You know those places that take your breath away? The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish felt like a breath of fresh air, and it was just that! Literally and spiritually. Nestled between mountains and the ocean, this spot reminded me how simple it can be to reconnect with yourself in nature. Picture yourself floating above these lush forests and cliffs, with views that honestly, you won’t believe. 

This guide is your ticket to making the most of your visit. I’ll cover everything from getting there to the coolest things to do at the top. Think short hikes with amazing views, a suspension bridge with stunning views, and just soaking in the pure beauty of the mountains. Whether you’re an adventurer or just looking for a peaceful escape, this place has something for you. Get ready to make some memories you’ll treasure forever!

Location and Accessibility

The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish is conveniently located just off the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99), making it easily accessible from Vancouver (approximately an hour’s drive depending on traffic) and Whistler.

Address: 36800 BC-99, Squamish, BC V8B 0B6 

From Vancouver, take the Sea to Sky highway along Squamish to get to the gondola, and if you are coming from Whistler, take the south side of the highway until you get past the Sea to Sky gondola, as there is nowhere to turn left there until you get to the lights after the gondola. For parking, there is paid parking available at the base when you get there. Since you will be in Squamish already, it’s an amazing start for many outdoor activities, including hikes such as the Stawamus Chief or Jurassic Ridge at Murrin Park, as well as swimming or paddling at Porteau Cove beach!

Sea to Sky Gondola History

The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish was officially opened to the public in May 2014, marking a huge milestone for Squamish tourism. The vision behind its construction was to provide accessible mountain experiences for individuals of all ages and abilities, fostering a deeper connection with the natural beauty of the Coast Mountains.

Tips for Planning Your Visit to the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish

Tickets are available for purchase when you get there, or you can purchase them online. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass, depending on whether you want to visit more than once. You can view and purchase tickets here!

The gondola currently runs from 9-5 PM daily, and this can change depending on the season. Check the official website for changes here!

To avoid crowds, the best time to visit the Sea to Sky Gondola is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, if you can go on weekdays. The weather can be unpredictable sometimes when you go to higher elevations, so make sure to check the forecast and dress in layers, as the temperatures at the top of the gondola can be significantly cooler than at the base of it. 

What to Expect on Your Sea to Sky Gondola Ride

First of all, I want to say that during my visit, the staff were so friendly and accommodating. They helped us hop into a comfy gondola and got us ready for a 10-minute ride we wouldn’t forget! Those huge windows? They’re your ticket to stunning views of mountains and Howe Sound. Smooth, stable, and accessible for everyone, it’s the perfect way to start your mountaintop adventure. Remember to also have your camera ready as the views are amazing of Howe Sound, and the surrounding mountains while going up!

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

One of my favourite things about the Sea to Sky Gondola is the incredible views from both the ride up and the summit. As you go up and climb higher, you get to enjoy amazing views of Howe Sound, Sky Pilot Mountain, and Mount Habrich. I was quite surprised by how far you can see. At the top, by the Summit Lodge, there are view platforms where you can find a great spot to soak in the panoramic views if it is not crowded. For good photos, you can also visit during the Alpine Glow slot, which is from 3-5 PM, so you can soak up the golden hour light and get some amazing photos! Don’t forget to explore the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge; it’s another photo opportunity with those stunning mountains in the back, especially if they still have snow on them! 

Activities and Attractions at the Summit

Get ready, because the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola is like a giant playground! First of all, you have to walk across the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, I was blown away when I went.  Seriously, the views are insane – it’s like you’re floating above everything! If you love hiking like me, then rest assured, they’ve got some easy access trails for everyone. Want an easy stroll? Try the Panorama or Spirit Trails. Feeling adventurous? The Highline Trail will give you a workout.

After all that exploring, grab some food at the Summit Lodge – the patio views are unbeatable. And for families? They’ve got a playground! Oh, and if you’re feeling really brave, the Via Ferrata is a must-try. It’s like climbing on the side of a mountain, but super safe and unforgettable.

Book and view pricing for this activity with Mountain Skills Academy!

Seasonal Experiences: Winter vs. Summer

Summer or winter, the Sea to Sky Gondola delivers! Summer brings epic hikes, rock climbing, and outdoor dining with killer views. Plus, fun events! Winter turns it into a snowy paradise – think snowshoeing, stunning photos, and festive vibes. It’s open all year, so you can experience Squamish’s beauty whenever you want!

What to Pack

Whenever I head out to the outdoors, I try to keep things light and intentional, bringing only what I truly need to feel grounded, warm, and present.

Here’s what came with me on this trip:

My go-to hiking backpack – Just the right size for day hikes, with enough pockets to keep snacks, layers, and my camera within easy reach.

Cozy layers and socks – Cozy essentials like a fleece sweater, especially when the gondola ride takes you into cooler alpine air. Breathable, naturally odour-resistant, and perfect for layering.

Lightweight rain jacket – The Sea to Sky region is known for its moody weather shifts. I love having a packable rain layer so I can enjoy the mist without getting soaked.

Camera gear – For capturing those cinematic, fog-draped forest moments. I recently upgraded to the Canon R8 body for portability, and being lightweight, it’s perfect! I always bring an extra battery just in case.

Trusty hiking boots – Waterproof, grippy, and broken-in — a must for navigating forest paths and rocky viewpoints with ease.

A thermos of herbal tea + a journal – My favourite ritual lately has been sitting quietly at the summit, sipping something warm, and reflecting on whatever’s on my heart. Highly recommend bringing something comforting to enjoy when you pause.

These are the items that help me feel prepared, peaceful, and present in nature, nothing extra, just the essentials that support the experience.

Nearby Attractions and Accommodations

Making a day (or weekend!) of your Sea to Sky Gondola trip? Squamish is full of amazing spots nearby and is the ultimate outdoor haven! Think mountain biking on trails (totally recommended even if you are a beginner, as there are easy trails to follow at your own pace), kayaking, eagle watching, and hiking – you name it, Squamish has it. 

Some outdoorsy things I would suggest are a quick trip to Shannon Falls – it’s a super easy walk and the waterfall is just gorgeous, especially when the sun hits. Just make sure to go early to get parking as it gets busy. If you want more of a challenge, you can try the Stawamus Chief hike for some amazing views at the top. For places to stay, check out the Squamish Adventure Inn for a friendly vibe. It’s a hostel that also has private rooms available! Or you can choose the Sandman Hotel for a reliable stay. Trust me, you’ll leave Squamish with a ton of great fun memories.

After a day of exploring, unwind at local restaurants and breweries. I love going to Copper Coil, or Flipside Burgers (they have the best curly fries!). If you have a sweet tooth, check out Alice & Brohm for fresh fruit ice cream. I also recently discovered Rain Distillery, and their mocktails and dumplings were so good! Definitely check it out if you are in Squamish next!

Conclusion: Why the Sea to Sky Gondola is a Must Visit!

The Sea to Sky Gondola is just…breathtaking. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and pure beauty. You get the awe of the suspension bridge, gorgeous hikes, and those views? Unforgettable. If you’re craving a dose of nature and calm, don’t wait! Book your tickets and experience it! Want to explore more of Vancouver? Check out my post on 17 Easy Hikes in Vancouver with Stunning Views.

The post Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish: Experience Breathtaking Views – A Complete Guide appeared first on A Wanderful Woman.

Ever since growing up and living in BC, I always dreamed of seeing Tofino, watching everyone else visit just made me nostalgic for that oceanside feeling. Finally one day I just decided to plan a trip with my girlfriend and visit during the storm-watching season as I thought it would be less touristy and crowded. Storm-watching in Tofino, a place that is on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, was a magical storm-watching adventure during the off-season months that I will get into more in this post!

You probably heard of Tofino a lot if you are in BC but there is another town not far off called Ucluelet which is also worth visiting in my opinion and it is only 30 minutes away from Tofino! Please keep reading for information on both of these beautiful places.

The Thrill of Storm Watching

Whether you choose to cozy up in a beachfront stay, venture out to explore the many unique beaches, witness storm watching from the safety of a cliffside viewpoint, or enjoy them all, Tofino and Ucluelet promise an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting!  

So last minute I decided to do a spontaneous two-day weekend trip from Vancouver to Tofino with one of my girlfriends for the storm-watching season. It was my very first time in Tofino and I absolutely would love to go back again! I will be sharing details in this post of what we did so you can plan your trip accordingly! So grab your rain gear and embrace the stormy beauty of these ultimate storm-watching destinations. 

Best Times for Storm Watching

The best time to go storm-watching in Tofino is from November through March, with December and January usually being the most active months. I decided to do my trip in mid-November. We got lucky as the weather wasn’t too stormy so we got to enjoy other activities as well.

These months create the best conditions for stormy weather – perfect for storm-watching in Tofino! Be aware that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check local forecasts and be flexible with your travel plans to get the best out of your trip.

Weather Conditions and Safety Tips

While storm watching can be a thrilling experience, it’s important to prioritize safety and be aware of weather conditions. Stormy weather can bring heavy rain, high winds, and dangerous waves. Dress warmly, wear waterproof clothing, and bring appropriate gear such as sturdy footwear and rain gear. Stay away from exposed areas, cliffs, and rocks near the water as they can be slippery and unsafe. 

I highly advise you to stay a safe distance from the shoreline to avoid sudden waves or debris. Even if there is a photo opportunity or a better viewing point, always take into consideration that waves can sneak up on you while you are on the rocks. Trust me you do not want to be hitting rocks if a wave catches you as that won’t end well. 

There are many places you can safely view the shoreline that I will mention later on. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast/tide forecast and follow warnings or advisories issued by local authorities. You will see that many beaches have warning signs so make sure to follow them! Safety should be the top priority when enjoying the power of nature.

So reminder again that when you go storm watching, it is important to always make sure you follow safety protocols at all times as waves can be unpredictable. 

Top Spots for Storm-Watching in Tofino

Tofino has many incredible viewpoints to witness the raw beauty of storm watching and I am so glad I was able to visit most of them on my trip!

One of the most popular spots is Long Beach, tofino’s longest beach offering a majestic expanse of sand with dramatic waves crashing against the shoreline. Chesterman Beach is another popular choice, with its sandy stretches and sweeping ocean views.

For a different perspective, head to Radar Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas and observe the storm from higher ground while getting in some steps for the day. 

Cox Bay Beach is another great area to storm watch and if the weather permits I highly recommend that you check out the Cox Bay Lookout viewpoint. It is a bit of a muddy steep hike up but worth it for the stunning views.

The Wickaninnish Beach provides excellent vantage points, along with sea stacks and towering cliffs adding to the breathtaking scenery. You can head to the Kwisitis Visitor Centre (note that it is closed right now) but you can get on to the viewing deck to watch some waves crashing, it is quite scenic and probably the safest spot to storm watch in the area. 

Top Spots in Ucluelet for Storm-Watching

With Ucluelet being about 30 minutes away from Tofino, it makes sense to check out both areas for storm watching. One of the most iconic spots is the Wild Pacific Trail. The one we did was Lighthouse Loop and there are tons of viewpoints along the way which you can stop and storm watch. We arrived at sunrise and it was gorgeous and not busy at all. It is truly magical and I highly recommend this area to explore. You can make it as long as you like as you do not have to do the full loop. 

You can continue to do the Wild Pacific Trail to Rocky Bluff where you continue along the trail through forest and the coastline, you will be able to go down to the rocks if there is a safe place to do so and enjoy watching the waves. 

If you are looking for another easy one then the Big Beach trail to Rocky Beach also has views of the beach and shoreline. 

Whichever spot you choose, be prepared to be amazed by the mesmerizing power of the stormy coast of Tofino and Ucluelet.

Accommodations in Tofino and Ucluelet

When embarking on a storm-watching adventure, it’s essential to find the perfect accommodations to enhance your experience. Tofino offers a wide range of options suited for storm enthusiasts.

From cozy waterfront stays with breathtaking views to luxurious resorts that provide a touch of indulgence amidst the wild weather, there is an accommodation choice for every taste and budget. Make sure to book well in advance, as storm-watching season attracts visitors from near and far. I am going to list some of the top stays around Tofino and Ucluelet that I recommend you check out for planning!

My Top Recommendations On Places to Stay

1. Pacific Sands Resort

A luxurious resort located on the coast of Tofino, the views from the rooms offer spectacular beach and ocean scenery. Book here if you want a taste of luxury right by the ocean.

2. Tofino Resort & Marina

A full-service resort and marina that has everything you need for a comfortable stay in Tofino. Located right by the town of Tofino this stay is an amazing place to base yourself for adventuring.

3. Hotel Zed Tofino

A budget-friendly stay right in the town of Tofino. This could be a good base for all your storm-watching and Tofino adventures!

4. Wikkinnish Inn

This all-around resort is the perfect place to book a stay for storm watching in Tofino as it is right by the coast located on nature’s edge, as they mention, and offers stunning views.

5. Surf Grove Campground

A hip campground located in Tofino with cabins and campsites this is a budget-friendly option for those wanting to find a place nearby and explore Tofino!

6. Ocean Village Resort

With offerings of cabins and unique stays, this place is an amazing stay to book. Located at Mackenzie Beach it includes a pool and hot tub so you can soak right after coming back from storm-watching in Tofino.

7. Sleepy Bear Guesthouse 

An amazing stay hosted by a couple in Ucluelet, this stay offers the feel of home with everything that you need to feel super cozy during your storm-watching trip! I loved the touch of the sauna and having hot water and oatmeal for the mornings! I would book this budget-friendly stay again in the future!

8. The Nami Project

One of the most luxurious dream stays I have ever seen! Located in Ucluelet, you get oceanfront views right from your bedroom stay. This place includes a hot tub and sauna so you can soak up after some storm watching from your private window. Add this to your bucket list!

Local Activities During Storm-Watching Season

Aside from storm-watching, Tofino offers many activities and attractions for visitors during the storm-watching season. Take a stroll along the pristine beaches, go on a refreshing hike through the rainforest trails, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment.

Just remember if you head to the trails in Pacific Rim National Park, you will need to purchase a park pass. You can get a daily one or a 4-hour slot for beach walking. You can get more information here about the passes. You can make your purchase at the visitor center or the kiosks in the parking lot at the trails.

Don’t forget to explore the little town of Tofino, visit the local cafes, and check out some of the restaurants. I loved the quaint little gift shops in Tofino and recommend checking them out when you are in town! Tofino truly offers something for everyone, allowing you to create unforgettable memories alongside the stormy backdrop.

Photography Tips for Capturing the Stormy Coast

Capturing the dramatic beauty of a stormy coast requires a keen eye and some photography know-how. To capture your storm-watching adventure, here are a few tips to help you capture that perfect shot:

Make sure to bring a sturdy tripod to ensure stability in challenging conditions. 

Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add dynamism to your photos. 

Utilize long exposures to create magical effects with crashing waves or streaking clouds. 

Embrace the dramatic lighting and unique colours that storms often produce, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your composition.

Conclusion and Planning Your Storm-Watching Adventure

In conclusion, planning a storm-watching adventure in Tofino promises an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience. From choosing the perfect accommodation to exploring local activities and attractions during the storm-watching season, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the stormy beauty of this coastal paradise.

Remember to bring your camera, practice photography tips for capturing the stormy coast, and consider joining a Tofino storm-watching tour or hiring a guide for an enhanced experience. Ready yourself for an adventure that will leave you in awe of nature’s power and beauty.

If you like this post, you can follow more of my adventures on my blog here!

The post Waves of Adventure – Your Ultimate Guide to Storm Watching in Tofino appeared first on A Wanderful Woman.

Best time to Visit Kananaskis and its Trails

The best time to visit Kananaskis Country is in the Summer and Fall seasons when the snow has melted and the trails are ready to be hiked. Even though summer gets really busy near Banff, you can be sure to avoid crowds by visiting Kananaskis. So get away from those crowds as at Lake Louise and Banff during these seasons, and head on over to Kananaskis which is the place to check out during your visit, especially if you are an adventure lover! 

Hiking the trails in Kananaskis over the years each time has left me amazed, as you are surrounded by mountain views in all directions, you are exactly right in the heart of the backcountry and can take in all the beauty of the area. Kananaskis is definitely worth visiting again and again as it is just so beautiful and worth the effort to hike the trails. There are many hiking trails from easier hikes to more challenging ones, which can be done as day hikes, overnight trips, or multi-day treks. So get ready for the ultimate backcountry adventure, with these tips, I will help you make the most of your visit to Kananaskis. 

Top-Rated Best Trails in Kananaskis

Kananaskis offers a lot of different levels of trails, from easy ones to more advanced hikes. No matter what level you are, I will be covering some hikes that most people can do! Check out the Kananaskis hikes below!

East End of Rundle (EEOR)

East End of Rundle is a popular trail that is located near Canmore and it offers some of the best mountain views in the area. Parking is right off the road to the right called the Goat Creek Parking lot. The trail starts from the side of the road that has a marker. The trail climbs steep so be ready for that and bring enough water with you.

The views are stunning once you get near the top and the terrain turns into a scramble where you will be using both hands, nothing too serious, and anyone should be able to do it at their own pace. Note that on busy days there might be loose rocks so watch out and be careful or bring a helmet for safety.

Ha Ling Peak 

Also near Canmore, the Ha Ling Peak trail starts at the same Goat Creek Parking lot as the East End of Rundle hike. You just cross the street and go up the hill into the forest to start the hike. The trail is pretty well marked and maintained so you should have no issues finding your way.

Make sure to bring lots of water as the trail is steep and can get challenging on a hot day. Once you reach the top you will be rewarded with stunning mountain views. It can also get chilly at the summit so bring a windbreaker with you!

Tent Ridge

One of my favourites and one of the best trails in Kananaskis, Tent Ridge offers incredible views as you hike on the ridge and are surrounded by mountains. This is a loop trail so you can start on either side but we think clockwise is the way to go as it is easier to come back the other way. The hike is challenging but worth it.

You start in the forest and climb up onto the side of the mountain until you get onto the ridge. There are a lot of viewpoints here with stunning views so it is the perfect place to get your pictures!

Mist Mountain

Mist Mountain is a summit that has a hot spring along the way that you can soak in. The hot springs are located en route on the way to the summit, the trail is pretty easy until you reach them. Note the trail is not marked so download the GPS coordinates for the road and the summit before you go. This hike starts from the side of the road and continues on to the hot springs in the forest. You really can’t beat those mountain views from there but they get even better as you hike up.

After the hot springs, the terrain gets challenging to the summit and there is a scree slope involved so have the proper hiking shoes and poles to help you on your way. The views from the top of Mist Mountain are incredible and definitely worth the struggle.

Rawson Lake

Rawson Lake is a beautiful lake and trail to explore in Kananaskis. It is great in all seasons, especially summer and fall, but make sure to get there early as it gets busy as well as to find parking. The hike to the lake is not that hard and it is pretty moderate. It is better to hike in a group in this area as it is known that grizzlies frequent the area. Also, make sure to check online to see if the hike is open as it can be closed due to bear activity.

Sarrail Ridge 

Sarrail Ridge is in the same area as Rawson Lake and it is definitely worth it to hike up to the ridge to get a chance to see some more stunning views. If you ever have done Panorama Ridge in BC, I would say the views definitely reminded me of that.

The hike is challenging as it is quite steep after Rawson Lake so hiking poles are necessary for this part! I would recommend going in a group as this is grizzly territory and always check to see if the area is open before you go. Once you reach the ridge, you will be treated to 360 mountain views.

King Creek Ridge 

King Creek Ridge is a hike in Peter Lougheed Park that offers stunning mountain views once you get to the ridge. This hike is best done in the summer or early fall once all the snow is gone.

This hike is super steep and considered very challenging as it is a leg burner until you reach the ridge where you can catch a break and enjoy the stunning views. There is route finding involved as there are no markers so make sure you have the offline maps with you. This hike is definitely worth the climb and effort.

Mount Smutwood 

One of the iconic trails in Kananaskis and can easily be named the best trails in Kananaskis. Hiking Mount Smutwood is not easy by any means and involves some scrambling (so be prepared for that) but it is worth the struggle to get to the summit and see the stunning Birdwood lakes and Mount Birdwood in the distance.

You start the hike in the forest, passing meadows and lakes. When you reach Smuts Pass then it gets steeper and more difficult. As you gain the saddle you can stop to enjoy the views of the lakes here. The rest of the hike is to the summit which is not as bad as it looks, and once you get up the views are some of the best views of the Kananaskis.

Insider Tips for the Best Trails in Kananaskis

Be Bear Prepared

Is it important to note that Kananaskis has more backcountry and is more remote than some areas in Alberta like Banff, so there is a potential that you may encounter wildlife? You should always be prepared when heading out by carrying bear spray and hiking in a group with others. Some trailheads will list the number of people to be with as they are updated with bear sightings. Do not attempt to hike alone in these areas as it can be dangerous. Some other wildlife you may see are mountain goats, sheep, and elk. 

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

I would also like to remind you that it is important when you are out in the backcountry to know about the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. You can educate yourself on them and how you can leave no trace in the backcountry. I always pack out everything that I pack in and make sure that I stay on the marked trails. You can learn more about LNT principles here.

Safety and Gear Recommendations for the Best Trails in Kananaskis

It is important to pack the 10 essentials when you go on any hiking trip to ensure that you have everything you need in case you run into an emergency. For clothing, make sure to pack some layers and a jacket as the weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations. Feel free to take a look at my backpacking guide and what to bring in more details, if you are planning to hike or backpack in Kananaskis here. Some key things to pack are: 

Base Layers (Like this one!) 

Base layers are so important when hiking in Kananaskis, as you will be in higher elevations and the conditions can change all the time. Having more layers will help you stay warm if it gets cold all of a sudden in the Rockies. 

Shell/Rain Jacket (Like this one!)

A good shell and windproof rain jacket will protect you and your layers from the conditions in Kananaskis trails. You never know when it will be windy or rainy once you get to the top. Usually, it is always windy at the peaks, I remember one summer I hiked up Tent Ridge and it was windy and chilly even on a hot summer day. 

Waterproof Hiking Boots (Like these ones!) 

Warm waterproof hiking boots will keep your feet dry and prevent them from getting frostbite. They also supply extra insulation with a good pair of thick socks compared to regular hiking boots.

 Hiking Poles

Hiking poles are a must when you are hiking in Kananaskis as most hikes here have steep inclines with scree and loose rocks so you will need them to help you on the way up and on the way down. I have been using these ones for the past few years and they still are going strong!

Headlamp (Like this one!)

Always carry a headlamp or extra with you as you may end up hiking back in the dark or if you plan to hike for sunrise in Kananaskis. Since most hikes may take longer than expected or if you do sunset or sunrise hikes, always take a headlamp with you.

Sunglasses (Like these ones!) 

A good pair of sunglasses will help you in the summertime in Kananaskis and hiking in the mountains, if there is snow left over then the sun can reflect more UV rays and it is always important to keep your eyes protected. 

Another tip is to always check the conditions before. You can find recent trail updates on AllTrails and weather websites such as AccuWeather and Mountain-Forecast. Finally, always let someone know your planned route and expected return time. With these insider tips, you’ll be ready for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in Kananaskis.

Conclusion: Best Trails in Kananaskis

When you are hiking these areas in Kananaskis, your priority should be safety always. Make sure to bring the right gear such as good hiking boots, layers, and a first aid kit. Always check the conditions before you go and make sure you read trail reports before you start so you are well prepared. It is always useful to download the trail offline and plan alternate routes if something does come up.

Make sure you leave your trip plan with someone so that they know where you are. Note that there is usually no service in the backcountry so carrying a GPS or satellite device can be useful. By taking all these safety factors into consideration before your trip, you can ensure that you will have an amazing time in Kananaskis hiking the best trails!

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