Understanding Tourism in Squamish
Squamish is a place people care deeply about and tourism is part of that story. It contributes to the local economy by supporting jobs, businesses, and community vibrancy, while also creating pressures on the natural spaces and infrastructure that residents and visitors share.
What is the Value of Tourism in Squamish?
Tourism is at the heart of Squamish; it helps our community thrive and keeps our outdoor spaces vibrant and well-loved. In 2024 alone, visitors to Squamish spent over $400 million. That visitor spending supported over 3,600 jobs, contributed $100 million in wages, and generated $85 million in tax revenues, with $7 million staying right here to support local services and initiatives.
But the impact of tourism goes beyond the numbers. It helps local businesses succeed, fosters cultural connections, and supports efforts to protect our natural environment. The visitors who come here, whether for climbing, biking, hiking, or simply soaking up the mountain and ocean views, help make Squamish the lively, welcoming place we’re proud to call home.
Understanding these dynamics is essential to managing tourism well. Tourism Squamish regularly gathers research and insights to better understand visitor activity, economic contributions, and community perspectives.
Here you’ll find key reports and findings to support informed conversations about tourism in our community.
Reports & Key Findings
What Happens Next?
At Tourism Squamish, these insights feed directly into the decisions we make and the conversations we have, about how tourism grows, where it needs better management, and how we make sure it keeps working for Squamish.
In practice, that means using what we learn to:
- Shape long-term destination planning and tourism strategy
- Advocate for infrastructure investment that works for both residents and visitors
- Collaborate with community partners on stewardship of trails, parks, and natural spaces
- Support local tourism businesses and experiences
- Keep the District of Squamish and other community partners in the loop
Tourism that benefits the whole community doesn’t happen by accident. It requires good information, ongoing collaboration, and a shared commitment to shaping how tourism evolves in Squamish.
