If you’re on a longer road trip through the Rockies, this is the very beginning! The Sea to Sky Highway is a 120km road that takes you from Vancouver to Pemberton, which is just North of Whistler.
There are so many stops to make along the way. Even though you could drive it all in one day, I’d suggest taking 2 days to make the most of the stops and hikes along the way! If you are spreading out over two days I would suggest staying in Squamish. In the peak season the road and car parks tend to get busy very quickly! Therefore try to get ahead of the crowds & start early around 7:30/8am.
Where to stop along the Sea to Sky Highway:
Lynn Canyon
Lynn Canyon Park is home to a 50metre high suspension bridge which is high above the rapid waters below in the canyon. This is a short 16km from Vancouver. However if you don’t feel like paying the $55 fee for the Capilano suspension bridge, this is a great free alternative. However it’s not as high or long it’s still an experience to walk across.
Whilst you’re in Lynn Canyon park you should complete the short walk to the 30-foot pool, it’s a large area that contains a beautiful swimming hole. Although, even in summer the water is only about 10 degrees C so be prepared for a chilly swim if you choose to go in!
Distance from Vancouver: 16km
Distance to Whistler: 105km
Shannon Falls
At 335m high, Shannon Falls are the third highest falls in British Columbia. The falls are really easy to get to as a well maintained boardwalk & various trails lead you to the viewpoint. Shannon Falls is a really popular place for a picnic & is gives access into Stawamus Chief Provincial Park.
Distance from Vancouver: 60km
Distance to Whistler: 61km
Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
Stawamus Chief is a huge cliff face home to a challenging hike. It’s divided into three separate summits all reachable from the main hiking trail.
The First Peak is closest from the car park, it’s a 4km return hike. This usually takes between 2 and 3 hours due to steep incline. Near the top there are chains and ladders to assist with summiting on some part of the trail. At the top you are rewarded with amazing views of Howe Sound.
The Second Peak is the biggest of the three summits, and it’s a 5km return journey from the car park. Which takes between 4 and 5 hours. Similar to the First Peak it has a steep incline and chains and ladders near the top as well. Here you are treated to panoramic views of Howe Sound and Squamish.
The final Third Peak is the furthest at a 7km round trip from the car park, this will typically take 5-7 hours.
Distance from Vancouver: 61km
Distance to Whistler: 60km
Sea to Sky Gondola
The gondola ride whisks you up to the summit with panoramic views of Howe Sound, the surrounding mountains, Shannon Falls and Stawamus Chief. Each gondola holds up to 8 people. Once at the top, there are many trails you can walk along each with information boards. After that, you could also walk across the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, which is included with your ticket. The bridge is 100 metres long and while walking across every direction you look in has a stunning view. There is even a hiking experience using ferratas.
Distance from Vancouver: 65km
Distance to Whistler: 56km
Alice Lakes
Alice Lakes Provincial Park is home to a beautiful hike called the 4 lakes hike which takes you to…4 lakes. These lakes are called Stump, Edith, Fawn & Alice. The trail is relatively flat is about a 6.5km loop that winds round through the forest & is well marked throughout.
Distance from Vancouver: 75km
Distance to Whistler: 46km
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine falls is a spectacular 70m high waterfall, where the water drops straight down into the canyon below! To view the falls it’s a short 1km round trip that’s relatively easy and is well sign posted. Along the way you’ll have to cross train track too!
Distance from Vancouver: 103km
Distance to Whistler: 18km
Finally you have arrived in Whistler and finished your journey along the Sea to Sky Highway! Enjoy wandering around Whistler Village and if you want some ideas of things to do check out my post here on the best things to do in Whistler.
