Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
Iconic granite monolith offering challenging hikes with breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the surrounding coastal mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic granite monolith offering challenging hikes with breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the surrounding coastal mountains.
"The Stawamus Chief is a challenging hike with steep sections and chains, but the views are definitely worth it!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails are steep and can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear good hiking boots!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's a strenuous hike, so stay hydrated. No water sources on the trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Three Peaks
Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
Ascend to one or all three granite peaks for breathtaking panoramic views of Howe Sound and Squamish.
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Chains and Ladders
Steep sections of the trails
Experience the thrill of using chains and ladders to assist your climb on challenging, exposed sections.
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Howe Sound Vistas
Summit of any peak
Marvel at the stunning coastal mountain scenery, including Howe Sound, the Sea to Sky Highway, and Garibaldi Provincial Park.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Chief: Know Before You Go
Peak Options & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails are steep and can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear good hiking boots!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's a strenuous hike, so stay hydrated. No water sources on the trail.
⏰ Start Early to Avoid Crowds
Especially on weekends and holidays, the trails get busy. Aim for an early start.
⬆️ Choose Your Peak Adventure
Hike Peak 1, or combine Peaks 2 & 3, or do all three for a full challenge.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Trails are steep and can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear good hiking boots!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's a strenuous hike, so stay hydrated. No water sources on the trail.
⏰ Start Early to Avoid Crowds
Especially on weekends and holidays, the trails get busy. Aim for an early start.
⬆️ Choose Your Peak Adventure
Hike Peak 1, or combine Peaks 2 & 3, or do all three for a full challenge.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. AllTrails or similar apps are helpful.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Stawamus Chief for its challenging yet rewarding hikes and absolutely stunning panoramic views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. The unique experience of using chains and ladders adds to the adventure. However, some find the trails very strenuous and can be crowded, especially on weekends.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Vancouver, drive north on the Sea to Sky Highway (BC-99 N) for about an hour to Squamish. The park entrance is well-marked off the highway. Parking is available at the trailhead.
While direct public transport to the trailhead is limited, you can take a bus from Vancouver to Squamish and then potentially a local taxi or rideshare to the park entrance.
Parking lots at the trailhead can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination. Allow at least 4-5 hours for the hike itself, plus travel time from Vancouver.
The main hiking trails are very strenuous and involve steep ascents, chains, and ladders, making them unsuitable for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Stawamus Chief Provincial Park and its hiking trails is free. There are no admission fees.
The park is open year-round, from dawn until dusk. However, hiking in the dark is not recommended due to trail conditions.
Yes, you can hike in the evening, but it's advisable to start by 6 PM to ensure you have enough daylight to complete the hike safely.
No reservations are needed for hiking. However, parking can be an issue, so arriving early is key.
No booking is required. Just plan your visit and head there, but be prepared for potential parking challenges on busy days.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Hiking to the first peak takes about 1.5-2 hours round trip. Completing all three peaks can take 4-5 hours or more, depending on your pace.
The hike is considered hard due to steep ascents, uneven terrain, and sections with chains and ladders.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip, comfortable athletic clothing, and layers as the weather can change.
Basic facilities like parking and information signage are available. There are no extensive visitor centers or concessions directly at the trailhead.
Dogs are generally allowed on leash in provincial parks, but always check current park regulations before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of each peak offers incredible panoramic views. Look for vantage points overlooking Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and park rules. Always check for any restrictions before flying.
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting. However, be mindful of daylight hours for safety.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
The unique granite monolith itself, the challenging chain sections, and the dramatic coastal mountain landscape are all iconic photo subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1If you're bringing younger children, consider focusing on the lower sections or exploring other family-friendly trails in the Squamish area. For families with adventurous teens, the hike to Peak 1 can be a rewarding accomplishment, but ensure everyone is well-prepared with water, snacks, and appropriate footwear.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to save money. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid potential parking fees or the need for early morning arrival to secure free parking.
💑 Couples & Adventure Seekers
+1Consider hiking to one of the higher peaks for sunset (ensure you have headlamps for the descent!) or packing a picnic to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint. The thrill of the chains and ladders adds an exciting element to the adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Chief Adventure: Peaks 1, 2, and 3
For those seeking more, Peak 2 and Peak 3 offer progressively more challenging routes. The trail to Peak 2 involves more steep sections and can be combined with Peak 3 for a longer loop. Many hikers opt for the Second and Third Peak Loop, which is a strenuous 5.8km hike with significant elevation gain, offering a comprehensive challenge and stunning vistas.
+1Deciding which peak(s) to conquer depends on your fitness level, available time, and desired challenge. All peaks promise spectacular views, making the effort worthwhile. Remember to check trail conditions and your own capabilities before setting out.
+1Navigating the Chains and Ladders
+1These sections require a good level of physical strength and a head for heights. Hikers are advised to use the chains for support and balance, taking their time with each step. The rock can be slippery, especially if wet, so maintaining a secure grip and footing is paramount.
While these sections add an element of thrill and adventure, they also contribute to the hike's 'hard' rating. It's crucial to be prepared for this unique aspect of the trail and to assess your comfort level before proceeding.
The Stawamus Chief: A Climber's Paradise
The park features numerous climbing routes, including multi-pitch climbs that ascend the sheer faces of the Chief. Climbers are drawn to the quality of the granite, the challenging routes, and the spectacular setting overlooking Howe Sound.
For those interested in climbing, it's essential to have the proper gear, experience, and knowledge of the routes. Many local guiding services offer courses and guided climbs for those looking to experience the Chief from a climber's perspective.
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