Greatest Issues to do Alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway in British Columbia

Issues to do alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway

Provided that British Columbia is a world class journey vacation spot, we deliberately spent the summer season exploring places near our house in Vancouver. At the moment, we’d prefer to share our favorite issues to do alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway.

There’s good motive why it’s persistently rated as the most effective scenic drives in Canada. 

The Sea to Sky Freeway, also referred to as Freeway 99, is a fantastic mountain drive that begins in Vancouver and continues to Pemberton, passing by Squamish and Whistler alongside the best way. 

Now, some would possibly argue that the freeway truly begins on the USA border in South Surrey and ends at Cache Creek. They’d not be flawed. Nevertheless, for the needs of this weblog put up, we are going to concentrate on the Sea to Sky Hall, which begins in West Vancouver and ends within the Pemberton Valley.

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Prime locations to cease within the Sea to Sky Hall

As residents of Vancouver, we typically overlook we how fortunate we’re to stay in such a fantastic a part of the world.

Each time we return from a world journey we’re reminded that we have to spend extra time exploring British Columbia. You possibly can go to most of those Sea to Sky points of interest yr spherical; nevertheless, the main target for this weblog put up will probably be summer season actions. 

There are such a lot of superior issues to do alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway that you could’t potential do all of them on one journey. That stated, if you happen to do show us flawed, please tell us as a result of that may be an epic highway journey for the historical past books!

You may additionally like – 25 Superior Day Journeys from Vancouver

Cypress Provincial Park

The Sea to Sky Hall begins in West Vancouver, so let’s begin right here.

Cypress Provincial Park is house to Cypress Mountain, a preferred ski space in West Vancouver. It truly hosted occasions on the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. In the course of the summer season, Cypress Provincial Park provides quite a lot of mountain climbing trails for all ability ranges. Extra data about summer season trails right here.

One among our favorite hikes is the Eagle Bluffs and Black Mountain path. The path begins with a steep leg burner that begins on the parking zone on the base of Cypress Mountain. You hike straight up a sequence of switchbacks beside the downhill ski runs. The path continues previous a couple of mountain lakes and tall forest earlier than reaching the excellent views of the Decrease Mainland and Georgia Straight from Eagle Bluffs (see the above and under photographs). 

The Eagle Bluffs hike is approx. 9 km spherical journey with a 350 meter elevation achieve. It takes about 4 hours to finish, together with a 15 minute break on the viewpoint.

If mountain climbing is just not your factor, it’s nonetheless price driving up the mountain to go to the Cypress Mountain Viewpoint. This is likely one of the finest places to witness panoramic views of Vancouver and the Decrease Mainland. On a transparent day, you may see the towering Mount Baker in Washington State. 

Associated – The Greatest 10 Day Highway Journey from Vancouver

Views of Georgia Straight from Eagle Bluffs path in Cypress Provincial Park. 

Summer season mountain climbing trails on Cypress Mountain in West Vancouver.

The perfect view of Vancouver from the Cypress Mountain lookout.

Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is the gateway to Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast.

It’s positioned on the western tip of West Vancouver and is commonly thought-about the place to begin for the Sea to Sky Freeway, assuming your driving north from Vancouver.

Horseshoe Bay can be the situation of the third busiest BC Ferries terminal. In the event you plan to go to Vancouver Island, Bowen Island or the Sunshine Coast, you’ll board the ferry at Horseshoe Bay. Due to this, many individuals overlook Horseshoe Bay as a vacation spot by itself. 

Horseshoe Bay is a enjoyable place to have lunch and spend a few hours. There are a couple of eating places within the village, together with the favored Trolls Restaurant (get the Oyster Burger with Clam Chowder). It has a rocky seaside with a playground, making it a great spot for households.

Associated – The perfect 10 day highway journey from Vancouver 

Whytecliff Park in West Vancouver

Whilst you’re within the neighbourhood, we suggest you go to close by Whytecliff Park, one of many first Marine Protected Areas in Canada. Whytecliff is just not very large, so it’s straightforward to discover all the seaside park and trails in about an hour or two.

At low tide you may stroll throughout the large rocks to Whyte Islet, pictured under. 

Low tide reveals the rocky path to Whyte Islet from Whytecliff Seashore Park.

The seaside at Whytecliff Park in West Vancouver.

Boat trip round Howe Sound

Howe Sound is surrounded by a community of fjords located between West Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast. It’s the physique of water that makes up the ‘SEA’ a part of ‘Sea-to-Sky’.

Driving a small velocity boat round Howe Sound is a singular method to expertise the pure great thing about British Columbia’s south coast. In the course of the summer season, you may go to the lazy sea lions that hang around on Pam Rocks. The one method to see go to these rock islands is by boat. 

The perfect place to lease boats is Sewell’s Marina, positioned in Horseshoe Bay. Renting a ship is comparatively cheap and you don’t want a particular boat licence. A typical driver’s license is enough. For 2 hours of private boat time (normally sufficient to get to the seal colony and again) it’s about $180 (examine charges right here). The boats take between 4 to six folks.

To go to these marine parks and secluded coves that may solely be reached by water, it’s finest to do the 4-hour fee. In the event you do, head to Gambier Island or Anvil Island.

Don’t overlook your swim shorts if the climate is good.

Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Porteau Cove is a small provincial park in British Columbia (about 50 hectares in measurement), located on essentially the most southerly fjord in North America. The park stretches between the shore of Howe Sound and the Sea to Sky Freeway. It’s positioned 20 minutes south of Squamish.

Except for its rocky seashores and breathtaking mountain views, Porteau Cove’s star attraction the previous ferry terminal that’s been transformed right into a pedestrian pier.

Porteau Cove additionally a preferred spot for chilly water scuba diving as a result of it has a sequence of synthetic reefs and two sunken ships.

Hold a watch out for the highway indicators as you method Porteau Cove whereas driving north on the Sea to Sky Freeway. You can be turning left on the turnoff, so keep within the left lane and watch your velocity so that you don’t miss the turnoff.  

Porteau Cove Olympic Legacy Cabins

In the event you’re searching for a singular place to remain alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway, try the Porteau Cove Olympic Legacy Cabins. 

These lovely log cabins bought their identify as a result of they had been initially constructed for the 2010 Winter Olympics and later relocated to Porteau Cove Provincial Park. The log cabins are a murals, full with hand-carvings of bears and beavers.

We’ve stayed at these oceanfront cabins 4 occasions over the previous 5 years. Examine our first expertise and see photographs of the Olympic Legacy Cabins right here. 

You should make reservations for the Porteau Cove Olympic Legacy Cabins nicely upfront as a result of there are solely two cabins. In the event you’re the kind who likes to make final minute reservations, you’ll be upset as a result of these cabins e book up quick. You might need to make reservations as much as one yr upfront to get a vacation weekend.

Verify availability and pricing right here.

Oceanfront views from the Porteau Cove Olympic Legacy Cabins.

In the event you can time it correctly, attempt to go to at sundown. The west dealing with views are unbelievable.

Having fun with the second. The seaside on the Porteau Cove Provincial Park campground.

The landmark pier at Porteau Cove Provincial Park in British Columbia.

Britannia Mine Museum

The Britannia Mine Museum is likely one of the most unusual issues to do alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway.

The Britannia Mine Museum is each a Nationwide Historic Website and British Columbia Historic Landmark. It has an interesting historical past that dates again to 1904, when it was the most important copper mine within the British Empire.

There are over 210 km’s of mining tunnels within the mountains surrounding Britannia Seashore. Take into consideration that for a second.

We discovered that over 60,000 folks from 50 international locations as soon as lived and labored on this previous mining neighborhood over the course of its life from 1904 to 1974.

We visited the museum a couple of years in the past, however our boys had been nonetheless fairly younger and so they didn’t keep in mind the museum. So, provided that we’re suggested to journey near house this summer season, we thought it might be a enjoyable day journey from Vancouver. Our boys had a good time exploring the underground mine tunnel on the prepare trip. And, in fact, they liked trying to find gold and treasures within the gold panning exhibit.

Ticket costs and reservations right here. Visitors are requested to reach quarter-hour previous to reservation time. The underground tour is included with admission. Plan to spend 2 hours on the museum. 

In the event you like this attraction, you additionally just like the prepare museum in Squamish.

The long-lasting large yellow dump truck at Britannia Mine Museum. In the event you’ve pushed the Sea to Sky Freeway, you’ve seemingly seen this monster truck as you cross by Britannia Seashore.

Household selfie on the previous prepare that transports company by the previous mine tunnels.

Rail monitor contained in the previous mine tunnel at Britannia Mine Museum.

Contained in the historic Mill 3 to look at BOOM!, the latest attraction at Britannia Mine Museum. It’s a enjoyable method to watch the previous mill come again to life. 

Murrin Provincial Park

Shortly after you cross Britannia Mine Museum, you’ll method Murrin Provincial Park (assuming you might be driving from Vancouver to Squamish). The turnoff comes up shortly, so that you’ll wish to scale back your velocity and search for a flashing yellow gentle. You can be turning left.

This little park will get busy on summer season weekends due to Browning Lake, which is a very talked-about swimming lake for weekend crowds. Parking is restricted, so that you’ll both have to arrive early or pack your persistence as you wait within the parking zone for different guests to go away. 

The Murrin Park Loop Path is a well-liked hike within the Sea to Sky Hall. It’s a 2 km loop with an elevation achieve of 150 meters. This intermediate mountain climbing path results in a viewpoint that provides spectacular views of Howe Sound. The hike takes about 1.5 hours to finish. 

Hikers also can entry the Petgill Lake path from the parking zone at Murrin Provincial Park. This 11.5 km hike has an elevation achieve of 650 meters and takes about 6 hours to finish. It’s a lesser recognized mountain climbing path within the Sea to Sky Hall, so that you’ll discover much less crowds right here.

Associated – The Greatest Highway Journey that departs and finishes in Vancouver

Views of Howe Sound and Squamish from Petgill Lake path. Discover the Stawamus Chief positioned within the high proper nook of the above picture. 

Mountaineering within the temperate rain forest alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway. 

Shannon Falls Provincial Park

Positioned proper beside the Sea to Sky Freeway, Shannon Falls Provincial Park is house to the third highest waterfall in British Columbia.

At 335 metres, Shannon Falls is a should go to attraction within the Sea to Sky Hall. It’s a brief 5 minute stroll from the parking zone to the bottom of the waterfalls. The path is flat with little elevation, so it’s a simple stroll to achieve the falls. 

In the event you’re searching for a very good half-day hike, attempt the Higher Shannon Falls path. The path can be accessed from the from the Stawamus Chief parking zone. This hike is 7 km and takes about 5 hours to finish. It’s a leg burner that can certainly get your coronary heart fee shifting.

There are two waterfall viewing platforms, so be sure to go to each to get a special perspective of the waterfall. The waterfall is most spectacular throughout the spring and early summer season, when the mountain snow melts and water move is at its highest. The highly effective waters of Shannon Falls originate from Mount Habrich and Mount Sky Pilot.

Parking may be difficult throughout the summer season months, particularly on weekends. There’s an overflow parking zone on the alternative facet of Freeway 99 (the Sea to Sky Freeway).

As a result of the waterfalls are straightforward to entry and it doesn’t take lengthy to view them, folks come and go ceaselessly. You solely want half-hour to go to Shannon Falls. Ready for a parking spot to return free may be irritating, however parking spots do open if you happen to’re affected person. 

Extra data about Shannon Falls Provincial Park right here.

Views of Howe Sound from the Higher Shannon Falls path. 

The Higher Shannon Falls hike continues to the Sea to Sky Summit path. This implies you may take the Sea to Sky Gondola again all the way down to the parking zone. Then you definitely stroll the brief connector path again to Shannon Falls parking zone. 

Stawamus Chief Provincial Park 

Positioned alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway, the Stawamus Chief is likely one of the largest granite monoliths on the planet.

The Stawamus Chief Provincial Park protects the large 700 metre granite cliffs that tower over the city of Squamish. It’s extensively generally known as the most effective mountaineering spots in Canada. 

The Chief is likely one of the hottest mountain climbing trails alongside the Sea to Sky Hall. You entry the mountain climbing trails a from the day-use parking zone positioned on the Sea to Sky Freeway. The paths are additionally accessible from Shannon Falls Provincial Park through the 1.5 km connector path.

There are three hikes on “The Chief”

• First Peak – 1.5 km path with an elevation achieve of 540 metres
• Second Peak  – 1.7 km path with an elevation achieve of 590 metres
• Third Peak  – 1.8 km path with an elevation achieve of 630 metres

The above distances are a technique. You should additionally take into account your return hike again down. Plan for about 3 to 4 hours to do the Chief. It’s a strenuous hike for a lot of, so carry loads of water and snacks, put on correct footwear and examine the climate circumstances previous to your hike. 

See the Stawamus Chief path map right here. 

Sea to Sky Gondola

The Sea to Sky Gondola has grow to be probably the most fashionable issues to do alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway.

We visited this Squamish attraction shortly after it opened in 2014 (examine our expertise right here). The Sea to Sky Gondola transports passengers from the parking zone, positioned straight beside the Sea to Sky Freeway, up the facet of steep granite cliffs to the Summit Lodge. 

When you attain the highest, you have got entry to the Summit Lodge Viewing Deck, Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, a number of mountain climbing trails and two interpretive loop strolling trails with viewing platforms.

The Summit Lodge Viewing Deck provides excellent views of the blue-green waters of Howe Sound and the luxurious Squamish Valley. The Chief Overlook Viewing Platform is accessed from the center of the Panorama Path and is 800 metres from the Summit Lodge (a couple of 15 minute stroll).

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge

The dizzying Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge connects the Spirit Path/Spirit Viewing Platform to the Summit Lodge Viewing Deck. The bridge is roughly 100 metres lengthy and is a should do for anybody visiting the Sea to Sky Gondola.

Do you have to go to the Sea to Sky Gondola? Examine our expertise right here.

The Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge and Summit Lodge viewing deck.

Mountaineering on the Sea to Sky Gondola

Hikers can attain the summit by tackling the difficult Sea To Summit Path. This leg-burning 7.5 km path climbs over 900 metres of elevation and takes about 3.5 hours at a reasonable tempo. When you attain the Summit Lodge you may take the gondola again all the way down to the parking zone.

Right here’s extra data concerning the Sea to Sky Gondola mountain climbing trails. Take a look at the Sea to Sky Gondola path map to get a greater understanding of the paths. You too can obtain the path map app right here. 

Sea to Sky Gondola parking is free. Nevertheless, if you happen to plan to go to on a summer season weekend, it’s finest to reach early as a result of parking is restricted and it will get busy.

Associated put up – 15 Issues to do in Squamish in the summertime

View of the Sea to Sky Gondola from the Sea To Summit Path.

The spectacular mountain views from the commentary deck on the Summit Lodge. Watch this brief video from our most up-to-date go to. 

Squamish Journey Centre

Squamish is the self-proclaimed ‘Journey capital of Canada’ and it’s an amazing place to cease whereas exploring the Sea to Sky Hall. We might simply dedicate a complete weblog put up about issues to do in Squamish.

You may make a number of day journeys from Vancouver to Squamish and nonetheless solely scratch the floor.

Go to the Squamish Journey Centre to study what to see and do in Squamish. The power is positioned on the Sea to Sky freeway, simply north of the primary intersection that results in downtown Squamish.

In the event you want to get within the water, the Squamish Spit hosts a few of the finest windsurfing and kite browsing within the Pacific Northwest. There space additionally dozens of mountain climbing trails and parks, together with the family-friendly 4 Lakes Path in Alice Lake Provincial Park, Smoke Bluffs Park loop path, or the complete day Elfin Lakes hike.

For a leisure stroll, try Rose Park close to the Squamish Journey Centre. 

Elaho-Squamish and Cheakamus Rivers supply river rafting in Squamish and Whistler.

Rope Runner Aerial Journey Park

The Rope Runner Aerial Journey Park is a brand new attraction in Squamish. It’s positioned throughout the road from the Squamish Journey Centre, simply off the Sea to Sky Freeway. Get instructions right here.

The out of doors aerial journey course options 50 parts of various difficulties with no set course, so company can discover at their very own tempo and luxury degree. They use the CLiC-iT Security System that ensures company are constantly hooked up to the protection cable always.

Periods run each half-hour from 10:00 AM. The final session begins at 4:30 PM. 

Downtown Squamish

Whereas there may be an abundance of outside adventures available on the Sea to Sky Hall, downtown Squamish also needs to be added to your record of issues to do alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway. The downtown space is 5 minutes from the primary Squamish intersection on the Sea to Sky Freeway. 

The primary avenue in downtown Squamish is Cleveland Avenue. Right here one can find espresso retailers, boutique retail shops, native artwork shops, eating places, the Squamish Public Library, Junction Park & O’Siyam Pavilion and Howe Sound Brewery on the far finish.

The Squamish Farmers’ Market is a well-liked attraction with over 60 distributors promoting quite a lot of native produce, cheese and artisan items. It’s open on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to three:00 PM. The market is a good place to choose up objects for a picnic that may be loved at one of many parks in Squamish.

Different Squamish actions embrace a go to the West Coast Rail Heritage Park, paddling and fishing on Alice Lake, white-water river rafting down the Elaho-Squamish and Cheakamus River, watch Kiteboarders on the Spit, and be a part of a brewery tour at Howe Sound Brewing.

Eating places in Squamish

Downtown Squamish has a number of eating places, so it’s a great place to cease for lunch. In style Squamish eating places are The Salted Vine, The Copper Coil,  Zephyr Cafe, Fergies Cafe and Howe Sound Brew Pub.

You can see most quick meals eating places in Squamish, simply accessed from the Sea to Sky Freeway. In the event you’re searching for a fast chew, there are drive by pick-up home windows on the McDonalds, Tim Hortons and A&W. Squamish additionally has a White Spot, Boston Pizza and Pizza Hut, if you happen to’re searching for a household restaurant.

Associated put up – 15 Issues to do in Squamish in the summertime

Tthe exterior patio at The Copper Coil in Downtown Squamish.

Household lunch at The Copper Coil with The Chief within the backdrop. 

Stan Clarke Park in Downtown Squamish has a playground for youths.

Youngsters mountaineering wall at Junction Park in downtown Squamish. The Stawamus Chief within the backdrop.

Brackendale Eagle Viewing

Squamish is house to one in every of North America’s largest congregations of bald eagles.

It’s stated have extra eagles than anyplace else on the planet, seeing over 1,300 eagles every year. It’s estimated that 70% of bald eagles are present in British Columbia and Alaska [source]. 

Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park, which was established to guard the bald eagle habitat, is a good spot for eagle watching in Squamish. The provincial park is positioned on the west facet of the Squamish River, close to the neighborhood of Brackendale. There aren’t any river crossings, so you’ll view the park and its well-known birds from the east facet of the river.  

Many eagles migrate to Squamish within the fall to feed on spawning salmon. Peak eagle-viewing is from November to February, though you’ll seemingly see eagles on this space all year long.

The EagleWatch Interpretive Program, a volunteer-run neighborhood initiative, assist guests view eagles with high-power telescopes. Interpreters share details about the birds and the significance of viewing the birds from a distance, with out disturbing their pure habitat.

Mamquam River Trails

You too can stroll the Mamquam River Trails to view the coho and steelhead salmon spawning within the Mamquam River Salmon Spawning Channels. There are over 4 km of straightforward strolling trails on this space, which is right for households with youthful youngsters.

Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest

Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest is positioned simply north of Squamish, on the west facet of the Sea to Sky Freeway.

We’ve handed it numerous occasions on our means from Vancouver to Whistler and every time we cross by we are saying, “one in every of as of late we must always try Brohm Lake”. A number of weeks in the past, we lastly determined to tug over and test it out.

Like most stops alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway, the parking zone was full on the Brohm Lake Leisure Website. It was a pleasant Sunday afternoon in the summertime, so that is to be anticipated. It was a couple of 20 minute wait till a automobile left and a parking house grew to become free. 

The lake is far greater than we anticipated. We assumed it was just like Browning Lake in Murrin Provincial Park, however we’d guesstimate it’s about 5 occasions the scale. 

Mountaineering at Brohm Lake in Squamish

There are a couple of mountain climbing trails that may be accessed from the parking zone at Brohm Lake Leisure Website. 

We determined to do the loop path that circles the lake, considering it might take about 20 minutes to finish. We had been flawed. It’s for much longer than anticipated and took an hour to finish. That stated, it’s a very good difficult hike for youths.

The bridge at Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest in Squamish.

Brohm Lake is an effective spot to carry inflatable rafts and tubes. We observed a number of teams hanging out on the rocks having picnics and solar bathing. Some folks had been swimming within the lake however it seemed very refreshing.

It’s a lot quieter than close by Alice Lake or Browning Lake, seemingly because of the restricted parking areas.

Path map of Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest.

Though, it’s not a lot of an ‘interpretive forest’. We solely observed 4 indicators on our one hour hike across the lake. The data on the indicators was temporary and really excessive degree, so don’t count on to stroll away educated concerning the forest and it’s historical past. 

Tantalus Lookout

The Tantalus Lookout is likely one of the important stops alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway. This scenic roadside viewpoint provides wonderful views of the Tantalus Vary and its jagged rocky peaks and white glaciers. 

The primary Tantalus Lookout can solely be accessed when touring south, from Whistler to Squamish. You can not flip into the primary lookout when driving northbound. Nevertheless, there may be an alternate parking zone simply reverse the primary turnoff for northbound visitors.

There are inexperienced highway indicators on the Sea to Sky freeway that say “Viewpoint forward”. It’s finest to make use of your GPS or have a navigator advise the driving force when the turnoff is approaching. In the event you miss the turnoff, you may’t turnaround. You’ll have to proceed driving and take a look at once more if you return. 

Garibaldi Provincial Park

Garibaldi Provincial Park is a large wilderness park positioned between Squamish and Whistler on the Sea to Sky Freeway. This lovely park is finest visited throughout the summer season months, when you may hike the favored Garibaldi Lake path and/or Black Tusk path. 

The park covers an space of over 1,950 sq. kilometres (753 sq mi) and is house to a few of British Columbia’s most spectacular mountain climbing trails. There are 5 entrance factors positioned alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway. There are additionally a number of camp websites which can be first come, first served.

In the event you’re searching for a full day hike, Garibaldi Lake will do the trick. This hike is eighteen km round-trip with an 800 metre elevation achieve. It takes about 5 to six hours to finish. 

Brandywine Falls Provincial Park

Brandywine Falls is a spectaculr 70 metre waterfall positioned alongside the Sea to Sky Freeway simply south of Whistler.

The waterfall is finest seen from the Brandywine Falls Viewpoint, which is a simple 15 minute stroll from the parking zone on a nicely marked forest path. 

There are a couple of mountain climbing trails contained in the provincial park, together with the Lava Lake Path and sections of the Sea to Sky Path. You too can entry the long-lasting Whistler Bungee Bridge from the mountain climbing trails inside Brandywine Falls Provincial Park.

View the Brandywine Falls Park Path Map right here.

Brandywine Falls is likely one of the most instagramable waterfalls in British Columbia. The picture above is simple to seize, nevertheless, many photographers want to seize the waterfalls from the underside.

There’s an unofficial path that results in the bottom of Brandywine Falls, however you’re technically not supposed to make use of this path and you could possibly be fined if you happen to do (you will need to cross a fence with signal that claims “Space Closed; No Entry”. That’s why there’s restricted details about how one can get to the bottom of Brandywine Falls. 

To get to Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, drive the Sea to Sky freeway about quarter-hour south of Whistler Village. The park provides free parking and washroom amenities.

Associated – 20 Issues to do in Whistler this Summer season

Alexander Falls

Up till a couple of weeks in the past, we had not heard of Alexander Falls. We now have pushed the Sea to Sky Freeway over 100 occasions and we’re nonetheless discovering new locations – that’s one of many issues we love about this a part of British Columbia. 

Alexander Falls drops 141 toes (43 metres) over three sections and is about 40 toes huge (12 metres). It’s not as large as close by Brandywine Falls, which is taken into account to be Whistler’s most spectacular waterfall, however it’s nonetheless a formidable waterfall and value trying out. 

What’s good about this waterfall is that the viewing platform is positioned straight beside the parking zone. So, if you happen to’re tight on time otherwise you don’t wish to go for an extended hike, this waterfall is an effective possibility. No strolling or mountain climbing is required.

The perfect time of years to view the waterfall is late-spring or early-summer (Might and June) when the snow melts from the close by mountains. We’ve learn that the waterfall freezes throughout the winter months due to the restricted water move and excessive elevation.

How you can get to Alexander Falls in Whistler

To succeed in Alexander Falls, drive north from Squamish till you see a highway signal that claims Callaghan Valley and Whistler Olympic Park. Flip left right here and observe the paved highway for an additional 10 km. It’s a couple of 10 minute drive. There are highway indicators for Alexander Falls. You’ll flip left down a single lane gravel highway for about 50 meters till you attain the parking zone.

In the event you see the Whistler Olympic Park signal within the picture under, you’ve gone too far. 

Whistler Olympic Park

To not be confused with the Olympic points of interest in Whistler Village, the Whistler Olympic Park is positioned within the Madeley Creek basin within the Callaghan Valley, about quarter-hour southwest of Whistler.

Whistler Olympic Park hosted ski leaping, cross-country snowboarding and biathlon for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Video games.

In the summertime, there are three designated mountain climbing routes with totally different issue ranges can be found. You possibly can hike the Ski Soar Scramble to the highest of the Olympic ski jumps. The views from the highest will certainly provide you with a brand new appreciation for the game of ski leaping. 

Whistler Olympic Park additionally has an interpretive stroll that educates guests concerning the historical past and legacy of 2010 Winter Olympics.

There’s an entrance price of $10 to enter the Whistler Olympic Park .

Biathlon Expertise

Visitors also can attempt the Biathlon Expertise, a hands-on introduction to the winter sport of biathlon. This tour permits company to shoot a 22 calibre rifle on the Olympic capturing vary, the identical location that was used for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

You should e book this expertise upfront. No earlier expertise is important. It takes about half-hour. You should be 12 years or older. Value is $25 per individual. 

Whistler 

Whistler is definitely one of many high vacationer locations in British Columbia.

For most individuals, Whistler is taken into account to be the tip of the Sea to Sky Freeway. Technically that isn’t true; the freeway continues north to Pemberton and, some will argue, it finishes in Lillooet.

Regardless, it’s straightforward to know why Whistler is the ultimate vacation spot for a lot of who drive the Sea to Sky Freeway. It’s one in every of our favorite locations in British Columbia.

There are such a lot of enjoyable out of doors adventures in Whistler that it requires a separate Whistler weblog put up. 

Listed below are only a few of the highest Whistler summer season actions

• Peak to Peak 360 Expertise – trip the longest steady carry system on the planet!
• Whistler Downhill Mountain Bike Park
• See vibrant deserted trains on the Whistler prepare wreck hike
• Golf at world class golf programs surrounded by mountains
• Zipline down the longest zipline in North America
• River rafting excursions down Inexperienced River or Elaho and Squamish Rivers
• See wild bears of their pure habitat on a bear viewing tour
• Get off highway on an ATV, Jeep or 4×4 buggy tour
• Take a soothing Spa day on the Scandinave Spa
• Expertise the Vallea Lumina Multimedia Evening Stroll 
• Take a scenic flight or heli-tour over the Coast Mountains

Learn extra Whistler posts right here.

Above is the dizzying Whistler Mountain Peak Suspension Bridge.

The Olympic Rings at Whistler Olympic Plaza in Whistler Village.

Pemberton Valley

Pemberton is a village municipality positioned half-hour north of Whistler within the Pemberton Valley. It provides easy accessibility to most of the identical summer season and winter actions that you’d discover in Whistler, however with out the crowds. 

In your method to Pemberton, be sure to cease at Nairn Falls Provincial Park, positioned on the Inexperienced River. The 60 metre waterfall and park is conveniently positioned on the east facet of the Sea to Sky. To succeed in the waterfall viewpoint you stroll a simple 1.5 km path alongside the river. 

Distinctive Issues to do in Pemberton Valley

• Jet Boating with Whistler Jet Boat – trip by channels, tight canyons, and highly effective white water in a jet boat. Watch this promo video to see what it’s all about.
• Heli-Fishing with Pemberton Fish Finder – year-round angling information service that focuses on fly fishing, helicopter fishing, trolling and ice fishing. Extra data right here.
• Pemberton Farm Tour – a self-guided farm tour expertise that helps to advertise native farmers and producers. Extra data right here.
• {Golfing} at Large Sky Golf Membership – rated because the Greatest Public/Resort Course in British Columbia.
• Household bike trip on the Nairn Falls Connector – the latest part of the Sea to Sky Path. Trip from One-Mile Lake to Nairn Falls and again, with a cease on the seaside at One-Mile Lake.
• Horseback using with Copper Cayuse Outfitters – guided horseback rides in Pemberton at an previous horse ranch. You too can do full day and three day journeys on its unique 4000 hectare tenure Birkenhead/Tenquille Lake back-country. Extra data right here.

Associated – The Excellent Highway Journey from Vancouver

Joffre Lakes Provincial Park

Positioned north of Pemberton, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park was as soon as one in every of British Columbia’s finest saved secrets and techniques. Social media has shortly turned this park into probably the most photographed lakes in British Columbia. Center Joffre Lake is up there with Moraine Lake and Lake Louise as one of many instagramable lakes in Canada. See for your self right here.

Whether or not you realized it or not, you’ve seemingly seen Joffre Lakes in your social media feed. It’s the picture the place the individual walks on a fallen tree log to the center of a lake with unbelievably turquoise water.

The well-known (or notorious) fallen tree at Center Joffre Lake.

It’s the location of hundreds upon hundreds of Instagram photographs. This picture was taken when there was a forest hearth close by, which is why the scene is hazy and smoky.

What you can’t see on this picture is the lengthy line of individuals ready to take the very same picture. 

Whereas it’s nice that so many individuals wish to discover the attractive parks in British Columbia (we do, too!), sadly too many individuals are actually visiting Joffre Lakes. It’s having bother coping with the fast improve in guests (168% improve since 2010). 

The Joffre Lakes parking zone is all the time full and guests resort to parking on the facet of the freeway, which isn’t allowed and automobiles would possibly get towed. 

It’s straightforward to know why Joffre Lakes Provincial Park has grow to be so fashionable. The jagged mountain landscapes and vibrant lakes are insanely lovely. However don’t make the error of believing Instagram and considering you’ll have this lake to your self. You gained’t. 

Hike to Higher Joffre Lake

The hike to Higher Joffre Lake (pictured above and under) is 10 km round-trip with an elevation achieve of 370 metres. It take about 4 hours to finish, which is comparatively accessible when in comparison with different excessive elevation hikes that result in glaciers and alpine lakes.  

Extra data concerning the Joffre Lakes hike right here.

Associated – The Greatest 10 Day Highway Journey from Vancouver

Nicole having fun with the second at Center Joffre Lake. 

Greatest hikes alongside Sea to Sky Freeway

We’ve talked about a couple of totally different hikes on this put up. Beneath is an inventory of a few of the hottest hikes within the Sea to Sky Hall. A few of these hikes may be fairly strenuous, so be sure to do your analysis earlier than you begin your hike. 

• Eagle Bluffs path in Cypress Provincial Park
•  Murrin Park Loop Path in Murrin Provincial Park
• Petgill Lake hike close to Murrin Provincial Park
• Higher Shannon Falls path at Shannon Falls Provincial Park
• Sea to Sky Summit path at Sea to Sky Gondola
• Stawamus Chief hikes – First Peak, Second Peak and Third Peak
• 4 Lakes Path in Alice Lake Provincial Park
• Smoke Bluffs Park loop path in Squamish
• Elfin Lakes path in Garibaldi Provincial Park close to Squamish
• Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest simply north of Squamish
• Garibaldi Lake and Panorama Ridge hikes
• Black Tusk path in Garibaldi Provincial Park, south of Whistler
• Whistler prepare wreck hike, positioned simply south of Whistler
• Whistler Blackcomb excessive alpine trails
• Misplaced Lake trials close to Whistler Village
• Wedgemount Lake path in Garibaldi Provincial Park, north of Whistler
• Joffre Lakes path in Joffre Lakes Provincial Park close to Pemberton

Verify the BC Parks web site for up to date info. 

The place to remain on the Sea to Sky Hall

Except you might be doing a day journey from Vancouver, you’ll seemingly wish to keep in Squamish, Whistler or Pemberton, relying on what you propose to do on the Sea to Sky Hall. 

We shared our favorite locations to remain in Whistler in this put up. Scroll to the underside. Or, seek for Whistler resort offers right here.

We now have not stayed in a single day in Squamish, so we can’t present firsthand experiences. You possibly can seek for resorts in Squamish right here. 

Distinctive locations to remain on the Sea to Sky Freeway

Campgrounds on the Sea to Sky Freeway

• Porteau Cove Provincial Park campground
• Klahanie Campground in Squamish
• Squamish Municipal Campground
• Mamquam River Campground in Squamish
• Alice Lake Campground in Squamish
• Cat Lake Recreation Website in Squamish
• Paradise Valley Campground in Squamish
• Squamish Valley Campground
• Garibaldi Lake Campground (hike in campground)
• Whistler RV Park and Campgrounds 
• Riverside Tenting & RV Resort in Whistler
• Cal-Cheak Recreation Website in Whistler
• Nairn Falls Campground close to Pemberton
• Owl Creek Recreation Website
• Joffre Lakes Provincial Park (hike in campground)

Most campgrounds in British Columbia require reservations.

Verify the BC Parks web site for reservation info, campground availability and pricing. 

Campground at Porteau Cove Provincial Park.

The place does the Sea to Sky Freeway begin and end?

The primary part of the Sea to Sky freeway (also referred to as Freeway 99) begins in West Vancouver and continues to Whistler, passing by Squamish and a number of other communities alongside the best way. Nevertheless, the Sea to Sky Freeway continues from Whistler to Lillooet, passing by the Pemberton Valley.

Is the Sea to Sky Freeway Harmful?

When Vancouver and Whistler gained the bid to host the 2010 Winter Olympics, the Sea to Sky Freeway obtained important upgrades. Prior to those upgrades and growth, the Sea to Sky Freeway was recognized for its security hazards.

It was a two lane freeway with windy, beat-up roads and virtually no obstacles. Accidents used to occur ceaselessly when dangerous climate circumstances hit the area. Within the winter, drivers can count on a lot of rain or snow on the Sea to Sky Freeway. 

For the reason that upgrades, Sea to Sky Freeway circumstances have improved considerably. A lot of the freeway now has 4 lanes (two in every course) and obstacles that separate northbound and southbound visitors. 

The Sea to Sky Freeway velocity restrict ranges from 80 to 100 km/h (50 to 62 mph) with 60 km/h (37 mph) sections in Lions Bay, Britannia Seashore and components of Squamish.

Take your time and benefit from the spectacular views!