Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer getaway, it's worth slowing down to enjoy the journey. From towering waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints to the Sea to Sky Gondola and Whistler Village, here's how to make the most of one of Canada's most scenic drives.
Why the Sea-to-Sky Highway Is One of Canada’s Most Scenic Drives
The drive from Vancouver to Whistler is approximately 120 kilometres and takes around two hours without stops. But chances are, you won’t want to drive it straight through.
The Sea-to-Sky Highway earned its name because the scenery changes dramatically along the way. The route begins at sea level beside Howe Sound before climbing through forests, mountain valleys, and alpine landscapes as you make your way north. It’s one of the few drives where the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
Along the route, you’ll pass through several communities. Horseshoe Bay is the gateway to BC Ferries, Britannia Beach is home to the historic Britannia Mine Museum, Squamish is known as Canada’s outdoor recreation capital, and finally, Whistler welcomes visitors with its lively pedestrian village and mountain scenery.
💡Did you know? The Sea-to-Sky Highway actually continues well beyond Whistler to Lillooet. However, the Vancouver-to-Whistler section is by far the most popular and is widely regarded as one of Canada’s most scenic road trips.
Shannon Falls Provincial Park
Located just south of Squamish, Shannon Falls Provincial Park is one of the easiest and most rewarding stops along the Sea-to-Sky Highway. At 335 metres, it is the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia and a popular place for travellers to take a break from the drive.
Unlike some waterfalls that require a longer hike to reach, Shannon Falls is easily accessible. From the parking area, it is only about a five-minute walk to the viewing area, where visitors can see the water cascading down the granite cliffs surrounded by coastal rainforest.
The waterfall is impressive throughout the year, but spring and early summer are especially good times to visit. As snow melts from the surrounding Coast Mountains, the increased water flow creates a more powerful display.
Why Stop at Shannon Falls?
- One of BC’s tallest waterfalls at 335 metres
- Easy access with a short walking trail
- A great stop for families and travellers of all ages
- Beautiful photo opportunities surrounded by forest
- Picnic areas and facilities nearby
💡 Did you know? Shannon Falls is fed by snowmelt from Mount Habrich and the surrounding Coast Mountains. During the warmer months, melting snow increases the flow of water, creating the dramatic waterfall that visitors see from the viewing platforms.
Take in the Views at the Sea to Sky Gondola
Just a short drive from Shannon Falls, the Sea to Sky Gondola is another must-see attraction along the route from Vancouver to Whistler.
Located in Squamish, the gondola takes visitors 885 metres above sea level in just 10 minutes, offering sweeping views of Howe Sound, the surrounding mountains, and the coastal landscape below. It is a great option for travellers who want to experience BC’s alpine scenery without committing to a challenging hike.
At the summit, visitors can explore a variety of viewpoints, walking trails, and attractions, including the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge and the Summit Lodge. The surrounding trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, making the experience enjoyable for visitors with different activity levels.
While many people associate mountain adventures with experienced hikers, the Sea to Sky Gondola is designed for all types of travellers. Families, photographers, and first-time visitors can all enjoy the views without needing to spend the entire day on the trail.
Things to Do at the Sea to Sky Gondola
- Walk across the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge
- Enjoy panoramic views from the viewing platforms
- Explore short scenic trails at the summit
- Have a meal or drink at the Summit Lodge
- Take photos overlooking Howe Sound
💡 Did you know? The dramatic landscape around Squamish was shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago. The deep waters of Howe Sound and the steep mountain walls surrounding it are part of a landscape carved by ice over thousands of years.
Britannia Mine Museum
If you’re interested in history, the Britannia Mine Museum is a worthwhile stop before reaching the Sea-To-Sky Gondola. Located in Britannia Beach, this former copper mine offers a glimpse into British Columbia’s mining heritage through interactive exhibits and guided experiences.
Visitors can ride an underground mine train, explore the historic Mill No. 3 building during the immersive BOOM! show, and learn how mining shaped the Sea-to-Sky region. It’s a fun stop for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add something different to their road trip.
💡 Did you know? At its peak in the 1920s, Britannia Mine was one of the largest copper producers in the British Empire, employing thousands of workers from around the world.
©Destination BC / Hubert Kang, ©Destination BC / @viranlly
Explore Squamish
Known as Canada’s outdoor recreation capital, Squamish is more than just a stop between Vancouver and Whistler. Surrounded by mountains, forests, and Howe Sound, the town has become a favourite destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while also offering a growing food and craft beer scene.
Whether you’re stopping for lunch or spending a few hours exploring, here are a few places worth checking out.
Enjoy Squamish’s Local Food & Brewery Scene
Downtown Squamish is home to a variety of locally owned cafés, restaurants, and craft breweries. From fresh pastries and specialty coffee to casual eateries and locally brewed beer, it’s an ideal place to recharge before continuing your journey to Whistler.
Take in the View of the Stawamus Chief
Towering above the town is the Stawamus Chief, one of the largest granite monoliths in North America. While hiking to the summit is a popular challenge, you don’t need to tackle the trail to appreciate its impressive scale. The Chief is visible from many parts of Squamish and provides a striking backdrop for photos.
Visit Sp’akw’us Feather Park
Located along Squamish’s waterfront, Sp’akw’us Feather Park is one of the town’s newest public spaces. Developed in partnership with the Squamish Nation, the park features walking paths, public art, and scenic views across Howe Sound. It’s a peaceful spot to stretch your legs before continuing along the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
💡 Local Tip: If your schedule allows, plan your stop in Squamish around lunchtime. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a local café or brewery before making the final drive to Whistler.
More Scenic Stops Worth Exploring
The Sea-to-Sky Highway has no shortage of scenic places to stop. If you have extra time, consider adding several other viewpoints and parks to your itinerary.
Brandywine Falls Provincial Park
Located between Squamish and Whistler, Brandywine Falls is a beautiful stop featuring a 70-metre waterfall surrounded by forest and mountain scenery.
The short walk to the viewing platform takes only a few minutes, making it an easy addition to a Sea-to-Sky road trip. The viewpoint overlooks the waterfall and the valley below, offering a great photo opportunity without requiring a long hike.
Tantalus Lookout
For one of the best roadside viewpoints along the highway, stop at the Tantalus Lookout.
This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Tantalus Range, a dramatic series of snow-capped mountains located west of Squamish. It is a quick stop, but the views make it worth pulling over especially on a clear day.
👉 Local Tip: Keep your camera ready while driving the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Some of the best views appear unexpectedly around a corner, especially when travelling along Howe Sound.
Porteau Cove Provincial Park
For travellers who want to spend a little more time by the water, Porteau Cove Provincial Park offers a peaceful oceanfront stop along Howe Sound.
The park is popular for camping, but day visitors can also enjoy the shoreline, picnic areas, and views across the water. It is a great place to appreciate the coastal side of the Sea-to-Sky Highway before the road begins climbing towards the mountains.
©Tourism Whistler, ©DCT / Lisanne Smeele, ©Ziptrek Eco tours / Eagle Tour, ©Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
Arriving in Whistler: Top Things to Do
After exploring the stops along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, you’ll arrive in Whistler, one of British Columbia’s most popular mountain destinations.
While Whistler is famous around the world for skiing and snowboarding, the village is a year-round destination with plenty to experience in every season. Whether you are visiting for a day or staying for a longer getaway, there are many ways to explore beyond the ski slopes.
1. Explore Whistler Village
Whistler Village is the heart of the resort and a great place to start your visit.
The pedestrian-only village is easy to explore on foot, with charming pathways, local shops, restaurants, public art, and mountain views around every corner.
Popular places to visit include:
- Olympic Plaza, home to the Olympic rings from the 2010 Winter Games
- Local shops and boutiques
- Art galleries
- Cafés and restaurants
- Scenic village walking paths
Even visitors with limited time can get a feel for Whistler’s atmosphere by simply wandering through the village and taking in the mountain surroundings.
2. Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola
For one of the most unique mountain experiences in Whistler, take a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola.
Connecting Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain, this record-breaking gondola provides incredible views of the surrounding Coast Mountains. The ride allows visitors to experience the alpine landscape from above without needing to hike between the two peaks.
During the summer months, the gondola opens access to hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. In winter, it becomes part of Whistler Blackcomb’s extensive ski area.
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola is one of those experiences that allows visitors to appreciate the scale of Whistler’s mountain environment from a completely different perspective.
3. Enjoy Whistler’s Outdoor Adventures
Whistler offers outdoor activities for all types of travellers, not just those looking for winter sports.
Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy:
- E-biking through mountain trails
- Ziplining through the forest
- Bungee jumping over the Cheakamus River
- Hiking scenic alpine trails
- Canoeing or paddleboarding on nearby lakes
For travellers who want to experience Whistler’s natural surroundings, there are plenty of ways to get outdoors at your own pace.
4. Discover Whistler’s Arts & Culture
Beyond outdoor adventures, Whistler also has a strong connection to local history and culture.
The Audain Art Museum showcases an impressive collection of British Columbia art, featuring works by Indigenous artists, historic paintings, and contemporary exhibitions from across the province.
For a deeper understanding of the region’s Indigenous heritage, visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC). Created in partnership between the Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation, the centre shares the stories, traditions, and living cultures of the First Nations whose ancestral territories include Whistler and the Sea-to-Sky region.
What to Expect at the SLCC
We recommend joining one of the centre’s guided Cultural Ambassador Tours, where you’ll experience Indigenous traditions through the voices of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. Depending on the day’s schedule, your visit may include:
- A traditional hand drum welcome song
- A short film introducing the history and culture of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations
- A guided tour of the exhibits led by Cultural Ambassadors
- Traditional carvings, woven artwork, regalia, and interactive displays that showcase Indigenous history and ways of life
Whether you’re visiting Whistler for the first time or returning to explore more of the region, the SLCC offers a meaningful opportunity to learn about the people, traditions, and cultures that have called this area home for thousands of years.
Who Will Love This Journey?
The Sea-to-Sky Highway is a great choice for travellers who want to experience some of British Columbia’s most scenic landscapes in a single day.
This journey is especially suited for:
- First-time visitors to BC who want to see coastal scenery, mountain views, and Whistler’s highlights.
- Nature lovers and photographers looking for waterfalls, viewpoints, and outdoor experiences.
- Families and couples who want an easy-paced day trip with a mix of sightseeing and adventure.
- Adventure seekers interested in activities like hiking, gondola rides, ziplining, and exploring the outdoors.
You don’t need to visit every stop along the way to enjoy the Sea-to-Sky Highway. Choosing a few highlights and taking the time to appreciate the scenery is what makes this journey special.
©DCT / Lisanne Smeele
Explore Whistler & Sea-to-Sky with Discover Vancouver Tours
Driving from Vancouver to Whistler gives you the freedom to stop along the way, but planning the route, navigating mountain roads, and managing parking can take away from the experience.
For travellers who want to enjoy the scenery without worrying about transportation and logistics, a guided tour offers an easy way to experience the highlights of the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
Our Discover Whistler & Sea to Sky Gondola Day Tour combines some of the region’s most popular attractions into one convenient day trip. Guests can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive while a local guide shares stories, history, and insights about the communities and landscapes along the route.
The tour includes:
- Comfortable round-trip transportation from Vancouver
- A scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway
- A stop at Shannon Falls Provincial Park
- Admission to the Sea to Sky Gondola
- Free time to explore Whistler Village
- A knowledgeable guide sharing local stories throughout the day
Whether it’s your first visit to British Columbia or you’re looking for an easy way to explore beyond Vancouver, this tour offers a chance to experience some of the province’s most scenic landscapes in a single day.
From ocean views and waterfalls to mountain peaks and Whistler’s village charm, the Sea-to-Sky Highway is a journey worth taking your time to enjoy.
