Squamish, BC is known for some of the best hikes in Canada and is home to some of our favourite Pacific North West hikes. This list covers our teams top hikes for all levels including beginners and intermediates.

#1 STAWAMUS CHIEF

Hike Rank: Beginner - Intermediate
Time: 2-3 hours one way
Distance: 11KM total (around 5.5km each way)
Elevation: 600m
Drive: 1 Hour from Vancouver
Public Transit: No
Dog Friendly: Yes

Stawamus Chief, also just called, the Chief, rises high above the town of Squamish and is one of the most popular hiking & rock climbing destinations in the area that offers scenic views of Howe Sound and several mountains in Garibaldi Provincial Park. This is one of our favourite hikes because hikers can choose which peaks they want to summit based on their hiking experiences and skill level. Additionally, there’s camping available at the base of the Chief if you want to make a weekend getaway out of it or just camp for a night. To reach the highest peak takes around 3 hours so it can be completed in a day or hikers can just choose to do a shorter trip to the South Peak that still offers a spectacular view. Definitely a must do on your back to school hiking list. 

#2 SEA TO SUMMIT TRAIL

Hike Rank: Intermediate
Time: 3.5-4 hrs one way
Distance: 7.5 km
Elevation gain: 949m
Drive: 1 Hour from Vancouver
Public Transit: No
Dog Friendly: Yes

The Sea To Summit Trail in Squamish, BC, is a steep hiking trail that begins at the bottom of the Sea To Sky Gondola and finishes at the lodge at the top. About an hours drive from Vancouver, it’s one of the classic hikes in the area, usually draws less crowds and is less steep than the Chief. The Sea to Summit Trail is definitely one of the more rigorous hikes on our list, with a total hike time of 7-8 hours (3.5-4 hours each way). However, it comes with an incredible reward at the end.  with break taking views of Howe Sound, the Chief and surrounding scenery, it’s well worth the journey. At the top you can grab some refreshments and even take the Gondola ride down the mountain if you’re not feeling the trek down or just want to save those knees!

#3 LIONS BAY LOOP

Hike Rank: Easy
Time: 2 hours
Distance: 4.5 km
Elevation gain: 175m
Drive: 40 Minutes from Vancouver
Public Transit: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes

The Lions Bay Loop starts from the General Store and Cafe and follows several hiking trails, passing scenic viewpoints of Crystal Falls and Howe Sound. The trails that make up the loop include the Centennial Trail, the Crystal Falls Trail, the Soundview Trail, and the Harrison Trail, before returning to the start on the Centennial Trail. This is a great easy hike to do with family or friends whether to start off your hiking season or just going out for a fun weekend day trip. It’s close proximity to Vancouver and amazing views make it one of our top beginner hikes in Squamish.

We hope you enjoyed our Top 3 Back to School Hikes in Squamish, BC and always remember to stay safe out there, bring lots of water and snacks and make sure you bring the correct footwear and clothing. As the temperature starts to cool down this Autumn, you'll want to bundle up with some warmer clothing especially on some of those higher elevation hikes. Our pacific northwest hoodies & sweaters are a great way to stay cozy on those cool autumn days or foggy mornings, you can see our best sellers here!