If you’ve driven the Sea to Sky Highway to Squamish or Whistler over the past year, it’s impossible not to have noticed the string of slime green gondolas inching up the mountainside as far as the eye can see. Chances are good you have not yet stopped to explore this intriguing new roadside attraction. Maybe it’s the costly single ticket admission price tag or maybe it’s your subconscious telling you not to give in to an attraction that screams “tourist trap”.
But whatever it is that’s prevented you from checking out the Sea to Sky Gondola until now, get over it. The Sea to Sky Gondola experience is like finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. So no excuses, this is the season to check out this super cool adventure.
After taking the 10-minute-ish ride to 2,900 feet above sea level, be prepared to be amazed. The ride seems endless, but upon arrival at basecamp, BAM! You are smack in the middle of a fully-developed, natural wonderland high above Howe Sound. From an impeccably manicured trail system to an epic suspension bridge and stage area, you’ll quickly discover there is more to this adventure than meets the eye.
Make sure to leave the day wide open; you won’t want to rush your visit. Pack enough for a full day-trip including snacks, water and layers. Although the summit lodge offers plenty of food and beverage options, heading off into the backcountry trail system means you need to come prepared.
Check the website in advance for details on daily activities and events. Mountaintop yoga, free tours and live music on select Fridays make the attraction even more appealing and unique so be on the lookout for these specials.
Grab a map as soon as you arrive in the Promised Land, high above the Stawamus Chief. The available backcountry access routes are unreal. If you’ve got the gusto and consider yourself a seasoned hiker, try hiking up the Sea to Sky Summit Trail (7.5km, three-five hours one way) up steep and challenging sections complete with fixed ropes. Once at the top, the trail system is endless.
Although spontaneity can be fun and exciting, so is saving a few bucks by pre-buying tickets online. If you love to hike, explore backcountry trails or just be a tourist high above the sea, go ahead and invest in a Sea to Sky Gondola summer or annual pass. Online single round trip tickets are range from $11.95 for kids six-12, to $33.95 for adults. Kids five and under are free, and a family of four (two adults and two kids) pays $95.95.
Passes on the other hand are the way to go. Summer passes are valid May-November and cost $109 for an adult, $274 for a family. An annual adult pass is $179 and an annual family pass is $449.
Be sure to check the hours of operation, web cams and live feed before you go. The ride back down is just as breathtaking. Adventure on!
