Discover Squamish's Top Hiking Trails

Squamish offers a variety of outdoor activities, with hiking being one of the most accessible. Trails range from beginner-friendly to more challenging for seasoned hikers, with the difficulty level increasing as you go down the list.

Basic hikes require sturdy shoes, while more advanced trails may need hiking boots and essential safety gear due to Squamish's rugged terrain. Weather can change quickly, so dressing in layers is advisable.

Many trails begin close to town and are reachable by car or public transport, each offering unique vistas and attractions. Ready to explore? Lace up your boots and plan your adventure with our guide to Squamish's best hikes.

1. The Squamish Estuary Trails

The Squamish Estuary Trails, starting from downtown, are flat and easy, leading through forests to Howe Sound. They offer flexible lengths and stunning views, including the Stawamus Chief, and are a hotspot for bird-watching.

2. Squamish River Dike Trail

In Valleycliffe, the Squamish River Dike Trail is a gentle, accessible gravel path. Spanning nearly 2.5 kilometers, it follows the Stawamus River and offers serene river views.

3. Murrin Park Loop Trail

For an intermediate-level hike, the 1.8-kilometer Murrin Park Loop Trail offers beautiful views over Howe Sound and passes by Browning Lake, perfect for a post-hike swim.

4. Smoke Bluffs Loop Trail

The Smoke Bluffs Loop Trail, close to downtown, is a short 2.5-kilometer hike with climbs and stairs, offering views of the town and Howe Sound.

5. Four Lakes Trail at Alice Lake

The family-friendly Six-kilometer Four Lakes Trail in Alice Lake Provincial Park winds through forests and past four lakes, with swimming and paddleboard rentals available in summer.

6. Tantalus View Trail at Brohm Lake

Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest's Tantalus View Trail offers a steep climb with views of the Tantalus mountain range and historical logging industry remnants.

7. Al's Habrich Trail at the Sea to Sky Gondola

Al's Habrich Trail, an 8.5-kilometer return hike from the Sea to Sky Gondola, climbs 354 meters into the backcountry, offering epic views of Howe Sound.

8. Elfin Lakes

In Garibaldi Provincial Park, the Elfin Lakes trail ascends 600 meters over 11 kilometers, passing through meadows and offering swimming opportunities at the top lake.

9. Crooked Falls

Crooked Falls, located in the serene Squamish Valley, is a six-kilometer return hike through forests with a steep ascent, leading to a refreshing waterfall lookout.

10. The Stawamus Chief

The Stawamus Chief, Squamish's iconic hike, offers three peaks with varying lengths and technical challenges, all providing stunning views.

11. Sea to Summit Trail

The Sea to Summit trail, a 7.5-kilometer one-way hike, climbs over 900 meters through forests and past waterfalls, ending at the Sea to Sky Gondola's summit.

Where to Stay in Squamish for Sightseeing

Squamish offers a range of accommodations from mid-range hotels like the Executive Suites Hotel & Resort and Sunwolf, to budget-friendly options such as the Squamish Adventure Inn and Hotel Squamish.

More Related Articles on tripates.com

Visiting Squamish: Beyond hiking, explore more attractions and things to do in Squamish, a popular day trip destination from Vancouver.