There’s something for everyone on this list from city-breaks to beach town chill-outs, to adventurous mountain towns, to foodie destinations, to luxurious glamping.

Since, I’m an outdoorsy person, most of the trips have an adventure focus, but there are lots of options for less sweaty activities too. All of these trips are a few hours away, and some of them you can do without a car.

So here are my picks for the most beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver.

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

Map of Weekend Getaways From Vancouver

Here’s a custom Google Map I made for you. It shows all of these beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver, plus a few of the attractions, restaurants and attractions that I recommend.

Bowen Island

Tiny Bowen Island is just minutes from Vancouver but feels worlds apart. This Howe Sound island is mostly forested, with lots of small beaches, which makes it a great place for kayaking and hiking. My favourite spot is Cape Roger Curtis on the west side of the island.

The village of Snug Cove at the ferry dock has a few restaurants to choose from, but the pizza at Tuscany Restaurant is amazing. If you have a sweet tooth, check out Cocoa West Chocolatier for incredible handmade chocolates. Yoga and meditation are also really popular here, with several retreats on the island. 

My guide to Bowen Island has lots of other suggestions for great things to do.

Where to Stay on Bowen Island

Artisan Suites: This all-suite hotel is located in Artisan Square just a few minutes from the ferry terminal. It’s the in same complex as tons of cute boutiques and Cocoa West Chocolatier. Check rates.

Cabin Rentals: There are lots of really cute cabins on Bowen Island for rent. The Wildwood Cabins are gorgeously rustic and get amazing reviews. Check rates.

Squamish

For the last three years I’ve lived in Squamish, known as the adventure capital of Canada and one of the best small towns in Canada. It sits at the head of Howe Sound sandwiched between mountain ranges. It has world-class hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and kiteboarding.

For less heart-pumping adventures, ride the Sea to Sky Gondola up to a gorgeous mountain viewpoint, visit Shannon Falls, or swim at one of the lakes. My list of the best things to do in Squamish includes lots more recommendations.

Where to Stay in Squamish

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins: We stayed in these adorable cabins on a winter trip to Squamish. Bonus: Fergie’s Restaurant is on the property so getting the best breakfast in town is easy! Check rates.

Executive Suites Hotel: This all-suite hotel has great access to hiking and biking trails and is my number 1 pick on my list of the best hotels in Squamish. Check rates.

Alice Lake Provincial Park: This large campground is on my list of the best campgrounds in Squamish. It has a great swimming lake and lots of trails. Check availability.

READ NEXT: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

Whistler

Whistler is a great weekend trip from Vancouver at any time of year. In the summer you can ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola up the mountain for amazing views, go swimming in the lakes, stroll through the village, or hit up the famous mountain bike trails. One of the main reasons I love Whistler is because it has some of the best hiking trails around.

In the winter you can downhill ski and snowboard of course, but there are also has plenty of beautiful snowshoeing trails. Read my guide to the best things to do in Whistler in winter for even more ideas.

READ NEXT: 80+ Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)

Where to Stay in Whistler

The Westin Resort and Spa: If you want to splurge, this is the place. My now-husband took me here to impress me when we were first dating. Check rates.

Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel: Apartment-style suite hotels are really popular in Whistler. This one is right in the village and gets great reviews. Check rates.

Camping: My guide to camping in Whistler has details for 18 campgrounds near Whistler.

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

Pemberton

Pemberton often gets overshadowed by Whistler, its flashier neighbour to the south. But Pemberton makes a great weekend getaway from Vancouver. It’s a chill, small town surrounded by mountains with lots of hiking and mountain biking trails. (Nearby Joffre Lakes is gorgeous.)

But it also has a strong farming and ranching history. Head to North Arm Farm for u-pick berries, a produce stand, and a cafe. Or book a horseback ride – Pemberton has more horses per capita than any other place in BC!

Where to Stay in Pemberton

Pemberton Valley Lodge: Highly rated all-suite hotel near downtown Pemberton and an easy walk to the One Mile Lake trails. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are lots of cute cabins and tiny houses for rent near Pemberton. This cabin the woods is luxe but rustic and has a hot tub. Check Rates.

Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Sechelt is located on the Sunshine Coast, a short ferry ride from Vancouver, making it the perfect weekend trip. Make sure you also check out the nearby villages of Gibsons, Roberts Creek, and Halfmoon Bay. There are tons of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. But lots of people prefer to book a stay at a cabin or resort with a water view, then just chill out.

The Sechelt area is also an emerging destination for foodies and artisans with weekend farmer’s markets in Sechelt, Gibsons, and Roberts Creek. With lots of new craft breweries, distilleries, cider houses popping up, the area now has its own Sunshine Coast Ale Trail. My husband loves the beer at Persephone Brewing near the Langdale ferry terminal.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do in Sechelt

Where to Stay in Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort: This one has is special for me since it’s where I got engaged! The luxury tent cabins are unreal and worth the splurge! Check Rates.

Cabins: There are tons of cute cabins for rent on the Sunshine Coast. This cute cabin in Madeira Park has its own private beach! Check Rates.

Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

Sleepy Powell River is a bit more off the beaten path than Sechelt to the South. It’s a logging town with tons of outdoor adventure possibilities. The 180km-long Sunshine Coast Trail runs through the outskirts of town, making Powell River a great jumping-off point for day hikes if you don’t have time for the whole thing.

The historic downtown is home to Townsite Brewing. On my last visit, we spent a fun couple of hours there tasting beer before heading to Costa del Sol in downtown Powell River for some tasty Mexican food. Don’t miss a trip to the cute village of Lund 30 minutes north of Powell River. Head to Nancy’s Bakery on the waterfront to get one of the famous cinnamon buns.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do on the North Sunshine Coast, BC

Where to Stay in Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

The Magical Dome: This quirky rental cabin near Lund looks like a hobbit house. It has been on my list for a long time! Check rates.

Cabins: These glamping pods have incredible views and are right on the beach in Seal Bay. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a small resort community in the Fraser Valley. The main attraction is the hot springs, which are piped into a series of pools at the Harrison Hotsprings Resort as well to a public community pool. (Did you know we have lots of other amazing hot springs in Canada?)

I also love it as a winter destination for cozy cabin time and chill hiking. But the best part about visiting in winter is the eagles – you can see hundreds of bald eagles at once in nearby Harrison Mills.

And it’s less than an hour away, making it one of the closer weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Harrison Hot Springs

Sandpiper Resort: I loved my stay in the cabins at this cute riverside property in Harrison Mills. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa: Staying at this hotel gets you exclusive entrance to their deluxe hot springs pools. Book now.

Bramblebank Cottages: Cute cabins with a hot tub, fire pit, and canoes. Check rates.

Fraser Canyon

The Fraser Canyon is a off-the-beaten-path, literally. Since the Coquihalla Highway was built in the 1980s, a tiny fraction of the traffic between Vancouver and BC’s Interior goes along Highway 1 past Hope to Lytton.

The Fraser Canyon makes a great short road trip with beautiful hikes, lots of viewpoints, historic sites, and quirky, old tourist attractions like the Hell’s Gate Airtram. My Fraser Canyon road trip guide has lots more recommendations.

Where to Stay in the Fraser Canyon

Windsor Motel: I spent two nights at this recently renovated hotel in Hope. It is basic, but super clean and affordable. The location in downtown Hope made it easy to walk to shopping and dinner. Plus, it was quiet at night. Check prices.

Kumsheen Rafting Resort: I arrived early for my river rafting trip, so I walked around their campground just outside of Lytton. They have really cute teepees and glamping tents with real beds and amazing Fraser River views. I would definitely stay here next time I’m in the area. Check prices.

Manning Park

E.C. Manning Provincial Park is one of BC’s most popular parks. In the winter it has a ski resort and lots of snowshoeing trails. In the summer it’s one of my favourite places to hike with kilometre upon kilometre of wildflower meadows.

You can also go canoeing on Lightning Lakes, walk nature trails, and spot wildlife. The ground squirrels are particularly cute. The resort has cabins and a restaurant, so you don’t have to rough it.

Where to Stay in Manning Park

Manning Park Resort: The only lodging in the heart of the park, they have cute cabins and a pool. Check rates.

Manning Provincial Park: There are four campgrounds in the park, but the nicest sites are at Lightning Lake. Check availability.

Parksville

Parksville is a beach town just north of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. With kilometres of sandy beaches, it’s one of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver. In summer they have an incredible sandcastle competition.

And there are gorgeous waterfalls if you head inland: check out Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls. The quirky Old Country Market in Coombs is also a short drive away. (It’s the place that famously has goats on the roof!)

Where to Stay in Parksville

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort: I know people who return to this beachfront resort year after year. Their Grotto Spa also looks really cool. Check Rates.

The Beach Club Resort: Located right on the beach and an easy walk to the shops and restaurants in Parksville. Check Rates.

Tofino

Tofino on Vancouver Island’s West Coast is a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver and one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. Explore the long sandy beaches, go for a hike in the lush rainforest, or hit the waves at Canada’s most famous surf spot.

While you might think of a beach town as a place to visit in the summer, I actually prefer visiting Tofino in winter. It’s quieter and more affordable. And the storm watching is really cool.

If you’re looking to get a bit off the beaten path, head a bit south to the neighbouring town of Ucluelet, which is much quieter and just as cute. Or take a water taxi to the old-growth trees on  Meares Island or the sandy beaches of the Wild Side Trail on Flores Island.

Don’t miss the Tacofino food truck for some of the best tacos in BC. If you’re looking for sit down dinner, head to Shelter Restaurant. My husband and I had a great dinner there for our anniversary a few years ago.

Where to Stay in Tofino

Ocean Village: These adorable gothic-arched cabins are right on the water at Mackenzie Beach. Check Rates.

Island Village at Fred Tibbs: We stayed at these waterfront condos on a recent trip. They’re right downtown Tofino so you can walk everywere. Check Rates.

Southern Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands are a group of over 200 small islands between Vancouver Island the mainland of British Columbia. Each island has its own personality, but they all offer beautiful ocean views, beaches, forest hikes, farmer’s markets, and artisan studios.

Saltspring is the largest and most populated island, so it has the most things to do. Galiano is a bit smaller and a little more sleepy. Pender, Mayne, and Saturna have fewer shops, restaurants, and services than Saltspring and Galiano, so do a bit of research before you go to find out what’s available. 

READ NEXT: Four Outdoor Adventures on Galiano Island

Where to Stay on the Gulf Islands

Poets Cove Resort and Spa: I stayed at this waterfront resort on Pender Island once for a wedding and it’s gorgeous! Check Rates.

Cabins: Over the years we’ve stayed at some great cabins on Saltspring and Galiano Island. This log cabin on Galiano has a killer cliff top view. Check Rates.

Victoria

Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city, but it’s not a stodgy government town. It has a beautiful harbour, interesting museums, historic buildings, a foodie scene, and easy access to beaches and trails. I’ve visited Victoria countless times because I have several good friends who live there.

One of my favourite things to do in Victoria is to bike the flat, scenic, and quiet Lochside and Galloping Goose trails. I also love walking in Beacon Hill Park or along the Waterfront Trail on Dallas Road.

For indoor activities, I like the Royal British Columbia Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Victoria’s compact downtown also is a great place to shop. I can’t go to Victoria without going to the fabulous Silk Road Tea store. If you want amazing baking, head to Fol Epi in Vic West. The croissants are sooo good.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Abbeymoore Manor: I’ve stayed at this historic B&B a few times since my friends used to live around the corner. It’s a beautiful house. And breakfast is included! Check rates.

Hotel Zed: This renovated motel has an amazing and photogenic retro vibe. It looks like an awesome place to stay on a budget. Check Rates.

Pacific Marine Circle Route

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 260km-long loop road trip on Southern Vancouver Island. It’s the perfect length to drive over a weekend. The route starts and finishes in Victoria.

The first half of the route travels along the coast past Sooke. You can stop for hikes in the rainforest, waterfalls, or visits to wilderness beaches. Spend the night in Port Renfrew, my favourite small town, and visit Avatar Grove, home of Canada’s tallest trees and the starting point for the famous West Coast Trail.

On the second half of the route, drive inland past more giant trees to Lake Cowichan and the farms in the Cowichan Valley. Finish the trip by heading back to Victoria along the Malahat Highway.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Where to Stay on the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Wild Renfrew: We stayed at these gorgeous waterfront cabins in Port Renfrew. They even have patios with fire pits. Check Rates.

Prestige Oceanfront Resort: A luxury resort right on the water in Sooke and a short drive to lots of the sights on the southern side of the Pacific Marine Circle Route. Check rates.

Kamloops

I have family in Kamloops, so I’ve spent a lot of time in the area. It has an incredible network of hiking and mountain biking trails, many of which are right in the city. Sun Peaks Resort is also nearby, with its great hiking and mountain biking in summer and skiing in winter. The beaches along the riverfront are a great place to go for a swim or head out of town to the nearby lakes.

Kamloops has also gotten into the craft beer scene lately, with five breweries and two taphouses in town. With its sunny climate, a weekend in Kamloops can be just what you need to escape the rains in Vancouver in spring and fall. 

Where to Stay in Kamloops

Fairfield Inn and Suites: I’ve stayed at this hotel a few times recently while visiting family. It’s a newer hotel so the rooms are really nice, but the prices are quite reasonable. Plus it includes breakfast. Check Rates.

Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel: This new hotel has a fabulous location right on the riverfront. Check rates.

The Okanagan

The Okanagan is a big region, stretching from Sicamous in the north to Osoyoos in the south. Several lakes run through the middle of the valley, perfect for boating and with great beaches. Explore some of the cute small towns like Vernon and Penticton or check out the many things to do in Kelowna.

The hot and dry climate is also ideal for orchards and vineyards. There are over 200 wineries to visit, but I like the smaller organic ones near Summerland, which are easy to visit by bike. Don’t miss everything apple at Davison Orchards – it’s one of the best things to do in Vernon.

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail runs through the Okanagan. It’s easy biking, especially on an e-bike, and has great views of the lakes and vineyards. My favourite sections are are in Penticton (there’s a tunnel!) and Vernon.

Where to Stay in the Okanagan

Penticton Lakeside Resort: Great rooms right on the lake in downtown Penticton. Walking distance to the beach, kayaking, farmer’s market, breweries, etc. Check Rates.

Predator Ridge Resort: This resort has a great ridge-top location with great hiking and mountain biking trails and restaurants on site. Check rates.

Hotel Zed: Like their sister location in Victoria, this budget motel in Kelowna has an incredible retro look. Check Rates.

Wells Gray Provincial Park

Wells Gray Provincial Park is located in British Columbia’s interior north of Kamloops near the town of Clearwater. It’s a huge park with giant lakes and lots of hiking trails. But it is famous for its waterfalls. There are 8 waterfalls easily accessible from the main park road, plus dozens more in the backcountry. Don’t miss 141m-high Helmcken Falls. It’s the 4th-tallest waterfall in Canada.

The park is in ranch country, so if you want to live like a cowboy, there are tons of lodges nearby where you can go horseback riding or have a cook-out. Wells Gray is definitely one of the best under-the-radar weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Wells Gray

Nakiska Ranch: This Western-style property has great cowboy vibes since it is located on a working ranch. Check Rates.

Across the Creek Cabins: These cute cabins are nestled in the forest inside the park. Book now

Revelstoke

Revelstoke is the ultimate Canadian small town: it has world-class mountain biking, incredible hiking, skiing, and paragliding from the highest launch in North America. I liked it so much I went two years in row. It also has one of my favourite things: hot springs! There are several hot springs a near town, including the gorgeous undeveloped Halfway River Hot Springs.

Revelstoke also has a surprisingly robust culinary scene for such a small town with a little farmers markets, great restaurants, micro-breweries, and not one but TWO distilleries! Check out my guides to things to do in Revelstoke, the best hikes in Revelstoke, and the best things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park to plan your trip. 

Where to Stay in Revelstoke

The Regent Hotel: We stayed at this somewhat upscale, family-run hotel on our first trip to Revelstoke. It was nice without being pretentious. Check Rates.

Boulder Mountain Resort: I spent two nights at these adorable cabins just outside of Revelstoke last summer. They even come with fleece robes! Check Rates.

Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham, Washington is more than a place to do some cross-border shopping or buy cheap groceries. It’s actually a cute college town on the ocean with a historic district called Fairhaven. Bellingham is also a craft beer haven with 16 micro-breweries, many of which are gastro-pubs as too.

One of the best things to do is cruise along Chuckanut Drive, a twisty road along the coast through the forest with some great views. There are also lots of hiking and mountain bike trails, quiet country roads for road biking, and kayaking in sheltered bays of Puget Sound.

Where to Stay in Bellingham, Washington

Hotel Leo: The rooms at this downtown hotel have really cool modern decor. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are lots of cute rentals in Bellingham and on Chuckanut Drive. This waterfront cottage has beach access. Check Rates.

Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Tucked into the north end of Puget Sound, the Deception Pass area is strikingly beautiful: tiny tree-covered islands, swirling currents, and sea cliffs. I love hiking in Deception Pass State Park or enjoying the view from the famous bridge.

Long and narrow Whidbey Island has lots of other pretty spots too including Ebey’s Landing, WWII era defences at Fort Ebey and Fort Casey, wineries, farmers markets, whale watching tours, and sleepy historic towns. 

Where to Stay in Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Captain Whidbey Inn: This historic house is now an amazing B&B right on the water near Coupeville. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are tons of vacation rentals on Whidbey Island. Lots of them are right on the water too. This beach house has a great view. Check Rates.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a gorgeous city, sitting between the waters of Puget Sound and the snowy peak of Mount Rainier. Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the world’s first Starbucks, and the Museum of Pop Culture are all must-sees. Lots of visitors on a weekend getaway from Vancouver take in Seahawks football game too.

To get a bit more off-the-beaten-path, I recommend the Underground Tour, where you’ll learn a bit about the city while walking through historic underground tunnels.

This is also a great car-free getaway. It’s easy to take the bus from Vancouver to Seattle, and once you’re there, you can walk or take public transit.

Where to stay in Seattle

Ace Hotel: This hipster spot is in Belltown, a trendy neighbourhood close to downtown. Check Rates.

Vacation Rentals: Seattle can be a pricey city, but you can usually find good deals on rental apartments. This cool loft is right downtown. Check Rates.

Book a Cozy Cabin

Spend the weekend chilling out in nature at a cozy cabin. There are tons of adorable cabin rentals near Vancouver. Wake up deep in the forest, high in a treehouse, right beside the ocean, or in a luxury glamping tent.

I’ve stayed in a bunch of beautiful cabins – check them out on my list of the best cabins near Vancouver.

Go Camping

One of the cheapest ways to go on a weekend getaway from Vancouver is to go camping. There are lots of amazing camping spots fairly close to town. You can camp on a lake, by the ocean, or in the mountains. However, camping is popular so make a reservation in advance to make sure you get a spot. Below are some of my suggestions for the best campgrounds near Vancouver.

I’ve got a whole post with a big list of over 40 places to go camping near Vancouver. It includes options in the Sea to Sky, Fraser Valley, near Hope, in Washington State, and reachable via a short ferry on the Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, and Vancouver Island.

Final Thoughts

With over 20 weekend trips from Vancouver on this list, I’m sure you’ll find one to add to your list. What is your favourite weekend getaway from Vancouver? Tell me in the comments.

More posts you’ll like:

• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds
• 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

The post 23 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve lived in the Vancouver area my whole life and have stayed at tons of cabins over the years. Here are my favourite cabin rentals for a weekend getaway from Vancouver. I’ve included options in the Sea to Sky, Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, Okanagan, and Interior. I’ve also got cabins in Washington state just over the border.

I’ve stayed at a bunch of these and the rest are definitely on my cabin vacation wish list!

Where do you want to go?

• Vancouver-area cabins
• Sea to Sky cabins
• Bowen Island and Sunshine Coast cabins
• Gulf Island cabins
• Vancouver Island cabins
• BC Interior and Okanagan cabins
• Washington cabins

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

Vancouver-Area Cabins

You don’t have to go far from the city to find adorable cabins near Vancouver. You can stay on the ocean, on a lake, on a river, or in a log cabin. Here are my picks for the best Vancouver cabins.

Sandpiper Resort, Harrison

The cabins at Sandpiper Resort have incredible hygge vibes. I stayed in one of their classic rustic cabins. It had a huge stone fireplace and an incredible view of the river. During my late November stay we watched hundreds of bald eagles feast on salmon in the river.

The resort also has some newer, more modern cabins. Some of them even have Japanese-style ofuro soaking tubs on the patio.

Check availability.

Sasquatch Mountain Log Cabin, Harrison

This gorgeous log cabin is located at Sasquatch Mountain Resort. It’s a great spot for a ski vacation in the winter, but in the summer you can go hiking, enjoy the views, or just chill out. There’s a big fireplace, lots of games, and a BBQ too.

Check availability

Cabin on the Mighty Fraser River, Hope

Find this rustic cabin on the banks of the Fraser River just north of Hope. It has great views of the surrounding mountains and the owners say it’s common to see wildlife on the banks of the river including bear, deer, eagles, and otters.

Check availability

More Vancouver Area Cabins

• Deep Cove Retreat: Sunny cottage with loft in North Vancouver’s Deep Cove neighbourhood.
• The Nest Tiny Home: Beautiful scandi-style tiny home on Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford.
• Bramblebank Cottages: Adorable cluster of cottages in Harrison Hot Springs.
• Camperland Bridal Falls Resort and Cabins: Cute cabins at the campground in Bridal Falls, between Chilliwack and Hope.
• Check out my guide to the best places to camp near Vancouver.

Sea to Sky Cabins

The Sea to Sky corridor is a great place for a weekend getaway – I liked it so much I moved to Squamish three years ago! There are lots of cabins in Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton to choose from. And the drive up there makes a great road trip from Vancouver. (Read my Sea to Sky Highway guide for full details.)

Here are my picks for the best Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton cabins:

Porteau Cove Olympic Cabins, Lions Bay

These adorable log cabins in Porteau Cove were built as a legacy project from the 2010 Olympics. They are located next to the ocean in Porteau Cove Provincial Park. It’s a great spot to soak in the ocean views from the beach during the day or star gaze at night.

Check availability

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins, Squamish

These charming cabins in the Brackendale neighbourhood of Squamish are super cozy with fireplaces and the sound of the rushing river right outside your door. My hometown of Squamish is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures and these cute cabins make a great base for hiking, biking, or snowshoeing adventures.

Bonus: Squamish’s best brunch spot, Fergie’s is also on site. This is definitely one of my favourite cabins near Vancouver and I have fond memories of a winter trip a few years before I moved to Squamish.

Check availability

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local)

READ NEXT: 70+ Things to do in Squamish (By a Local)

Riverside Resort, Whistler

Riverside Resort is one of the best places to camp in Whistler. But they also have adorable log cabins and cute little yurts. The yurts are nestled in the forest right next to the rushing waters of Fitzsimmons Creek. The resort is a right on the Valley Trail, a multi-use paved trail for biking or walking that leads everywhere in Whistler.

Check availability

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

More Sea to Sky Cabins

• West Coast Modern Cabin: Beautiful post and beam cabin with views in Britannia Beach.
• Waterfront Cottage: Three bedroom cabin on secluded Levette Lake near Squamish.
• Squamish Valley Cottage: Cute cottage on a private acreage near the Squamish River.
• Curtisy Cottage: Retro A-frame cabin near Alta Lake in Whistler.
• Check out my guides to the best places to camp near Squamish and the best places to camp near Whistler.

Bowen Island Cabins

Bowen Island is a short ferry ride away from West Vancouver, which makes it a perfect weekend cabin getaway. (Use my guide to find the best things to do on Bowen Island.) Here are my picks for the best cabins on Bowen Island:

• Evergreen Cottage: Two bedroom cabin with a view hat is walking distance from the ferry terminal.
• Hummingbird Hut: Adorable vaulted ceiling cabin with a wall of windows and nearby hiking.
• Woodlands Cabin: Cute and modern cabin with a fire table and big deck.

Sunshine Coast Cabins

The Sunshine Coast is easy to get to, but has a completely different feel than nearby Vancouver. With ocean views and a West Coast rainforest setting, staying in a cabin on the Sunshine Coast is the perfect way to spend a chill weekend. (Use my guide to find the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast).

Read on for my picks for the best cabins in the Gibsons, Sechelt, Halfmoon Bay, Pender Harbour, and Powell River areas.

Rockwater Secret Cove Cabins, Halfmoon Bay

Rockwater Secret Cove Oceanside Resort has rustic timber cabins and luxurious tent cabins linked by gorgeous wooden boardwalks through the forest. With a spa and fine dining restaurant on-site, it makes a great romantic getaway. (I should know: I got engaged there!)

Check availability

Moon Dance Cabin, Pender Harbour

The cute Moon Dance cabin is right on the water in the Madeira Park neighbourhood of Pender Harbour. The loft bedroom feels a bit like a treehouse, surrounded by forest. There’s a great soaker tub too. Enjoy great views from the deck or try out some of the nearby hikes.

Check availability

The Stonewater, Maderia Park

Tucked into the forest in the Maderia Park neighbourhood of the lower Sunshine Coast, The Stonewater has just added four adorable tiny-home style cabins to their resort. Each little A-frame has a cozy queen bed and skylights that are perfect for star gazing. They also have a spa on site with a cedar hot tub, barrel sauna, and cold plunge pool.

Check availability.

Backeddy Resort, Egmont

The Backeddy Resort is tucked away in the tiny village of Egmont, which is the starting point for the must-do hike to the rapids of Skookumchuck Narrows. The resort has a mix of accommodation options including waterfront cabins and bucketlist-worthy geodesic domes.

Check availability

Magical Dome, Lund

A stay at this unique dome house has been on my wish list for a long time. The Magical Dome in Lund is a rustic cedar dome-shaped house set in the rainforest near the Sunshine Coast Trail. The interior is full of quirky spaces, railings made of branches, and the cutest loft bedroom.

Check availability

More Sunshine Coast Cabins

• Halfmoon Haven: Beachfront cottage in Halfmoon Bay with lots of outdoor space.
• The Aerie: A modern treehouse in Halfmoon Bay with tons of windows and a hot tub.
• Frolander Bay Tiny Cottages: A cluster of tiny homes with a hot tub near the beach just outside Powell River.
• Rustic Cedar Cabin: Beautiful window-filled cedar planked cabin near Powell River.

Gulf Islands Cabins

The Gulf Islands are a handful of islands sprinkled in the Strait of Georgia between the mainland and Vancouver Island. Each has its own laid-back personality and they all make an ideal weekend getaway. With so many Gulf Islands cabins to choose from, it can be hard to pick.

But let me help you out – my favourite cabins on the Gulf Islands are below.

The Cottages on Salt Spring Island

These lakeside cottages are rustic yet luxe with cozy kitchens and big bathrooms. Each cottage has a patio with a great view of the lake. The Cottages on Salt Spring Island are just outside the town of Ganges, which makes it easy to head over to the farmers market, restaurants, and cute boutiques.

Check availability

Ocean View Cabin, Pender Island

Watch for whales from the deck of this ocean view cabin high on the cliffs above Swanson Channel on Pender Island. It has incredible views of the ocean, the mountains of Vancouver Island, and the ferries cruising past on their way to Victoria. There’s a hot tub too!

Check availability

More Gulf Islands Cabins

• Orchard Cabin: Quaint cottage with a loft near the town of Ganges on Saltspring Island.
• Cozy 2 Bedroom Cabin: Rustic cabin on North Pender Island near Gulf Islands National Park.

Vancouver Island Cabins

Vancouver Island is known around the world for its rugged beauty and gorgeous coastline. Head to the West Coast to stay in a cabin in Tofino or Ucluelet. Drive the Pacific Marine Circle Route to adorable cottages in Sooke or Port Renfrew. Or chill out at a resort cabin in Parksville with a spa on site. You’ll love each of my choices for the best cabins on Vancouver Island.

Owl’s Perch Treehouse, Sooke

This is one of the most unique cabins on Vancouver Island – it’s a treehouse! The cabin is attached to four huge trees! Sleeping in the cozy loft bedroom is like sleeping in the forest canopy. There is also a huge deck for relaxing and forest bathing without leaving the cabin.

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Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages, Port Renfrew

I stayed at the gorgeous Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages on my Pacific Marine Circle Route road trip. They are right on the water and have cozy fire pits that make a great place to relax after exploring nearby Avatar Grove – the old-growth cedars are giant! (The covered decks are great for rainy days.)

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Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort, Parksville

The cozy log cabins at Tigh-Na-Mara are set in a gorgeous forest a short walk from a beautiful sandy beach. The famous Grotto Spa is onsite for massages or a relaxing soak in the mineral pool. It’s easy to see why these are some of the most popular cabins on Vancouver Island.

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Peace Cabin, Ucluelet

Friends of mine own this Scandi-style cabin. It is nestled in the woods has seriously relaxing vibes. The window-filled space is tucked into the rainforest near Ucluelet, so it feels like you’re outside even when you’re inside.

Peace Cabin has everything you need to chill out: a full kitchen, board games, a BBQ, and a covered deck with an outdoor fireplace. But the town of Ucluelet and the trails of Pacific Rim National Park are just a few minutes away.

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Mackenzie Beach Resort, Tofino

I recently spent a long weekend staying in an adorable tiny house at Mackenzie Beach Resort in Tofino during a winter visit to Tofino – my fave time to go. The tiny house was cozy and had everything we needed. There was even a big patio with an outdoor shower, which I used after we went surfing.

They also have really cool restored vintage Airstream trailers you can stay in. The resort property was great with an on-site cafe. And it is right on Mackenzie Beach.

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Ocean Village, Tofino

Tofino is one of Canada’s best outdoor adventure small towns for surfing, beaches, hiking, and more. Ocean Village in Tofino is a group of charming beehive-shaped cabins right on Mackenzie Beach in Tofino. Built in 1976, this is Tofino’s original oceanfront resort.

The rustic cabins have modern upgrades but still have a retro vibe. They’re also committed to sustainability with on-demand hot water and recycling and composting programs. It’s a great place for a Vancouver Island cabin getaway.

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Brown’s Bay Resort, Campbell River

Brown’s Bay Resort is just north of Campbell River. It’s right on the water and has a mix of cabins, glamping tents, and campsites. It even has a floating restaurant. It’s a great location for fishing and the famous Ripple Rock hike is a few minutes away.

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More Vancouver Island Cabins

• Lakefront Cabin: Huge A-frame with tons of windows and beachfront on Lake Cowichan.
• 100-Year-Old Farm Cottage: Adorable vintage cottage near the beach near Nanaimo.
• The Cabins at Terrace Beach: Gorgeous high-end cabins in Ucluelet.
• Tofino Surf Cabin: Cute cabin with a surf theme tucked into the old growth forest.

Interior and Okanagan Cabins

BC’s Interior has many different sides. Book a cabin in the Okanagan wine country to enjoy vineyard views and lakes. Or head to a cabin Wells Gray Park or Manning Park for great hiking or snowshoeing. Mountain bikers, skiers, and hikers should book a cabin in Revelstoke – it’s my favourite BC mountain town. Here are my picks for the best cabins in the Okanagan and BC’s Interior.

Manning Park Resort, Manning Park

In the summer, hike right from your front door. When the snow falls, snowshoe or cross-country ski next to the cabin. Manning Park is a short drive from Vancouver and the Manning Park Resort has lots of cute cabins.

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Utopia Feels Botanical Glampground, Vernon

Located just outside Vernon, Utopia Feels Botanical Glampground is an incredible escape. Sleep in a luxurious glamping tent on the grounds of a sustainable micro-farm that includes lots of mature trees and farm animals.

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READ NEXT: 30+ Things to Do in Vernon, BC

Tin Poppy Cabin, Salmon Arm

Get off the grid at the Tin Poppy Cabin in the Larch Hills outside of Salmon Arm. The cabin is actually a converted travel trailer decked out in retro style and fueled by solar power. Enjoy the views from the huge screened-in porch or go mountain biking or fishing nearby.

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Cedar Haven Resort, Wells Gray Provincial Park

Stay in a cozy log cabin or a luxe glamping tent at the Cedar Haven Resort in Clearwater, BC. It’s right next to Wells Gray Provincial Park, home to some of BC’s tallest waterfalls.

If you’re into the cowboy thing, there are also several dude ranches nearby. After a day of activities, relax in the sauna or roast marshmallows around the campfire.

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Boulder Mountain Resort, Revelstoke

I stayed in an adorable cabin at Boulder Mountain Resort for a couple of nights on my most recent trip to Revelstoke, one of the best small towns in Canada. The cabins feel like a cozy wood tiny house… without the tiny. There’s a king bed, a big couch, a huge walk-in shower, and a well-stocked kitchen. There were even cute checkered bathrobes.

It’s a great place to base yourself for hikes near Revelstoke or a visit to Mount Revelstoke National Park. They have glamping tents too!

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More Okanagan and BC Interior Cabins

• Sunshine Valley Resort and Cabins: Cute mini cabins at a campground near Manning Park.
• Mid-Century Waterfront Rancher: Cute retro cottage right on the lake is Osoyoos.
• Shuswap Sky Dome: Unique geodesic dome and wood-fired hot tub with views of Shuswap Lake.

Washington Cabins

If you have a passport, Washington state is a great getaway from Vancouver. And there are lots of cute cabins in northern Washington to explore.

Gingerbread Cottage, Point Roberts

Point Roberts is a geographic anomaly – a peninsula-shaped piece of Washington State that you can only access from British Columbia. The quite border in Tsawwassen makes crossing a breeze.

Stay in this adorable Gingerbread Cottage tucked into the cedar forest. It has a solarium and a great deck. The cottage is located next to a park and a short walk from the beach and shops.

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Oceanfront A-Frame, Birch Bay

Located just across the border, Birch Bay is a great place to find cabins near Vancouver. The oceanfront A-frame has cute modern decor and incredible beach views. The loft bedroom is accessed via a fun spiral staircase.

Outside you’ll find a fire pit, grill and 400 square foot deck. Stairs lead down the bank to the beach.

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Charming Cedar Chalet, Mount Baker

The Mount Baker ski area is a short drive from Vancouver. It’s a great year-round destination with fabulous skiing and snowshoeing in winter and hiking in the summer.

You’ll find lots of cabins clustered in the nearby communities of Glacier, Warnick and Maple Falls. The Charming Cedar Chalet is an adorable shingled cabin with a sleeping loft, woodstove, and private hot tub.

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Oceanfront Cabin, Whitbey Island

Whitbey Island is one of my favourite places in Washington. I love the little towns, quiet coastline, and the drama of Deception Pass State Park.

Stay at this oceanfront cabin in Penn Cove near the town of Coupeville. It has a huge sun-drenched deck, a quiet beach location, and a retro wood paneled interior.

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More Washington Cabins

• Heron House: Three bedroom waterfront cottage on Penn Cove near Coupeville on Whidbey Island.
• Camano Cabin: Enjoy mountain and water views from this cabin on Camano Island near Mount Vernon.
• The Treehouse: Cabin perched in the forest near Lake Whatcom outside of Bellingham.

With over 60 tiny houses, glamping tents, and cottages on this list, I bet you’ll find your perfect cabin rental near Vancouver. How many of these cozy British Columbia and Washington cabins are going on your wish list? Tell me in the comments.

Read Next:

• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada

The post 60 Cozy Cabins Near Vancouver for a Weekend Getaway 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.

The Sea to Sky Highway is a gorgeous drive along the side of Howe Sound, an ocean fjord, and then up into the snowy mountains to the Whistler ski village. Along the way you’ll pass through the town of Squamish (where I live), one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures and home to world class hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.

Instead of just speeding through all the way to Whistler, take a little longer and get out of your car. There are so many amazing places to stop including viewpoints, waterfalls, hikes, swimming, picnic spots and museums.

In this guide I’ll give you directions to all my favourite places along the Sea to Sky Highway, plus include tips for driving and recommendations for where to eat and stay.

This post includes:

• Sea to Sky Highway driving directions
• Sea to Sky Highway map including locations of all the places I recommend to stop
• How long it takes to drive the Sea to Sky Highway
• Sea to Sky Highway road conditions and driving tips
• How to take a Sea to Sky Highway road trip without a car – shuttle bus services, tours, and more
• The best places to stop on the Sea to Sky Highway – 20 of my favourite places to stop
• My favourite places to eat and drink on the Sea to Sky Highway
• Where to stay along the Sea to Sky Highway: hotels, cabins, hostels, and more
• Sea to Sky Highway FAQ: all your Sea to Sky road trip questions answered

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

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.

Sea to Sky Highway Driving Directions

Total Distance: About 120km from Vancouver to Whistler

The Sea to Sky highway (also known as Highway 99) runs from West Vancouver to Whistler, passing Squamish about half way between the two. It also extends past Whistler to the towns of Pemberton and Mount Currie before ending at Lillooet. 

To get to the Sea to Sky Highway, take the Lions Gate bridge from Vancouver. Once over the bridge, follow the signs left for Highway 99 and Whistler. Turn right onto Taylor Way, continuing to follow the signs. Go up the hill on Taylor Way. Then go under the highway and turn left to merge on to the highway.

At this point you are on a highway that is both Highway 1 and Highway 99. Continue for about 10km. Watch for the signs for Whistler where the highway splits. Stay in the left lane to continue onto Highway 99 (the Sea to Sky Highway). Continue following the Sea to Sky Highway for another 100 kilometres to Whistler. You stay on the same highway the whole time so it’s easy to follow.

Click here for Google maps driving directions.

Sea to Sky Highway Map

I’ve made a custom clickable map of the Sea to Sky Highway for you showing all my recommended stops including places to eat and sleep. 

Sea to Sky Highway Driving Times 

Driving Time: Minimum 2 hours

If traffic is light and the weather is good, you can drive the entire Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler in about 2 hours. However, if you want to make a lot of stops, allow a full day. If you want to make any longer stops, I’d recommend splitting the trip up over 2 or 3 days.

Sea to Sky Highway Road Conditions and Driving Tips

Best time to drive the Sea to Sky Highway: June-September

You can drive the Sea to Sky Highway all year, but the best time to go is from June to September when the snow has melted and the hiking trails are accessible. The most popular time is July and August on the weekend. If possible, try to go mid-week.

The Sea to Sky Highway was upgraded for the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, so it’s in much better shape than it was before. However, it is still narrow in a few places and very winding, especially south of Squamish. Accidents are common so take your time and go slow (even if the locals are speeding). 

The weather can also be a huge factor when you drive from Vancouver to Whistler. There can be lots of snow in the winter. Heavy rain and fog can make the drive treacherous any time of the year. You can check conditions before you go on the highway webcams.

From October 1st to March 31st you must have winter tires on your car to drive the Sea to Sky highway. If you don’t, you could be fined. 

There are lots of gas stations, restaurants and shops in Squamish, but there are few services along the rest of the drive.

The Sea to Sky Highway is in the ancestral territory of the Squamish (Skwxwú7mesh) and Lil’wat First Nations. Along the way there are interpretive signs in kiosks in the shape of traditional cedar bark hats. If you want to learn more about First Nations culture and history, be sure to stop when you see one.

The highway can be busy with a mix of tourists who want to go slow to enjoy the view and locals who are in a hurry to get home. Be a courteous driver and stay out of the left lane, except to pass.

It’s easy to rent a car in Vancouver or at the Vancouver International Airport (YVR). I use Discover Cars since they let you compare prices between tons of different rental companies.

Experiencing the Sea to Sky Highway Without a Car

If you don’t want to drive yourself, you have a few options for experiencing the Sea to Sky Highway.

Sea to Sky Shuttle Bus Services

There are several bus services that go from Vancouver to Squamish and Whistler. These services are intended to get you to your destination. They don’t stop at any attractions. However, you will still get great views out the window.

For the best views, sit on the left side of the bus on the way to Whistler and the right on the way back.

Local companies currently offering shuttle services include:

• YVR Skylynx (Vancouver airport, downtown Vancouver, Squamish, and Whistler)
• Epic Rides (Downtown Vancouver, Whistler)
• Whistler Shuttle (Vancouver airport, Whistler)
• Squamish Connector (Downtown Vancouver, West Vancouver, Squamish)

Sea to Sky Tours

Several companies offer Sea to Sky bus and small group van tours.

A popular option is a 10-hour Sea to Sky small van tour that goes from Vancouver to Whistler and back, stopping at popular spots like Shannon Falls and Porteau Cove along the way. Check prices.

If you want to include the Sea to to Sky Gondola, book a Sea to Sky Gondola and Whistler day trip. The tour includes stops at Shannon Falls, the Sea to Sky Gondola, and Whistler. Check prices.

Taxis, Limos, and Private Transfers

You can also take a taxi, limousine or private transfer from Vancouver to Whistler. Prices vary depending on what you book and how many stops you want to make.

Some Vancouver taxi companies will pick you up at the airport or downtown and take you to Whistler. However, it’s fairly expensive (about $350 one way) and the driver won’t want to make any stops since they will be in a hurry to get back to Vancouver to get their next customer.

If you want to customize your itinerary or are travelling with a group, a private transfer in a limo or van makes the most sense. With vehicles ranging from town cars to luxe mini buses, they can come up with a quote and itinerary that works for your group. Check prices.

Places to Stop on the Sea to Sky Highway

Whytecliff Park

This beautiful park is nestled into a pocket cove surrounded by fancy West Vancouver mansions. Head down to the beach for great views of Howe Sound and the nearby Sunshine Coast. Or explore the trails to various bluff-top viewpoints.

At low tide you can scramble across the rocks out to Whyte Islet, the rocky island just offshore. 

Getting there: 7102 Marine Dr, West Vancouver. From the highway, take exit 2 for Eagleridge Drive. Go right at the round about and continue past the the ticket booths for the ferry terminal. Turn left onto Marine Drive.

At next two roundabouts, go straight to continue on Marine Drive. Stay on Marine Drive as it winds through the neighbourhood and ends at the Whytecliff parking lot. Click here for Google maps driving directions.

Lions Bay

The tiny village of Lions Bay (population 1300) is perched on the side of the steep mountainside. If you need a snack, there is a small general store and cafe accessed via the Lions Bay Avenue exit. There are also several small beaches (Lions Bay Beach, Kelvin Grove Beach), but parking is quite limited.

One of the main reasons to visit Lions Bay is the hiking trails. Challenging routes lead high into the mountains to the summits of iconic peaks like the Lions (for which the town is named). An easier and equally picturesque option is the 4 hour hike to Tunnel Bluffs, which has an incredible view.

READ NEXT: My guide to the Tunnel Bluffs Hike in Lions Bay

Porteau Cove

This small provincial park is wedged between the Sea to Sky Highway, a rail line and the deep waters of Howe Sound. The day use area is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. Be sure to take a walk out on the pier for great views of the surrounding mountains.

Fun fact: The pier actually doubles as an emergency ferry terminal in case parts of the Sea to Sky Highway are impassable. However, it’s never actually been used for that purpose.

Getting There: Turn left at the sign for Porteau Cove Provincial Park. Click here for google maps driving directions.

More info: Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Psst! Porteau Cove Provincial Park is on my list of the best places to camp near Vancouver and the best places to camp near Squamish.

Britannia Mine Museum

This little village of Britannia Beach used to be home to the largest copper mine in the British Commonwealth. These days the mine is a museum and the village is exploding with new condo developments.

The museum is pretty cool. They have lots of old hulking machinery on display, including a GIANT truck. But I found the historical displays the most interesting. They explain the history of the village and what it was like for the miners and their families who lived there. In the mine’s heyday, there was no road to Britannia so it was a pretty isolated spot.

The highlight of the museum is the underground mine tour. You get to ride on an old mine train, wear a hardhat and experience what it was actually like to mine for copper. (Hint: It was LOUD!) 

They also have a new multimedia show called BOOM! that provides a behind the scenes look at what the giant mill building looked, sounded, and smelled like when it was operational. I sometimes find shows like this to be a little cheesy, but this one was really well done.

Getting There: 1 Forbes Way, Britannia Beach. Turn right off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Copper Drive at the traffic light in Britannia Beach. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Britannia Mine Museum

Detour: If you’re hungry, don’t miss Mountain Woman Take-Out. This tiny old-school shack of a restaurant in Britannia Beach has great fish and chips. If you’re looking for something a bit more hip, check out Outbound Station, also in Britannia Beach. They have great burgers and coffee.

Murrin Provincial Park

On summer weekends you’ll be lucky to get a spot in the parking lot at Murrin Provincial Park. That’s because tiny Browning Lake is a super popular swimming spot with warm water and a nice sandy beach. It’s a nice spot for a picnic any time of year too. Keep an eye out for rock climbers on the nearby cliffs.

If you are adventurous, there is also a fun hike up onto the bluffs with incredible views. However, it involves a bit of scrambling so it’s best for experienced hikers.

Getting There: Turn left at the flashing yellow light and signs for Murrin Provincial Park. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Murrin Provincial Park

Nch’kay Viewpoint

As you round the corner into Squamish, you’ll see a pull out on the left. This is the Nch’kay viewpoint. From here you get a great view of Mount Garibaldi, known as Nch’kay in the Indigenous Skwxwu7mesh language.

Mount Garibaldi is a huge dormant volcano that towers over the town. If the weather is clear, pull over here for a quick photo op of Nch’kay and the town of Squamish.

Getting there: Turn left into the pullout about 1.5km after Murrin Park.

Shannon Falls

At 335m tall, Shannon Falls is the 3rd highest waterfall in BC. It’s a short 5 minute hike to the falls. Be sure to check out both the upper and lower viewing platforms to see the falls from different vantage points.

Getting there: Turn right at the Darrell Bay Road traffic light and follow the park road into the parking lot. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Shannon Falls Provincial Park, my guide to Vancouver area waterfall hikes

Sea to Sky Gondola

Opened in 2014, the Sea to Sky gondola is one of best attractions in between Vancouver and Whistler. I have an annual pass and head up there every few months.

The gondola carries passengers from the side of the highway, up past granite cliffs to a lodge perched high above Howe Sound. It’s an easy way to get up into the mountains without a breaking a sweat. (Although it will give your wallet a minor workout.) 

If you want to save some money, you can also hike up to the top via the challenging Sea to Summit Trail. It climbs 900m over 7km and will take most people about 3.5 hours. If you want, you can take the gondola down for a fraction of the price it costs to go up.

Once you arrive at the top, be sure to check out the viewing platforms and suspension bridge near the lodge. For more epic views, walk the Panorama Trail. It’s mostly flat and quite easy and at only 1.6km long, it’s short enough for almost everyone.

If you are up for a longer hike, Al’s Habrich Trail made my list as one of the best hikes near Vancouver. In the winter, the Sea to Sky Gondola also has some of the best snowshoeing trails in Squamish.

If you get hungry, the lodge has a small cafe. Grab a bowl of poutine and a beer, then sit out on the patio in the sunshine and enjoy the views.

Tip: Save time by buying your Sea to Sky Gondola tickets ahead of time.

Getting there: 36800 Highway 99, Squamish, BC. Watch for the entrance on the right hand side of the Sea to Sky highway just after the Darrell Bay Road traffic light. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Sea to Sky Gondola 

Stawamus Chief

The Stawamus Chief is a huge granite dome that towers over the town of Squamish. The Sea to Sky highway passes right beneath the base. The Chief is 700m tall and is one of the largest granite monoliths in the world.

If you just want to pull over for a quick look, the best place is the roadside parking lot just after the pedestrian overpass. See if you can spot rock climbers high above you! If you want to try it out, you can go on a guided rock climbing trip that’s geared for beginners.

However, you don’t need a rope and harness to get to the top. There’s a steep hike up the backside of the Stawamus Chief that takes you all the way to the top of the cliffs. Be careful as there are no railings and it’s a LONG way down! This is a popular hike and is one of Vancouver’s most Instagrammed hikes.

Getting there: For the best view, turn right off the Sea to Sky highway into the parking lot next to the highway just past the pedestrian overpass. (This isn’t the main parking lot.) Click here for Google maps driving directions.

More info: Stawamus Chief Provincial Park

Downtown Squamish

Be sure to turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway to explore downtown Squamish along Cleveland Avenue. As a local, my favourites are Billie’s House for house plants and home goods, Empire of Dirt for gifts and housewares, Lucas Tea, and Xocolat chocolates.

If you are driving the Sea to Sky Highway on a Saturday in the spring, summer, or fall, be sure to stop in at the Farmer’s Market for local produce, baked goods, crafts, and live music.

Getting There: Turn left at Cleveland Avenue and follow it a few blocks into downtown Squamish. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Squamish Farmer’s Market

Psst! Looking for even more things to do in Squamish? Check out my Squamish activities guide – it has over 70 ideas.

Railway Museum of British Columbia

I’m not into trains, so I have to be honest and say I’ve never been here. However, my nephew loves it and has been several times. The Railway Museum of British Columbia has all kinds of vintage train cars, engines, and parts (over 90 of them!) Some of them are over 100 years old.

They also have a miniature railway that is popular with kids. At Christmas they have a special Polar Express Event. There’s also a Thomas the Tank Engine event in the spring.

Getting There: 39645 Government Rd, Squamish, BC. Turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Commercial Way. Go straight through the roundabout, then turn right on Queens Way. Follow Queens Way as it curves around to the left and becomes Government Road. Cross the railway tracks and find the entrance to the West Coast Railway Heritage Park on your right. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Hours: The museum is only open on Saturdays in the summer. The rest of the year they are open for special events like the Polar Express and Thomas the Tank Engine.

More Info: Railway Museum of British Columbia

Squamish Estuary and Spit

For the best view of the Stawamus Chief, head to the Squamish Estuary and Spit. This finger of land sticks out into Howe Sound at the mouth of the Squamish River. There are several short, flat trails where you can spot birds and other wildlife.

But for the best views, head out to the end of the spit. Squamish means Mother of the Wind, and the spit is the windiest place in Squamish. There are usually lots of kitesurfers and windsurfers playing in the waves just offshore.

Getting There: Turn left on Commercial Way. Go straight through the roundabout, then turn right onto Queen’s Way. Follow this road as it curves around to the left and becomes Government Road. Cross the train tracks and keep going on Government.

Look for Spit Road on your right. It’s gravel, and can be very bumpy, but it’s fine for 2WD vehicles if you go slow. Follow Spit Road to a T-junction and turn left. Keep going to the end of the road. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Brackendale Eagle Viewing

Squamish has more eagles than anywhere else in the world, usually around 1,300 every year. Many eagles migrate to Squamish in the fall to feed on spawning salmon, then stay for the winter. Head to the dykes along the Squamish River in the Brackendale neighbourhood to see them.

From November until January there are volunteers along the dyke on weekends with telescopes to help you get a better look. You can also bring your own binoculars of course!

Another great way to see the eagles is on a floating raft tour. I did this eagle float tour a few years ago and had a great time. 

Getting There: Turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Garibaldi Way. Turn right at Government Road and follow it as it approaches the river. Park in the gravel parking lot on the right just before the Watershed Grill or on the shoulder. Cross the road and follow the path to the top of the dyke. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Alice Lake Provincial Park

Alice Lake has a popular campground and picnic area that makes a great place for break when driving to Whistler. You can go for a swim in the lake or rent a paddleboard or kayak. It’s also a great place to swim on a hot day.

There’s also an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails. If you’re looking for an easy hike, I like the Four Lakes Trail. It’s mostly flat and only takes 2 hours to complete. Details are in my guide to hiking in Squamish.

Getting There: Turn right off the Sea to Sky Highway at the flashing yellow light at Alice Lake Road. Follow the road into the park. On busy summer weekends when the parking lot fills up park rangers may close the entrance gate. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Alice Lake Provincial Park 

Psst! Alice Lake Provincial Park is on my list of the best places to camp near Vancouver and the best places to camp near Squamish.

Cat Lake

This small lake 15 minutes north of Squamish gets fairly warm in the summer. It also has several docks you can jump off. The lake is surrounded by walk-in campsites. It’s a popular spot for partiers on the weekend, but during the week you can have it mostly to yourself.

Getting There: Turn right off the Sea to Sky Highway onto the Cheekeye Forest Service Road about 3 minutes after you pass the turn off to Alice Lake. Follow the gravel road about 2.5km to the parking lot. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Cat Lake Recreation Site

Brohm Lake

From the highway Brohm Lake looks pretty marshy. However, if you head around the corner you’ll discover a pretty little lake surrounded by forest and granite bluffs. There’s a trail around the lake so you can stake out your own lakeside spot.

There is also a great network of hiking trails that lead to several viewpoints. Get more details in my guide to the best hikes in Squamish.

Locals love to swing into the water from the rope swing or jump off the short cliffs. The parking lot is small so go early on summer weekends to get a spot.

Getting There: Turn left off the Sea to Sky highway at the sign for Brohm Lake. There’s a small left-hand turn lane. It’s just past the turn off for Cat Lake. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: My guide to Brohm Lake trails

Tantalus Lookout

The snow-capped mountains on the west side of the Squamish River are called the Tantalus Range. There are no roads and just a few trails that access the jagged peaks. But you can get a great view just by pulling off the road. 

Getting There: Turn right off the highway at the viewpoint sign. It’s about 2.5km past the Brohm Lake turnoff. Follow the road uphill for a few meters to a parking lot on the left. Click here for Google Maps driving directions. (Use these if you are going northbound.)

There’s actually an even better view, but you can only access it when you are driving southbound from Whistler to Vancouver. Look for it on the west side of the highway. (You can’t turn left going northbound so save it for the drive home.) Click here for Google Maps driving directions. (Use these if you are going southbound.)

Garibaldi Lake

Heads up: Day passes are required at Garibaldi Provincial Park in summer 2023. Learn more in my guide to BC Parks day passes.

The hike to Garibaldi Lake is one of the most popular (and most beautiful) hikes in BC. It’s a long hike so allow a full day to get there. It is 18km return with 800m of elevation gain and will take at least 5 hours. Make sure to leave enough time at the top to take photos or even go for a dip in the freezing cold glacial lake.

If you’re really keen, you can add on the hike to Panorama Ridge. The views are great but it will add another 12km, 700m and 6 hours to your hike. You can also camp overnight.

(FYI: Garibaldi Lake is on my list of the 10 best hikes near Vancouver, so if you’re a hiker, you shouldn’t miss it.)

Getting there: Watch for the sign for Garibaldi Provincial Park, then turn right on Daisy Lake Road just after going over a bridge. The trailhead is 2.5km down the road from the Sea to Sky Highway. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More Info: Garibaldi Provincial Park

Brandywine Falls

The 70m tall Brandywine Falls are pretty spectacular since they have carved a huge canyon into lava columns. The waterfall is one of the Sea to Sky Highway’s best known attractions. It’s a short half-kilometre hike to the viewing platforms.

There’s a steep and dangerous trail down to the bottom of the falls, but it’s officially out of bounds so I don’t recommend it.

If you visit in the winter, the trails around Brandywine Falls are also one of the best places near Squamish to go snowshoeing.

Getting there: Turn right off the highway at the sign for Brandywine Falls. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: My Brandywine Falls hiking guide

Alexander Falls

It’s a bit off the beaten track, so Alexander Falls doesn’t get as much buzz as Brandywine Falls or Shannon Falls. But I’d argue that it is equally impressive. It’s 43m tall and drops down over several tiers. You can drive right up to the viewing platform.

Getting there: Watch for the sign for Whistler Olympic Park, and turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Callaghan Road. Follow the road for about 10 minutes. Look for the Alexander Falls Recreation Site sign on the left and turn into the gravel parking lot. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Whistler Olympic Park

During the 2010 Olympics and Paralympics, the nordic skiing, biathlon and ski jump events were held at Whistler Olympic Park in the Callaghan Valley. In the winter you can cross country ski or snowshoe here. (Checkout my guide to snowshoe trails.)

The trails are open in the summer too, including hiking up the ski jump. You can also sign up for biathlon lessons and shoot on the same course as the Olympians! There’s a small fee to get in.

It’s also worth a drive up this road as its one of the best places in the Sea to Sky corridor to see bears. If you see a bear, stay in your car and take photos from a distance. Never, ever feed a bear! Read more about bear safety. 

Getting there: 5 Callaghan Rd, Whistler, BC. Watch for the sign for Whistler Olympic Park, and turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Callaghan Road. Follow the road for about 15 minutes to the lodge, passing Alexander Falls along the way. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Whistler Olympic Park

Whistler Bungee

I’m a chicken and have never bungee jumped. (And I likely never will unless someone is paying me to do it!)  But if bungee jumping is on your bucket list, you can do it in Whistler.

You’ll plummet 50 metres (160 feet) off a narrow bridge into the Cheakamus River canyon. The river is glacially fed so it’s a beautiful bright blue colour. Even if you don’t jump, it’s worth a detour to see the canyon. If you’re up for a slightly longer hike, you can also get to Brandywine Falls from here.

Getting there: Calcheak Forest Service Rd, Whistler, BC. Just after the turn-off to Whistler Olympic Park, turn right off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Cal-Cheak Forest Service Road. You’ll cross train tracks right away and then the road turns to gravel. Follow the road for about 7 minutes to the bungee bridge. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

More info: Whistler Bungee

Whistler

From skiing to mountain biking, to hiking, to food, Whistler has something for everyone. I’ve got a huge list of the best things to do in Whistler.

Best Places to Eat and Drink on the Sea to Sky Highway

As a Squamish local, I’ve eaten at pretty much every restaurant along the Sea to Sky Highway. Here are my favourites.

Taka Ramen & Sushi

The BEST Japanese food in the Sea to Sky area. Top notch sushi, delicious ramen, and great staff. The only downside is that they don’t take reservations, so you often have to wait for a table.

Getting There: 38065 Cleveland Avenue, Squamish. From Highway 99, turn left onto Cleveland Avenue and follow it for a few blocks. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Fox & Oak

This is my favourite spot in Squamish for coffee and a sweet treat. The interior is gorgeous with sleek wood, tile, and lots of plants They have under cover outdoor seating too. Their coffee is great, but the real reason to visit is their artisanal doughnuts.

They have cake doughnuts, brioche doughnuts, and vegan doughnuts in classic flavours like chocolate glaze and more experimental flavours like Earl Grey tea. I always get the mango passion fruit.

Getting there: 1396 Main Street, Squamish. From Highway 99, turn left on Cleveland and follow it for a few blocks to the intersection with Main Street. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Zephyr Cafe

Want a healthy meal in Squamish? Head to Zephyr Cafe downtown. They serve breakfast and lunch, including lots of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. I usually get the qunioa bowl with their delicious sesame dressing.

Getting there: 8084 Cleveland Ave, Squamish. Turn left off Highway 99 onto Cleveland Avenue. Zephyr Cafe is on the left hand side about half a block past Winnipeg Street. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Luz Tacos at Geo Cider

Squamish has several great places to get Mexican food, but I think Luz tacos is by far the best. Their burritos are huge and oh so good. They are located inside Geo Cider, so you can get your food to go or enjoy it along with their tasty cider.

Getting there: 1201 Commercial Way, Squamish. From Highway 99, turn left on Industrial Way. Go right at the T-junction on to Queens’s Way, then turn right at the first driveway into the parking lot. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Watershed Grill

The Watershed Grill in Brackendale is one of my favourite places to eat in Squamish. It’s right on the banks of the river, so the patio has a great view. They have tasty pub-style food. It’s a locals hangout so expect crowds on nights when there’s hockey on TV.

Getting There: 41101 Government Rd, Brackendale. Turn left off the Sea to Sky Highway onto Garibaldi Way. Turn right at Government Road and follow it as it approaches the river. Look for a gravel parking lot on the right just after a cross walk. Park here and cross the road. The restaurant is just ahead behind the trees. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Fergie’s Cafe

Fergie’s Cafe has some of the best food in Squamish. In fact, I think they have the best eggs Benedict I’ve ever had! This small restaurant is attached to the Sunwolf resort. They moved into a new building a few years ago with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating. They’re just open for breakfast and brunch. Go early (especially on wekends) to get a table as they don’t take reservations.

Getting There: 70002 Squamish Valley Rd, Brackendale. Turn left off the highway at the flashing yellow light onto Squamish Valley Road. Look for the entrance to Fergie’s on the right hand side just before going over a bridge. Click here for Google Maps driving directions.

Where to Stay Along the Sea to Sky Highway

If you really want to make the most out of your Sea to Sky Highway road trip, you should break it up over a few days and stay overnight.

The easiest place to base yourself is in Squamish where there are lots of options from cabins to hotels to hostels. (In fact, Squamish made my list of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver.)

I’ve got a whole guide to the best hotels in Squamish that you should check out. It’s got details on the best places for families, groups, those on a budget, and more.

Camping

For a complete list of campgrounds on the Sea to Sky Highway, check out my guides to camping in Squamish and camping in Whistler.

Some campgrounds require advance reservations while others are first-come, first served. Plan ahead on summer weekends as it can get REALLY busy.

Boutique Hotel: Howe Sound Inn

The Howe Sound Brewing Company also has their own boutique hotel, the Howe Sound Inn. It’s right in the heart of Squamish so you can walk to shops and cafes. And if it’s raining, you don’t even have to go outside – just go downstairs to the brew pub! Check rates. 

Hotel Suites: Executive Suites Hotel

Every room at the condo-style Executive Suites Hotel has a kitchen, which is great if you want more space or prefer to cook for yourself. It’s also one of the more upscale hotels in town. It’s located north of downtown Squamish, but there is a restaurant on site and lots of hiking trails nearby. Check rates.

Cabins: Sunwolf

I stayed at the Sunwolf cabins a few years ago. It’s an old fishing lodge right next to the Cheakamus River in Brackendale. The cozy wooden cabins have river views and fireplaces, but no TVs – just what you need for a wilderness getaway. Plus its on the same property as Fergie’s! Check rates.

(Want even more cabin options? Check out my list of the best cozy cabins near Vancouver.)

Hostel: Squamish Adventure Inn & Hostel

The Squamish Adventure Inn has both dorms and private rooms, a kitchen, and patios. It’s located just off the highway next to the river. If you’ve had enough driving, it’s within walking distance to bike trails, hiking, rock climbing, restaurants and groceries. My sister stayed here for the weekend and says it’s a great place to meet other travellers to go hiking or exploring. Check rates. 

Sea to Sky Highway FAQ

With all that info, you should be ready to head out on your own Sea to Sky Highway road trip. What’s your favourite spot to stop between Vancouver and Whistler? Do you have questions about driving the Sea to Sky highway? Let me know in the comments.

More Whistler posts:

• The Best Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)
• 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
• Camping in Whistler
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler

More Squamish posts:

• 70+ Things to do in Squamish (By a Local)
• 10 Best Hotels in Squamish
• Camping in Squamish
• Where to Go Snowshoeing in Squamish

More Vancouver posts:

• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds

The post Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Many people head to Strahan to take the famous Gordon River cruise to the convict site on Sarah Island or ride the West Coast Wilderness Railway, but there is so much more to see in the area. 

I spent three days in Strahan and I’ve also done a few other road trips along Tasmania’s West Coast. It’s a beautiful area and sooo much quieter than the bustling tourist sites on the East Coast.

If you want to get it away from it all and experience Tasmania’s wilderness, Strahan and the West Coast are the places to do it. I’ve put together a complete list of everything you need to know to visit Strahan and Tasmania’s West Coast.

This guide includes:

• Strahan basics: history, Indigneous context, weather, mobile phone coverage and more
• How to get to Strahan: driving, public transport, and tours
• Map of Strahan and the West Coast: Includes every spot in this guide
• All the best things to do in Strahan
• Things to do on Tasmania’s West Coast including Queenstown
• Info on Strahan accommodation
• Where to eat and buy groceries in Strahan

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 extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Strahan, Tasmania Basics

Pronunciation: Until a local corrected me, I was saying it wrong. Oops. It’s pronounced “strawn”. 

Highlights: Visit the convict heritage sites on Sarah Island in Macquarie Harbour, cruise the Gordon River, experience the rainforest on a bushwalk or scenic train ride, and explore wilderness beaches. 

Indigenous Context: Traditionally, the Lowreenne and Mimegin bands of the Toogee tribe lived in the Macquarie Harbour area along with seasonal visitors from other West Coast tribes. Like Indigenous people in the rest of Tasmania, they were systemically massacred. Sadly, I couldn’t find acknowledgment of Indigenous history at most tourist attractions in the area. 

History: The first colonial settlement in the Strahan area was the penal station on Sarah Island in Macquarie Harbour. The Sarah Island prison held the worst offenders in Tasmania and was notorious for its harsh conditions. The convicts harvested huon pine from the nearby forest and built ships.

The penal colony closed in 1833 and in the following years the timber industry expanded, mines opened, and commercial fishing began. Strahan was founded as a harbour town to service the mines. Today, most of the industry has scaled back and Strahan is primarily a tourist town.

Location: Strahan is located in the middle of Tasmania’s West Coast. The town sits on Macquarie Harbour, a huge natural inlet that is larger than Sydney Harbour. The towns of Queenstown, Rosebery, Tullah, and Zeehan are 45 minutes to an hour away inland. 

How Long to Spend in Strahan and the West Coast: You’ll want to spend at least two days in the area to see the highlights. 

Best Time to Go to Strahan: The summer months of November through February are the driest and warmest, and therefore the best time to visit Strahan. 

Strahan Weather: Tasmania’s West Coast is directly in the path of the Roaring 40s winds so it has some of the roughest weather in the state. In the summer temperatures range from lows of 8-11C to highs of 18-21C. While the summer months are drier than the rest of the year, the West Coast is still the wettest part of Tasmania. Be prepared to experience rain on any day of the year. 

Mobile Phone Coverage in Strahan: There is mobile phone coverage in Strahan, Queenstown, Zeehan, and Rosebery, but internet access can be slow. Once you get outside of the towns by just a kilometre or two, expect service to drop-off. 

How to Get to Strahan and Tasmania’s West Coast

Driving to Strahan, Tasmania

The most common way to get to Strahan is to drive yourself. Since you will want a car to get around on the West Coast, I recommend driving.

It’s a 4.5-hour drive from Hobart via the A10 Lyell Highway. If you’re coming from the north, it’s a 2.75-hour drive from Devonport or 3.5 hours from Launceston via Cradle Mountain on the A10 Murchison Highway. Click here for driving directions. 

You can hire a car in Hobart, Launceston, and Devonport. I use Discover Cars since they let you compare prices from lots of different companies. That way you know you’re getting the best deal.

Public Transport to Strahan, Tasmania

It is possible to see the sights in the town of Strahan without a car, so you could opt to take a public bus to Strahan. Tassielink operates one bus a day between Strahan and Burnie with stops in Queenstown, Rosebery, Zeehan, and Tullah.

Strahan and West Coast Tasmania Tours

Since Strahan is so far from many of Tasmania’s other attractions, a tour can be a great way to squeeze in a visit to the West Coast.

A popular option is to take a three-day West Coast Tour from Hobart to Launceston that includes Mount Field National Park, Strahan, Montezuma Falls in Rosebery, and Cradle Mountain National Park.

This highly rated five-day tour of Tasmania spends 1.5 days on the West Coast and allows enough time for a Gordon River cruise.

If you don’t have a lot of time, you can even take a day tour to Strahan by air. You’ll fly in and out of Hobart, take a Gordon River cruise, explore the town, then return to Hobart that evening. 

Map of Strahan, Tasmania and the West Coast

I made a custom Google Map for you that shows all the attractions in Strahan and Tasmania’s West Coast.

Things to do in Strahan, Tasmania

Gordon River Boat Cruise

Taking a Gordon River Cruise is one of the main reasons people visit Strahan. The cruise gets you out onto the water, which is the only way to see two of the area’s main attractions: the convict heritage sites on Sarah Island and the picturesque Gordon River.

There are two cruise companies in town and they run nearly identical cruises.  Both tours start early in the morning and finish in the early afternoon, with lunch served on board.  Since the cruises take up most of a day, most visitors to Strahan plan their trip around taking a cruise.

Both cruises include a guided tour of the convict sites at Sarah Island and a guided walk through the rainforest at Heritage Landing. The guides for Sarah Island are the actors from the play The Ship That Never Was. They stay on the island all day to give tours to guests from both boats.

A stop at salmon farms contained in large floating net pens in Macquarie Harbour is also included on both cruises. The audio commentary during these stops may lead you to believe that salmon farming is a purely positive thing. However, there are numerous environmental problems with these farms including disease, escaping fish, and low oxygen levels in the harbour caused by the overpopulation of farm fish. 

Gordon River Boat Cruise Schedule

The two companies operate on similar schedules but swap out the order of the two key attractions: Sarah Island and Heritage Landing. Here are the schedules for both cruise companies:

Gordon River Cruises (navy blue boat): 8:30am departure. Order of attractions: Hell’s Gates, salmon farm, Gordon River, Heritage Landing, lunch, Sarah Island, dock in Strahan

World Heritage Cruises (red boat): 9am departure. Order of attractions: Hell’s Gates, salmon farm, Sarah Island, lunch, Gordon River, Heritage Landing, dock in Strahan. Check prices.

Which Gordon River Boat Cruise Should You Choose?

There are two Gordon River boat cruise companies. They are quite similar, so it can be hard to choose. On my trip, I went with World Heritage Cruises (red boat) since the companies seemed really similar and it was a bit cheaper.

Since my trip was on a nice day and we spent all of our time on the outside deck, I was happy with my choice since we didn’t actually use the indoor seat we paid for in the cheap section.

However, if it had been cold or wet, I think I would have happily paid for an upgraded seat or gone for the cheap seats on the blue boat since they would offer a much better view out the windows.

Here’s the rundown on the two Gordon River boat cruise options with the pros and cons for each.

Gordon River Cruises (navy blue boat): 

Pros: visits Gordon River in the morning when the water is calmer to see reflections, larger outside deck, cheapest seats all face forward and have individual tray tables, airplane-style

Cons: Slightly more expensive, not locally owned.

Book with Gordon River Cruises.

World Heritage Cruises (red boat):

Pros: Slightly cheaper, locally owned company

Cons: All of the cheapest seats are grouped around tables of 8 which means you share with strangers and half the seats face backward, visits Gordon River in the afternoon so no opportunity to see reflections in the water, smaller outside deck.

Book with World Heritage Cruises.

West Coast Wilderness Railway

Besides the boat cruises, the other really popular attraction in Strahan is the West Coast Wilderness Railway. Originally built to service the area’s mines, this historic steam train travels between Strahan and Queenstown.

The section in the middle is so rugged that the railway uses a toothed rack and pinion cog system to overcome the steep grades.

You can take half- or full-day outings from either station. (Check the schedule as it leaves Queenstown on some days of the week and Strahan on the other days.)

The tours include stops at heritage stations and a rainforest walk. I didn’t have time to take a railway tour on my trip, but my friend who is a Tassie local said it was great. Book a West Coast Wilderness Railway Tour.

Hogarth Falls

The short walk to Hogarth Falls is a great way to experience nature in Strahan. It’s a flat and easy 2.4km return walk that will take most people about 45 minutes. Along the way, you’ll pass through a beautiful section of rainforest with lots of leatherwood, sassafrass, and myrtle trees.

The walking track starts in People’s Park just off the Esplanade, about halfway between Strahan Village and Regatta Point.

Morrison’s Huon Pine Saw Mill

Strahan’s history is built upon harvesting Huon Pine. Today, Morrison’s Huon Pine Saw Mill on the village waterfront carries on the tradition of milling huge pieces of Huon Pine into boards and slabs.

On your visit you can learn about the history of the pines, watch the mill in operation or buy a souvenir from the gift shop. (Cutting boards are popular.) They also have free demonstrations at 3pm every day that coincide with the Gordon River cruise boats returning to town.

See a Performance of “The Ship That Never Was”

Everything I read about Strahan before my trip mentioned that you shouldn’t miss “The Ship That Never Was”. I’m not a huge theatre-goer, but I caved to the pressure and went to the play. Wow! I’m so glad I did. Probably one of the most fun productions I’ve ever seen.

The two-person cast tells the true story of the last convict-built ship on Sarah Island. They use clever props and LOTS of audience participation. I guarantee it will make you laugh… and teach you about Australian convict history.

The 75-minute long play runs every evening at 5:30 p.m. between September and May at the amphitheatre next to the visitor centre by the harbour. Tickets are at the door only.

Foreshore Walk

One of the best ways to see Strahan is to go for a walk. There’s a 2.5km walking path along the waterfront parallel to the Esplanade between the Primary School in the west and the railway station at Regatta Point in the south. We walked portions of it on our trip.

There are beautiful views of the main harbour from Regatta Point. You’ll also pass lots of interesting historic buildings like the customs house, which is the post office today.

Water Tower Hill

If you want to see Strahan from above, head up to Water Tower Hill for great views. To get there, go uphill on Esk Street from the Esplanade. Go past the upper entrance to the Strahan Village Hotel to the lookout at the end of the road.

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is Tasmania’s longest beach measuring 30km from Trial Harbour in the north to Macquarie Heads in the south. The sandy beach is gorgeous and the wilderness location means you won’t have to share it with many others.

But this is Tassie’s wild West Coast. The wind and waves here have blown across thousands of kilometres of open ocean before slamming into the coast. Swimming isn’t advised and it can be wickedly windy.

To get there, head west out of Strahan. Just before the airport, veer right onto Ocean Beach Road. The car park is at the end of the road, 5km from Strahan.

Macquarie Heads

The entrance to Macquarie Harbour is called Macquarie Heads. You can drive the gravel road 15km from Strahan out to the south side of Macquarie Heads inside Macquarie Harbour.

There’s a popular campground here as well as a boat launch. The water here is much calmer and it’s less windy than at Ocean Beach, so it’s a better option for playing in the sand or splashing in the waves.

The area is really popular with the offroad crowd though, so be prepared to see lots of utes and motorbikes on the beach. The sunsets are unreal. We camped here for two nights and it was gorgeous.

Henty Dunes

The Henty Dunes are just north of Strahan, behind Ocean Beach. The dunes are up to 30m tall and seem to rise directly out of the surrounding forest. The prevailing winds of the Roaring Forties have pushed the sand up and away from the ocean over millennia, creating the huge dunes.

You can climb up the dunes from a roadside picnic area 14km north of Strahan on the road to Zeehan. There’s also a path through the dunes to Ocean Beach. Apparently, you can rent sand boards in Strahan to play on the dunes, but we missed that memo and just wandered around gawking at the view and getting sunburnt instead. 

Things do on Tasmania’s West Coast

Plan some extra time on your drive to and from Strahan to make some stops at sights on Tasmania’s West Coast. Queenstown is definitely worth your time but there are lots more things to see two.

So far I’ve made two trips to the West Coast and have been to most of the places on this list… but there are still a few left to explore next time. 

Queenstown, Tasmania

Queenstown is the largest town on Tasmania’s West Coast. It’s a 45-minute drive on the Lyell Highway from Queenstown to Strahan. Today Queenstown has about 1,800 residents but had 10,000 inhabitants during its gold and copper mining heyday about 100 years ago.

The long-gone mining boom means that the currently sleepy town has a grand hotel and an art-deco theatre. Take a stroll through town to admire the old buildings. 

Spion Kopf Lookout, Queenstown

To see Queenstown from above, head to Spion Kopf Lookout at the northeastern end of town off Latrobe Street. Locals from the Lion’s Club have constructed a concrete path to the top of the hill, with old mining relics displayed along the way. 

99 Bends

The Lyell Highway east of Queenstown is famously twisty, earning it the nickname “99 Bends”. The hills around Queenstown have suffered from years of mining and copper smelting, stripping them of vegetation and staining the earth a yellowish orange.

Be sure to stop at the viewpoint about 4km east of Queenstown to admire the bends and get a good view of Queenstown’s strange moonscape. I thought it was both incredibly sad and strangely beautiful. 

Horsetail Falls

A newly built boardwalk gives you easy access to a viewing platform clinging to the side of a hillside at Horsetail Falls. It’s a 1km return walk with lots of steps.

The falls had dried up to a trickle when I visited in mid-summer, but I’ve seen photos of them really gushing down the rocky slope after heavy rains. The car park for the falls is on the Lyell Highway 5km east of Queenstown.

Iron Blow Lookout

Queenstown’s landscape was shaped by mining. And nowhere is that more evident than at Iron Blow Lookout. Walk out on the viewing platform for an overhead view of the remains of an open cut mine. Streaks of mineral deposits stain the sides of the pit. There’s also a great view east towards Gormanstown and Lake Burbury.

Iron Blow Lookout is 5km east of Queenstown on the Lyell Highway. Look for the signed side road to the car park across the highway from Horsetail Falls. 

Nelson Falls

The easy walk to Nelson Falls is just a few minutes from Queenstown. It’s a 1.4km return walk that will take about 20 minutes. The boardwalk path to the falls includes interpretation signs to help you learn about the rainforest.

The walk starts just off the Lyell Highway 27km east of Queenstown. So far I haven’t driven this portion of the Lyell Highway so I haven’t visited these falls yet, but they’re on my list.

Donaghy’s Hill Nature Trail

If you’re driving the Lyell Highway (A10) between Lake St. Clair and Queenstown, I hear the Donaghy’s Hill Nature Trail is a great place to stop and stretch your legs.

The track climbs gradually through the forest to reach a great lookout. The views of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and Frenchman’s Cap Peak look spectacular.

Plan to spend about 40 minutes on the 2.2km return walk. To get there, turn into a signed car park 34km after Derwent Bridge.

Franklin River Nature Trail

Another great spot to stop for a walk along the Lyell Highway is the Franklin River Nature Trail. It’s a flat and easy 25-minute loop walk through the rainforest to the banks of the Franklin River. Watch for the signs along the Lyell Highway 25km west of Derwent Bridge.

Zeehan Spray Tunnel

Explore some of Zeehan’s mining history with a visit to the Spray Tunnel. It’s a 100m-long abandoned railway tunnel that you can walk (or bike) right through! Glowworms live in it too! It’s an easy 1-hour return walk to the tunnel, which was built to service the Silver Spray Mine.

To get to the trailhead, take Fowler Street past the end of the golf course on the west side of Zeehan. I only found out about this tunnel when researching this post. I wish I had gone as it sounds really cool, and so far it’s pretty under-the-radar too!

Montezuma Falls

At 104m-tall, Montezuma Falls is the highest waterfall in Tasmania. To get there, you’ll hike 4km each way on an abandoned mining tramway, which means its fairly flat.

There’s a small viewing platform at the base of the falls, but you can also see them from an impressive suspension bridge. The day I went it was pouring rain, but since the whole walk is in the forest, I didn’t mind. Plus it meant there was lots of water in the falls.

The walk takes approximately 3 hours. To find the trailhead, head south from Rosebery on the Murchison Highway (A10), then turn left onto Williamsford Road. Follow the road to its end 6 kilometres from the highway.

Wee Georgie Wood Railway, Tullah

If you’re into trains, don’t miss the Wee Georgie Wood Railway. It’s a historic 2ft gauge railway, which was the only way to reach the mining town of Tullah before the highway was built in the 1960s. The original railway used wood rails instead of steel!

You can take a self-guided tour of the railway site, which is now maintained by local volunteers. On summer weekends, board a passenger carriage pulled by the 1924 steam locomotive for a 20 minute trip around the area. We didn’t have time for the train, but it looks like a cute community project.

Corinna, Tasmania

Corinna is pretty remote, but that’s part of the attraction. It’s an old gold mining town that is now an eco-tourism resort. It’s located in the rainforest on the banks of the Pieman River.

Just getting to Corinna is a bit of an adventure since it involves driving your car onto a barge ferry across the Pieman River. Book a stay in a historic miners cottage or just go for a short walk on the Huon Pine Trail. We also took an interesting walk behind the cottages to see burrowing crayfish.

Tarkine Drive

Extend your trip to the West Coast by touring the Tarkine Drive. It’s a 205km loop through the gorgeous rainforest in Tasmania’s wild Northwest.

You can go on short rainforest walks, visit lonely beaches, and maybe even spot some wildlife. (We spotted an endangered Tasmanian Devil while camping along the Tarkine Drive!)

You can drive the loop in a single day, but it’s better to break up the trip over 2 or 3 days. If you want to visit, check out my Tarkine Drive Guide for all the details.

Where to Stay in Strahan, Tasmania

Most visitors to Strahan end up staying at least one night since the boat cruises leave in the morning. In summer, bookings are essential as there aren’t that many Strahan accommodations. Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Strahan.

Hotels and Self-Contained Units

Historic House B&B: Stay in a fully restored heritage house at the Ormiston House Bed and Breakfast. The owners are passionate about local history and even have a gallery in the attic full of historical memorabilia.  

Hotel with a View: The rooms at Strahan Village Hotel have some of the nicest views in town. Spread over several buildings, you can stay right in the village or slightly up the hill. Be sure to book a view room since they look out over the harbour.

Budget: If you’re looking to save money, stay at Motel Strahan. It’s steps to the Foreshore Walk on the west side of town. Reviewers say it’s clean and cosy.

Self-Contained Cottage: The Kerrellie Cottages offer cute self-contained accommodation in restored historic cottages. 

Camping

If you want to stay close to town, book a spot at the Big4 Strahan Retreat Holiday Park or the Strahan Beach Tourist Park. They are both caravan parks with self-contained cabins.

If you want real bush camping, drive 30 minutes out of town to the rustic Macquarie Heads Campground. It’s $10 a night. There are pit toilets but you need to bring your own drinking water. We stayed at Macquarie Heads for two nights on our trip and really enjoyed it.

Where to Eat in Strahan, Tasmania

Strahan is a small place so there aren’t very many restaurants and cafes. Check hours before you go, especially on weekdays and during the offseason as many places are only open for lunch or dinner but not both.

If you are self-catering, there’s an IGA grocery store right as you come into town on the Lyell Highway.

If you’re looking to eat out, here are your options:

The Coffee Shack: Tiny coffee spot that also has baked goods, sandwiches, and salads. We had a great lunch here and also stopped for coffee one morning before our Gordon River boat cruise. Definitely the best food we had in Strahan. The only downside is that it has very little seating. Open from 6am until mid-afternoon.

Molly’s Take-Away Cafe: Located on Innes Street near the caravan parks. Classic greasy take-away burgers, pizza, chips, pies, etc. Open for lunch and dinner. 

Tracks on Point: A newer coffee shop and cafe at the West Coast Wilderness Railway station serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Hamer’s Bar and Bistro: Pretty typical hotel pub on the Esplanade serving parmas, fish and chips, burgers, etc. We ate dinner there one night. The patio seating has a beautiful view of the harbour and the food is fine but not great. Open for dinner only.

Regatta Point Tavern: Pub style food near the train station with dated decor. Reviews are mixed, but it’s a bit cheaper than other sit-down dinner options. Open for dinner.

View 42º Restaurant & Bar: The hotel restaurant at Strahan Village. They have a buffet that’s a bit pricey, but their dining room has great views. Open for breakfast and dinner.

Risby Cove Cafe: Up-scale restaurant at the waterfront Risby Cove Hotel. Dinner only.

Strahan, Queenstown and the West Coast are such a unique part of Tasmania. While most people visit for the Gordon River boat cruise or the West Coast Wilderness Railway, there is so much else to see. The Henty Dunes were a definite highlight for me.

I hope this post inspires you to visit Strahan, Tasmania and the West Coast. Do you have questions about the area? Leave them in the comments and I’ll help you out.

More Tasmania posts:

• How to Spend the Weekend in Hobart, Tasmania: 2-day Itinerary
• 20+ Things to Do on the Tasman Peninsula Near Port Arthur
• The Best Things to Do on Bruny Island, Tasmania
• 40+ Things to do in Devonport and Tasmania’s North West
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Maria Island, Tasmania
• Best Places to See Wildlife in Tasmania
• The Ultimate Guide to the Tarkine Drive in Tasmania, Australia

The post Things to do in Strahan, Tasmania and the West Coast appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Australia’s island state of Tasmania is known for its incredible food, drink, wilderness, and scenery. And Bruny Island on Tasmania’s southeast coast has all of those things. I’d argue it has some of the best farm-to-table food in the state.

And the scenery… well just scroll down and look at the photos if you don’t believe me about how beautiful it is.

The best thing about Bruny Island is its location. It’s just 45 minutes from Tasmania’s capital city of Hobart. That makes it the ideal Hobart day trip, either as part of a tour or on your own. But if you really want to experience Bruny, I’d recommend staying for a night (or even longer).

Read on to find out everything you need to know to plan a trip to Bruny Island. This guide includes:

• Bruny Island map
• Bruny Island basics: Where is it? How long to spend there? What’s the weather like?
• Whether a tour or self-drive is the best way to see Bruny Island
• How to get there: Driving and ferry info
• Driving on Bruny Island
• All the best things to do on Bruny Island
• Info on Bruny Island accommodations
• Where to eat and buy groceries on Bruny Island

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 extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Bruny Island Map

I made a custom Google Map of Bruny Island for you. It has every single thing I mention in this post including places to eat, photo stops, camping, hikes and more. Download it in your offline maps before your trip since the mobile phone service is unreliable. 

Bruny Island Basics

Highlights: Farm-to-table foodie stops, beaches, hiking, wildlife, and spectacular scenery. 

Location: Bruny Island is located off the southeast coast of Tasmania. The ferry terminal is a 45-minute drive from south from Hobart. (See “How to Get to Bruny Island” below for more info.)

The island is actually two small islands, known as North Bruny and South Bruny, separated by a thin sandy isthmus called The Neck. North Bruny is more pastoral with lots of farms. South Bruny has a more forested, wilderness feel.

How Long to Spend on Bruny Island: Most visitors make a day trip to Bruny Island, and you can see the highlights in a single day. However, I recommend spending at least one night so you aren’t rushed. 

Bruny Island Weather: Bruny is in southern Tasmania, so it can often be windy, rainy, and chilly even in summer. Bring a rain jacket and a fleece just in case. 

Mobile phone coverage on Bruny Island: Most of the island has some mobile phone coverage, but it’s often 3G (not 4G or LTE) and not very strong. You’ll get the best signal if you’re with Telstra. The far sound end of the island has no coverage.

Self-Drive Bruny Island vs. Bruny Island Tours

There are two ways to experience Bruny: drive yourself or take a tour. There is no public transport on the island so you need a car to get around. On our visit, we drove ourselves and explored the island over two days. 

However, at many of the stops, we ran into tour groups in small mini-buses. It made me realize that if you want to see the highlights in a single day, taking a Bruny Island day tour from Hobart is definitely the way to go.

At each of the foodie stops the tour groups had priority seating, a private area, and a local guide to explain the food for them. They didn’t waste time parking, deciding what to order, etc. like we did trying to DIY it.

I did appreciate the flexibility we had since we self-drove, as we were able to drive back to the Neck later in the day to take photos in better light and see it without the crowds. We also had time to do a hike, something that the tours don’t really allow for. 

I’d say if you want to make a quick day trip to Bruny, definitely take a tour. But if you have a bit more time, it makes sense to drive yourself. 

You can hire a car in Hobart easily. I use Discover Cars since it lets you compare prices from lots of different companies. That way you can be sure you are getting the best deal.

Best Bruny Island Day Tours

The most popular (and highest-rated) tour company is Bruny Island Safaris. They run small group tours from Hobart in mini-buses. Their tours hit all the highlights including Cape Bruny Lighthouse, the Neck, Adventure Bay, Get Shucked, and Bruny Island Cheese. They arrange everything for you including ferry and national park fees, lunch, and lots of tastings. Check prices. 

Wine and whiskey lovers will love the highly-rated tour offered by Penticott Wilderness Journeys. In addition to stops at the usual viewpoints, it includes whiskey tasting at Tasmanian House of Whiskey, wine tasting at Bruny Island Premium Wines and lunch at the winery too. Check prices. 

If you’re looking for a budget-priced Bruny Island tour, check out the version that Tassie Tours offers. It includes a cheese tasting but doesn’t include lunch or other tastings to help you save money. But it still hits all the highlights that the Bruny Island Safaris tour visits and you can pay for your own tastings if you choose. Check prices. 

How to Get to Bruny Island

How to Get to Bruny Island from Hobart

If you are taking a tour, your guide will arrange to pick you up in Hobart.

If you are driving yourself, head south of the city on the A6 Highway, known as the Southern Outlet. In Kingston, take the exit for the B68 (Channel Highway). When you get to the town of Kettering, turn left onto Ferry Road and follow it to the ferry terminal. The entire drive takes about 45 minutes, but allow more time during rush hour.

Bruny Island Ferry

The Bruny Island ferry runs from the town of Kettering to Roberts Point on North Bruny. The crossing takes about 20 minutes.

The ferry runs every 30 minutes between 6:10 am and 7:00 pm. You can see the full Bruny Island ferry timetable here.

The ferry is first-come, first-served; there are no advanced bookings, which means you may have to wait a few sailings at popular times. The ferry costs $46AUD per car for a return fare, with reduced prices for seniors and higher prices for RVs and caravans.

More details on Bruny Island ferry prices are here. 

Driving on Bruny Island

Bruny is surprisingly big – it’s about 68km by road end to end. It takes over an hour to drive from one end of the island to the other.

On North Bruny, most of the roads are paved (sealed), but it’s a different story on South Bruny which has lots of gravel roads. Driving on gravel is slow and dusty.  All of the roads are narrow and winding, so take your time.

If you plan to drive your hire car (rental car) on Bruny Island, check first. Some companies don’t allow their cars on gravel roads or have special rules for Bruny.

There is only one petrol station on Bruny. It’s in Adventure Bay on South Bruny. Fill up before you get on the ferry as it’s much cheaper on the mainland. 

Things to do on Bruny Island

Admire the Views at the Neck and Truganini Lookout 

By far the most photographed place on Bruny is Truganini Lookout at the Neck. The neck is a narrow isthmus of sand that joins North and South Bruny Islands. In the middle of the Neck, a dune rises high above the beach.

You can climb over 200 wooden stairs to the top for incredible views. The platform up here is called Truganini Lookout. It’s dedicated to Truganini, a Bruny-born woman who is believed to have been the last full-blooded Tasmanian Indigenous person.

Pro tip: Try to visit the Neck early or late in the day to get photos without tons of people in them, and for much prettier lighting.

Visit the Cape Bruny Lighthouse

The Cape Bruny Lighthouse is another popular spot. Built in 1838, it was active for 158 years. The original lights ran on sperm whale oil! These days an automated and solar-powered light on a nearby headland does the job that lighthouse keepers did for decades. 

It’s a short walk from the car park up the hill to the lighthouse. The views of the surrounding coastline from up there are spectacular.

You can also take an hour-long tour of the lighthouse interior for just $15. The tour includes a visit to the upper deck of the lighthouse, where the views are even better. Unfortunately on the day I visited they were totally booked up for the day, so I missed out.

The lighthouse is located on the southern tip of Bruny Island. It’s an hour’s drive from the ferry terminal on gravel roads. It’s inside South Bruny National Park so you will need a national park pass to visit. If you don’t already have a pass, you can buy one from a machine just inside the park entrance.

Pro tip: Book your Bruny Island Lighthouse Tour tickets online in advance. (Don’t be dumb like me and miss out!)

Eat and Drink at the Bruny Island Beer and Cheese Co.

If you’re a foodie, be sure to stop at the Bruny Island Beer and Cheese Co. It’s about 20 minutes south of the ferry dock.

It started as a simple dairy but has grown into a fabulous destination. They make artisan cheese and brew excellent beer.

The best way to enjoy their cheese is with fresh bread from their wood-fired oven. We bought a loaf that was still warm! As a self-proclaimed cheese snob, I can say that their washed rind and Tomme-style cheese are some of the best I’ve tasted in Tasmania. 

They have a cafe where you can order cheese tasting platters, coffees, and snacks, as well as sample flights of beer. We enjoyed it so much that we bought beer, cheese, and bread to take with us, then had a picnic on the beach later in the day!

Immerse Yourself in Local History

Bruny has a long and interesting history. There are a few places around the island to dive in and learn more about it.

Check out the Bruny Island Quarantine Station interpretive site on Killora Road on North Bruny, the Bruny Island Historical Society in Alonnah on South Bruny, or the Bligh Museum of Pacific Exploration in Adventure Bay.

And if you’re into natural history, check out the Inala Nature Museum and Jurassic Garden on Cloudy Bay Road on South Bruny.

Hike to Fluted Cape

This challenging hike is short but steep. It’s ranked as one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. Tasmania Parks claims it’s only 4km, but my GPS watch measured it as 6.5km with 500m of elevation gain.

It’s a circuit that starts with a flat walk along the water to the remains of an old whaling station at Grass Point. From there, you climb steeply up alongside dramatic cliff edges to the top of the cape. Be sure to stop on the walk up to get photos. (You’ll need to pause to catch your breath anyway!)

At the top, a gentler trail switchbacks down the hill to complete the loop. Allow 2 to 2.5 hours for the walk. It starts at a car park next to Bruny Island Cruises in Adventure Bay.

Pro tip: Make sure you do the circuit walk clockwise as it has the best views of the cape. 

Look for White Wallabies

Bruny Island is home to a small population of white wallabies. Some of these have a genetic mutation that makes them white while others are albino. The lack of predators on the island means that the white wallabies have flourished.

You can find the white wallabies around the Captain Cook caravan park in Adventure Bay or on the track to Grass Point (on the way to Fluted Cape).

Pro tip: The best time to spot them is dawn and dusk. We saw quite a few wallabies in the area, but sadly none of them were white. We didn’t have time to hang around until dusk, so that’s probably why we didn’t see them.

Taste Fresh Oysters at Get Shucked

You might chuckle at the name, but the seafood here is no joke! The oysters at Get Shucked are super-fresh: you can look across the road to the oyster farm in Great Bay from your table. T

hey call it “bay-to-bar” dining.  I love them raw, but if you don’t, they also offer cooked oysters prepared a few different ways.

Another novel aspect of Get Shucked: they have the only oyster drive-thru I’ve ever heard of! They’re located in Great Bay on North Bruny about 20 minutes south of the ferry dock. 

Hit the Beach

Bruny Island has dozens of sandy beaches, perfect for lounging away the afternoon or catching a sunset. Many of them have shallow water which gets warm in the sun.

We loved Jetty Beach in South Bruny National Park. But the beaches at Adventure Bay, Cloudy Bay, Lighthouse Bay, the Neck, and Miles Beach (on the way to Cape Queen Elizabeth) also look beautiful. 

Pro tip: To visit Jetty Bay and Lighthouse Bay you’ll need a national park pass since they are inside South Bruny National Park.

Watch the Penguins

Tiny bluish penguins known as “little penguins” or “fairy penguins” live in Tasmania. And you can visit a penguin colony on Bruny Island.

Head to the Neck at dusk to watch the penguins come out of the ocean and head to their burrows to feed their chicks. There’s a park ranger on staff to answer all your penguin related questions.

To protect the penguins, it’s important to avoid blinding them with camera flashes or torches (flashlights). If you have a torch with a red light, that’s great. Otherwise, you can get a piece of red plastic from the ranger to put over the lens of your torch.

They’re really hard to photograph, so be content with just watching them waddle around.

Want to know where else you can spot penguins in Tasmania? Check out my guide to the best places to see wildlife in Tassie. 

Try Local Whiskey, Wine, and Cider

Although it’s a small island, Bruny has wine, cider, and whiskey!

The Bruny Island House of Whisky is the first place you pass on your drive from the ferry terminal. They have the state’s largest collection of Tasmanian whiskeys and offer tasting flights.

If wine is more your style, head to Bruny Island Premium Wines just south of Lunawanna on South Bruny. They are Australia’s southernmost vineyard. Taste the wine or eat at the cafe. 

And finally, there’s cider too. Bruny Island Cider is available only at Hotel Bruny in Alonnah. Sip cider in the sunshine on the patio while you enjoy a seafood lunch from the hotel pub.

Take a Boat Cruise

We didn’t have time to take a boat cruise during our time on Bruny. But when we were hiking Fluted Cape we saw the boats zips along the cliffs far below, and it looked incredible. If I make it back to Bruny Island, I’ll make doing a boat tour a priority.

Bruny Island Cruises offers 3-hour tours leaving from Adventure Bay. They nose into coastal caves, seek out wildlife like fur seals, and get close enough to hear the unique “Breathing Rock” inhale and exhale with the waves. 

Pro tip: Click here to book your Bruny Island boat cruise in advance. They sell out often in the summer!

Go Bushwalking

I only had time for one hike on Bruny: Fluted Cape (above). But there are lots of other great bushwalks on Bruny Island. This list of the best hikes on Bruny Island has all the details. Some recommended walks include:

• Labillardiere Peninsula: 5-hour circuit in South Bruny National Park. (Park pass required.) Ranked as one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks
• Luggaboine Circuit: 1.5-hour circuit that is a shorter version of the Labillardiere Peninsula Walk.
• Cape Queen Elizabeth: 3-hour out and back walk near the Neck with a stop at a unique rock arch in the middle. Part of the walk is on the beach.
• Mavista Nature Trail: 45-minute nature trail in the rainforest near Adventure Bay

If you’d rather hike with a local guide, Bruny Island Safaris will take you on a guided walk to Cape Queen Elizabeth. They pick you up in Hobart, throw in a packed picnic lunch full of food from local Bruny food producers, and stop at food producers on the way to and from the ferry. Check prices. 

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

If you love sweets, Bruny has you covered. Head to Bruny Island Chocolate on South Bruny on the road to Adventure Bay. Their small shop has a great selection of handmade chocolates and fudge. 

Stop in to Bruny Island Honey in Great Bay on North Bruny to buy honey harvested on the island. They drive their beehives around the island to find whatever is flowering including Manuka, Leatherwood, and Prickly Box. 

Lastly, make sure you arrive early to get the ferry off the island. You don’t want to miss the Black Devil cherries. It’s a cherry variety unique to Tasmania. They are sold out of a truck near the ferry line-up. 

Check out the Art

I didn’t have time on my visit, but apparently Bruny Island isn’t short on art. Pay a visit the Art Room in Dennes Point on North Bruny or Sprokkelwood Art Garden on Cloudy Bay Road on South Bruny

Where to Stay on Bruny Island

While many visitors do a Bruny Island day trip, it’s definitely worth staying overnight. The last ferry of the day leaves around 7 pm, so the island really quiets down in the evening.

Bookings are essential as there aren’t that many Bruny Island accommodations. Here are my recommendations for where to stay on Bruny Island.

Hotels

Hotel Bruny/Bruny Island Escapes: There’s only one real hotel on Bruny Island: Hotel Bruny in Alonnah on South Bruny. They have traditional hotel rooms as well as self-contained cottages nearby. It’s a handy location since the Hotel Bruny pub is one of only a few places on the island to get dinner. Check rates.

Cottages and Self-Contained Units

43 Degrees Bruny Island: Eye-catching and modern cottages with an arched roofline and glass windows looking out on Adventure Bay on South Bruny. The cottages were built with sustainability in mind and have a 6+ star energy rating thanks to solar power, rainwater collection, organic paint and more. Check rates.

The Tree House: A two-bedroom vacation home in Alonnah. Lots of windows give you great views of the ocean. If the weather gets chilly, there’s a wood stove to help you warm up. Check rates.

Loma Cottages: Choose from a one-bedroom or two-bedroom cottage in Lunawanna on South Bruny. It’s an easy walk to the beach and at night, wallabies bounce past your window! Check rates.

Camping

Captain Cook Holiday Park: Large caravan park with self-contained cabins, as well as camping spots for both caravans and tents. Located across the street from the beach in Adventure Bay. The only caravan park on Bruny Island. Reportedly the best place to see white wallabies on Bruny Island! Check rates.

The Neck Reserve: Centrally located rustic camping in the forest at the south end of The Neck. Pit toilets and untreated tank water are available. Self-register on-site starting at $10/night. More info.

Jetty Beach: Great camping spots next to a white sand beach in South Bruny Island National Park. We loved camping here. Pit toilets and untreated tank water. Self-register on-site starting at $10/night. More info.

The Pines: Small campground on Cloudy Bay Road on South Bruny. It has uneven sites and a pit toilet, but you have to bring your own water. Self-register on-site starting at $10/night. More info.

Cloudy Corner: A 4WD-only access campground with pit toilets. Bring your own water. Self-register on-site starting at $10/night. More info.

Where to Eat on Bruny Island

Obviously, you should stop in at the foodie destinations listed above for snacks. But many of the businesses on Bruny Island have limited hours so planning meals can be a bit tough. In particular, most places aren’t open in the evening and don’t serve dinner. Here’s your guide to restaurants on Bruny Island:

Bruny Island Cheese and Beer Co: Great Bay, North Bruny. Serves breakfast, lunch, coffee, beer, and snacks. Open from 9 am-5 pm.

Get Shucked: Great Bay, North Bruny. Serves lunch, drinks, and snacks. Open from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Hotel Bruny and Bruny Cider: Alonnah, South Bruny. Serves, lunch, dinner, and drinks. Open from noon to late.

Bruny Island Premium Wines: Lunawanna, South Bruny. Serves lunch 7 days a week from 11 am and dinner on Saturdays. Bookings required for dinner.

Penguin and Pardalote Cafe: Adventure Bay, South Bruny. Serves breakfast, lunch, snacks, and coffee. Open 8 am to 4 pm. 

Bruny Island Wild Cafe: Dennes Point, North Bruny. Serves breakfast and lunch including wood fired pizzas Friday through Sunday. Open for dinner on Friday nights.

Lunawanna Store: Lunawanna, South Bruny Small cafe with coffee and pies. Open for breakfast and lunch Thursday through Sunday.

Adventure Bay General Store: Adventure Bay, South Bruny. Small general store with groceries, hot pies, coffee, and petrol. Open 7:30 am to 6 pm daily.

Alonnah General Store: Alonnah, South Bruny. Small general store with groceries. They also have a takeaway with typical fare: pies, toasties, burgers, etc. Open 8 or 9 am to 4 pm. Closed Mondays.

Whether you do a Bruny Island day trip, or stay a few days and no matter if you self-drive or do a tour, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time. It’s such a beautiful and unique place. If you need help planning your trip, as always, ask me in the comments. I love to help.

Read more Tasmania posts:

• How to Spend the Weekend in Hobart, Tasmania: 2-day Itinerary
• 22 Things to Do on the Tasman Peninsula Near Port Arthur
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Maria Island, Tasmania
• 40+ Things to do in Devonport and Tasmania’s North West
• Best Places to See Wildlife in Tasmania
• The Ultimate Guide to the Tarkine Drive in Tasmania, Australia
• The Best Things to do in Strahan and Tasmania’s West Coast

The post The Best Things to Do on Bruny Island, Tasmania appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

It’s my adopted Tasmanian home town since I spent a combined 2.5 months housesitting near Devonport over two summers a few years ago. It’s a gorgeous area with museums, wildlife, beaches, hiking and sooo many delicious locally-grown products.

You could easily spend a few days in the area (or in my case a few months). And even if you’re just passing through, make time to stop at some of the local attractions or pick up some tasty snacks. I fell in love with the Tasmania’s North West and I bet you’ll enjoy it too.

Here’s my big list of over 40 things to do in Devonport and the surrounding area in Tasmania’s North West. It includes:

• A map of all the things to do in and near Devonport
• Things to do in Devonport: Places to visit in the town of Devonport
• Things to do east of Devonport: Places to visit towards Port Sorell, Deloraine, and Highway 1
• Things to do south of Devonport: Places to visit towards Sheffield, Mole Creek, and Cradle Mountain National Park
• Things to do west of Devonport: Places to visit in Ulverstone, Burnie, and Stanley
• Devonport FAQ: All your questions answered.

Map of Things To Do In and Around Devonport

To give you a better idea of where all these fun things are located, I made a custom google map for you. It includes the location of all the things to do in Devonport and the surrounding area.

Things to Do in Devonport

Here are things you can do without leaving the city of Devonport.

Devonport Regional Gallery

This local art gallery reopened in fall of 2018 in a new arts centre in Devonport’s CBD. Their focus is on Tasmanian artists, including emerging local artists. Admission is by donation.

Southern Wild Distillery

Pop into the tasting lounge at the Southern Wild Distillery in the CBD to try some locally made gin. They have three different styles of gin to taste on its own or in cocktails. And of course, bottles are also available for purchase. We had a great tasting here and bought a bottle to bring home to Canada.

Bass Strait Martime Centre

The Bass Strait Maritime Museum has tons of exhibits on the maritime history of the Bass Strait. Kids (and adults) will love the interactive  simulation that lets you attempt to steer a ship.

Devonport Farmers’ Market

Every other Saturday morning, the Devonport showground hosts a farmer’s market. Browse the stalls to find local fruit, veg, baked goods, preserves, and more. There’s usually live music too.

Mersey Bluff Lighthouse

Head up to the lighthouse at the north end of town for great views of the mouth of the Mersey River and the Bass Strait. The lighthouse really stands out with its vertical red and white stripes. Be sure to follow the path down to the viewing platforms at the water’s edge.

Bluff Beach

This popular sandy beach is located near Mersey Bluff at the mouth of the Mersey River. There’s a great restaurant called Mrs. Jones at the Surf Life Saving Club, public toilets, and a kids playground. The beach is patrolled on the weekends in summer.

Devonport Cycling and Walking Tracks

The city of Devonport has developed a network of dedicated cycling and walking tracks. Walk along the banks of the Mersey River out to Mersey Bluff, or Coles Beach. Take the ferry over to East Devonport to the East Foreshore Track, or walk along the quiet Don River in West Devonport. Use this handy map to plan your route.

Home Hill Museum

Visit Home Hill, the 1916 home of Australia’s first Prime Minister from Tasmania, Joseph Lyons. (His wife, Dame Enid Lyons was the first women elected to Australia’s parliament so they were definitely a family of over-achievers.) Learn more about their family and see their original furnishings and memorabilia on a guided tour.

Coles Beach

Located just west of Mersey Bluff, this long sandy beach has some interesting rock pools at low tide. It can be popular with surfers when the swells come in. It has public toilets and is patrolled on the weekends during the summer.

Don River Railway

Train buffs will geek out on the restored train cars, while everyone else will just enjoy the scenic train ride. The Don River Railway is located in the Don Valley in western Devonport.

If you’re really keen, go on Sundays when the steam locomotive runs. It’s a 30 minute round trip train journey with a museum and workshop to explore afterwards.

Things to do East of Devonport

Explore East of Devonport along Highway 1 to the southeast or east along the coast towards Port Sorell

House of Anvers Chocolate, Latrobe

Just 8 minutes outside Devonport you’ll find House of Anvers Chocolate. There’s actually quite a lot going on here. They have a yummy cafe (get the waffles!) inside a heritage house and of course a chocolate shop.

Be sure to check out the chocolate museum and two different viewing windows where you can watch them making chocolate. 

Bell’s Parade and the Australian Axemen’s Hall of Fame, Latrobe

This historic riverfront park has pleasant walking trails, a picnic ground and a children’s playground. There’s also a heritage house you can tour, built in 1850 and believed to be the oldest house in Latrobe.

A newer building houses the Australian Axeman’s Hall of Fame, a museum celebrating the history of wood chopping and logging in Tasmania. Outside the Hall of Fame is a giant wooden statue of a platypus.

Which is fitting, because the waters around Bell’s Parade are one of the best places to spot a platypus in the wild. Go at dawn or dusk for the best luck. It’s a 15 minute drive south of Devonport via the B19.

READ NEXT: Best Places to See Wildlife in Tasmania

Ghost Rock Wines, Port Sorell

Wine-lovers should head 15 minutes east of Devonport to Ghost Rock Wines. Stay for lunch at their cafe, let the kids run around on the lawn, and don’t forget to take advantage of the free wine tastings.

Narawntapu National Park, Port Sorell

You don’t have to drive far from Devonport to experience nature. Head 35 minutes east along the coast to Narawntapu National Park. I had heard it described as the Serengeti of Tasmania and it didn’t disappoint – it’s one of my favourite places in Tasmania’s northwest.

The grasslands around the visitor centre are a great place to spot kangaroos, wallabies and wombats. If you explore the park trails towards the lagoon you might spot pademelons or snakes, plus tons of water birds. Baker’s Beach stretches out for several sandy kilometres and is a great place to cool off.

Ashgrove Cheese, Elizabeth Town

Stop in to Ashgrove Cheese, 25 minutes southeast of Devonport to sample their award-winning dairy products. They have cheese flavours you’ve probably never seen before like Tasmanian pickled onion cheese!

My favourite is actually their Amazeballs. They’re crunchy and delicious bits of freeze dried cheese – a perfect hiking snack.

Van Diemens Land Creamery, Elizabeth Town

On a hot day, the handmade ice cream at Van Dieman’s Land Creamery is just the thing. It’s 30 minutes southeast of Devonport on the Bass highway. They make over 50 flavours including some uniquely Tasmanian flavours like Peach and Lemon Myrtle. You can also buy tubs of ice cream to take with you.

Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm

Experience everything raspberry at the Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm, just half an hour from Devonport. Their cafe serves up every raspberry dessert, cocktail and smoothie you could imagine, plus sandwiches, burgers and salads. There’s also a small shop selling all manner of raspberry products.

Spot a Platypus in Deloraine

The cute country town of Deloraine is set along the banks of the Meander River 40 minutes from Devonport. And in the river live several not-so-shy platypus, making Deloraine one of the best places to spot the duck-billed creatures.

For the best chances of seeing a platypus, go with a local guide. Mark, the owner of the Empire Hotel leads nightly walks along the river and knows the best places to spot platypus. He helped us see a platypus for the first time! Be sure to have dinner at the restaurant in the hotel first – they have great food.

Liffey Falls

You can find beautiful Liffey Falls 70 minutes southeast of Devonport. There are actually three separate cascades to admire. It’s an easy 20 minute walk to the falls on a well formed track from the upper car park. Or if you want a longer walk, I enjoyed the 1.5 hour trek from the lower car park.

Things to do South of Devonport

Head into the mountains south of Devonport.

Spreyton Cider, Spreyton

This craft cidery is 10 minutes south of Devonport in the rural area of Spreyton. They make delicious hard ciders from local apples and pears. (They’re so good that they’ve won awards!)

You can try them all in their tasting room. And if you want something non-alcoholic, their ginger beer is pretty tasty too.

Tasmanian Arboretum, Eugenanna

This botanical garden just south of Devonport has a collect of trees from around the world. In the spring visit to see the flowers bloom. And don’t miss an autumn visit to watch the leaves change. The lake is also a great place to see platypus.

Seven Sheds Brewery, Railton

At the forefront of the craft brewing scene in Tasmania is Seven Sheds Brewing. Located south of Devonport in tiny Railtown, they literally brew in an old shed. You can buy beer to go or enjoy it at picnic tables next to their hops garden.

We tried the 5 different beers on tasting paddle to decide which ones to buy. After our trip to Latrobe to see platypuses the week before, it was no surprise that we liked their Platypus 400 beer best. It will take 25 minutes to drive here.

Sheffield Murals

The little rural town of Sheffield is a 30 minute drive from Devonport. It has a cute main street with a cafes and art galleries, but the real attraction is the outdoor art: Sheffield calls itself the “Town of Murals“.

Many of the buildings have colourful murals painted on the sides that date from the 1980s that depict local history and culture. They also host an annual mural festival. To see the recent art, be sure to check out the dedicated mural display area in the park near the visitor centre.

Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary, Mole Creek

You can spot quolls, raptors, wombats and kangaroos at Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary, but the real stars are the Tasmanian devils.

The sanctuary runs one of the most important captive breeding programs for the endangered marsupials. Some of the devils born at Trowunna are released into the wild to try to reestablish Tasmanian devil populations.

Be sure to take the guided tour where you’ll get to meet a Tasmanian devil up close and watch them feed. The sanctuary is 50 minutes south east of Devonport – look for the giant Tasmanian devil next to the road.

Read more about my visit to Trowunna and my opinions on animal sanctuaries in my guide to the best places to see wildlife in Tasmania.

Alum Cliffs, Mole Creek

The easy walk to the Alum Cliffs is one of Tasmania’s Great Short walks. It’s about 1km each way and takes about 40 minutes to hike. The trail takes you to a spectacular viewing platform on the cliffs over the Mersey River. The trailhead is about 55 minutes from Devonport.

Mole Creek Caves

One of the highlights of my trip was a visit to the Mole Creek caves. Located an hour south east of Devonport, these limestone caves are full of spectacular formations. You must join a guided tour to visit and there are several different tour options to choose from.

I did the Cathedral tour in Markoopa cave. We got to experience the incredible acoustics in the cave when one of the tour participants gave an impromptu performance of “Amazing Grace”.

Tasmazia and the Village of Lower Crackpot, Sheffield

This wacky attraction is great for kids, but adults will enjoy it too. The star attraction is a hedge giant maze, but they also have 7 more mazes, a miniature village, a lavender farm, a garden and a cafe. I went with two other adults and we had a great time.

Tasmazia is 35 minutes from Devonport on the way to Cradle Mountain, so it makes a great stopover. On the drive there you’ll pass through an area called Nowhere Else and one called Promised Land. Fun!

Walls of Jerusalem National Park

Cradle Mountain gets all the press, so next-door-neighbour Walls of Jerusalem National Park doesn’t get the crowds. It’s also located in Tasmania’s highlands and has jaw-dropping scenery.

The park is a 2 hour drive from Devonport, then a steep 3+ hour hike into the wilderness. Bushwalkers love to camp in the park to climb one of the Biblically-named peaks. I spent a wonderful three days here one December.

READ NEXT: How to Hike in Walls of Jerusalem National Park, Tasmania

Cradle Mountain National Park

If you’re thinking of going to Tasmania, chances are this place is on your must see list. Cradle Mountain National Park is home to Tasmania’s highest mountains, best hiking trails and some of its most gorgeous scenery.

The park is big enough to spend days exploring, but most visitors start with the easy walks near Dove Lake. If you are up for an adventure, tackle the 65km-long Overland Track.

The drive on windy roads into the park takes about 75 minutes from Devonport.

READ NEXT: Hiking the Overland Track in Tasmania

Things to do West of Devonport

Drive west along the coast from Devonport to visit small towns and the incredible rainforst.

Lillico Beach Penguin Viewing, Lillico

If you want to see penguins in the wild, head to Lillico Beach 5 minutes west along the Bass Highway. The penguins raise their young in burrows in the summer months. Each night at dusk they come ashore to feed their babies.

There’s a viewing platform staffed with volunteers to answer your questions. I loved seeing the penguins so much that I went several times! Penguin viewing is free, but donations are welcome.

READ NEXT: Best Places to See Wildlife in Tasmania

Turners Beach Berry Patch, Turners Beach

Just 10 minutes west of Devonport is this excellent berry farm and cafe. The place we house-sat is a short walk from here, so we came here for lunch a lot.

You can pick your own berries in the fields, buy them already picked in the shop, or sit down at the cafe with one of their berry ice cream cones.

If you want something more substantial, I love their amazing wood-fired pizzas. Afterwards, head down the road to Turners Beach proper for a swim or a stroll on the sand.

Cradle Coast Farmer’s Market, Ulverstone

On Sunday mornings, make the 15 minute drive to Ulverstone for the weekly farmer’s market on the wharf. Pick up some seasonal produce, local honey, and baked goods or just stroll around with a coffee. When I lived in Devonport we came here most weekends to buy veggies for dinner.

Pedro’s The Restaurant, Ulverstone

If you’re craving fresh seafood, visit Pedro’s in Ulverstone. It’s right on the waterfront and specializes in local seafood including oysters and crayfish from Tasmania’s northwest.

If you want to splurge, get the Paradise Platter, piled high with assorted seafood for two people. I looks like a crazy amount of food, but it’s doable! My husband and I really enjoyed the crayfish.

Leven Canyon Lookout, Nietta

The short hike to the Leven Canyon viewpoint is one of 60 Great Short Walks in Tasmania. The trail makes a short loop with a spur out to a viewing platform at the apex. From the platform, you’ll be able to gaze down on the Leven River, a staggering 275 meters below you.

The trail has lots of stairs so while it is short, it is not easy. Allow 45 minutes for the walk and 50 minutes to drive from Devonport.

Gunns Plains Caves

The beautiful limestone Gunns Plains Caves are just 40 minutes from Devonport. Local guides Geoff and Trish offer hour-long tours several times a day. My favourite part of the tour was the gorgeous shawl formations, nick-named cave bacon!

The Town of Penguin

Yes, in Tasmania there’s a town called penguin, and they have a giant 10-foot penguin statue on the waterfront to celebrate. (See if you can spot all the other penguin decorations in town like the penguin shaped bollards and rubbish bins.)

It’s a cute seaside town where you can stroll the esplanade, grab lunch at a cafe or hit the covered market on Sundays for some local goodies. It’s a 20 minute drive west of Devonport along the Bass Highway.

Fern Glade, Burnie

The easy Fern Glade walk just outside Burnie is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. The short trail follows the banks of the Emu River as it weaves through towering tree ferns. If you visit at dawn or dusk, you may see the resident platypus! It is one of my picks for the best places to see wildlife in Tasmania.

The walk only takes about 20 minutes, but there’s a picnic area if you want to stay longer. Fern Glade is a 35 minute drive from Devonport.

Hellyer’s Road Distillery, Burnie

If you’re into whiskey, you won’t want to miss this distillery. They produce some of Tasmania’s best single-malt whiskeys. They have tours (with tastings!) a cafe, and of course a shop. My whiskey snob husband liked it enough to buy 4 different bottles! You can find it 30 minutes west of Devonport near Burnie.

Wonders of Wynyard

Car fanatics will love the Wonders of Wynyard 50 minutes from Devonport. This gallery and museum houses a vintage car collection that includes the world’s oldest Ford and several other 100+ year old automobiles.

There’s also an art gallery and a gift shop with local products. It’s $8.50/adult to see the cars but the rest is free.

Table Cape

At 180m above sea level, flat-topped Table Cape has a great view of Bass Strait. There’s a great viewpoint as well as a historic lighthouse. If you visit in the spring, be sure to check out the tulip fields. The whole drive out here takes about an hour.

Boat Harbour Beach

With its white sand and turquoise waters, Boat Harbour Beach looks almost tropical (even though the water is still not that warm). Many people rate it as the most beautiful beach in Tasmania, so it’s worth the 1 hour drive from Devonport.

It’s nestled in a sheltered cove behind a rocky point, ensuring that the waters stay calm. The beach is patrolled on weekends in summer. There are public toilets, change rooms and a cafe at the surf life saving club. 

Town of Stanley

The seaside town of Stanley has a cute and historic little town centre and sandy beaches. It’s also home to flat-topped bluff (actually an old volcanic plug) called the Nut.

You can take a chairlift to the top or walk up a steep track. (I walked up and while it was 10 minutes of hard work, it wasn’t bad.) At the top, a path circles the perimeter with viewpoints in each direction. Stanley is 90 minutes from Devonport.

Tarkine Drive

Explore Tasmania’s wild West Coast and old growth rainforest interior in the Tarkine region. This 200km loop drive visits rugged beaches, aboriginal cultural sites, walking tracks and remote villages. You can drive it in a day, but I recommend at least 2 days to really get a feel for the place.

I can’t say enough amazing things about this off-the-beaten path area. I’ve got a complete guide to the Tarkine Drive, with driving directions and an itinerary. The start of the drive in the town of Smithton is 90 minutes west of Devonport on the Bass Highway.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to the Tarkine Drive in Tasmania, Australia

Devonport FAQ

So that’s my big list of things to do in Devonport and Tasmania’s North West. Which ones are you looking forward to most? Tell me in the comments.

MORE TASMANIA POSTS:

• Best Places to See Wildlife in Tasmania
• The Ultimate Guide to the Tarkine Drive in Tasmania, Australia
• How to spend the weekend in Hobart, Tasmania: 2-day Itinerary
• 22 Things to Do on the Tasman Peninsula Near Port Arthur
• The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Maria Island, Tasmania
• The Best Things to Do on Bruny Island, Tasmania
• The Best Things to do in Strahan and Tasmania’s West Coast

The post 40+ Things to do in Devonport and Tasmania’s North West appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley is a popular vacation destination. But it’s a huge region so it can be tough to decide where to go. Without naming names, I think that some towns in the Okanagan are a bit too touristy or get too crowded.

But as one of the oldest cities in the Okanagan, Vernon has heart. It has a cute downtown district with lots of shops and restaurants. And the surrounding hills are full of orchards, hiking trails, and viewpoints. I definitely recommend visiting in spring to see the orchards and wildflowers blooming!

And of course, the Vernon is next to both Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake, so there are lots of beaches and places to get out on the water.

In this post, I’ll give you the run-down on the best things to do in Vernon, BC. It includes:

• A custom map of Vernon that shows all the key locations I mention
• A list of my personal recommendations for the best things to do in Vernon, BC
• My picks for where to stay in Vernon
• A list of the best places to eat in Vernon
• A Vernon FAQ to help you plan your visit

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: Thanks so much to Tourism Vernon for hosting me in Vernon. 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 cost to you. Thanks for your support! -Taryn

Vernon, BC Map

Vernon is a pretty easy city to navigate. But since it is in a rural area, some locations are a few minutes outside the city centre. I’ve put together a custom google map of Vernon for you. It shows all the locations I mention in this post. Click the map to explore.

The Best Things to Do in Vernon

Explore the Murals

Vernon’s downtown is dotted with 28 murals that depict the city’s history and culture. Most of the murals are within a few blocks of the intersection of 32nd Street and 32nd Avenue.

I found it fun to just wander around and see what murals I could find, but you can also download this Vernon mural map and guide that has the location and info for each one.

Shop on 30th Avenue

Vernon’s streets use a grid system, but confusingly, 30th Avenue is basically the town’s main street. That is where you’ll find lots of cute shops and boutiques.

I loved browsing at Expressions of Time, a bookstore with a huge selection of used books as well as crystals and other new age stuff. Stop in to Kaleco to browse sustainable clothing and gifts.

Take a Tour of the Kalamalka Indigenous Garden

Known as K’nmalka? Senqalten in the Syilx/Okanagan language, a tour of the Kalamalka Indigenous Garden at Okanagan College was one of the highlights of my visit to Vernon. Our guide, Justen Peters, showed us many of the local plants and explained how they are used for food, medicine, and more. (There is a teepee made of reeds on-site!)

For me, the most interesting part of the experience was the way that Justen wove traditional stories about the landscape, people, and plants into the tour. The views of Kalamalka Lake from the garden were also incredible.

I’m committed to contributing to reconciliation with Indigenous groups in Canada, so it is important to me to seek out Indigenous tourism experiences when I travel. I loved the personal perspective that Justen brought to the tour and the way he was open and honest about the way he is connecting with his culture.

Eat Your Way Through the Vernon Tasting Trail

Since it is surrounded by farmland and orchards, Vernon is foodie heaven. The Vernon Tasting Trail includes 27 local food and drink producers. Many of them are in the surrounding farmland, but a few have storefronts in downtown Vernon.

I recommend Ratio Coffee and Pastry, and Helmut’s Sausage Kitchen. (More on both of these in the “Where to Eat” section.) I also wanted to visit Wedge Cheesery and Kin+Pod Chocolate but didn’t have time on my visit. (Next time!)

Visit Davison Orchards Country Village

The apple trees of Davison Orchards line the hills at Vernon’s northwestern edge. But this family-run orchard offers a lot more than just apples. We had a delicious lunch at the Farmhouse Cafe, served on the patio which has an incredible view.

They also have a cute gift shop, a coffee shop, ice cream, a kids’ play area, and farm animals. Don’t miss the bakery which sells fresh-baked pies. We bought their adorable personal-sized apple pies – called “cutie pies”!

Shop at the Vernon Farmer’s Market

Vernon is home to one of the Okanagan’s largest farmer’s markets. The Vernon Farmer’s Market has been around since 1979. The market runs on Monday and Thursday mornings from mid-April to the end of October. Find it behind Kal Tire Place (the city’s biggest arena).

Look for lots of fresh produce, eggs, meat, prepared food, and crafts. On my spring visit, there were also lots of vegetable seedlings and flowers.

Visit Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

The award-winning Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery uses local apples (instead of grain) as the base for many of their spirits. They were pressing apples when we visited and the whole place smelled like apple juice!

My husband was so impressed with their whiskey and fruit brandy that he bought a few bottles. Their distillery has a huge tasting room and shop right next to their enormous copper stills. In addition to tastings, they also have tours.

Drink Craft Beer at Marten Brewing Co.

Marten Brewing Co. is a craft microbrewery located in the heart of downtown Vernon. They brew all of their beer on-site, with their brewing equipment located in the centre of their pub! You can buy beer to-go or stay to sample a flight of beer.

They also have a restaurant with a full kitchen serving up pub fare like sandwiches, burgers, and wings. I had a delicious Cubano sandwich.

Sample Cider at The BX Press Cidery

If you prefer cider to beer, don’t miss a visit to The BX Press Cidery. Their on-site apple orchard produces all of the apples they use in their ciders. They make a staggering variety of apple ciders, ranging from sweet to dry, many of which have fun flavours like cherry, vanilla, and even Earl Grey tea!

On my visit they were in the middle of a big renovation to create a new restaurant and patio space, so we didn’t linger. (The restaurant opens in summer 2022.) But that didn’t stop us from buying a case of cider to take home with us! I also ducked into the orchard to enjoy the apple blossoms.

Psst! Want to visit the distillery, BX Press Cidery, and four wineries? Book the Vernon High Spirits Tour and let your guide do the driving.

Hike to BX Falls

The hike to BX Falls is short but worth it. The trail descends beside the creek before plunging down a set of well-constructed stairs to the base of the waterfall.

The 30-meter tall falls cascades through a tight canyon before emptying into a pool. On my visit, it had been raining all day so the falls were really raging.

If you want to go directly to BX Falls, you can start your hike from the parking lot on Tillicum Road. But if you want a longer hike you can follow the BX Creek Trail uphill from the trailhead on Star Road.

Explore the Grey Canal Historic Trail

The Grey Canal Historic Trail is one of the most interesting trails I have come across. Built between 1905 and 1914, the Grey Canal was a system of pipes, ditches, and flumes that supplied irrigation water to the hills around Vernon.

Today you can hike and bike sections of the 50-kilometre-long route as it curves across the hillside high above orchards and farms. That means it has incredible views. We explored the Turtle Mountain section which includes an incredible viewpoint on Rocky Ridge.

The best info and maps for the Grey Canal trail are on the Ribbons of Green Trails Society’s website – click on the Grey Canal tab on the top left.

Bike the Okanagan Rail Trail

The Okanagan Rail Trail stretches for over 50 kilometres on an old railway bed between Vernon and Kelowna. It runs along the shores of Kalamalka and Wood Lakes and is FLAT, making it a great place to go biking.

On my trip, we rented e-bikes from Kalavida Surf Shop at the start of the trail in Vernon and biked all the way to the tiny town of Oyama and back on the shores of Kalamalka Lake – a round trip of nearly 40 km. The e-bikes made what would normally be a long ride easy – we finished in just a few hours.

Along the way, we stopped a lot to admire the flowers growing beside the trail. (Our spring visit included tons of wildflowers!) We even spotted a huge hawk hunting on the top of a cliff.

The views of the lake were also incredible. The lake water changes colour with the seasons. It was a dark blue-green on my trip, but as it warms up it becomes more turquoise.

Hike at Predator Ridge and Sparkling Hill

The high ridge between Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake is home to two neighbouring resorts with a big network of hiking trails: Predator Ridge Resort and Sparking Hill. The trails lead from the resorts, past a golf course and residential community, into the hills.

Many of the trails have incredible views down to Okanagan Lake and the Predator Ridge area. Some even have picnic tables or wooden yoga platforms, perfect for soaking up the views.

On my trip to Vernon, we stayed at the Predator Ridge Lodge and loved being able to go for hikes right out the front door. The Okanagan Lake Lookout is a great sunset spot (although the clouds obscured the sunset a bit on my visit.) We also loved evening bird watching at the easy Birdie Lake Trail.

There are over 35 km of trails, so I wasn’t able to explore them all – I’ll just have to go back! But I definitely recommend a spring visit as there were wildflowers everywhere.

For info on the trails, Predator Ridge has a good trail map. Some of the trails are shared with bikes and on a few access paths you may encounter golf carts, so keep your head up!

Explore Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park

This gorgeous provincial park sits on the eastern shore of Kalamalka Lake. It has a huge network of hiking and biking trails. We only had time to explore a small section but it was spectacular! First, we hiked to Jade Bay and Juniper Bay, two small beaches that are popular for swimming in the summer.

We also hiked out to a beautiful viewpoint at the end of Rattlesnake Point. From there, you can also follow another trail to a lookout on a rock outcropping at the top of Rattlesnake Point. The views were even better from up there.

It’s also a good place to admire the colourful waters of Kalamalka Lake which change from dark blue in the winter to green and turquoise in the summer.

During our spring visit, the trails were covered in wildflowers. Even though our hike was only 4 km long, it took forever since I kept stopping to take photos of the flowers. If you’re interested in flower ID, I recommend the Seek app by iNaturalist which uses your phone camera to tell which plant you are looking at.

Kalamalka Provincial Park has a huge trail system of both hiking and biking trails. Next time I visit, I want to hike to Cosens Bay. I’d also like to bring my mountain bike too!

Hit the Beach

On my spring visit, it was a bit too chilly for swimming. But we still visited several beaches in Vernon to go for a walk or have a picnic.

Kal Beach on Kalamalka Lake is just a few drive minutes from Vernon. There’s a paved multi-use path most of the way too. It’s a beautiful sandy beach with a long pier.

We also visited Kin Beach on Okanagan Lake. The sandy beach has lots of big trees for shade as well as a big grassy area.

Jade Bay and Juniper Bay in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park also have great beaches (although they are small).

Go Golfing

While I didn’t actually go golfing in Vernon, I feel a bit like I did since we stayed at Predator Ridge. Our room looked out on the course and we watched golfers swinging clubs and zipping around on golf carts while relaxing on our patio.

The two golf courses at Predator Ridge are famous for their incredible views. There are also a few other golf courses around Vernon, including The Rise, which sits high above Okanagan Lake and also has panoramic views.

More Things To Do in Vernon

While we managed to see and do a lot during our three days in Vernon, we couldn’t see everything. Here’s what is on my list for my next trip!

More Outdoor Things To Do

• More hiking! – Vernon has dozens of hiking trails. This interactive Vernon hiking trail map from Ribbons of Green Trail Society has all the details. I’d also love to explore the alpine hiking trails at Silverstar Mountain.
• Explore Ellison Provincial Park – This park on Okanagan Lake has a campground, sandy beach, and hiking trails. It also has a huge network of mountain biking trails that connect to the Predator Ridge system up the hill.
• Go mountain biking – My mtb-loving husband spent most of the trip wishing he had brought his bike. We’ve heard there are great mountain biking trails at Ellison Provincial Park, Kalamalka Provincial Park, Silver Star Mountain, and Predator Ridge. Use the Trailforks app to find the trails.
• Go skiing and snowshoeing – Silverstar Mountain Resort is just up the hill from Vernon. I spent a winter weekend there about 15 years ago and loved the ski-in, ski-out lodging and snowshoe trails.
• Go cross-country skiing – Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre is home to a huge network of cross-country ski trails. They have snowshoe trails too.
• Wander through Polson Park – We drove past this lush city park but didn’t have time to stop. It has lots of walking paths through gardens. There is even a unique floral clock.
• Visit the Allan Brooks Nature Centre – Perched on top of a hill, this nature museum has lots of indoor and outdoor exhibits. But I mostly want to visit to see the marmot colony!
• Rent a boat – Wakeboarding, tubing, and just cruising around are popular summer activities on the lakes. There are several motorboat rental places in Vernon.
• Take a private boat cruise – Get out on the water on a pontoon boat, then anchor in a secluded bay to go swimming. This private Okanagan Lake 3-hour cruise is on my list. It comes with a captain and picks up from docks in Vernon.
• Go paddleboarding or kayaking – Paddle in Kalamalka or Okanagan Lakes. You can rent SUPs and paddleboards from a few places around Vernon. I recommend Kalavida Surf Shop – the staff are super friendly.

Extra Things To Do in Vernon

• Visit Historic O’Keefe Ranch – Founded in 1867, this historic ranch was an important stop at the end of the wagon road in the Okanagan Valley. Today it’s full of preserved buildings, museum exhibits, and farm animals.
• Visit the Okanagan Science Centre – This cute science centre looks like a great rainy day activity, especially if you are travelling with kids. It even includes a planetarium.
• Go wine tasting – There are several wineries near Vernon. It’s easiest to visit as part of a tour so you don’t have to worry about a designated driver. This Lake Country winery tour visits nearby wineries and offers pickups from Vernon hotels.
• Visit Planet Bee Honey Farm – This cute farm shop has everything honey, including mead, a wine made from honey. They also have bee-friendly gardens to explore.
• Relax at KurSpa – This huge spa has steam rooms, saunas, and an infinity pool with an incredible view. It’s located high on Predator Ridge at Sparkling Hill Resort.

Where to Stay in Vernon

Vernon has a huge variety of accommodation options from upscale to budget. If you’re visiting in prime summer season, book far in advance, especially for camping.

Hotels

Outdoor Focused Resort: We stayed at the huge Predator Ridge Resort, which has a mix of lodge suites and cottages, all with their own kitchens. There are two restaurants on-site and a small grocery store. It’s a bit of a drive outside of town, but the location is stunning with incredible views. The main attraction is golfing, but as hikers, we enjoyed exploring the huge trail system instead. Check prices.

Upscale Spa Resort: Located next to Predator Ridge, Sparkling Hill Resort is an adults-only hotel with a luxurious spa and incredible views. The place has unique architecture and is also covered in Swarovski crystals. Check prices.

Unique Hotel: The Prestige Vernon Lodge has a feature I’ve never seen anywhere else – a natural creek running through it! The hotel has a huge glass atrium with tons of plants, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and yes, a creek. Many of the rooms face the atrium and prices are reasonable. Check prices.

Reliable Chain Hotel: I’ve stayed at Fairfield Inn and Suites locations all across Canada and the US. They are consistently clean, well-equipped, newly renovated, and come with free breakfast. Check prices.

B&Bs and Vacation Rentals

There are tons of great B&Bs and vacation rentals around Vernon. Many of them have great views or locations near beaches.

Townhouse With Private Beach: Located right on Okanagan Lake, The Outback Lakeside Vacation Homes have two- and three-bedroom units with kitchens and access to both a private pool and private beach. Check prices.

Rural B&B: The Country Cottage B&B is really cute. It’s set in rolling farmland a short drive from Okanagan Lake. All the reviews mention the delicious breakfast. Check prices.

Rustic Tiny House Cabin: Step back in time while enjoying all the modern conveniences at The Little House on Pottery Road. The rustic tiny house has pioneer-era decor and a wrap-around veranda perfect for soaking up the views. Check prices.

Camping

In the summer, the Okanagan is a popular spot for camping trips. There are several great campgrounds near Vernon.

Kekuli Bay Provincial Park: We biked past Kekuli Bay Provincial Park on the Okanagan Rail Trail. The new-ish campground is on the shores of Kalamalka Lake in a rural area grassland area. You can bike or walk on the Rail Trail or swim from the small beach. Reserve with BC Parks.

Ellison Provincial Park: You’ll find Ellison Provincial Park a few minutes outside of Vernon on Okanagan Lake. In addition to the campground, it has a beach, hiking trails, and tons of mountain bike trails. Reserve with BC Parks.

Glamping: If you want something less rustic, book a stay at the Utopia Feels Glampground in nearby Coldstream. Their luxurious tent suites have comfy beds and great views. The property has gardens and a micro-farm with lots of adorable animals. Check prices.

Where to Eat in Vernon

Between the Tasting Trail, the brewery, cider press, and distillery, it felt like we were always eating and drinking something delicious in Vernon. But for a town in orchard and farm country, I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised. Here are my picks for where to eat in Vernon.

Coffee Shop: We loved Ratio Coffee so much that we went twice. It is located in the old railway station. Be sure to try the daily bakery specials and sit on their great patio.

Pizza: We had amazingly authentic pizza at Pallino’s Italian Bistro at Predator Ridge. You can eat-in, sit on the patio, or get a pizza to go. They also make their own gelato, but I was too full of pizza to try it.

Deli with Sandwiches: Helmut’s Sausage Kitchen is a quirky European deli that specializes in sausages. But they also make truly amazing hot sandwiches. They have a small eating area, but we took ours to-go and ate at the beach.

Pub: Marten Brewing Co. makes craft beer and great pub food to go along with it. If you’re looking for a burger or wings, this is where to get it. Their menu also has a few more innovative offerings like tempura bites, truffle fries, and fish tacos. We loved the house-made guac.

Cafe: I had heard lots of great things about EATology, but unfortunately we didn’t have time to visit. They are only open for breakfast and lunch, but people rave about their eggs benny.

Vernon, BC FAQ

Do you have questions about Vernon? Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Vernon, BC.

Where is Vernon, BC?

Vernon is located in the Okanagan region of British Columbia’s interior. It is in the northern part of the Okanagan, about 45 minutes north of Kelowna and 1.5 hours southeast of Kamloops.

How big is Vernon, BC?

Vernon has a population of about 40,000 people. It covers an area of 96 square kilometres. It has a compact downtown core, but also includes a lot of surrounding rural land.

What is Vernon, BC known for?

Vernon is known for being the commericial hub city for the Northern Okanagan. It is surrounded by lakes (Okanagan, Kalamalka, and Swan Lakes) making it a popular place for summer recreation. Silverstar Mountain ski hill is just outside of town. The surrounding area is rural, with lots of farms, orchards, hiking trails, and golf courses.

How to get to Vernon, BC?

The easiest way to get to Vernon is to drive. It’s about 5.5 hours from Vancouver and 7.5 hours from Calgary. You can also fly into Kelowna airport. From there, you can take an airport shuttle van from Kelowna to Vernon. The ride takes about 30 minutes.

When is the best time to go to Vernon, BC?

Vernon is a year-round destination. It is most popular in the summer, but it can be incredibly hot and sunny. The winter months are a good time for skiing. If you visit in April and May, you’ll skip the crowds and enjoy gorgeous wildflowers. The months of September and October are also less busy and have beautiful fall colours as the leaves change.

What is the weather like in Vernon, BC?

In general, Vernon has cold winters (1°C/33°F) and hot summers (30°C/80°F). June, July, and August are the warmest. December, January, and February are the coldest. Compared to coastal BC, Vernon has a relatively dry climate. The spring months are the rainiest, but it still only rains a little bit. Check the Vernon weather forecast here.

How long should you spend in Vernon, BC?

There is no easy answer to this question. If you just want to see the highlights, a quick weekend trip will suffice. But if you really want to experience the best things to do in Vernon, spending a long weekend or a full week would be better. I spent three days in Vernon and managed to cram a lot in… but I left with lots of things still on my Vernon bucket list. Next time!

What is the Indigenous context of Vernon, BC?

Vernon is in the traditional territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) First Nation. Before European contact, the Syilx were semi-nomadic, living in pit houses called kekulis in the winter and teepees made of tule reeds in the summer. Their territory extended through the Okanagan Valley and down into the United States.

The area that is now Vernon was called Nintle-Moos-Chin, which means “jumping over creek” since BX Creek narrowed enough that it was possible to leap across it.

In the 1800s fur traders and miners came through the Okanagan Valley, disrupting the Syilx way of life and displacing them from their lands. Today, the Syilx continue to live and practice their culture in the Okanagan Valley.

What is the history of Vernon, BC?

The Vernon area has been the traditional home of the Syilx people since time immemorial. European fur traders and prospectors arrived in the mid-1800s. Some of the Europeans settled in the area, starting ranches.

The town of Vernon was incorporated as a city in 1892 and was named after Forbes George Vernon, a member of British Columbia’s legislative assembly. Irrigation projects and a railway made the fruit industry possible in Vernon in the early 1900s. Today Vernon is a commercial hub for the region, which still relies on ranching, farming, and orchards as its main industries.

If you haven’t been to Vernon yet, I encourage you to go, especially in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming. There are so many things to do in Vernon, BC that I wasn’t able to see everything I wanted in just one trip. I’ll definitely be back (with my mountain bike next time!)

Do you have questions about things to do in Vernon? Leave them in the comments so I can help you out.

READ NEXT:

• Explore Summerland’s Wineries by Bike
• 10 Things to Do in Penticton in Summer
• 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer
• Things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park, Canada
• Chasing Waterfalls in Wells Gray Provincial Park
• 30 Cozy Cabins Near Vancouver for a Weekend Getaway

The post 30+ Things to Do in Vernon, BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In this post, you’ll find personal recommendations for 22 small towns across Canada along with outdoor adventures that will inspire you to pack your hiking boots and go.

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

Curious about where all these Canadian adventure towns are located? I made this handy google map that shows you where to find them.

Best Small Towns in the Atlantic Provinces for Outdoor Adventures

Cavendish, Prince Edward Island

Cavendish is a small town in Prince Edward Island. Public transport is limited, so the only way to get to Cavendish is to self-drive. From PEI’s capital city of Charlottetown, it’s a 35-minute drive via Highway 224 and Highway 13. There is typically a shuttle from Charlottetown to Cavendish if self-driving is not an option – check in advance if this is operating.

There are lots of great things to do in the town of Cavendish – it is the perfect place for an outdoor adventure in PEI. One of the most popular things to do is go to Cavendish Beach, which is a white sand beach in Prince Edward Island National Park. Spend some time swimming in the ocean or kiteboarding! 

At Cavendish Beach, you can also go hiking trail on the Dunelands Trail. It is a short, 2.3 km out and back trail that is relatively flat and leads to Cavendish Beach East. The Dunelands trail itself takes about 35 minutes round trip to complete, but Cavendish Beach East is a unique, red sand beach and a beautiful place to explore.

Recommended by Kat from endlesswonder.ca

Wolfville, Nova Scotia

If you’re looking for a small town with big outdoor adventures, look no further than Wolfville, Nova Scotia. This beautiful town is located on the Bay of Fundy and is home to stunning hiking trails, kayaking spots, and more.

Wolfville is easily reached from Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia, making it the perfect weekend getaway spot. In just 1 hour by car, you can be enjoying all that this charming town has to offer. With an airport located in Halifax, you’ll be able to get to Wolfville and be strapping on your hiking shoes within 2 hours of touching down!

One of the best things to do in Wolfville is to hike up to Blomidon Provincial Park. This park offers incredible views of the Bay of Fundy and is a great place to see some of Nova Scotia’s wildlife. Several easy hiking trails wind through the park, making it the perfect place to explore on a sunny day.

Don’t forget to visit in the fall for apple picking and leaf spotting on hiking trails in nearby Annapolis Valley. In the spring, you can also check out local wineries after a morning of kayaking on the Minas Basin.

Recommended by Nina from Nina Out and About

READ NEXT: 16 Things to do Before a Hike

St. Andrews, New Brunswick

St. Andrews by-the-Sea is one of the most popular places in New Brunswick. Nestled beside the Bay of Fundy, the town of St. Andrews is about one hour west of Saint John on Route 1. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a longer vacation, this historic location is the perfect destination.

One of the best hikes nearby is Sam Orr Pond in the Caughey-Taylor Nature Preserve. This 3.5-km loop takes about an hour and is perfect for families or solo adventurers. If you’d prefer a longer hike, continue to Berry Point for views of the Passamaquoddy Bay. You can visit this nature preserve in winter, too.

In addition, St. Andrews is only 40 minutes from New River Beach Provincial Park and just over two hours to Fundy National Park—lots of options for hiking and camping.

There’s nothing like spending time on the Bay of Fundy. And whale watching is one of the most popular things to do in St. Andrews. However, if you want an eco-adventure, take the ferry to Deer Island to go kayaking. You can spend a couple of hours or head out for a whole day of guided paddling. 

Finally, don’t leave St. Andrews without strolling through the quaint downtown. You’ll find plenty of artisan shops and restaurants to try. Once you’re finished shopping, comb the beach at low tide or drive across the ocean floor to Minister’s Island. Or visit the Pendlebury Lighthouse just outside of town. And if you’re wondering where to stay, The Algonquin Resort is an iconic and charming hotel. 

Recommend by Thomas Coldwell from outandacross.com

Best Small Towns in Quebec for Outdoor Adventures

Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec

Baie Saint-Paul is a beautiful small town in Charlevoix, Quebec. It takes just above one hour to get to Baie-Saint-Paul from Quebec City, depending on the season. 

Baie-Saint-Paul is a year-round destination. In the winter, you can go skiing at one of the nicest ski resorts on the east coast. Le Massif de la Petite-Rivière-Saint-François is only 30 minutes away from Baie-Saint-Paul. It offers lots of snow and ski trails. Plus, the view is simply breathtaking. On some slope, you’ll feel like you’re skiing down into the Saint Lawrence River.

In the summer, don’t miss Le Festif festival which features live music and lots of outdoor activities.

But autumn is by far the most beautiful season to visit Baie-Saint-Paul where you’ll experience the foliage season. From green to yellow to bright red, the changing colors in the trees is in itself a reason to visit the region. But be sure to do some hiking.

Try Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes Trail in Grands-Jardins National Park. It’s a 9.2 km out-and-back trail with 439 m elevation gain. If you have more time, the Acropole des Draveurs in the Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park (which is an hour away from Baie-Saint-Paul) is worth the trip. It’s a 10.6 km out-and-back trail with 885 m elevation gain.  Both hikes offer beautiful summit views.

Other than hiking and skiing, the town of Baie-Saint-Paul is really charming. It has many little local stores and art galleries. Le Germain Hotel & Spa is a great option for accommodation. They also have a public spa to relax after a long day outside.

Recommended by Emilie from Love Life Abroad

Val-David, Quebec

Val-David is a small town about 1.5 hours north of Montreal that is big on adventure. Located in the Laurentian Mountains in Quebec, Val-David is an all-season destination for people who love the outdoors.

In the summer, Val-David has world-class rock climbing and bouldering. It is said that Val-David’s granite cliffs were the birthplace of climbing in Quebec. All levels of rock climbers will find routes suitable for their experience. Additionally, the woods around Val-David are strewn with sizeable glacial erratic boulders. There are endless boulder problems to attempt on these massive stones.

You can kayak or canoe on the Rivière du Nord that flows right through the village. Or if cycling is more your thing, bike on the P’tit Train du Nord, a 235 km rail trail that travels from Mont Tremblant to the outskirts of Montreal. There are also 60 km of hiking trails surrounding Val-David.

Equipment rental for many outdoor sports is available in town.

Val-David is also known as a winter mecca. The P’tit Train du Nord Linear Park near Val-David is transformed into a groomed cross-country ski trail. There’s nothing like skiing through a charming village with the snow lightly falling. Also don’t miss snowshoeing on the regional trails, especially up to Mont Condor to see the ice caves. 

Other nearby winter sports include downhill skiing at the local hill, Valle Bleu. There are many other ski hills in the Laurentians to visit, including Mont-Tremblant for big mountain skiing and snowboarding. There is also a lighted skating rink in the center of town.

Recommended by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

READ NEXT: How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

When it comes to outdoor adventure in Quebec, the town of Mont-Tremblant is THE place to be. This famous Québecois haven is a short 1.5-hour drive from the big city of Montréal via Highway 15.

The outdoor activities are endless in Mont-Tremblant; skiing, biking, dog sledding, tubing, and riding panoramic gondolas, sleigh rides, zip lining and whitewater rafting just to name a few! In the summertime, it’s easy to fall head over heels for this photogenic Laurentian town with breath-taking views of the Mont-Tremblant mountains and an enchanting European-inspired pedestrian village.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Mont-Tremblant. A great trail for the more advanced hikers is the Vertigo, which goes from the base of the Mont-Tremblant to its summit at 3.3km away and takes 1.5 hours to complete.

Another thrilling activity to add to your bucket list is a downhill ride on the Skyline Luge. Start your journey in the pedestrian village, then ride the chairlift up through the Laurentian. At the top, get on board the luge cart to experience an adrenaline-pumping ride down the 1.4km track!

And if you’re stopping by the good ole city of Montreal on your way back, be sure to pay a visit to one of the city’s finest Mediterranean restaurants for some true local gastronomy!

Recommended by Palo of Moons and Roses

Best Small Towns in Ontario for Outdoor Adventures

Gananoque, Ontario

Considered the “Canadian Gateway to the Thousand Islands,” Gananoque, Ontario has a ton of hiking trails and waterways waiting to be explored.

The closest airport is in Ottawa, and from there it’s an hour and a half drive to Gananoque. If coming from Toronto (3 hours away) or anywhere in Southern Ontario, hop onto Highway 401 E and head straight into the area.

Gananoque has its own trail system that includes walking paths and waterfront trails located right in town. However, if you are looking for some awesome hikes with epic views, head over to Thousand Islands National Park located just 20 minutes outside of town.

Landon Bay in Thousand Islands National Park offers several trails that are easy to manage, yet reward you with spectacular views. The Donevan Trail circles around the park. At 4.3 km, this incredibly scenic route will take you about 1.5 hours to complete.

But the Lookout Trail which detours off the Donevan Trail has the best views. At only 500 m from the parking lot, the top of the Lookout Trail presents you with breathtaking views of Landon Bay and the Canadian Thousand Islands.

The Jones Creek Trails at the Thousand Islands National Park are another fabulous place for some incredible hiking. These flat but scenic trails are filled with old-growth forests, wetland habitats, and gorgeous views of the surrounding waters.

Recommended by Marianne from The Journeying Giordanos

Huntsville, Ontario

Huntsville, Ontario is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. And while there are plenty of things to do, hiking is one of the most popular.

One of the most famous hikes in Huntsville is the Lions Lookout Trail. It’s a short, but steep 1.3km trail, ending at a lookout that offers spectacular views of Fairy Lake.

Another popular trail is Hunter’s Bay Trail. This 4.6km trail is an easy hike but very scenic and takes around 1.5-2 hours to complete. Starting at the Center Street bridge, the trail follows the lake towards the highway and has sections of floating boardwalk.

Arrowhead Provincial Park is another great spot to hike in Huntsville. There are several trails from 1km to 7km in length but the most popular is the Stubb’s Falls trail. The circular trail is 2km long and takes about 45 minutes to hike, passing Stubb’s Falls before heading back through a forested path. It’s an easy hike, but a bit more technical than the ones mentioned above.

For those looking for longer hikes, Limberlost Forest is just a short drive from Huntsville and offers trails ranging from 4km to 13km, all with varying difficulty. This is a perfect way to get out and experience the beautiful scenery that Huntsville has to offer.

Recommended by Erin from Wanderlustwithkids.com

READ NEXT: The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike

Sheguiandah, Manitoulin Island, Ontario

Sheguiandah is a small town on Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron. Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world, so it’s easy to see how this is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures!

Located approximately six hours from Toronto, the most common method of transportation is driving. There are two main routes to the island – either by road around Georgian Bay or by ferry from the Bruce Peninsula. Both are very scenic.

Sheguiandah is known for being home to the Cup and Saucer hike, atop the Niagara escarpment with 70-meter cliffs that began to form 450 million years ago. It also attracts history and geology enthusiasts with its beautiful rock formations that tell stories of Indigenous history. Check out the optional Adventure Trail section which includes ladders and caves. 

Bridal Veil Falls is a fun place to cool down after a hot day of hiking – you can swim under the waterfall and walk behind it.

Bebamikawe Memorial Trail is another popular hiking trail that gives spectacular views and is slightly easier and more suitable for children.

Plus, the fish are plentiful especially in Lake Kagawong, Lake Manitou, and along the shores of the Georgian Bay. You can rent a motorboat or paddle a canoe.

Use this three-day Manitoulin Island itinerary to get the most out of your visit.

Recommended by Candace from ajourneyinspired.com

Best Small Towns in the Prairie Provinces for Outdoor Adventures

Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

Located in the middle of the prairies, Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan is a surprising destination for most. You’ll find Moosejaw located about 45-minutes west of the city of Regina. Although small in size, there are plenty of fun outdoorsy things to do in Moose Jaw – you just have to know where to look!

Surrounding the town is the Moose Jaw River – perfect for exploring the great outdoors. Jump in a canoe or kayak on the river, or take a guided paddling tour.

One of the best places to visit for hiking is Pound Provincial Park, a 20-minute drive away. Here, you can find over 30 kilometers of trails that are perfect for both hiking and biking. In the winter, the trails are groomed for cross-country skiing. The main attraction of the park is the opportunity to see bison that you can see here. You can also camp in the park.

For wildlife lovers, you simply must visit the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Center. Here you can see the cute, very small, burrowing owl that is famous in the prairies. While the center offers educational exhibits and captive owls, it’s also easy to spot the wild owls in the grasslands outside.

Another unique activity is the open-air trolley that will take you around town. This historic trolley is picture-perfect and a good way to get around while learning about the history of the area. Dress for the weather as this is an open-air experience. 

Recommended by Bailey from Destinationless Travel

READ NEXT: How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan

Prince Albert is one of the best places to visit in Saskatchewan. It is located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River and is home to Prince Albert National Park. This small town is easily accessible from Saskatoon, which is a 1.5-hour drive way.

Prince Albert several of historic buildings, including the Prince Albert Historical Museum, and Diefenbaker House. But many flock to Prince Albert for its National Park. 

The park is known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park is home to bears, wolves, elk, deer, moose, and many other animals. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. 

Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the area, you will particularly like the shores of Waskesiu Lake for a stroll or a summer picnic. 

Prince Albert National Park is also great for camping. Pick Beaver Glen Campground for an overnight stay.

This park is a great place in the summers, but it is open year-round. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing in the park’s many trails and waterways. In the winter, the park is a popular destination for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. 

Recommended by Mayuri from Canada Crossroads

Canmore, Alberta

The small town of Canmore, Alberta is located in the Canadian Rockies a 1.5-hour drive west of Calgary. You can drive yourself or take an airport shuttle. Canmore is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise and there are many types of activities for different tastes and skill levels.

Since Canmore was the host city for nordic events during the 1988 Calgary Olympics, the cross country skiing facilities are truly world-class. The Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park offers over 60 km of groomed trails, for both classic and skate skiing. Part of the trail system is illuminated so you can keep on skiing until 9 pm. Other amazing winter activities include backcountry skiing and sled dog rides.

In the warmer months, Canmore offers some of the most amazing hiking adventures for every skill and difficulty level. All the hikes in Canmore reward you with spectacular mountain views and clean forest air. The trails might take you through bridges, by a creek, or to the shores of the Bow River. But no matter what you must come to the shores of the little Quarry Lake for the most beautiful and peaceful scenery.

If you’re looking for a challenge, go on a guided hike to the summit of Ha Ling Peak.

Recommended by Bea from PackYourBags

READ NEXT: 15 Best Things to Do in Canmore in Winter

Banff, Alberta

Nestled amongst one of the most beautiful national parks in Canada is the small mountain town of Banff. About a 90-minute drive from Calgary it is easily accessible – rent a car or take one of the regular shuttle buses between Calgary and Banff.

Banff is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. There is a lot to do just around the town. Or you can use it as a base to explore Banff National Park by car.

A short but rewarding hike within the town is the 4.3km Tunnel Mountain hike. A steep trail leads to some of the best views over the town. Guided hikes are also available. Or take a scenic bike ride through the town to Vermillion Lakes where a 4 km road gives wonderful vistas of Banff’s mountains as well as some potential wildlife spotting opportunities.

If you have more time in the area, and access to a car, Banff National Park is home to some of the most stunning lakes in Canada. Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka are both only a 15-minute drive from Banff; Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are about 45 minutes to an hour away. All are well worth the drive.

Recommended by Emma from Forever Lost In Travel

READ NEXT: 9 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Banff in the Fall and Best Things to Do in Banff in the Spring

Jasper, Alberta

The small town of Jasper is the gateway to the beautiful Jasper National Park. It offers charming boutiques, hip restaurants, and cozy hotels to enjoy between your outdoor adventures. The closest big city is Edmonton. But you can also get to Jasper from Calgary. Along the drive, you’ll pass right by Banff and Yoho National Parks on the Icefields Parkway, making this a popular Canadian Rockie road trip.

Many of Jaspers Jasper’s most incredible sites are along the Icefields Parkway. Plan a hike along the 1.4 km out-and-back Athabasca Glacier Trail, where you can walk right up to the glacier’s leading edge and marvel at the massiveness (up to 300 metres thick!) of part of North America’s largest icefield. You can walk ON the glacier as part of a guided tour.

For a more intense hike, consider the 8 km out-and-back Wilcox Pass trail, which provides breathtaking vistas of the glacier’s tongue- and an excellent spot for seeing bighorn sheep!

If you’d rather get your adrenaline pumping, you can book a white water rafting tour in the summertime, like the Class III+ rapids along the Sunwapta River (which literally translates to “turbulent waters”).

Visiting in the wintertime? Ski or snowboard on any of the 91 runs at the Marmot Basin ski resort, all with the dramatic Canadian Rockies as your backdrop. 

Recommended by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

Best Small Towns in British Columbia for Outdoor Adventures

Revelstoke, British Columbia

Revelstoke is my favourite Canadian mountain town. Located in eastern British Columbia, it’s a 6-hour drive from Vancouver or 4.5 hours from Calgary. The nearest airport is in Kelowna, 2.5 hours away.

In the winter, Revelstoke is most famous for snowmobiling and skiing – Revelstoke Mountain Resort has the highest vertical drop of any ski resort in North America!

But there are lots of things to do in Revelstoke in the summer. It’s a great destination for mountain bikers, with lift-accessed trails at the ski resort and lots of other trails around town. Extreme sports junkies can also go white water rafting or paragliding. Halcyon and Halfway River hot springs are also nearby.

Mount Revelstoke National Park is right on the edge of town. Be sure to drive the Meadows in the Sky Parkway for amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valley below. In mid-summer, the wildflower display is unreal.

Make time to go hiking in Revelstoke. If you’re looking for a short walk, check out the easy 0.5 km trail to Sutherland Falls in Blanket Creek Provincial Park. For something more challenging, head to Eva Lake in Mount Revelstoke National Park. It’s a 12 km round trip that takes about 6 hours.

Recommended by Taryn from Dawn Outdoors

READ NEXT: 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer

Squamish, British Columbia

My hometown of Squamish bills itself as the adventure capital of Canada. It’s located on the famous Sea to Sky Highway in between Vancouver and Whistler. The easiest way to get there is by car (1.5 hours from Vancouver), but you can also take a shuttle bus.

Squamish is world-famous for rock climbing, especially on the Stawamus Chief, a 700-meter-tall granite monolith. But you don’t need a rope and harness to climb to the top. A steep and challenging 11-kilometer-long trail for hikers scrambles up the backside to three different peaks where you can peer straight down the sheer face. It’s one of the best hikes in Squamish.

Garibaldi Provincial Park is just outside Squamish is one of BC’s best hiking destinations. Get details on the hike to picturesque Garibaldi Lake or the beautiful views of Elfin Lakes in my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia.

Get My Book…

Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia

A one-stop resource for backpackers in beautiful British Columbia.

• 40 backpacking trips within a few hours of Vancouver
• Info about permits, reservations, and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

Get the book

You can also check out off-the-beaten-path local favourites like the hike to Mount Crumpit (named after the Grinch’s home) and Brohm Lake. Or walk the easy trails at the topic of the Sea to Sky Gondola. In the winter, Squamish has great snowshoeing trails.

Squamish also has hundreds of kilometres of mountain bike trails. Beginner-friendly trails crisscross the valley floor and expert routes descend rock slabs on nearby hills and mountains. Beginners can sign up for a guided mountain bike tour that includes instruction.

Recommended by Taryn of Dawn Outdoors

READ NEXT: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

Gibsons, British Columbia

While it’s a bit under-the-radar, I think Gibsons on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. It is is a short 40-minute ferry ride from Vancouver. I lived there for five months and enjoyed exploring all the things to do on the Sunshine Coast. It’s a cute waterfront town with lots of boutiques, restaurants, and craft beer.

The quaint harbour is a great place to launch kayaks and paddle to nearby Keats Island. The town is also home to several beaches. Bonniebrook Beach on the north end of town is the best since it’s over two kilometres long and has lots of sand. Mountain bikers will love the huge trail network on the forested slopes above the town.

Some of the best hikes on the Sunshine Coast are in Gibsons. Don’t miss the trail to the top of Soames Hill for great views. It’s only 2 kilometres long, but it’s a steep climb with stairs. I also love the easy trails in nearby Cliff Gilker Park since they wind through the forest to several waterfalls.

Recommended by Taryn of Dawn Outdoors

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC

Tofino, British Columbia

Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver. It’s a three-hour drive from the ferry terminal in Nanaimo. You can also get there by floatplane.

The town is famous for its sandy beaches, lush rainforest, and quaint shops. It also has some of the best surfing in Canada. It’s beginner-friendly, with lots of shops offering surf lessons and rentals, which include warm wetsuits for the cold water.

Tofino is also one of the easiest places to access Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Beginners should try the easy Rainforest Loop trail. There are two loops, each one km long. The trail goes through incredible scenery with lots of moss, ferns, and towering trees.

There are also several beach hikes, including the 6.8 km long Nuu-chah-nulth Trail between the Kwisitis Visitor Centre and Florencia Bay. It features interpretive signs about the local Nuu-chah-nulth Indigenous people.

Catch a water taxi in Tofino to access even more adventures. Kayak in Clayoquot Sound. Go backpacking on Flores Island’s Wild Side Trail. Hike amongst giant trees on the Big Tree Trail on Meares Island. Or go for a soak in the remote springs at Hot Springs Cove.

Recommended by Taryn of Dawn Outdoors

READ NEXT: 22 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver

Best Small Towns in Northern Canada for Outdoor Adventures

Dawson City, Yukon Territory

Dawson City is a historic Gold Rush town in the Yukon. The town is best accessed by road on a Yukon road trip. You can get there by the Top of the World Highway (from Alaska) or via the Klondike Highway.

This outdoor destination is famous for being a popular site that contributed to the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1800s. It is also the second-largest town in the Yukon with a population of just under 1400 people. 

There are some fantastic hiking and biking opportunities here in the summer. Near the town is the beautiful 8.4 km trek that will take you from Dawson City to Midnight Dome.

Many of the most stunning hikes are in Tombstone Territorial Park. One of the most rewarding hikes is the Goldensides Mountain, which is just 3.4 km but provides excellent views. You should expect to complete this hike in under 1.5 hours.

If you decide to tackle the trails on a mountain bike, we suggest the Dome Climb which has some paved sections.

Recommended by Natasha from The World Pursuit

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Located on the north bank of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife is the capital city of Northwest Territories and has a population of less than 20,000. The best way to get there is to take a flight from major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, or Calgary. 

Yellowknife is famous for its viewing of magnificent northern lights. It is one of the best places in the world to experience this amazing and magical natural phenomenon on earth. Many factors determine your chance to see the Northern Lights, but statistically, the area offers a 90 percent chance of sighings between mid-November and March. 

The long, cold winter and minimal light pollution in Yellowknife mean there is an extended period of darkness on winter nights. Don’t be surprised to see the Northern lights as early as 7 pm outside your hotel! For a complete viewing experience, stay in the city for three to four days, sign up for a guided tour, visit an aurora village, and then drive to an open area yourself once you have a better idea of where and how to see the lights. 

To explore nature during the daytime, head to the Ingraham Trail that extends to Tibbitt Lake and check out Cameron Falls. It is an easy hike that’s suitable for any type of traveler and the views of the lakes and forest are breathtaking. Guided hikes are also available.

Recommended by Kenny from Knycx journeying 

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Fort Smith, Northwest Territories

Fort Smith is located just north of the border between the Northwest Territories and Alberta. You can get there by plane, but many visit as part of an epic road trip thanks to Highway 5. It’s about a 9-hour drive from Yellowknife but it’s certainly worth the trek!

The town is the gateway to Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada’s largest national park and the world’s largest dark sky preserve. Camping at Pine Lake is a popular activity that allows you to see a large part of the park, though many head to the Switchback Trail where you’ll find the only salt plains in Canada.

As the area is a dark sky preserve, check out the Fort Smith Star Park and Observatory. Run by the Thebacha and Wood Buffalo Astronomical Society (TAWBAS), they will happily allow access to their telescopes so that you can catch a glimpse of the Milky Way. There is also a chance of catching the Northern Lights, though your best time to visit is between August and April!

If you’re an avid paddler, you’ll want to mark Fort Smith on your bucket list and see how you fare against the area’s white water rapids! Every year, Fort Smith hosts the Slave River Paddlefest where locals and visitors alike tackle the rapids and make memories you’ll never forget. If you’re unable to visit for the festival, the Fort Smith Paddling Club is always happy to show visitors the ropes since white water is not to be taken lightly!

Recommended by Lindsay from I’ve Been Bit

Iqaluit, Nunavut

To residents of Nunavut, Iqaluit is distinctly a city – it’s the epicentre of life at the top of the country. But by most Canadians’ standards, Iqaluit’s 8500 permanent residents put it firmly in the ‘town category’. Despite its size, you’ll be surprised how much activity can be found in the ‘New York of the North’.

Iqaluit lies on the southeast side of Baffin Island and is the capital of Nunavut. Any community north of 60 might seem inaccessible, but Iqaluit is actually only a 3-hour flight from Ottawa.

Once in Iqaluit, there are a ton of things to do depending on the season. In the spring, while the sea ice is still frozen, you can go snowmobiling over the arctic ocean, dog sledding on the tundra, try your hand at ice fishing, or chase the northern lights.

In the summer and fall, you can go hiking. The Apex Trail provides constant ocean views and is 5 km long. It ends at a tall hill which you can climb for even better views. Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park has another fantastic hike, offering views of the bright blue glacial river, which is roughly 6 km long. In addition to hiking, you can also explore the tundra by ATV or go kayaking on Frobisher Bay.

Due to the remoteness (and the occasional polar bear sighting), most activities require the support of a local guide or outfitter. Inukpack Outfitting and Arctic Kingdom are the two primary outfitters.

Recommended by Mikaela of Voyageur Tripper

How many of these Canadian towns have you visited? And which of these small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures are on your bucket list? Tell me in the comments.

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