Asked & Answered: Top Winter Questions

Asked & Answered: Top Winter Questions

Every year thousands of visitors pass through the doors of the Squamish Adventure Centre each on a quest to #ExploreSquamish. Here are the most common winter questions asked and answered.

1. Where can I go snowshoeing in Squamish?

The Sea to Sky Gondola and Garibaldi / Red Heather area are our favourite places for a snow-covered adventure in the woods. Snowshoeing is also offered at the Olympic Park, where they do rentals and there is an impressive networks of trails. Want to push your limits? Why not hire a guide and venture into the unknown. Local guiding companies include Canada West Mountain School, Mountain Skills Academy and Adventures and Rise Mountain Adventures. 

Snowshoe rentals are available at the Sea to Sky Gondola and Valhalla Pure Outfitters.

2. Who has the best drinks in town?

Photo: Salted Vine Kitchen & Bar

Squamish has left its mark on BC's craft beverage scene, and despite being a small town, it's home to three mountain-themed breweries, and two craft cideries! Since each location offers a completely different experience, we've created a craft tasting trail passport to help you choose which best appeals to you. Collect stamps from each maker to win a prize! You may also want to plan a visit to The Broken Seal, Salted Vine Kitchen & Bar or Raincity Distillery, where divine cocktails and an impressive spirits list will knock your socks off.

3. Is there a souvenir shop in Squamish?

Located inside the Squamish Adventure Centre is The Squamish Store. There is plenty of Squamish branded gear as well as local artisan created items such as pottery and jewellry as well as a large selection of First Nations goods. For on-the-go adventurers, the store also sells a variety of guidebooks and maps, as well as Squamish merch.

Fun Squamish items can also be found in the eclectic shops in the vibrant Squamish downtown core and at the gifts shops at the Britannia Mine Museum and Sea to Sky Gondola. In the Squamish Valley, the folks at Fergie's Cafe have a cute shop 'The Greenhouse' that features locally made goods and gift items.

4. Is there anywhere to rent a bike?

Winter bike rentals are available from Corsa Cycles throughout the winter on a day by day basis, make sure to call ahead to ensure rentals are available on your desired day. Dialed In Cycling also offers winter bike rentals. Many of Squamish's trails are rideable year-round, you can view a list of Squamish trails here. 

5. What does it look like at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola?

Photo: Tara O'Grady, Sea to Sky Gondola

A ride up the Sea to Sky Gondola will let you soar to new heights with sweeping views of snowcapped mountains and the ocean at the same time. There are few places in the world that can surpass the view from the top, and the whole experience is accentuated by the Sky Pilot suspension bridge and Chief Viewing Platform where you will have the best vantage point in the town. Want a sneak peek? View the Sea to Sky Gondola webcam here. 

6. Where can I take my dog for a walk?

Photo: @sugarchef@730

If you and your pooch are after a relaxing walk, plenty of our favourites trails are dog friendly, just remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after your pet! If you're looking for a picturesque short hike, the Murrin Park Loop Trail is a forested walk that offers jaw-dropping Sea to Sky views. 

7. Is the Stawamus Chief hike open in the winter?

The trail up the Stawamus Chief is open year round. However, it is much more difficult in winter. We recommend that you check in with the staff at the Visitor Centre on the condition of the trail and also that you consider carrying microspikes for your shoes in case of icy conditions.

8. Where can I see the bald eagles?

While peak eagle viewing season runs mid November to late January, eagles can be spotted later in the spring and some remain throughout the year. The most popular places to view eagles include; the Tenderfoot Creek Hatchery, the Eagle Run Dyke, the Mamquam River, and the Squamish Estuary. View a list of our favourite viewing locations.