The 10 Best Things To Do in Squamish BC in Winter

This winter, we finally made the journey to Squamish, that stunning mountain town we’d been eyeing between Vancouver and Whistler. After checking out many other winter destinations across Canada, I can honestly say this hidden gem delivered some of the most incredible cold-weather experiences I’ve had yet. The moment the snow-capped Chief came into view around that highway bend, I knew this trip would be special.

The mix of outdoor activities and indoor attractions kept our kids thoroughly entertained without the overwhelming crowds or prices of nearby Whistler. Our three-day visit packed in enough memories, so much so that we are already planning a return trip.

Spend a Day at the Sea to Sky Gondola

The Sea to Sky Gondola stands as Squamish’s most breathtaking attraction, lifting visitors to stunning heights of 885 meters (2,900 feet) above Howe Sound. This world-class facility transforms during winter months into a snow-covered paradise, offering incredible views of the surrounding Coast Mountains and access to pristine alpine terrain.

The 10-minute gondola ride is just the beginning of an unforgettable mountain adventure. At the summit, visitors discover a winter wonderland filled with activities for every skill level and interest, from gentle snow-dusted walking trails to challenging backcountry terrain. The Summit Lodge provides a perfect warm basecamp for exploring all the mountaintop has to offer, complete with panoramic windows that showcase British Columbia’s natural beauty in its full winter glory.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of winter activities at the Sea to Sky Gondola Summit:

Summit Lodge Area

The heated Summit Lodge provided perfect warming breaks between activities. We discovered incredible viewing windows for mountain gazing while enjoying hot drinks and snacks. The cafeteria-style restaurant surprised us with quality food options that pleased both kids and adults.

Panorama Trail and Viewing Decks

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Three separate viewing platforms offered different perspectives of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. The Spirit Viewing Platform gave us the best shots of The Chief and Squamish Valley. These platforms are well-maintained in winter and have information panels explaining what you’re seeing.

Suspension Bridge

The 100-meter Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge created pure magic in winter. Snow-dusted peaks provided perfect photo backgrounds, and the bridge’s gentle sway added excitement for the kids. It’s well-secured and feels completely safe, though it can get busy during peak times.

Snowshoe Trails

The marked snowshoe trails catered to all skill levels. We brought snowshoes right to the summit and followed the beginner-friendly Panorama Trail, followed by the Wonderland Lake Trail. After over 2 hours of snowshoeing, we were all drenched in sweat.

Practical Tips:

  • Book gondola tickets online for better rates
  • Arrive early to beat peak crowds
  • Rent equipment in advance during busy periods
  • Check weather conditions before heading up
  • Bring extra layers – summit temperatures are much colder
  • Consider annual passes for multiple visits

Head on to Whistler Olympic Park

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As a former venue of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler Olympic Park now welcomes visitors to experience world-class winter facilities nestled in the stunning Callaghan Valley. Just 20 minutes south of Whistler Village, this remarkable recreation area combines Olympic history with accessible winter activities for all skill levels.

The park transforms into a winter playground offering everything from gentle beginner trails to challenging Olympic-caliber terrain. Families, fitness enthusiasts, and winter sports lovers find themselves surrounded by pristine forests and mountain views while enjoying professionally maintained facilities that once hosted the world’s top athletes.

Snowshoeing Trails

A network of dedicated snowshoe trails winds through peaceful forest settings. The easiest trails loop near the Day Lodge, while advanced routes climb to stunning viewpoints. Guided tours teach about local wildlife and Olympic history while exploring the trails.

Tobogganing and Snow Play

The dedicated toboggan hill provides safe, family-friendly fun. Maintained slopes suit different age groups, with a gentle learning area for young children. Sleds are available for rent at the Day Lodge, and staff monitor the hill during peak times.

Cross-Country Skiing

The park maintains 45km of pristine groomed trails for both classic and skate skiing. Beginners stick to the flat practice areas near the Day Lodge, while more experienced skiers tackle scenic valley routes. Rentals and lessons available on-site make it perfect for first-timers.

Cost Information: Day passes vary by activity, and equipment rentals are priced separately. Package deals are available for families.

Check Out The Britannia Mine Museum

The historic Britannia Mine Museum turned out to be an unexpected highlight of our family trip to Squamish. Once North America’s largest copper mine, this National Historic Site has been transformed into an immersive, kid-friendly attraction that perfectly balances education with entertainment.

The BOOM! Mine Show is a favorite for kids. This 45-minute experience takes you aboard a genuine mine train into the dark tunnel, where theatrical special effects and demonstrations bring the mine’s history to life.

Key Attractions at The Britannia Mine Museum:

Underground Train Tour

  • 20-minute journey into a real mining tunnel
  • Expert guides share engaging stories
  • Kids learn about mining techniques
  • Real mining equipment demonstrations
  • Safe and well-lit environment

Gold Panning Pavilion

  • Hands-on experience panning for real gems
  • Kids keep what they find
  • Covered outdoor area perfect in any weather
  • Patient staff teach proper techniques
  • Great photo opportunities

Interactive Exhibits

  • Modern museum with touch-screen displays
  • Historic machinery kids can explore
  • Mining-themed play areas
  • Educational videos sized for young attention spans
  • Engaging hands-on activities

Alice Lake Provincial Park Trails

The frozen lake creates a stunning centerpiece for winter walks, with a manageable 2km loop trail offering peaceful forest views. Winter birds frequent the area, and local wildlife often appears in the quiet morning hours. The well-maintained trails provide perfect terrain for snowshoeing, while several viewpoints offer excellent photography opportunities of the surrounding mountains.

Downtown Squamish Exploration

Cleveland Avenue features a charming collection of local shops and cozy cafes. Cloudburst Café stands out with its artisanal beverages and house-made treats. The street maintains a relaxed mountain town atmosphere while offering sophisticated dining options and unique local boutiques. Art galleries and craft shops showcase local talent throughout the winter season.

Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park

This world-renowned eagle viewing area offers spectacular opportunities to observe bald eagles in their natural habitat. The viewing areas along the Squamish River provide excellent access points, and volunteers often set up spotting scopes during peak season. The annual eagle count draws wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe.

The Squamish Adventure Centre

This modern facility serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the area. Interactive displays detail local wildlife and geography, while knowledgeable staff provide current conditions and activity recommendations. The center offers clean facilities and free parking, making it an ideal base for downtown exploration.

Shannon Falls Provincial Park

Winter transforms this impressive waterfall into a partially frozen spectacle. The short walk from the parking area leads to well-maintained viewing platforms, though careful attention to icy conditions remains important. The surrounding forest creates a peaceful winter atmosphere perfect for photography.

Smoke Bluffs Park

Even in winter, this park delivers incredible views and hiking opportunities. Rock climbers often brave the cold to tackle the famous bluffs, creating an exciting spectacle for observers. The network of trails offers various difficulty levels, with each path providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.

Squamish Winter Farmers Market

The bi-weekly winter market brings together local vendors offering seasonal products and warm treats. The covered area ensures comfortable browsing regardless of weather, while the festive atmosphere adds charm to winter weekends. Local artisans display unique crafts alongside fresh produce and prepared foods.

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Victoria Omololu

Victoria Omololu is a fashionista exploring the world on a budget. She co-founded Only Earthlings in 2023 to show her travels in North America, Europe, Africa, and everywhere else. Victoria loves writing about travel tips, itineraries, packing guides, and taking photography from all over the world.

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