Stawamus: Day Trips and Tours from Vancouver

A foreboding natural landmark, Stawamus is one of the largest granite structures in the world, sitting ominously above the namesake town in the rocky forests of British Columbia, Canada.

If you're after a blend of history, nature and adventure, don't pass up on the various Stawamus day trips from Vancouver! Formed 100 million years ago due to volcanic activity, the peak provides an awe-inspiring sight to behold and makes for a great day trip from Vancouver.

With its serene lakes, majestic mountains and stunning wildlife, Stawamus is the perfect destination to explore some of British Columbia's most incredible natural scenery.

Here's all you need to know about Stawamus, one of the most exciting day trips from Vancouver.

How to get to Stawamus From Vancouver?

Stawamus is located within Stawamus Chief Provincial Park. Its peak lies 700 meters above the waters of the neighboring Howe Sound. It's located right next to the town of Squamish in British Columbia and about 65 kilometers north of Vancouver.

From Vancouver to Stawamus by car

Visitors to Stawamus have a few different options when it comes to getting there from Vancouver. The easiest and most convenient way is by car. It takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic to reach the Squamish Valley via the Trans-Canada Highway, which runs east of Vancouver.

From Vancouver to Stawamus by public transport

Visitors to Stawamus can also reach the park by using public transport, such as a bus or shuttle service. The YVR Skylynx Whistler bus runs from Vancouver city center to Squamish town center and takes about 1.5 hours. Once visitors arrive in Squamish, they can then change to a local bus for a short 10-minute trip to Stawamus Chief Provincial Park.

Guided tour to Stawamus From Vancouver

To take the stress out of traveling to Stawamus from Vancouver, you can book a Stawamus guided tour which often provides convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a shuttle to and from Stawamus. Besides the convenience, this option is also the most education.

You'll be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide that can provide interesting facts and details about Stawamus and its surrounding area, as well as the many activities you can do while in the park. Plus, this option usually includes some sort of extra activities, such as a guided hike through the provincial park.

What is the typical itinerary?

Although the tour details will differ slightly depending on the provider, they all have similarities. Most of them offer hotel pick up and drop off from Vancouver and a private shuttle service to Stawamus Chief Provincial Park and back. The drive from Vancouver to Stawamus is one of the most scenic in the area; expect to pass by the stunning coastal mountains and serene Howe Sound.

Typically, guided tours last between 6 and 11 hours and include the 2-hour return drive from Vancouver – setting out in the morning before heading on a long hike to the peak of Stawamus and back.

Most tours will have time for a lunch break before heading home in the afternoon. Throughout the day, you'll have the chance to experience some of British Columbia's most breathtaking landscapes and learn about its local wildlife.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Stawamus?

Most tours from Vancouver to Stawamus have a similar itinerary, however, there are some variations you can make to accommodate your traveling styles. Stawamus is almost exclusively a hiking destination, however, you can add on stops such as a brewery tasting if you want some relief after an exhausting hike.

Guided tours to Stawamus from Vancouver

A small-group guided tour from Stawamus will take you from Vancouver and back by private transport with a small group of fellow travelers. You'll be guided through a 3-hour hike to the peak of Stawamus Chief, with a chance to take some photos of Howe Sound and Squamish town from 700 meters above. After you've soaked in the beautiful views, you'll be driven back to Vancouver.

Day trip to the Stawamus plus local brewery tour from Vancouver

Suited to active travelers who also appreciate a reward after a hard day's work, this Stawamus tour usually starts with convenient hotel pickup followed by a challenging hike through the pristine landscape en route to the peak.

Along the way, your guide will provide insight into the local flora and fauna, as well as share stories of Stawamus' history. After you've walked for approximately 3 hours, you'll stop at a local craft beer brewery (such as Backcountry Brewing in Squamish). Following a few pints, you'll be escorted back to your hotel.

How much does a day trip to the Stawamus from Vancouver cost?

Prices for tours to Stawamus range between US$130 to US$170. The guided tour will cost US$130, whilst adding on a brewery stop in Squamish will take the cost between US$165 to US$170, depending on your chosen provider.

What will you see and do?

On a tour to Stawamus from Vancouver you will see the mountainous countryside of British Columbia as you are chauffeured along the Trans-Canada Highway to Stawamus Chief Provincial Park.

Once there, you'll be taken along a 3 to 4-hour hiking trail to explore the peaks of Stawamus. The peak provides Instagram-able views and photo opportunities of Howe Sound and Squamish town.

After hiking back down, you'll be either dropped back to Vancouver or taken into Squamish town center to explore or even visit a local brewery to unwind before the drive back.

What are the opening times?

You can visit the village Stawamus whenever you please, however the Stawamus Chief Provincial Park is open from March to November, between the hours of 8 AM and 10 PM from Monday to Saturday, while on Sundays from 7 AM to 9:30 PM.

When is the best time to visit Stawamus?

Weather-wise, the Stawamus trail is best during the summer, when the days are longest. If you want to avoid crowds, September is a great month to enjoy a balance of mild weather and a less crowded hiking trail.

Travel tips

• Book your tour to Stawamus online and in advance to make sure you get the time and day you want.
• If you aren't taking a tour, set out early from Vancouver, as the car parks are known to fill up early.
• Bring plenty of water and sun protection to stay hydrated along the long hike!