taxi drops you off in Maaqtusiis. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Tofino, the Indigenous-owned Himwitsa Lodge is near the water taxi dock.

Recommended by Taryn Eyton of Dawn Outdoors

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, Whistler, BC

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is one of my top picks for the best things to do in Whistler. Each year millions of people visit Whistler to ski and hike without learning anything about the traditional Indigenous land they are visiting. The SLCC is an Indigenous-run museum. It explains the history and culture of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, the two Indigenous groups that have called the Whistler area home since time immemorial.

The museum has lots of excellent exhibits of Indigenous carving, clothing, and art, which are interesting on their own. But for me, the best part of the SLCC is the free guided tour. It begins with a welcome song and drumming. Then, a local guide from the Squamish or Lil’wat Nations walks you through the museum.

Your guide will explain the exhibits and also tell their own stories about their personal connections to the art and artifacts on display. On my most recent visit, our young Lil’wat guide showed us a cedar box used as a baby cradle and backpack. He explained that he had a similar box passed down from his grandparents and planned to use it for his baby. He also helped us understand the way the geography and drier climate north of Whistler influenced Lil’wat culture in ways that are different than Squamish culture to the south.

Don’t miss a visit to the gift shop. They have lots of great art, jewelry, clothing, and books. You can also try Indigenous-inspired food like Bannock tacos at the Thunderbird Cafe on the lower level. This gorgeous museum is located in the heart of Whistler in the Upper Village area.

Recommended by Taryn Eyton of Dawn Outdoors

Talaysay Tours, Vancouver, BC

Stanley Park is often described as Vancouver’s “Crown jewel,” but even that metaphor hints at its colonization. Taking a walking tour through the 1000-acre park with Talaysay Tours, an Indigenous-owned company, is one powerful way to take steps towards reconciliation.

I loved their Talking Trees tour, during which my Coast Salish guide told me about how the forest’s diverse trees and plants have been used by Indigenous peoples since time immemorial. He spoke about which trees are used to build longhouses (cedars) and which are good for fire-starting (Douglas firs). He described the processes of creating a dug-out canoe, carefully stripping cedar bark, and building temporary shelters.

My favourite parts were his personal stories, especially the one about his grandmother’s healing experience at a winter longhouse ceremony.

Stanley Park is located in downtown Vancouver, on a peninsula between Burrard Inlet and the harbour. The Talking Trees tour meets at the park’s bus loop (accessible by bus 19) and continues on local trails near Stanley Park Pavilion. We walked to landmark trees, like a tall Douglas fir, and stopped at Beaver Lake.

Talaysay offers different tours. Talking Totems, for example, focuses on the Stanley Park totem poles and explains the values of this Indigenous art form. Their Forest Bathing tour is a meditative outing during which the guide shares cultural teachings about the forest. If you want to stay nearby, try the Skwachays Lodge in downtown Vancouver. It is an Indigenous-owned boutique hotel with an art gallery and artist-in-residence program.

Recommended by Melanie Ferguson from Postcards & Places

I hope you take the time to experience Indigenous tourism in Canada. The experiences in this post are just a starting point: there are lots of other great Indigenous tours, hotels, and experiences across our nation. Do you have another Indigenous tourism experience to recommend? Tell me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip
• Things to Do in Haida Gwaii
• The Ultimate Guide to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
• Things to do in the Nass Valley (Nisga’a Territory) in Northern BC

The post Where to Experience Indigenous Tourism in Canada appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve been visiting Squamish my whole life since I grew up in nearby Vancouver. I liked it so much that I moved here full time five years ago. I’m mostly a hiker, so you’ll find lots of outdoorsy recommendations in this post. But I’ve got activities for all types of visitors too.

This post includes:

• The best things to do in Squamish: sightseeing, hikes, shopping, and more.
• Where to eat in Squamish: my local’s picks for the best restaurants
• Where to stay in Squamish: hotels I recommend
• Squamish basics: How to get here, what to pack, weather, and more.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

The Best Things to Do in Squamish

There are almost too many things to choose from on this list of Squamish activities. So I’ll start with my totally biased local’s opinion and give you my picks for the best Squamish things to do. If I have friends visiting, these are the things I always recommend.

Sea to Sky Gondola

I have an annual pass for the Sea to Sky Gondola and have been up countless times, but each time the view takes my breath away. The gondola takes you from sea level up into the mountains.

The deck at the lodge is an incredible place for lunch as you gaze down to the waters of Howe Sound and across to the surrounding mountains. You can also brave the Sky Pilot Suspension bridge.

There are several easy walking trails near the lodge. Don’t miss the Panorama Trail which leads to a spectacular viewing platform.

If you’re an avid hiker, the Sea to Sky Gondola is a fast way to get up into the mountains. My favourite hike leaving from the lodge is the Al’s Habrich Ridge trail which scrambles up over granite bluffs to subalpine terrain and viewpoints.

Save time and book your admission ticket in advance.

Shannon Falls

Don’t miss Shannon Falls. It’s one of the highest waterfalls in BC at 335 m tall. You can reach the base on a short (but steep) 5-minute walk. There are two different viewing platforms. The lower one (pictured below) has a slightly better view and doesn’t have any stairs.

If I have friends visiting from out of town and we only have time for a short nature outing, I always take them to Shannon Falls. So far everyone has been blown away by how tall and powerful it is.

The parking lot here is small and often fills up in the afternoon. Plan to go early in the day or after dinner and you should be able to get a spot.

Sp’akw’us Feather Park

If you’re looking for the best views in Squamish, head to Sp’akw’us Feather Park. It’s just south of downtown in what will eventually be the Oceanfront neighbourhood. (Right now it’s just an industrial area and some construction sites that will be condos.)

The park opened in 2024 and is honestly one of the nicest city parks I’ve been to. The main reason is the incredible view: You can see the Stawamus Chief, Shannon Falls, and Howe Sound. The park also has some cool public art (the balancing boulder is my fave) and the best playground in Squamish.

Heads up: This is the windiest spot in Squamish, especially in the afternoon and early evening. Bring a jacket, even on a hot day. You’ll be freezing without one.

You can get to Feather Park via a 20 minute walk on a paved multi-use path from downtown or you can drive. In the summer you can also take the bus.

Hiking

Hiking is the reason I moved to Squamish a few years ago. Before that, I used to drive to Squamish pretty often to go hiking.

Squamish has tons of hiking trails. There is something for everyone with hiking ranging from beginner to expert. There are easy trails in the valley bottom, steep hikes to peaks, and lots of waterfalls.

For an easy hike with great mountain views, I recommend the trails at Brohm Lake. For a moderate hike, check out Al’s Habrich Trail or Mount Crumpit. It’s a local favourite and has great views. Some of my favourite challenging hikes are High Falls Creek, Watersprite Lake and the Stawamus Chief.

For a full guide to over 20 hiking trails near Squamish, check out my list of the best hikes in Squamish over on my outdoor adventure website.

If you want a local guide to show you the trails, sign up for a hiking tour. For example, you can go on a guided hike up the Stawamus Chief or hike into the mountains of Garibaldi Park.

Downtown Squamish

A decade ago, downtown Squamish was fairly sleepy. These days it is packed with cute boutiques, gear stores, great restaurants and lots of public art. Take a stroll down Cleveland Avenue to window shop. Be sure to head one block over to 2nd Avenue as well as it has some great newer shops.

Billie’s House is our local florist, but they also have housewares and gifts. I love their cute planters. Empire of Dirt has an eclectic mix of gifts, vintage, furniture, and housewares.

If you’re looking for books, head to Gather Books and Book Mountain. They are a few blocks apart on 2nd Avenue. Gather has lots of kids books and a curated selection of books for grownups. Book Mountain is mostly a used bookstore, but they have some newer books too.

Squamish was not where I expected to find world-class chocolate… but it’s here at Xoco Chocolate. They make incredible chocolate bars and gift boxes. You can also buy chocolates a la carte, which is a great way to try their flavours. I love their passion fruit and salted caramel flavours.

Lakes and Beaches

There are lots of beautiful lakes near Squamish, and most of them are fairly warm, which makes them great for swimming. There are also a few ocean beaches, but be warned – the ocean and rivers are very cold! Parking is limited at many of these places, so go early to get a spot on summer weekends.

On a summer afternoon, heading to the lake to hang out, go for a swim, or paddle around on my SUP is one of my favourite activities.

• Alice Lake is the best place to swim in Squamish. It has a sandy beach, docks to jump off of, and fairly warm water. There is lots of parking too. (Although it does fill up!) This is my go-to swimming lake.
• Brohm Lake doesn’t have a beach, but it does have lots of granite outcroppings that lead into the water. If you are adventurous, you can even jump off the cliffs. I would go here more often it if wasn’t so hard to get parking. Instead, I like to hike in via the Thompson Trail on the backside of the lake.
• Porteau Cove between Squamish and Vancouver has a pretty pebble beach on the ocean and is popular with SCUBA divers. The water is freezing though!
• Browning Lake at Murrin Provincial Park is tiny, which makes the water really warm. It’s a popular spot for inflatable floaties on hot days. However, the nearby highway is noisy and parking is limited.
• Cat Lake is another great place for a swim. There are three docks around the lake perfect for cannonballs. Access is via a short gravel road, but it’s fine for all cars. Caution: This is party central on the weekend.
• Sp’akw’us Feather Park has a small oceanfront beach. It’s located next to the port and is VERY windy, so it’s best for quick cold plunges rather than swimming.
• The Squamish and Mamquam Rivers have sandbars that locals love to sunbathe on. But the water is freezing and the current is strong, so be careful. There are river access points in town as well as on the logging roads outside of town.

Drink at Craft Breweries and Cideries

Squamish has a strong craft brewing culture, dating back to the opening of Howe Sound Brewing downtown in 1996. It’s a huge space with a big menu and a good patio. It used to be the coolest place in Squamish, but other spots hold that crown now.

Cliffside Cider is at the south edge of downtown, kind of tucked away in an alley so it feels like a local’s secret. They have a food truck on site.

House of Lager opened recently at Sp’akw’us Feather Park in a stunning new building with an incredible view. Their beer menu is small (just lager) but their food is great. It’s noisy in there though.

Head over to the industrial park to visit my favourite, Backcountry Brewing. Their wood fired pizza is amazing, their beers are creative, and they have tons of seating.

Nearby A-Frame Brewing is a bit more laidback and has a great outdoor space. Their food truck. Flipside Burgers, has some of the best (and messiest) burgers in town.

Geo Cider is a few doors down from Backcountry Brewing. Their Mexican food is great.

Hike the Stawamus Chief

Yes, hiking has its own entry on this list, but the Stawamus Chief is special enough to call out as its own activity. This 700-meter-tall (2297 ft) granite outcropping looms over the town of Squamish.

The mountain is named after the Squamish village of Stawamus (St’a7mes) at its foot. In the Squamish language, it is known as Siám’ Smánit and is said to be a longhouse transformed to stone by Xáays, the Transformer Brothers.

Rock climbers scale the sheer face of the chief, but hikers can climb steep trails up the backside. The hike is short, but the route is very challenging with lots of stairs. In some places you will use ladders and chains to scramble uphill, so it is best for experienced hikers only.

I’ve been up “The Chief”, as locals call it, more times than I can count since I use it as a training hike in the winter. If you just want a quick view, I recommend an out-and-back trip to First Peak. If you have more energy, you can tackle all three peaks. I think it’s best to do Third Peak, then Second and First.

If you aren’t confident on your own, going on a guided hike of the Chief is a great idea. They’ll help you pick the best route for your abilities and take you to great viewpoints you might not find on your own.

Mountain Biking

Squamish is surrounded by hundreds of kilometres of mountain bike trails with more added each year. The trails range from green (easy) to double black and pro-line (expert only). I did a bit of crosscountry riding as a kid, and then started mountain biking as an adult once I moved to Squamish.

The trails here are pretty intimidating – there aren’t a lot of good options for beginners. But you can still find some gems. If you’re a beginner/intermediate like me, I recommend Miki’s Magic and Cardrona in the Alice Lake Zone. They’re both easy blues.

The Diamond Head Zone above Quest University is the most popular since the gravel roads let you shuttle. You’ll find mostly hand-built trails and steep granite slabs in the Alice Lake/Garibaldi Highlands zone. The quiet trails in the Valleycliffe zone are mostly cross-country riding. Beginners should head to the Brackendale zone since it has mostly green trails – the best trail is Sweet Judy.

The Trailforks app is essential for navigating as it can be a bit of a maze. It’s updated regularly by volunteers with the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA) to make sure trail info and conditions are correct. If you ride in here, consider becoming a SORCA member or making a donation.

RideHub has bike rentals. I took a lesson with them when I was just starting and it helped a lot. I haven’t done it yet, but I’ve heard great things about their guided mountain bike tours since they will help you find the best trails for your skill level. Their coffee shop is also great.

Smoke Bluffs Park

This city park is right next to downtown, but you won’t find baseball diamonds or playgrounds – this is a Squamish-style park. Smoke Bluffs Park is home to some of the best rock climbing in town, and even if you don’t climb, it’s fun to watch.

The trails between the rock faces (which climbers call crags) are also a great place to go for a short hike or trail run. The best part is the incredible vistas of downtown, Howe Sound, and the Stawamus Chief from the Viewpoint Loop Trail. If I have visitors who want to go for a short hike (about an hour), I take them on the Viewpoint Trail.

Garibaldi Provincial Park

Garibaldi Provincial Park is huge, spanning 1,950 square kilometres of mountain wilderness northwest of Squamish. I think it has the best scenery in BC, and it’s my favourite place in the whole world. (I love it so much that I am the current president of the Friends of Garibaldi Park Society, a non-profit that does trail maintenance and advocacy work.)

To see the park, you will need to hike. The closest access point to town is Elfin Lakes, a 22km round trip hike. North of Squamish, you can make the 18 km round-trip hike to Garibaldi Lake.

Both trails have backcountry campgrounds and additional trails for more exploring. You can find details about both of these hikes, as well as four others in Garibaldi Provincial Park, in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Whitewater Rafting

The snowy mountains outside of town unleash torrents of meltwater each spring and summer, feeding the Squamish, Elaho, and Cheakamus Rivers.

Honestly, I was really scared to try whitewater rafting for years, but I worked up the courage to take a trip with Canadian Outback Rafting a few years ago. It was so much fun! Yes, it was scary, but mostly in a good way. They give you wetsuits so its not cold.

The other reason to go rafting is that it gives you a totally different perspective on the wilderness around Squamish. As we floated through deep canyons and between mountains, we got views you can’t see from any road or trail.

If you’re up for a full-day adrenaline-pumping adventure, book the Wet and Wild Elaho Exhilarator trip with Canadian Outback Rafting. This is the tour that I did.

For something fun, but a bit less intense, Canadian Outback Rafting offers the family-friendly Cheakamus Splash trip.

Rock Climbing

Squamish is world-famous for rock climbing. The most well-known spot is the huge granite face of the Stawamus Chief. But climbers also head to Crags in Smoke Bluffs Park and Murrin Provincial Park. The Grand Wall boulders at the foot of the Chief are the best place to go bouldering. There are also lots of smaller crags outside of town.

I used to rock climb a bit in my early 20s, but I haven’t done it since then since I just don’t have enough time for yet another outdoor sport. However, I love watching the climbers when I’m hiking the nearby trails.

If you’re a beginner, going with a guide is a good idea. You can book a beginner lesson or a half day of private guiding.

Experienced climbers can find local routes on theCrag or Mountain Project. Or stop in to Climb On Equipment to pick up a guidebook or chat with the helpful staff. (I used to work with many of them a decade ago at the MEC head office.)

Flightseeing

Squamish has a small airport which makes a great base for flightseeing tours of the surrounding mountains.

I did the 35-minute Squamish Explorer Flightseeing Tour for my birthday a few years ago. It takes you over the top of Garibaldi Lake, the Black Tusk, and Mount Garibaldi (Nch’day), some of the most iconic features in the mountains north of Squamish. You’ll also get great views of the town and the Stawamus Chief. The price is pretty reasonable too.

If you’re up for a longer tour, book the Whistler Backcountry Flightseeing Tour. It is 50 minutes long and includes the same scenery as the Squamish Explorer, plus the Whistler area further north.

I really want to try the Alpine Lake Flightseeing Experience. You take a floatplane that lands on a remote alpine late below the Tzoonie Glacier. Your trip allows time to walk to a waterfall and even go for a swim.

Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Located 20 minutes south of Squamish, the small Porteau Cove Provincial Park is wedged between the Sea to Sky Highway and the deep waters of Howe Sound.

The day use has a pier with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. Wander further into the park past the campground to find a short trail to a clifftop viewpoint.

This park is a great stop along the Sea to Sky Highway on your way to or from Squamish.

Britannia Mine Museum

The village of Britannia Beach is 10 minutes south of Squamish. It used to be home to the largest copper mine in the British Commonwealth, but today the mine is a fun interactive museum.

You can go on an underground mine tour on a train, pan for gold, and wander through the old buildings. They also have a new interactive show called BOOM!, which is really well done. I also love the historical displays that hearken back to a time when the only access was by boat.

Save time and book your museum admission ticket in advance. It includes the BOOM! experience.

Brackendale Art Gallery

I have a hard time explaining exactly what the Brackendale Art Gallery is so you’ll just have to go visit. It’s a sprawling building that has obviously been added onto and altered over its 50+ years. In general, it’s an art gallery, live music venue, and cafe.

It’s worth dropping in during the day to grab lunch or coffee at Zephyr Cafe, which is a Squamish institution. The cafe relocated to the Brackendale Art Gallery a few years ago after a decade in downtown Squamish. Their menu includes lots of vegan and vegetarian options.

At night, they have all kinds of ticketed events. There’s music of course, but also dance parties, comedy, meditation classes, painting, and lots more.

Squamish Canyon

Perched on sheer granite walls above the Mamquam River, Squamish Canyon is Squamish’s newest attraction. The experience including boardwalks, stairs, and viewing platforms above the canyon and spectacular Mamquam Falls. My favourite part is their chill Forest Lounge, a cafe and hang-out space.

Unlike a lot of Squamish’s outdoor attractions, Squamish Canyon is actually great in the rain or fog. You’ll still get great views of the canyon and waterfall, and honestly the mist just enhances the experience.

I wrote a whole Squamish Canyon visitors guide that explains what to expect and if I think its worth visiting.

Save time and buy your tickets in advance.

Bakeries

For a small town, Squamish has a lot of bakeries, and after a LOT of research, I can confirm that they are all amazing.

Sunflower Bakery and Cafe downtown is great for bread, doughnuts, and other treats. Their baristas are mostly Australian so they made excellent flat whites.

Fox and Oak, also downtown, is a hipster doughnut shop, but sooo delicious. Get the mango passionfruit brioche doughnut.

In the industrial park, Tall Tree Bakery has the best bread but go early as they sell out.

purebread in Garibaldi Estate has a huge and amazing bakery case. I love their brownies.

Whistler

World-famous Whistler is just 45 minutes away from Squamish. It makes a great day trip to ski, mountain bike, hike, or just explore the shops and restaurants in the pedestrian village. I head up there about once a month.

My favourite things to do in Whistler include hiking, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the Scandinave Spa, and the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. Read my full list of things to do in Whistler for 80 more ideas.

Drive the Sea to Sky Highway

Squamish is right in the middle of the Sea to Sky Highway, as Highway 99 between Vancouver and Whistler is known. I’ve driven this road dozens of times and has some of the most spectacular scenery around.

You can speed through the trip in two hours, but it’s better to spend a full day or even two to take in the viewpoints, hikes, and side trips.

I’ve got a full Sea to Sky Highway Roadtrip guide on my outdoor adventure website that has all the must-see spots.

Where to Eat in Squamish

I’m a bit of a foodie, so I’ve eaten at every restaurant in Squamish at least once. It’s a small town, so it’s easy for me to try new spots as soon as they open. Here are a few I recommend.

Fergie’s Cafe in Brackendale is legendary for their brunch. It sits on the banks of the Cheakamus River on the same property at Sunwolf Cabins. It’s a gorgeous location and their food is thoughtful and incredible. However, they don’t take reservations and there are often long lines for a table.

Crabapple Cafe, also in Brackendale is my favourite Squamish spot for breakfast. It’s a cozy and unassuming place attached to to the old Brackendale General Store. You can’t go wrong with their eggs Benny or one of their breakfast hash bowls.

My favourite sandwiches in Squamish are from Green Olive Market, a combination cafe and European food store. They have vegan and veggie options, but my fave is the muffuletta. It has so much delicious olive salad on it.

If you’re craving Japanese, Taka Ramen and Sushi on Cleveland Avenue downtown is your best bet in Squamish. Their sushi is fresh and delicious, but I usually get their ramen since its so rich.

For burgers and pub-style food with a view, The Watershed Grill in Brackendale is the best option. The restaurant sits on top of the Eagle Run Dyke so it has great views of the river and the mountains from the patio. They also open up the big garage doors on the front of the restaurant on warm days. You might also recognize the exterior of the restaurant – it’s the bar on the TV show Virgin River.

The Salted Vine in downtown Squamish is my pick for a nice meal. It’s our town’s only fine dining option, but it isn’t stuffy or pretentious. The menu changes seasonally, but they often have Thai dishes on the menu because one of the owners is Thai.

Where to Stay in Squamish

There aren’t that many hotels in Squamish, so it’s fairly easy to figure out where to stay. My guide to the best hotels in Squamish has info and reviews on all of them. However, here are a few quick picks:

Executive Suites Hotel and Resort: All all suite hotel close to trails and the nicest hotel in town.

Sunwolf Riverside Resort: Adorable cabins along the Cheakamus River with Fergie’s Cafe on site.

Sandman Hotel and Suites: A newer hotel with an indoor pool and within walking distance of Backcountry Brewing. Check rates.

Squamish Basics

In this section, I’ve got all the info you need to visit Squamish. It includes getting here, the best tie to go, weather, what to pack, and more.

How to Get to Squamish

Squamish is just 45 minutes north of Vancouver along the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99). It’s a gorgeous drive but it is a winding mountain road, so driving it may not be for everyone. In particular, I do not recommend driving to Squamish in winter unless you are an experienced and confident winter driver.

If you don’t want to drive, you can take the Squamish Connector or YVR Skylynx buses from Vancouver.

Getting Around Squamish

Downtown Squamish is very walkable and BC Transit buses go to most places in town. As well, in summer the bus also goes to popular spots like the Sp’akw’us Feather Park, Stawamus Chief, the Sea to Sky Gondola, and Shannon Falls. Squamish doesn’t have Uber, but we do have several taxi services.

You won’t need a car to visit most of the places in this post. However, if you want to go to most of the hiking trails or want more flexibility with transportation (the buses don’t run that often), its MUCH easier to get around by car.

Squamish Weather

Squamish sits in between the ocean and the mountains so we have some pretty wild weather. It rains a lot here, especially in the fall and winter. But honestly, that’s part of the charm.

We get a bit of snow in the winter, but since we are at sea level, it’s nothing like the amount they get up in Whistler. The summers are much drier and moderately warm.

Squamish is very windy, especially on summer afternoons.

What to Pack for Squamish

Squamish is VERY laid back, so you don’t need to pack anything fancy. Even at our nicest restaurants you wouldn’t be out of place in shorts or jeans. And honestly, you can show up in muddy hiking clothing pretty much anywhere and no one will look twice.

No matter what time of year you are visiting, bring a rain jacket. It can rain anytime. I would also recommend a fleece or lightweight puffy for extra warmth, especially in the colder months. However, you might want that warm layer on windy summer afternoons too.

If you plan to hike or do other outdoor sports, bring a small backpack, hiking shoes, and quick-dry clothing.

Indigenous Context in Squamish

Squamish is on the unceded traditional territory of the Squamish Nation. There are several Squamish Nation Reserves dotted around town. You can find Indigenous cultural influences throughout Squamish in place names and art. To learn more, visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler.

Final Thoughts

Whew! We made it to the bottom of this huge list of things to do in Squamish. As a local, I know you’ll love it here as much as I do. What’s your favourite Squamish activity? Tell me in the comments.

MORE SQUAMISH POSTS:

• 10 Best Hotels in Squamish
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
• The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local)
• Squamish Canyon at Mamquam Falls: Is it Worth it?
• Camping in Squamish, BC: 22 Places to Camp Near Squamish
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish
• 80+ Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)

The post The Best Things to do in Squamish (By a Local) appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve been visiting Whistler my whole life since I grew up in nearby Vancouver. And now I live just down the road in Squamish, so it is right in my backyard.

In this post, I’ve got a huge list of Whistler must-dos, written from a local’s perspective. It includes attractions for all four seasons and every budget.

Since there are over 80 Whistler things to do in on this list, I’ve split them up into categories for you:

• My Top Picks For Things to Do in Whistler: my personal recommendations for must-dos in Whistler – these are the things I tell friends they shouldn’t miss
• Summer Outdoor Activities: Hiking, camping, biking, beaches, rock climbing, abandoned ghost towns and lots more summer outdoor adventures ranging from laid back to full-on.
• Winter Outdoor Activities: Skiing of course, but also snowshoeing, sledding, snowmobiling, ice climbing and only-in-Whistler sports like biathlon.
• Year-Round Outdoor Activities: You can fish, zipline, bungee jump and more in Whistler all year, but sometimes you’ll be doing it in a t-shirt and at other times in a puffy jacket.
• Sightseeing and Tours: From waterfalls, to the world’s highest gondola, to Olympic sites, all the must-see spots around Whistler as well as unique tours. (Bear watching anyone? Or how about a helicopter tour to a glacier?)
• Museums and Galleries: Soak up the local culture and history at art museums, galleries, and one of the best Indigenous museums in BC.
• Food and Drink: Whistler is a foodie paradise. Don’t miss craft beer, fine dining, coffee culture, an entire bar made of ice, and lots more.
• Unique Experiences: Where else can you go axe throwing, relax at a gorgeous outdoor spa, and wander through a multi-media experience in an old-growth forest?
• Shopping: From local boutiques, to outdoor stores, to Indigenous crafts, there are lots of unique places to shop in Whistler
• Festivals and Events: There is always something fun happening in Whistler. Time your visit to coincide with a film festival, mountain bike races, food and beer festivals, Whistler Pride, or tons of others.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

My Top Picks For Things to Do in Whistler

With over 80 things on this list, there are almost too many activities to choose from. To help you out, here are my personal favourite Whistler activities:

• Go Hiking: I head to the Whistler area every few weeks to hike. By far my favourite hike is Garibaldi Lake. Jump to the hiking section of this post.
• Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola: This epic gondola has the world’s longest unsupported span as it transports you between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Jump to the Peak 2 Peak section of this post.
• Go Skiing: Whistler Blackcomb is a world-famous ski resort boasting tons of vertical and lots of great snow. Jump to the skiing section of this post.
• Eat Amazing Food: For a small town, Whistler has amazing restaurants. I love going for a fancy meal, but there are also lots of great local’s spots for cheap eats. Jump to the food section of this post.
• Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre: This is one of the best Indigenous Museums in BC with great exhibits and friendly guides from the Squamish and Lil’Wat First Nations. It’s a must-do to understand the Indigenous context of the region. Jump to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre section of this post.
• Relax at the Scandinave Spa: This outdoor spa is one of my favourite Whistler activities since it is so relaxing. I love to spend a few hours cycling between hot pools, cold pools, saunas, and steam rooms… all in a beautiful natural setting. Jump to the Scandinave Spa section of this post.

Things to Do in Whistler: Summer Outdoor Adventures

Want more summer adventures? My guide to visiting Whistler in summer has lots of ideas plus tips for summer travel.

1. Hiking

Hiking is one of the most popular summer things to do and is the number one reason I love Whistler.

There are dozens of hiking trails in town, ranging from beginner to expert. You can hike to mountain peaks, glacier lakes, old-growth forests, and beautiful waterfalls.

If you’re looking for an easy hike, check out Whistler Train Wreck, Nairn Falls, or Lost Lake. For moderate hikes, I recommend Cheakamus Lake, the Blackcomb Trails, and the High Note Trail. If you’re up for a challenge, hike to Garibaldi Lake or Wedgemount Lake.

For a full guide to over 20 hiking trails near Whistler, check out my list of the best hikes in Whistler on my outdoor adventure website.

If you’d rather have a local guide show you around, there are lots of options for hiking tours. This tour takes you onto the ice of the Horstman Glacier. And this one takes you to the popular Whistler Train Wreck Trail. Or book a guide for some of the most spectacular mountain hikes like Rainbow Lake, Garibaldi Lake, or Cheakamus Lake.

2. Joffre Lakes

Yes, I know that I just listed “go for a hike”, but I have to call out Joffre Lakes specifically since it’s such a popular hike. Some people come to Whistler just to do this hike.

The trail leads past three gorgeous turquoise lakes and a waterfall to the foot of a spectacular glacier. It’s a 10 km round trip with 370 m of elevation gain, so it is rated moderate. My Joffre Lakes hiking guide has all the details.

The scenery is outstanding, the colour of the water is unreal, and the hike isn’t too hard. All of that adds up to a must-do hike, which means it is VERY popular. Between late May and mid-October, you need to get a free BC Parks day pass to hike this trail. (Read my guide to BC Parks day passes for more info.)

3. Camping

If you want to enjoy nature and save money on hotels, camping in Whistler is a great option. There are a few places to camp right in town, but the best places are a short drive away.

My favourite place to camp near Whistler is Nairn Falls Provincial. It has great campsites near the rushing waters of the Green River. And it’s a short hike to spectacular Nairn Falls.

For a full guide to 17 places to camp, check out my Whistler camping guide.

4. Backcountry Camping

If you are an experienced hiker, don’t miss out on backcountry camping near Whistler. The scenery is some of the best in BC and I think the best way to experience it is to plan a backpacking trip to a backcountry campsite.

That way you can have it to yourself in the evenings once the day hikers have gone home. Plus the sunrises and sunsets can be spectacular.

Backpacking in BC is such a passion of mine that I wrote a whole book about it! Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia has all the info you need for 13 different backpacking trips near Whistler.

5. Lakes and Beaches

The Whistler Valley has several beautiful lakes to explore. Each one has waterfront parks and beaches so you can hang out or go for a swim. Parking can be limited, so the best way to get to the lakes is by bike or bus.

Lost Lake is the closest to the village and has the warmest water. There is a great sandy beach along with several floating docks to jump off.

Alpha Lake Park is in the Creekside neighbourhood. It is a smaller lake, so the water is a bit warmer but not as warm as Lost Lake. There is lots of grass to lounge on and a dock to jump off.

Alta Lake is in between the Village and Creekside. It’s a bigger lake so it’s not as warm. There are two main beaches on Alta Lake: Rainbow Park and Lakeside Park. Rainbow Park is really popular with a big grassy area and great mountain views. Lakeside Park is smaller but it has a roped-off swimming area with a sandy bottom.

Green Lake is the largest lake in Whistler and the coldest. It’s more of a hanging out on the shoreline lake than a swimming lake. The best places to access the beach are Fitzsimmons Fan Park near the Nicklaus North Golf Course and Green Lake Park accessed off Summer Lane.

6. Bike or Walk the Valley Trail

The paved, car-free Valley Trail is one of the best things about Whistler. It is a 46-kilometre-long network of trails that runs through the bottom of the valley, connecting all the major sites.

I often bring my bike so I can ride from parks to beaches to viewpoints and back again. You can also rent bikes at several places in the village.

Use the Valley Trail map to find your way around. In my opinion, the most scenic sections of the Valley Trail are between Green Lake and Alta Lake along the River of Golden Dreams and the Whistler Golf Course.

7. Mountain Biking

In the summer, mountain bikers come from all over the world to experience Whistler’s famous mountain bike trails.

Most mountain bikers come to town to ride the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. The huge park has a skills zone and trails spread across four zones, serviced by six lifts. The terrain ranges from green to double black diamond, so there’s something for everyone.

But you don’t have to spend money to mountain bike in Whistler. There are tons of free trails around town – but you will have to pedal uphill to access them!

The best way to find trails to ride is to use the Trailforks app. The trails are split into several zones. There are trails at Lost Lake Park near the Village, on the west side of the valley on Mount Sproatt and Rainbow Mountain, and south of Whistler in the Whistler Interpretive Forest near the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood.

If you want a local to show you the best terrain outside of the bike park, book this half-day mountain bike tour. Your guide will show you single-track trails that match your skill level and give you pointers so you can send key features.

You can also hone your skills at the totally free Fitzsimmons Creek Bike Skills Park. It has a pump track, obstacles, and BMX-style dirt jumps. Find it near the day-use parking lots next to the village. (Psst: It’s one of my picks for the best free things to do in Whistler.)

8. E-Bike Tour

Riding an e-bike is one of the best (and easiest) ways to see lots of sights around Whistler. These easy-to-ride bikes provide an electronic assist, so pedalling is low effort.

You can book a three-hour e-bike tour that includes all of the main attractions in the Whistler valley.

9. BMX Track

Head to the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood to ride the Whistler BMX Track, which opened in 2017. The track is managed by the volunteer-run Whistler BMX Club. It includes features suitable for both beginner and expert riders. And just watching riders hit the dirt jumps is always fun.

10. Skate Park

Whistler’s Skate Park is the second largest in Canada with over 4,600 square meters (50,000 square feet) of terrain. There are 1/4 pipes, a bowl, and lots of street-style elements. On sunny days, it’s a great place to watch skilled riders honing their craft.

11. Lost Lake Park

Lost Lake Park is located right next to the Village – it’s a short walk or bike ride away. The park has over 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) of trails for walking, hiking, and mountain biking that run through the park.

The highlight is the trail that loops around the lake, stopping at beaches and viewpoints. It’s a great place to hang out on a sunny day. I’ve got a whole guide to Lost Lake Park with all the details.

In the winter, the trails become a network of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. (Read my guide to snowshoeing at Lost Lake.)

12. Paddleboarding and Canoeing

Paddling a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) on one of Whistler’s lakes is a fun summer activity. You can rent boats and boards at Wayside Park or Lakeside Park, both on Alta Lake.

If you have your own boat, paddling on Green Lake is also lots of fun and since it’s such a big lake, there are lots of small bays to explore. You can also paddle across to explore the Parkhurst Ghost Town.

13. Parkhurst Ghost Town

Parkhurst is one of the coolest places in Whistler. This abandoned logging town is full of collapsed buildings, rusting artifacts, and cool graffiti.

The only way to get there is to hike or paddle a canoe. The route can be confusing, so I’ve got a full Parkhurst Ghost Town guide on my outdoor adventure website.

14. Paddle the River of Golden Dreams

Whistler’s River of Golden Dreams is actually a quiet section of Alta Creek that meanders through forest and wetlands in the valley between Alta Lake and Green Lake.

The slow water means it is a natural lazy river, so you can mostly sit back and relax as the current does the work. However, you have to keep an eye out for hazards and in times of low water, there is a mandatory portage section.

You can bring your own boat and arrange a car shuttle, bus, or bike back to the start. Or book a River of Golden Dreams self-guided tour that includes canoe or kayak rental and transportation.

Get all the details in my step-by-step guide to paddling the River of Golden Dreams.

15. Whitewater Rafting

Each spring and summer all the snow in the mountains around Whistler melts, turning creeks and rivers into raging torrents. And of course, you can go whitewater rafting on these wild rivers!

Brave class 2 and 3 rapids as you bounce down the Green River just north of town. Or head further south to the wild rivers near Squamish. Book a Whistler whitewater rafting trip.

16. Drive an ATV

Get behind the wheel of an ATV or 2- or 4-seater off-road buggy, then hit the rugged trails in the mountains just outside town. Local companies offer tours for both beginners and intermediate riders.

This RZR side-by-side tour explores the backroads of Cougar Mountain. The buggies are easy to drive (just like a car with two side-by-side seats), which means you can get into some gnarly terrain right away.

Or book the Call of the Wild ATV Tour to ride your own ATV through the Callaghan Valley near Whistler Olympic Park. You’ll ride some rough backroads and even splash through some creeks.

17. Off-Roading

The rough gravel backroads around town are a great place to go off-roading. You can take a jeep tour up the slopes of Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains or into the Callaghan Valley near Whistler Olympic Park.

If you have your own rig, you can explore the logging roads around town. The routes can be confusing, so it’s best to bring a copy of the Vancouver, Coast and Mountains Backroad Mapbook or use a GPS app like Gaia GPS.

18. Via Ferrata

In Italian, “via ferrata” means iron way. This sport bridges the gap between hiking and rock climbing as you use ladder rungs, suspension bridges, and cables to climb to the top of Whistler Peak. And don’t worry, you’re clipped into a harness the entire time. Book a via ferrata tour.

If that sounds intimidating, try out the Whistler Sky Walk. This guided tour takes you along the top of Whistler Mountain. You’ll clip into a cable to cross cliff tops and suspension bridges, but you’ll keep your boots on the ground.

19. Rock Climbing

Thanks to the unique granite rocks, Whistler and the Sea to Sky region has some of the best rock climbing in the world.

Experienced climbers can find local routes on theCrag or Mountain Project. Beginners should sign up for a climb with a local guide who will take you out to some of Whistler’s best crags.

20. Golfing

Whistler has some of the most spectacular golf courses in the world with incredible mountain views. There are three courses (Nicklaus North, Whistler Golf Club, and Fairmont Chateau Whistler) in town, open between April/May and October.

21. Disc Golf

Unlike lots of other things in Whistler, disc golf is free. (And it’s on my list of the best free things do in Whistler.)

The Lost Lake Disc Golf Course has 27 holes, with the difficulty ramping up as you progress through the course.

If you’re willing to head out of town a little bit, there’s also another disc golf course just outside of Pemberton near One Mile Lake.

22. Treetrek Canopy Tour

Experience the beauty of the old-growth rainforest on Ziptrek’s Treetop Canopy Tour. It includes all the beauty of the old-growth forest without the ziplines.

The 2-hour experience takes you high amongst the treetops and you traverse nine suspension bridges and countless boardwalks. Your guide will help you learn about the majestic trees surrounding you.

Things to Do in Whistler: Winter Outdoor Adventures

Psst: Planning a winter visit? Check out my list of things do in Whistler in winter.

23. Skiing and Snowboarding

The world-famous Whistler Blackcomb ski resort is the main reason that people visit Whistler in the winter. It’s the largest ski resort in North America with the most uphill lift capacity.

Thirty-seven lifts serve 200 runs that range from green to double black diamond. The resort is spread out across two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, so there is always plenty of terrain to explore.

24. Backcountry Skiing

With so much snow around, you don’t have to stick to the resort. Backcountry skiing and splitboarding are really popular here. There are a few ways to go backcountry skiing.

A popular option is to access “sidecountry” from the lifts. You can also book a heli-skiing or cat skiing tour to get quick access deep in the backcountry with a guide who will show you the best places to ski.

Another option is to explore the mountains around town and along the nearby Duffey Lake Road (part of Highway 99). However, you will need backcountry experience and avalanche training to stay safe.

If you are a beginner, book an Intro to Backcountry Ski Class to have a guide show you the basics and help you pick beginner-friendly avalanche-safe terrain.

Experienced backcountry skiers should check out the South Coast Touring Facebook group to find trip partners, current conditions, and route advice.

25. Cross Country Skiing

Also known as nordic skiing, Whistler has three different places to go cross country skiing. You rent skis and hit the trails right in the Village on 30 km of groomed cross country ski trails in Lost Lake Park.

Whistler Olympic Park, a few minutes south of town hosted the cross country ski events at the 2010 Winter Olympics. They have 90 km of trails, some of which venture deep into the backcountry. They have rentals too.

You can also cross country ski for free on Whistler’s Valley Trail. The trail network is over 46 km long and in the winter, parts of it are groomed for cross-country skiing and are totally free to use.

26. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is my favourite winter sport since it is so easy to do. It’s the best Whistler winter activity for non-skiers since if you can walk, you can snowshoe.

You can rent snowshoes at gear shops in town and there are lots of snowshoe trails around town ranging from beginner to expert.

Use my guide to Whistler snowshoe trails to plan your adventure or book a guided snowshoe tour.

27. Ice Skating

Each winter, part of Whistler’s Olympic Plaza is transformed into an outdoor ice skating rink. It’s a pretty cheap activity at only $9 (including rentals), which is why it’s on my list of the best cheap things to do in Whistler.

It’s a fun activity during the day, but I think it’s even more magical at night when it’s lit up with twinkling lights.

28. Snow Tubing and Sledding

Tubing and sledding are one of the best Whistler winter activities for non-skiers. There are a couple of ways to go sledding here.

If you want the premium experience (and the most wheeee!) head to the bubly Tube Park at Whistler Blackcomb. You’ll slide down the curving lanes in your rented tube, then ride a conveyor belt back to the top.

A more low-tech option is the toboggan hill at the bottom of the ski jump at Whistler Olympic Park. Access is included with your cross-country ski or snowshoe ticket. You will need to bring your own sled since they don’t have rentals. And there’s no lift here so your legs will get a workout on the way back up.

If you want to slide for free, grab a sled and head to Whistler Olympic Plaza. Each winter city workers bulldoze the snow into a gentle hill. It’s popular with kids, but adults can zip down the slope too.

29. Play in the Snow

Whistler is pretty magical when it snows. It’s pretty tempting to stop and make a snowman or have a snowball fight.

There is a designated snow play zone right in the Village at Whistler Olympic Plaza. I also like to walk down the Valley Trail for a few minutes to Rebagliati Park to throw some snowballs.

30. Snowmobiling

With all that snow around, Whistler is a great spot to go snowmobiling. Locals take their snowmobiles (which they call sleds) deep into the mountains to do tricks and stunts.

But snowmobiling can be beginner-friendly too. Several local tour companies offer snowmobile outings that take you through the snowy forest to gorgeous viewpoints. Book a Wilderness Snowmobile Tour or a Family Snowmobile Tour.

31. Dog Sledding

Glide through the snow the old-fashioned way on a dog sled tour. Whistler has two dog sledding companies: Blackcomb Dog Sled and Canadian Wilderness Adventures.

Both companies offer tours in the mountains outside of town. You can sit back and enjoy the scenery or step onto the runners to learn how to drive.

32. Learn Biathlon

Since Whistler was the host city for many of the 2010 Winter Olympic events, there is a biathlon range at Whistler Olympic Park. If you aren’t familiar, this unique sport combines cross-country skiing and target shooting.

You can sit up for biathlon lessons at Whistler Olympic Park and learn to shoot these unique guns.

33. Ice Climbing

If you want to try something really unique, book an ice climbing trip. Your guide will show you how to use your harness, rope, ice axe, and crampons, then help you climb up a frozen waterfall.

Things to Do in Whistler: Year-Round Outdoor Adventures

34. Bungee Jumping

Whistler Bungee is open year-round. In the winter you can dive off their 160-foot/50-metre-high bridge into an icy canyon. In the summer, you’ll jump above the raging waters of the Cheakamus River.

35. Fishing

With lots of rivers and lakes, you can fish in Whistler all year long. In the summer, you can book a fly fishing tour. Once the lakes freeze over, you can book an ice fishing tour!

Most of the fishing is for rainbow trout, but you can also catch bull trout and cutthroat trout. If you’re willing to travel a little ways from town, you can fish for salmon and steelhead too.

36. Ride a Bobsleigh

Whistler hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, so it has a regulation bobsleigh track. You can ride a bobsleigh (also known as a bobsled) with a trained pilot and speed down the track, hitting speeds up to 125 km/hr (78 mph).

You can ride a bobsleigh in both summer and winter, but the experience is a little different. In winter (December to April) you will start higher up the track, so you will go faster, and the experience is a little more expensive.

In summer (July to September), you start lower down the track and go a little slower (up to 90km/hr), so it’s a little cheaper. As well, youth aged 12-18 slide free with a paying adult! Book a Passenger Bobsleigh Ride

37. Ziplining

Whistler has two zipline tour operators. Ziptrek Ecotours is located in the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, and Superfly Ziplines is a few minutes north of town deep in the forest.

Both are open year-round. Most people zipline in the summer when the weather is warmer. But ziplining in the winter is a magical experience as you soar above the snowy forest.

Things to Do in Whistler: Sightseeing and Tours

38. Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola

Buy a ticket and ride the gondola to the top of Whistler or Blackcomb. Then take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola between the two.

This incredible gondola held a world record for the longest free span between two towers at 3 km across. It is the world’s highest gondola above the ground, with the highest point at 436 m above the valley floor.

There are incredible views during the 11-minute gondola ride between the mountains. And if you want an even bigger thrill, you can pay extra to ride in a glass-bottomed car.

39. Explore the Peak of Whistler Mountain

You can take a sightseeing gondola to the top of Whistler Mountain in both summer and winter. In winter you can enjoy the views and eat at the restaurant.

In summer, the restaurant patio opens up for dining with an incredible view. There are easy walking trails to great viewpoints.

You can also take the Sky Chair to the peak of the mountain to experience the Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s Eye Cliffwalk. The giant inukshuk at the peak also makes a great photo op.

Whistler Peak is also the jumping off point for some of the best hikes in Whistler, including the iconic High Note Trail. (It’s my favourite hike in Whistler.)

40. Walk Between Giant Snow Walls

For a short period in early summer, you can also experience the snow walls at Whistler Peak. The resort plows the access road to allow hikers to walk around the alpine, but with the lingering snow, you’ll be walking between walls of snow higher than your head!

41. Whistler Sliding Centre

You can visit the Whistler Sliding Centre, home of the bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton track, year-round. Since there’s no cost to visit, it’s on my list of the best free things to do in Whistler.

You can grab a map from Guest Services, then take a free self-guided tour that takes you to all the key spots along the track. If you’re lucky, you’ll see Olympic hopefuls from Team Canada and other nations practicing.

42. Bear Watching

Whistler is the perfect bear habitat and there are lots of black bears in the area. One of the best (and safest) ways to see the bears is to take a 4×4 bear–watching tour.

The tours will take you up into the mountains at either the Whistler Blackcomb ski hill or Whistler Olympic Park. Both are great places to spot bears since there are so many berry bushes for them to feed on.

The tours run from April or May to September or October.

43. Flightseeing

Whistler is spectacular from above as you soar above the jagged peaks and lush green rainforest.

In the summer you can book floatplane tours that take off from Green Lake and circle the mountains. This 30-minute floatplane tour gives you a bird’s eye view of glaciers and gorgeous Garibaldi Lake.

You can also fly between Vancouver and Whistler on a float plane, taking in spectacular scenery along the way.

You can also take helicopter tours. The standard helicopter tours take you over the glaciers and mountain lakes, but this tour even includes a mountain landing.

44. Whistler Olympic Plaza

Whistler Olympic Plaza was the site of the medal ceremonies at the 2010 Olympics. Today it’s a popular spot to take photos with the Olympic rings.

But it’s also a great place to hang out on the grass in the summer or play in the snow in the winter. The people-watching is amazing and there are often free concerts on the weekends.

45. Walk the Village Stroll

The pedestrian village is what makes Whistler so great. Take a walk along the main car-free street, Village Stroll to do some window shopping and people watching. Or grab a seat on one of the patios and watch the world go by. (I like the one at La Brasserie des Artistes.)

46. Walking Tours

Sign-up for a walking tour and let a local guide show you the best of Whistler plus some off-the-beaten-path gems you might otherwise have missed.

The Whistler Historical Society runs a fun tour that explains Whistler’s past. It’s led by local guides who might share some fun stories of their own. And it’s by donation so it’s a cheap way to take a tour.

Or sign up for the Great Whistler Walking Tour. On the 2-hour tour, a local will show you the sights along with fun facts you wouldn’t otherwise know.

You can also download the Go Whistler Tours app. It includes 14 different self-guided tours with fun themes like nature, the Olympics and craft beer. There are self-guided bike tours too. It’s free, so it’s on my list of the best free things to do in Whistler.

47. Sightseeing Tours

If you’re short on time, a guided sightseeing tour is a great way to see all the highlights. The small-group van tours include viewpoints, a museum, local food, and Olympic sites. Book a Whistler Sightseeing Tour

48. Brandywine Falls

Located a few minutes south of Whistler along Highway 99, Brandywine Falls is a must-see. The waterfall plunges 70 metres (230 feet) over a lava cliff into a canyon. It’s an easy 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the viewing platforms.

49. Alexander Falls

Alexander Falls doesn’t get as much hype as Brandywine Falls, which means you might have it to yourself. The falls drop 53 meters (173 feet) in a series of small steps. You can drive right up to the viewing platform right outside Whistler Olympic Park.

In the winter, you can snowshoe to the base of the frozen falls via the snowshoe trails in Whistler Olympic Park.

50. Squamish

Most visitors speed through the town of Squamish on their way to Whistler, but this outdoorsy town is worth a visit on its own.

You could easily spend a few days hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, shopping at boutiques and drinking great craft beer. I would argue you could spend a lifetime here… because I live here!

51. Pemberton

Pemberton is just 30 minutes north of Whistler, but it has a totally different vibe. It’s set in a wide valley full of farmland, but there is great hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding just outside of town.

The cute downtown has some good restaurants and cafes. Don’t miss a visit to North Arm Farm east of town for fresh produce and baked goods.

52. Drive the Sea to Sky Highway

Highway 99 between Vancouver and Whistler is known as the Sea to Sky Highway and has some of the most spectacular scenery around.

You can speed through the trip in two hours, but it’s better to spend a full day or even two to take in the viewpoints, hikes, and side trips.

I’ve got a full Sea to Sky Highway Roadtrip guide that has all the must-see spots.

Things to Do in Whistler: Museums and Galleries

53. Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

I love the Squamish and Lil’wat Cultural Centre and it is one of my picks for a few reasons.

Firstly, it’s a great way to understand the Indigenous context of the Whistler valley. The Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations have lived in the area since time immemorial. It is important to learn about their history and culture as stewards of this land.

Secondly, it’s just a really good museum. Guides from the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations welcome you with drums and a song, then take you through the exhibits. The guides also weave in their personal stories about how they continue their culture’s traditions.

If you do one non-outdoorsy thing in Whistler, it should be the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.

54. Whistler Museum

The community-run Whistler Museum has admission by donation, which is why it is one of my picks for the best cheap things to do in Whistler.

The small museum is really well done with exhibits about Whistler’s early days as Rainbow Lake Lodge, the 2010 Olympics, plants, animals, geology and lots more. Don’t miss taking a photo inside the vintage gondola.

55. Audain Art Museum

The Audain Art Museum has a huge collection of British Columbia art from both Indigenous and settler artists. The collection of Coast First Nations masks is particularly spectacular.

I also love the architecture of the building which is an interesting mix of long clean lines of wood and panels of glass. The gift shop is also an excellent place to buy local souvenirs.

Save time: Buy your Audain Museum admission ticket online in advance.

56. Art Galleries

Whistler also has several galleries that showcase the work of local artists, often with an outdoorsy theme. You can buy original works and prints, but it is always free to browse.

In the Village, check out Plaza Galleries, Whistler Contemporary Gallery, and Adele Campbell Fine Art Gallery, all located just off Village Stroll. Find Mountain Galleries inside the Fairmont Chateau Whistler in the Upper Village.

Things to Do in Whistler: Food and Drink

57. Craft Breweries and Distilleries

Whistler is home to three craft breweries, each with its own tasting room.

High Mountain Brewing is next to the Olympic Rings in the Village. It’s a huge restaurant with lots of house-made craft beers on tap.

The other two craft breweries are located in the industrial Function Junction neighbourhood. Whistler Brewing is popular with locals and occupies a high-ceiling-ed garage-like space.

Coast Mountain Brewing is a few blocks away and is also popular with locals. Their patio is great on sunny days.

Whistler also has its own distillery in Function Junction, Montis Distilling. They make vodka and several varieties of gin using local glacier water from Rainbow Mountain.

The best way to experience it is on the Distillery Tour and Tasting Experience, which includes transportation, the distillery tour, and cocktails at The Raven Room.

58. Fine Dining

Since Whistler attracts international visitors, it has a great fine dining scene with lots of amazing restaurants. My favourites are Araxi Restaurant for oysters and Alta Bistro for French food.

Other highly rated options include The Rimrock Cafe, Red Door Bistro, and The Bearfoot Bistro.

The best part about fine dining in Whistler is that it’s never pretentious. You can show up in jeans or your ski clothes, and no one cares.

However, reservations are essential. Expect to book 1-2 weeks in advance in high season unless you want early or late seating.

If you’re short on time (or worried about getting reservations) this Fine Dining Tour visits several restaurants over 3-4 hours with a course at each restaurant.

If you want to get off-the-beaten path food-wise, this Hidden Gems Dinner Tour takes you to some of Whistler’s best cafes, cocktail bars, breweries, and restaurants, with a course at each stop.

59. Ketel One Ice Room

The Ketel One Ice Room at the Bearfoot Bistro is a bucket list experience. The entire room is made of ice, including the walls and furniture. The room is kept at a chilly −5 °C (23 °F).

You need to make advance reservations for the Ice Room experience which includes tasting four vodkas of your choice and lots of great photo ops. And don’t worry – they give you a parka to wear!

60. Apres Ski and Nightlife

In Whistler, you don’t have to wait until nighttime to start the party. As soon as the lifts close for the day, apres ski starts. (Apres is French for after.) In the summer, you can apres mountain bike or apres hike, or apres anything really.

The Longhorn Saloon and Garibaldi Lift Co at Whistler base are classic places to hit the apres scene. There are often drink specials. The Longhorn patio is hopping year-round, usually with the music cranked up.

If you want to dance, there are a handful of nightclubs. I remember Garfinkel’s from my early twenties, and it’s just as popular today. Moe Joe’s and Buffalo Bills are also good.

61. Coffee Culture

Whistler has embraced coffee culture like the rest of the Pacific Northwest. Of course, you can go to Starbucks, but I love the local coffee shops.

Mount Currie Coffee is originally from Pemberton, but they have a Whistler location tucked away on Main Street. Their coffee is great (of course) but their sandwiches and breakfast burritos are good too.

Purebread has locations in both Function Junction and the Village (as well as my hometown of Squamish). Their baked goods are to die for, and their coffee is pretty good too.

Moguls Coffee House is in the heart of the village in Village Square, which makes it a convenient location to grab a coffee. Their patio is also great for people-watching.

62. Cheap Eats

Whistler can be an expensive place to visit, but the food doesn’t have to be. One of the local’s tricks to budget eating is to use the Whistler Bites website. It has daily deals listings for specials and happy hours.

For cheap eats every day of the week, my favourite is Peaked Pies. They make incredible Australian-style meat pies that are filling and won’t break the bank.

El Furniture Warehouse is a go-to destination for those on a budget. Every single item on their menu is under $10 and they have a different drink special every day of the week. Their burgers and tacos are really popular.

Things to Do in Whistler: Unique Experiences

63. Axe Throwing

How Canadian is this? At Forged Axe Throwing they’ll give you some pointers, then let you loose for a one-hour indoor axe-throwing session. Book an axe-throwing timeslot in advance.

64. Escape Rooms

Escape! Whistler has four different escape room scenarios to challenge you: pirate ship, buried cabin, pinball machine, and rabbit hole. It’s a great way to spend a rainy day.

65. Scandinave Spa

The outdoor spa experience at Scandinave Spa is one of my favourite Whistler things to do… and I’m not really a spa person.

The spa includes hot pools, cold pools, saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. They recommend a hot experience for 20-30 minutes, a quick plunge in a cold pool, then 20-30 minutes in a relaxation area. You repeat the cycle as many times as you like. You can also pay extra to book a massage.

The entire grounds are gorgeous with mountain views and beautiful forest. I think it’s extra special in the snow, which is why it’s on my list of the best things to do in Whistler in winter.

They have a silence-only and no phones policy, which initially I was worried about. But now that I’ve been a few times, I love it. You can listen to the wind in the trees and the sound of rushing water. I end up in a meditative state each time without even trying.

66. Vallea Lumina

I have trouble describing exactly what Vallea Lumina is, because you kind of just have to experience it. It’s a multi-media light show and story-based journey in the forest outside of Whistler.

As you walk the path, lights, sound, and lasers create a unique experience. It’s open in both winter and summer.

Things to Do in Whistler: Shopping

67. Whistler Farmers’ Market

From May through October, head to the Upper Village (Blackcomb base) on Sundays to shop at the Whistler Farmers Market. They have local produce, crafts, baked goods, and lots more.

68. 3 Singing Birds

This little boutique specializes in locally designed and made clothing and home decor, which makes it a great place to pick up unique souvenirs. Find 3 Singing Birds sharing space with The Green Mustache Cafe on Main Street.

69. Armchair Books

I love to visit bookstores whenever I travel as they often have lots of great local books. Armchair Books in Whistler is no exception. They have lots of great books about ski culture, nature, and hiking alongside contemporary bestsellers and classics.

They also carry my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia, so I think they’re pretty awesome!

70. The Velvet Underground

This funky thrift store is a favourite amongst locals. The Velvet Underground has a carefully curated selection that includes lots of retro and throw-back pieces. They also have upcycled pieces and clothing made from deadstock fabric.

The entire ethos of the business is waste reduction and conscious consumption. There is also a vegan cafe on site.

71. Outdoor Gear Shops

If you need gear for skiing, mountain biking, hiking, or any outdoor sport, you can find it in Whistler. Escape Route is a local gear shop with lots of hiking and ski gear.

Many well-known outdoor brands like Patagonia, Smartwool, Salomon, The North Face, and Arc’Teryx also have stores here.

72. Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre Gift Shop

The lower level of the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is home to a great gift shop. You can buy authentic handcrafted Northwest Coast First Nations art, handcrafts, home goods, jewellery, books, and lots more.

73. Canadian and International Chain Stores

You can shop at popular chain stores in Whistler Village like Artizia, Lululemon, Roots (which are all Canadian), and The Gap.

Things to Do in Whistler: Festivals and Events

74. Free Concerts in Olympic Plaza

Each summer there is a free concert series in Olympic Plaza. You can catch children’s performers, classical orchestras, indie musicians, and everything in between. BYOB picnic blanket or lawn chair. Check concert listings to see what’s coming up.

75. Whistler Blackcomb Fire and Ice Show

Every Sunday night local skiers and snowboarders put on a spectacular show at Skiers Plaza. Watch them hit jumps and spins amidst fireworks. It’s one of the best things to do in Whistler in winter.

76. World Ski and Snowboard Festival

Every April ski season ends with races, parties, and live music as part of the World Ski and Snowboard Festival. The highlight is the Slush Cup, where skiers hurtle downhill into (or across!) an ice-cold pond.

77. Whistler Cornucopia

Every November foodies flock to town for Whistler Cornucopia. The ten-day festival includes tastings, seminars, and special tasting menus at participating restaurants.

78. Whistler Pride and Ski Festival

Every January Whistler welcomes LBGTQ+ folx for the Whistler Pride and Ski Festival. It includes group ski and board days and a Rainbow Parade on skis. At night there are pride parties and events.

79. Whistler Film Festival

The Whistler Film Festival takes place in late November and early December. It includes premieres for indie films, outdoor adventure movies, and short films. There are workshops and forums too.

80. Whistler Children’s Festival

Spanning two weekends in May, the family-friendly Whistler Children’s Festival includes music, crafts, science shows, circus acts, face painting, and lots more.

81. Crankworx Whistler

The Crankworx mountain bike festival takes place over 10 days in July. It includes competitions, stunts, races, and lots of parties.

82. RBC Gran Fondo

The annual RBC Gran Fondo cycling race sees participants biking 122km from Vancouver to Whistler each September. There are lots of bike-focused events and parties in the village to go with it.

83. Whistler Village Beer Festival

The Whistler Village Beer Festival takes place over six days each September. There are brewery tours, tastings, food events, music, and lots of parties.

84. Whistler Writers Festival

The four-day Whistler Writers Festival includes workshops, readings, speakers, music and more. The festival takes place each October.

Congrats – you made it to the end of my massive list of things to do in Whistler. I’m sure you’ll love it here. What’s your favourite Whistler activity? Tell me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• 42 Cheap and Free Things to Do in Whistler
• Visiting Whistler, BC in Summer (By a Local)
• 44 Best Things to Do in Whistler in Winter
• The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails
• Joffre Lakes Hike (By a Local)
• Camping in Whistler, BC: 17 Places to Camp Near Whistler
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler
• 70+ Things to do in Squamish (By a Local)

The post 80+ Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local) appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

My Coastal Hiking Experience

My first ever backpacking trip was a 5-night blitz of the West Coast Trail. I’d say it was a baptism by fire, but it was more like a baptism by sand, mud, and rain. And it was sooo gorgeous. I was hooked!

Since then I’ve done over 18 more overnight and multi-day trips on the coast. In British Columbia, I’ve done the West Coast Trail (twice), Juan de Fuca Trail (twice), North Coast Trail (twice), Wild Side Trail (twice), Nootka Trail, Tatchu Peninsula, San Josef Bay (twice), and Cape Scott Trail (three times). In Washington, I’ve hiked the North Olympic Coast Route, the Ozette Loop (twice), Shi Shi Beach, and Toleak Point.

I’ve learned a lot of lessons about coastal trails on these trips and now I’m passing that wisdom and my best coastal hiking tips along to you.

Wear Gaiters

In case you didn’t know, gaiters are fabric covers that bridge the gap between your boots and your pants. I have friends who never wear gaiters on coastal hikes, but I swear by them. They keep the sand out of your boots, which can cause painful blisters. (Read my guide to preventing blisters for more info.)

Gaiters also help on muddy trails, which are common on the coast. If the mud is deeper than your boots (which happens a lot!) you will have an added layer of protection. Waterproof gaiters can also be great for short stream crossings – that way you don’t have to take your boots off.

On my last West Coast Trail hike, I wore short water-resistant gaiters (like these) just to keep the mud and sand out. But wearing them on the North Coast Trail was a big mistake – they weren’t tall enough for the epic mud on that trail! I ended up with mud and water over the top of my gaiters within the first two hours. I should have brought these tall Gore-Tex gaiters that I had already worn on lots of other trips. (This pair are similar).

Use Hiking Poles

Coastal trails are very uneven with lots of mud, roots, slippery rocks, and creek crossings. Poles help you keep your balance on tricky terrain. You can also use them to probe mud bogs to find the driest spots. If you’ve hiked with poles before and hated them, don’t bring them on a coastal trip. But otherwise, I think poles are a must. (The only time they are a disadvantage is when you encounter ladders or fixed ropes and you have to stow them.)

I use Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork trekking poles. They are definitely the Cadillac of trekking poles. If you want something a bit more budget-oriented, the Black Diamond Trail Explorer poles are really great quality for the price.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Don’t Stress About Sand

On coastal trips, sand gets into everything. Even months after a beach trip, I still find sand in my boots, tent, and backpack. It’s easy to let the sand drive you crazy… but just chill out. For the most part, it’s not a big deal. To protect sensitive gear like camera lenses or food, lay down your rain jacket, a pack cover, a small tarp, or your tent footprint as a sand-free area.

There is only one time when I stress about sand: when it’s getting in my boots. That’s because it can cause blisters. Prevention is key here. Wear gaiters. Avoid shoes with mesh panels. And carry a small travel towel to wipe down your feet before you put your socks on.

Prep for Tea-Coloured Water

Most water sources on coastal backpacking trips have dark tea-coloured water. This is due to tannins from the vegetation in the swamps and bogs. As well, these water sources are often a trickle so you won’t have much choice on where you can fill up.

Bring a water filter or purifier to treat your water. The silt and tannins in the water can clog filters and add to processing times for chemical purification like Pristine and Aquamira. Some people prefer to strain the water through a bandana, clean t-shirt, or coffee filter first, then treat it or filter it.

If you bring a filter, make sure you know how to clean it in the field, as that’s the only way to get it unclogged. We use a Platypus GravityWorks water filter since it doesn’t require pumping and you can clean it easily by backflushing it with clean water. Be prepared to have your filter run very slowly when filtering coastal water, especially if it’s not new. We replaced our filter cartridge after a recent coastal trip and were surprised to see how much better it ran!

The tannins in the water give it a dark colour that many people find unappealing. Some also say that they don’t like the taste (although I usually don’t notice it). If that bothers you, bring juice powder to mask the taste and colour. My favourite for backpacking is Nuun, a sports drink with electrolytes. I love that it comes in tablets rather than loose powder so it’s less messy.

Waterproof Everything

Even if the forecast doesn’t call for rain, waterproof everything. Everything! The weather on the coast is notoriously fickle and rainstorms can blow in unexpectedly. Coastal fog can also create damp camping conditions. (And sometimes the forecast is just for rain. On my first North Coast Trail hike we had torrential rain EVERY. SINGLE. DAY.)

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

Bring good quality waterproof breathable jacket and pants. I wear the MEC Synergy Jacket, which is Gore-Tex, and the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch pants. Another great option is the Patagonia Torrentshell 3L. It’s pretty durable for the low price.

READ NEXT: Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?

Bring a good quality backpacking tent with a full-length rainfly. We use the MSR Hubba Hubba NX or the Zpacks Triplex.

Pack a lightweight silnylon tarp and some cord so you can set up a kitchen shelter. We have a RAB siltarp 2 that scrunches down to the size of a burrito and comes on every coastal trip.

It’s also important to keep your gear dry when you’re hiking on the coast. My Gregory Amber backpack came with a pack cover, but if yours didn’t, buy a lightweight sil-nylon pack cover.

I also use lightweight dry bags inside my pack for things that absolutely need to stay dry like my sleeping bag and warm clothing. For smaller things like maps, toilet paper, etc., I use Ziploc freezer bags, which are thicker and more durable than their regular ones. Don’t throw them away after your trip – I reuse mine over and over again.

On longer trips, or when there’s rain in the forecast, I also use a pack liner. You can buy sil-nylon pack liners, but you can also just line your pack with a garbage bag. I actually use trash compactor bags. They are thicker and more durable than regular garbage bags, so they last longer – I can usually use one for a whole year.

READ NEXT: 40+ Tips for Hiking in the Rain

Keep Your Sleeping Bag Dry

One of the most common coastal hiking tips you will hear is that you need to use a synthetic sleeping bag. Unlike down, synthetic insulation will keep you warm even if it gets wet from rain, fog, or condensation. BUT… synthetic bags are bulky and heavy compared to down. If you are already own a synthetic sleeping bag, then go ahead and bring it. But if you already own a down sleeping bag, DON’T go out and buy a synthetic bag specifically for your coastal hike. It’s not necessary!

That’s right… I’m here to tell you that you can definitely use a down sleeping bag on a coastal hike. I only use down sleeping bags since they are so much lighter and more compact. I’ve spent more than 30 nights sleeping in coastal environments, all in down sleeping bags, without any problems. Here’s how I do it:

• I store my sleeping bag inside a water-resistant compression sack.
• Then I wrap the sleeping bag inside a garbage bag.
• The garbage bag -wrapped sleeping bag goes inside my pack, which is lined with a pack liner.
• And when it rains, I put a rain cover over top.
• I always use a good quality waterproof tent and make sure to vent it to avoid condensation.
• I also use sleeping bags with water-resistant outer fabric and water-resistant down fill.
• And when it’s sunny, I spread my sleeping bag out on a log or the top of my tent to let it air out.

On my coastal hikes, I’ve had days of torrential rains, tons of fog, and 100% humidity. And I’ve fallen into streams with my backpack on. My sleeping bag has never gotten more than a tiny bit damp. If you take care of your sleeping bag, you can definitely bring a down sleeping bag on a coastal hiking trip. Right now my favourite sleeping bag for beach backpacking is the Therm-a-rest Ohm 32F/0C which is super warm but packs down really small.

Beware of Blisters

I’ve said it a few times already, and I’ll say it again: coastal hikes are terrible for blisters. All the water, sand, and rough terrain can lead to unhappy feet. I’ve got a whole guide to preventing and dealing with blisters. It’s a must-read before a coastal hike. Honestly, if you are going to take just one piece of advice from this post, make it this one. Preventing blisters is the most important of my coastal hiking tips.

Embrace the Mud

You’ll encounter a lot of mud on coastal trails. But rather than avoiding it, embrace it. Walk through the middle of the mud bogs instead of skirting around the side. The mud is usually wetter and deeper on the sides. Often there is drier ground just below the surface since the middle of the trail is usually designed for the best drainage. (Sometimes you’ll even find boardwalk or rocks hidden under that mud!) Plus, you avoid erosion and damaging vegetation by going through the center, which is a key part of Leave No Trace.

Carry a Tide Table

Knowing the timing of high tide is super important on a coastal hike for a few reasons. You want to make sure your tent is high enough up the beach to avoid waves at night. Some trails also have beach sections that are impassable at high tide or at tides of a specific height, and you’ll need to time your hike around that. Knowing the low tide can also be helpful so you know when the best times for exploring tide pools and sea caves. (Don’t miss the incredible offshore sea caves and tide pools at Shi Shi Beach and Toleak Point.)

You can find Canadian tide tables on the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website and American ones on the Tides and Currents section of the NOAA website. Be sure to select the correct table for the region you’ll be hiking in. I carry a printout of the table inside a Ziploc bag. Make sure you print out the version with the hourly predicted heights, not just the highs and lows.

Join the Backpacking in BC Facebook Group

Learn to Pitch Your Tent in the Sand

Regular tent pegs will just slide out of soft sand. This leads to a saggy rain fly that droops against the interior of your tent and causes condensation to build up. In windy weather, it could also mean that your tent will blow all over the place. You can use a few different strategies to anchor your tent in the sand.

The easiest way is to peg out your tent, then place rocks on top of the pegs. This works ok sometimes but doesn’t usually hold up that well.

You can also opt for beefier tent pegs with more holding power. We often bring a few snow stakes since they work well in sand too. They are longer and have holes in them to let the sand leak through and lock into place.

Another option is to fill stuff sacks or plastic bags with sand and tie the tent out to them. For even more holding power, bury the bags in the sand.

You can also bring some lengths of guy line and tie your tent out to driftwood logs or large rocks. The trick can be finding logs that are in the right place, are light enough to move, and that have a place to loop the guy line around.

Since I use a non-freestanding Zpacks tent on many of my trips, I need to make sure my tent really stays put or it will fall down. I’ve started bringing a handful of screw-in eyelets from the hardware store on beach hikes. I screw them into driftwood and tie out my tent. When it’s time to go home, I unscrew them and bring them with me.

Secure Your Food

Coastal ecosystems are home to lots of critter like birds, mice, raccoons, and bears. And they all want your food. You need to secure your food away from animals or risk losing it. While losing your food might be an inconvenience to you, it can be very dangerous for other backpackers who camp there in the coming weeks and months. It’s easy for bears to progress from raiding poorly stored food to approaching people or flattening tents looking for food.

Do some research to find out what food storage options are available on your trip. On some trails, like the West Coast Trail, the Cape Scott Trail, and the North Coast Trail there are metal food storage lockers at every campsite. In other areas, like on Washington’s Olympic Coast, you will need to pack your food inside bear canisters. (There it’s mostly for the very bold raccoons.) And some places like the Nootka Trail have no food storage at all so you will need to bring rope to rig a food hang in a tree. (Read more about bear safety here.)

Respect Indigenous Land

Being respectful of indigenous land isn’t just a coastal hiking tip – it’s good practice for anywhere you hike. And really, it’s just the right thing to do.

Indigenous people have lived in what is now Canada and the US since time immemorial. When you hike, you traverse land that has a cultural history that predates European contact. On many coastal hikes, you will find shell middens, village sites, petroglyphs, and other cultural artefacts. Some trails, like the West Coast Trail, Wild Side Trail, Nootka Trail, North Coast Trail, Tatchu Trail, and Shi Shi Beach, cross indigenous reserve land. No matter which trail you hike, be respectful of indigenous land and culture – you are a guest here. Leave what you find. Native-land.ca is a great resource for researching which indigenous peoples’ land you are on.

Bring Gloves

Gloves can be helpful on some coastal trails. Some people like to wear gloves to protect their hands and add grip on cable cars, ladders, and fixed ropes. Others like the added abrasion resistance that gloves provide from barnacles and sharp rocks when you’re boulder hopping or navigating technical sections of coastline.

I brought cheap nitrile-coated work gloves from the hardware store when I did the North Coast Trail. They were really helpful for the fixed ropes. I’ve had lots of people tell me they like to hike in lightweight wind gloves for the West Coast Trail ladders and cable cars or the coastal route around Owen Point. I think gloves aren’t necessary for the WCT, but if you want some, cheap work gloves are a better option. They are much less expensive too!

Wear Good Boots

There’s a lot of debate in the hiking community about whether hiking in boots or trail runners is better. I do both, so I understand both sides of the argument. However, when it comes to coastal hiking, I always wear boots.

I wear waterproof hiking boots for beach hiking. The waterproof membrane inside the boots is great for keeping your feet dry, but the bigger benefit is keeping sand out. I’ve done day hikes on the beach in trail runners with mesh panels. You end up with a shoe full of sand, which can cause blisters. No good!

If you aren’t used to carrying a heavy backpack, or you have weak ankles, you should also choose a hiking boot with ankle support. Coastal hikes involve lots of uneven terrain, roots, slippery rocks, and unstable sand. Sprained ankles are one of the most common injuries on the West Coast Trail and other beach hikes.

I wear Salomon X Ultra Mid GTX boots which are waterproof, fairly lightweight, and offer moderate ankle support. My husband wears the Salomon Quest 4D GTX boots which are similar, but a little beefier with more ankle support.

Plan Trailhead Transportation in Advance

Getting to and from the trailhead for a coastal hike can be an adventure in itself. Most trailheads are in remote locations without public transportation and where hitchhiking is difficult. Some trails like the Juan de Fuca Trail and West Coast Trail have a scheduled bus. Others like the North Coast Trail, Tatchu Trail, and Nootka Trail require you to book a water taxi or charter a floatplane.

Make reservations for transportation far in advance. I’ve heard lots of stories of people who waited until the last minute to reserve, then found out the bus or boat was fully booked for their dates. And don’t rely on just showing up at the trailhead and hoping you can get on the bus. On my first West Coast Trail trip, we didn’t book transportation. On our last day we showed up at the trailhead got the last seats on the bus. A group who arrived behind us had to camp and wait a full day for the next bus!

Prep for Hot AND Cold Weather

Coastal weather is notoriously fickle. It can be sunny and smokin’ hot one minute, then cool off to a few degrees above freezing. Bring warm clothes for wearing around camp as it gets chilly in the evenings, especially when the wind kicks up. And don’t forget sun protection (sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses) for the warm days – I’ve gotten some wicked sunburns on coastal trips.

Bring Your Gear Inside

It can be tempting to leave wet or stinky gear out overnight to let it dry off or air out. Don’t do it! As soon as the sun sets, the dew and condensation starts. The coast is a humid environment and any gear you leave out will get soaking wet. Bring everything inside your tent or vestibule, or store it under a tarp. I like to put extra gear inside my pack at night, put the pack cover on, then stow my pack inside my vestibule, under a log, or under my kitchen tarp. Of all the coastal hiking tips on this list, this one is the one that most people forget about (even me!). It’s so easy to think that your gear will dry overnight, when really it will just get wetter.

So there are all of my  coastal hiking tips. Did I miss anything? What advice would you give someone heading out for a backpacking trip on their first beach trail? Tell me in the comments.

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READ NEXT:

More hiking advice:

• 40+ Tips for Hiking in the Rain
• Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?
• 20+ Ways to Reduce Your Backpack Weight
• How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

My trail guides for British Columbia coastal hikes:

• West Coast Trail
• Juan de Fuca Trail
• North Coast Trail
• Cape Scott Trail
• Nootka Trail
• Wild Side Trail
• Tatchu Trail

My trail guides for Washington (Olympic National Park) coastal hikes:

• Ozette Loop Trail
• Shi Shi Beach Trail
• Toleak Point Trail

The post Coastal Hiking Tips: Advice for Beach Backpacking appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In the last few years I’ve taken two trips to Revelstoke and was surprised at how much I fell in love with the town. (It even made my list of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver and the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures.) Honestly, I even looked at real estate listings (just for fun… I think?)

I had a pretty busy schedule on both of my trips to Revelstoke and did A LOT but I still didn’t manage to see everything. So here’s my big list of 15 things to do in Revelstoke in the summer. I’ve done most of these things but a few will have to wait until next time. (Because there’s definitely going to be a next time!)

Hey there: Thanks so much to Tourism Revelstoke for hosting me in Revelstoke. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Revelstoke Basics

What’s with the name? Disappointingly, Revelstoke’s name doesn’t have anything to do with stoking revelry. When the railway across Canada was being built in the 1880s, the Canadian Pacific Railway was nearly bankrupt. Lord Revelstoke, a British banker, invested in the railway and saved the company. So they named the town after him! (Previously, the town was called Farwell after a local man who settled in the area.) Revelstoke has lots of nicknames including “Revy”, “The Stoke” and “Revelstuck” since winter snows can close the roads out of town.

Location: Revelstoke is located in eastern British Columbia, Canada. It’s on the banks of the Columbia River at 480m above sea level. Revelstoke is in a river valley between the Monashee and Selkirk Mountain ranges. The Rocky Mountains are about 100km to the east. Revelstoke is in the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa, Secwepemc, Sinixt, and Okanagan First Nations.

How to Get to Revelstoke: Revelstoke is on highway 1. It’s a 6-hour drive from Vancouver in the west or 4.5 hours from Calgary in the east. Revelstoke has an airport, but it only has charter flights. The closest major airport is in Kelowna where you can get a shuttle van to Revelstoke that takes about 2.5 hours. Revelstoke also makes a great stop on a road trip across Canada.

Revelstoke Weather: Revelstoke has a mountain climate.  Summer temperatures are typically highs of 23-25C and lows of 11C. July and August are the driest months, but Revelstoke has a wetter climate than the nearby Rocky Mountains so it can still have some rainy days in summer.

Population: Officially, Revelstoke has a population of about 7,000 people. However, locals are proud to tell you that cell phone usage data shows that the town has about 14,000 residents in winter.

Revelstoke Map: I made a custom Revelstoke google map for you that includes every single place I mentioned in this post. Click on it to zoom in.

Summer Things to do in Revelstoke

Drive the Meadows in the Sky Parkway

This scenic Mountains in the Sky Parkway inside Mount Revelstoke National Park provides great views with little effort. In the summer, the roadsides and summit area are carpeted with wildflowers. The best time to see the flowers is late July and early August. Be sure to stop at the roadside pullouts for great views of Revelstoke and the surrounding mountains.

The road climbs 1,365m over 26km of switchbacks to Balsam Lake at 1,835m. From here you can take a free shuttle bus to the summit, or hike the 1-kilometre-long Upper Summit Trail. At the top, there are several viewpoints, plus a historic fire lookout. For the best wildflower displays, visit in mid-August. The flowers are spectacular!

Soak in Hot Springs

Western Canada is home to tons of natural hot springs. A few of them are a couple hours drive from Revelstoke. On my recent trip, I soaked in Halfway River Hot Springs. It’s an undeveloped hot spring in a beautiful natural setting. To get there you need to drive 11km up a logging road, then hike 1km down a steep trail. The hot springs are next to a rushing river in gorgeous rock-lined pools.

We also popped in to Halcyon Hot Springs, a spa-like springs, but didn’t have time to go in the pools. There are also a few others hots springs near Revelstoke that I haven’t had a chance to visit yet: Canyon Hot Springs, Crazy Creek Hot Pools, and Nakusp Hot Springs. (I’ve got a whole post about all the hot springs in Canada if you want to visit more springs.)

If you’re on a budget or don’t have time to drive to a hot spring, head to the Revelstoke Aquatic Centre. It was closed for annual maintenance when I was there, but it looks giant! It has a huge pool, a hot tub, a water slide, and a lazy river.

Go for a Hike

On my most recent visit, I dedicated a week to hiking near Revelstoke. I managed to fit in over a dozen hikes from easy to challenging. I walked trails near town, and drove to Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Mount Revelstoke National Park, and Glacier National Park. If you want all the insider info about the hiking in Revelstoke, I’ve got a whole post for you! Check out my guide to the best hikes in Revelstoke. 

Experience the Alpine on the Revelstoke Mountain Resort Gondola

Revelstoke Mountain Resort has the highest vertical drop of any ski resort in North America, at 1,713m. In the summer, you can ride their gondolas up the side of Mount Mackenzie for great views and lift-accessed hiking. Be sure to check out the Glacier View and Revelstoke View lookouts near the top of the Revelation Gondola. The Revelstoke View lookout has an especially great view of the town. I recommend hiking further up the mountain for even better views. All the details are in my guide to the best hikes in Revelstoke. 

Ride the Pipe Mountain Coaster

Opened in 2016, the Pipe Mountain Coaster is consistently rated as the #1 thing to do in Revelstoke. I’d seen photos of it online, but it wasn’t until I rode it, that I truly understood what it was all about. In short: it’s a rollercoaster! You sit strapped inside a one-person cart attached to a monorail-like track. (Hence the “pipe” in the name.) When it’s your turn, you are launched down the 1.2km long track. You can control your speed with an onboard brake, but if you want to go fast, the carts top out at 42km/h! The track has tons of twists and turns so it feels a bit like a wild mouse style coaster. At one point, I even got a little bit of air out of my seat!

The Pipe Coaster is located at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, just south of town. Tickets are $25/ride and each ride takes about 3 minutes.

Chase Waterfalls

As you might know, waterfalls are my favourite. There are three waterfalls near Revelstoke worth seeing, especially after it rains when there’s lots of runoff. You’ll need to hike a few minutes to get to each waterfall, but all three are an easy walk. Find the details in my guide to the best hikes in Revelstoke. 

Discover Revelstoke’s History

The town of Revelstoke has an interesting history, beginning in the 1880s with the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway. When I was in Revelstoke I went on a fabulous historical walking tour with Cathy from the Revelstoke Museum. She told us about Revelstoke’s past as the two rival towns of Farwell and Revelstoke. (Spoiler: Revelstoke won!) It was one of the most interesting things I did in Revelstoke.

If you don’t have time to take a tour, walk around Revelstoke’s downtown on your own. There are lots ofb heritage buildings to see, many of which have informative plaques. Be sure to venture a bit north of downtown to see the courthouse, built in 1912. History buffs should also check out the Revelstoke Museum and Archives or the Revelstoke Railway Museum. They’re both on my list for my next visit to Revelstoke.

Go Mountain Biking

In the summer months, mountain biking is one of the most popular things to do in Revelstoke. And that’s because Revelstoke is a world-famous mountain biking destination. There are tons of trails in a few areas around town. The trails range from easy beginner cross country trails to gnarly double black diamond downhill trails. You can bike right from downtown, set up a shuttle, access alpine trails from the ski resort gondola, or book a heli-biking adventure.

On my first trip to Revelstoke, I explored the easy trails at Mount Macpherson with Matt and Connor from Wandering Wheels. It was great to have local guides show us the trails. Plus they helped me improve my admittedly very mediocre mountain bike skills. (I got quite a few bruises from some epic crashes though!)

On my second trip, my husband and I explored the trails on our own, using the Revelstoke Mountain Bike map and the Trailforks app. I’m still a beginner mountain biker, but my husband Greg and my Dad are not. They rode the spectacular trails alpine Frisby Ridge route just north of town and the brand new lift-accessed Fifty Six Twenty Trail at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort ski hill. It descends 5,620 feet! That’s over 1,700m! They said both were incredible. 

Soar Above Town in a Paraglider

Until going to Revelstoke, I honestly had never thought about going paragliding. If you aren’t sure what paragliding is, you’re not alone. Basically, it’s jumping off a tall mountain with a parachute wing attached to you. You use the wing to float and glide safely down to the ground. Beginners get strapped to an experienced pilot for a tandem paragliding flight.

Revelstoke has the highest paraglide launch in North America at an elevation of 2,225m! You take a gondola up the ski hill, then climb into a van to go even higher up the mountain. After take-off, you soar for at least 30 minutes before landing next to the Columbia River down in the valley below. If you want, the pilot will do flips and other acrobatics. You might even get to fly the wing yourself! I expected the whole thing to be scary, and while it was a bit nerve-wracking at first, mostly it was quite peaceful. And the views were incredible!

However, if you have a weak stomach like me, you may want to take some anti-nausea meds beforehand. Real talk: I felt a bit nauseous during the flight, and it got worse as we began to land. I think if I had taken some anti-nausea meds, I wouldn’t have had an issue and others in my group didn’t feel sick at all.

To book a trip, get in touch with Revelstoke Paragliding. I flew with Brad, who was amazing! He made sure I felt safe, let me fly the wing for a long time and tailored the flight to minimize my nausea. I definitely recommend him!

Go Paddling

There are lots of lakes near Revelstoke including Lake Revelstoke, the Arrow Lakes, and Williamson Lake. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to get out on the water.

Raft Some Whitewater

If you are more adventurous, sign up for a whitewater rafting trip on the raging Illecillewaet River. And if that sounds too hardcore, you can float mellow sections of the Columbia River instead.

Explore BC’s Tallest Treehouse

Head to the Enchanted Forest 25 minutes west of Revelstoke to experience BC’s Tallest Treehouse. I’ve seen photos of this on Instagram, but sadly I’ve never had time to stop. It looks incredible. The treehouse is part of a larger fairytale forest experience aimed at children that includes over 350 folk art figurines and their homes. The whole thing is set in a magical green rainforest of old-growth cedars.

Drink Craft Beer and Spirits

For a small town, Revelstoke has a surprisingly large number of craft breweries and distilleries. There is a distillery and two breweries in town! They all focus on local ingredients, but each has its own flair.

As a gin-lover, I was really excited to try the award-winning gin at Monashee Spirits. It might just be my new favourite craft gin! We chatted with Josh, the owner who told us his story. He started as a welder and got interested in distilling when someone asked him to help weld a backyard still. He’s been perfecting his gin ever since. His tasting room has a full bar with a fun cocktail menu. If you’re looking for drinks in Revelstoke, this is THE spot. 

Rumpus Beer Company just opened in 2019. We chatted with Fred, the founder about how he had wanted to open a microbrewery for over a decade. We tasted a flight of all of his beers and I have to admit that while I’m not a huge beer drinker, I was really impressed. The beers at Rumpus are designed to be sophisticated and nuanced, but still easy to drink. The way Fred explained it is that Revelstoke is a town where you go play outside in the mountains with your friends all day, and afterward all you want to do is go drink a couple of beers in a fun atmosphere. He wants his beers to match that Revelstoke attitude. I think he’s definitely hit the mark.

I didn’t have time to visit the original craft brewery in Revelstoke, Mt. Begbie Brewing. It’s been around since 1996 and has won tons of craft beer awards. They run tours and have a tasting room where you can grab a pint or fill your growler. 

Go Shopping

Revelstoke’s compact downtown is home to lots of fun shops. If you need outdoor equipment, there are lots of bike shops and sports stores. Check out the boutiques for handmade and local goods. I didn’t have much time to shop in Revelstoke, but I did do some window shopping. Lovemaking Designs has some really cool screen printed designs and jewelry.

If you visit on a Saturday, don’t miss the Revelstoke Farmer’s Market in Grizzly Plaza right downtown. There are lots of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers. You can also find baked goods, jams, honey, plants, knitting, and crafts. 

Eat Amazing Food

Revelstoke isn’t known as a foodie destination… yet! It definitely should be since almost everything I ate in Revelstoke was amazing. Obviously, I haven’t had time to try every single restaurant in Revelstoke, but here are a few of my picks:

Fine Dining: 112 Restaurant & Lounge – An upscale restaurant at The Regent Hotel, the 112 has classics like steak and West Coast-style fare like salmon and halibut. The chef also moonlights as a tandem paragliding pilot (hi Brad!), so you know the dishes will have an adventurous flair.

Casual Comfort Food: Old School Eatery – Located in an old elementary school, they describe themselves as serving old school classics with a new school twist. I had a fried chicken sandwich with a delicious Korean-style sauce that was better than anything I’ve had in the big city. We like this place so much that we went twice on our most recent trip. Brunch on the weekends is also amazing. 

Pub for Apres Hiking/Mountain Biking/Anything: Big Eddy Pub – Located across the river from town, you can literally roll right downhill from the Mount Macpherson mountain bike trails into the pub. It’s a popular place with locals and outdoorsy visitors and they won’t bat an eye if you show up covered in mud.

Funky Mexican: Taco Club – A fun spot right downtown serving up giant burritos and tasty tacos. They also have killer margaritas. Their patio is a great spot for people watching too.

Sandwiches: La Baguette – This bakery has amazing sandwiches on homemade bread. They have a location near downtown and one at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Another great option for a hiking lunch.

Hipster Coffee: Dose Coffee  – A fun and funky hipster-style coffee shop with great espresso based drinks. They have great breakfast too. 

Where to Stay in Revelstoke

There are lots of options for accommodation in Revelstoke. Here a few of my Revelstoke hotel recommendations:

Upscale Hotel: The Regent – I stayed at this family-run hotel during my trip to Revelstoke. It has a great location downtown. Over the years the owners have renovated a few different adjacent heritage buildings to create a modern, yet classic building. Breakfast is also included and it was one of the better hotel breakfasts I’ve had in North America.

Boutique Hotel: The Explorer’s Society Hotel – We learned about this hotel on our heritage walking tour of downtown. Built in 1911, this historic brick building was recently restored and converted into a hotel. The entire space is modern yet outdoorsy, with lots of exposed brick and weathered wood. My parents stayed here recently and loved it. My dad loved the lounge area for watching the hockey game and my mom’s favourite part was the rooftop patio.

Budget Hotel: The Cube Hotel – Part hotel, part hostel, the Cube Hotel has a stand-out cubist exterior. It also has lots of adventure-friendly features on the inside like a gear drying room, a lounge, and a shared kitchen so you can cook your own dinner.

Cabins: Boulder Mountain Resort – These cabins just outside of town are super cute with a cozy tiny-house vibe. But they still have full sized kitchens, a king-size bed and a barbecue. I spent a few nights here recently and was really impressed. 

Camping – There are lots of places to camp in Revelstoke. In town you can stay at a few privately run campgrounds: Williamson Lake Campground, Revelstoke KOA Campgrounds and Cabins, or Lamplighter Campground. The Snowforest Campground at Mount Revelstoke National Park just opened in 2020 and I was lukcy enough to spend a few nights there. It has the nicest bathroom/shower building of any campground I’ve ever been to! If you’d rather stay in a provincial park, Blanket Creek and Martha Creek Provincial Parks are only a 20-30 minute drive away.

So there you have it: 15 things to do in Revelstoke in summer. I think I’ll have to go back in the winter to make another “things to do in Revelstoke” list. I hear the snow is epic! What’s your favourite Revelstoke activity? Tell me in the comments.

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