Last Updated on April 28, 2021
The Sea To Sky Gondola is a popular attraction in Squamish, British Columbia, between Shannon Falls and the ever-popular hiking mountain, The Chief. It is a short hour drive from downtown Vancouver and the scenery during the drive along the Sea To Sky Highway will have you saying “ooh” and “ahh” the whole way.
We had seen the magnificent view before when we have hiked the Stawamus Chief, but having the view surrounded by a different atmosphere, and one that we could easily take our kids to see (three kids under five years old now!) was just as rewarding of an experience as doing the hike was. We loved that we could bring our kids along. We didn’t bring the stroller, but the trails were definitely stroller friendly and most other families had a stroller with them. Plus, the gondola, during the ten minute ascent, takes you up higher, above the Chief. When you reach the summit you’re treated to spectacular views, some easy trails, a summit lodge and a suspension bridge.
The day started out clouded over, but by the time the afternoon came, we were rewarded with blue skies and beautiful sunshine for waiting for the clouds to burn off. However, we have heard that the views are still spectacular with a moody sky. On this sunny day though, the views over Howe Sound were breathtaking. With views like that, it reminds us how lucky we are to call beautiful British Columbia home.
We started at the view by the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, then walked over the bridge to the next viewpoint. We did two simple trails, the Spirit Trail and the Panorama Trail. Both had multiple ‘bonus’ lookouts along the trails, as well as the main viewpoints. The Spirit Trail was only a 400m loop through the forest with the main platform looking out over Howe Sound and the Sky Pilot Mountain Range. When you finish the Spirit Trail loop, you’ll find that you don’t need to cross the suspension bridge again, you’re already back on the side you started at. The Panorama Trail is 1.6km roundtrip with the feature being the projected walkway that shows off the stunning view over the Chief.
It was peaceful walking through the trails, taking our time as we enjoyed exploring with our kids. They had so many questions along the way; their brains were sure in overdrive! It was a fun time to spend outdoors as a family.The views even gave our kids the feeling of awe.
Take a look at the breathtaking views and the experience you’ll be able to witness for yourself when you take a ride up the Sea To Sky Gondola:
It is worth the drive, and we were able to easily spend a couple hours wandering around the trails and taking in our surroundings. And, perhaps the best part for parents of young children, they were so stimulated from the experiences that day, that they slept so well that night.
We would also recommend that when you visit the Sea To Sky Gondola, that you also visit Shannon Falls. Shannon Falls is the third highest waterfall in British Columbia. A very well maintained and short trail takes you to a great viewing area where you can see the water cascade down. It is a gorgeous sight!
Find out more information to plan your visit, including maps and trail descriptions at http://www.
Have you ever been up the Sea To Sky Gondola? What did you think?
Disclaimer: Our visit was sponsored by Sea To Sky Gondola, but as always, our opinions are our own.