Sea To Sky Gondola
Sea to Sky Gondola
Perched at 885m above sea level, overlooking the stunning ocean and mountain vistas of Howe Sound, the Sea to Sky Gondola is a gateway to year-round activities. From a hike and live concert on a hot summer’s day to a powder-filled winter ski tour or snowshoe, adventure beckons.
A 10-minute scenic gondola ride (or the 6.5-kilometre Sea to Summit Trail hike) brings you to the expansive Summit Lodge, which has a stunning viewing platform, two sit-down restaurants and a gift shop. Exploring beyond the lodge, you’ll find accessible walking trails and interpretive loops, a small suspension bridge, alpine hiking trails, and two more viewing platforms looking out towards the iconic peaks and turquoise waters below.
When to go
Summer/Fall
Warmer months at the Gondola can't be beat with endless options for hiking and scenic views. Enjoy a wide array of outdoor experiences, including two different interpretive loop walking trails with viewing platforms, the jaw-dropping Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, numerous hiking trails, rock climbing, backcountry treks and much more.
Winter/Spring
Transport yourself into a winter wonderland. The Sea to Sky Gondola offers snow-filled activities for all ages and every adventure pace. In the front country, you can try Nordic skiing, hiking, snowshoeing, tubing and ice skating. Ski tourers and split boarders with the training and experience can travel further into 3,000 acres of backcountry terrain to find hidden powder stashes in bowls and glades. Top off the winter fun with a cozy après at the Summit Lodge—the gourmet hot chocolates and sweet treats are a must.
What to do
Viewing Platforms
At the top, you’ll find three main platforms:
Summit Lodge Viewing Deck - Just steps from the unloading area of the gondola, this vast lodge extends 9,000 square feet and includes expansive decks with sweeping views, where you can capture the perfect photo overlooking Howe Sound.
The Spirit Viewing Platform - Wind your way over the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge to a viewing area just 150 metres from the Summit Lodge. This viewpoint offers new vistas of Howe Sound and iconic Sky Pilot and Co-Pilot mountain peaks. Read the interpretive signage about the surrounding landscape and its significance to the Squamish Nation (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw).
Chief Overlook Viewing Platform - Immerse yourself in the mountains and take in breathtaking views. Located about 800 metres from the Summit Lodge, or a 10 to 20-minute stroll along an accessible walking path, this viewing platform juts out over the edge, overlooking climbers on the backside of the Stawamus Chief and the boating, windsurfing and kiteboarding action on Howe Sound.
Via Ferrata
Meanwhile, the Via Ferrata is an unforgettable adventure that will take you to new heights. This popular activity, which begins at the top of the gondola, allows you to clip in and ascend upwards along Squamish's famous granite with the help of metal rungs and a specialized cable system. Along the way, expect to be treated to jaw-dropping views of Howe Sound and the beautiful peaks of the Coast Mountain range.
Events
The Sea to Sky Gondola is a spectacular setting for mountaintop events in every season. Celebrate the holidays with a light display and visits from Santa or dance the night away as the sun sets during their summer live music sessions. View their events calendar to stay up to date on beer and food pairings and special brunches throughout the year.
Dining
At the summit, you'll find several dining options to satisfy your hunger.
Sky Pilot Restaurant - Fuel your adventure with a market-style menu for casual dining at the summit. You can also grab a craft beer, cocktail or glass of wine from the Edge Bar, or come summertime, enjoy tasty BBQ while you savour a stunning sunset.
Co-Pilot Café - Pick up grab-and-go snacks, hot and cold handcrafted beverages, freshly baked pastries, and delicious sandwiches.
Backyard Bites - Located in the Backyard Plaza, this refreshment stand is a great place for a quick bite and a refreshing beverage after your summit adventure. ** Backyard Bites is closed for the winter season **
Useful information
Play it safe
Though easily accessible, the Sea to Sky Gondola edges onto rugged wilderness and conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Observe all signage, be mindful of your surroundings, and know your limits. Practice BC AdventureSmart’s 3Ts: Trip Planning, Training and Taking the Essentials.
The Gondola provides incredible access to nature and we share the land with the wildlife. Help us keep it pristine and reduce your impacts by packing out what you pack in.
When
Be sure to check the BC Parks website for the latest seasonal, trail and park updates.
