Things To Do
Chris Burkard’s Search for the Last Wild Places
Chris Burkard, an explorer, photographer, and author, shares his experiences in British Columbia.
If you’re looking for a place for hiking, sightseeing or photowalks, be sure to visit Squamish. Below are some of our favourite spots to walk and photograph, as a Squamish local.
The Stawamus Chief
Twilight over Squamish after sunset.
It’s safe to say that when you arrive in the town of Squamish, the Stawamus Chief immediately steals the show. You see it rising out of the Howe Sound shortly after passing Murrin Provincial Park, when coming from Vancouver – it looms over the downtown core. Even as you exit Squamish to continue on to Whistler it’s still prominent on the horizon, picking up the last light of the sun as it sets, long after the rest of Squamish has begun to go dark for the night. Hiking or climbing the Chief is popular – the views are endless and rewarding after the vigorous ascent.
Information and directions: Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
The Sea to Sky Gondola
Above the clouds at the Sea to Sky Gondola.
The views at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola are amazing. But this place is more than just panoramic vistas. Get onto the trails and into the sub-alpine forests; you might be surprised with what you’ll find. Even on a rainy day, I’ll ride the Gondola and go exploring up top.
Information and directions: Sea to Sky Gondola
The Estuary and Spit
Sunset on the Stawamus Chief from the Squamish Estuary.
A popular kitesurfing destination, the Spit is also one of the best places in Squamish to photograph the Stawamus Chief. Visit at sunset for the best light. The Estuary trails are a great way to see the area and spot the many birds and wildlife that call this location home.
Information and directions: The Squamish Spit
The Smoke Bluffs
An old rusty truck found in the Smoke Bluffs Park.
Popular with rock climbers, this park offers many interesting viewpoints over Squamish as well as some interesting rock cliffs and formations. The network of trails is extensive so expect to wander through the forests here for a while, occasionally popping out and seeing Squamish from a different perspective above the town.
Information and directions: Smoke Bluffs Park
Brohm Lake
Viewpoint along one of the trails at Brohm Lake.
Just north of Squamish on the drive to Whistler is Brohm Lake, a popular swimming spot for locals. There is a great network of interesting trails here that head away from the lake and lead to an excellent viewpoint over the Tantalus Range and back to Squamish. Parking can be busy, so be sure to get there early.
Information and directions: Brohm Lake