Squamish has earned the reputation of being hardwired for adventure due to all the outdoor recreation opportunities available from sea to sky. The Winter season lives up to this reputation by offering more winter activities within 30 minutes of downtown Squamish than any other community in BC. Here is our list of the best things to do this winter in Squamish:
Heli-Skiing
The coast mountains surrounding Squamish receive more precipitation annually than Whistler, due to the proximity to the Ocean. In the winter months this means more powder in the alpine! The accessible terrain is limited to your imagination, book a local guide and ski on many of the snowcapped peaks you see surrounding the town.
Eagle Viewing & Rafting
The bald eagles return to Squamish every November to feast on our salmon run. Watch these incredible birds in their natural habitat with guided tours at the Cheakamus Center, or take an Eagle Rafting trip departing daily from Sunwolf Rafting.
Snowmobiling
Brohm Ridge offers unparalleled ocean views to go with your deep powder turns, while the Callaghan is a great location to take a tour and try this sport for your first time. Luxury tours out of Whistler will fly you in a helicopter to your awaiting snowmobile where you can embark on a day exploring the Pemberton Ice Caps with friends. All of this is available within 2 hours of Squamish, making the area an epic snowmobile destination for all people, from beginner to professionals.
Snowshoeing & Tubing
The Sea to Sky Gondola is taking winter adventures in Squamish to new heights this year. They will be offering snowshoeing and snow tubing starting in mid December for alpine fun for the whole family. Enjoy the winter wonderland with an unparalleled views of the Howe Sound Fjord at the Sea to Sky Gondola.
Backcountry Ski Touring
Elfin lakes is a popular backcountry skiing route near Squamish for ski touring, snowshoeing and splitboarding. The Sea to Sky gondola will also open up new access to some of the best terrain in North America. The terrain is big and complex with lots of steeps, alpine bowls and pillows. It is not suited for the beginner or inexperienced skier, but with proper preparation, skills and guides Squamish is a great location to enjoy untouched powder and no lift lines in the backcountry.
Boating & Kayaking
Ocean watersports on the Howe Sound are available year round. On calm winter days book a guided tour in the covered motorboat, dropping crab traps and exploring the First Nations pictographs visible on the rock walls of the Howe Sound. Or rent sea kayaks for a self propelled journey.
Nordic Skiing
Callaghan Country just 35 minutes north of Squamish offers world class nordic skiing facilities. Learn how to cross country ski, or use your skills to take you to the Journeyman Lodge for a unique overnight experience.
Fishing
Squamish is known as a world class anglers destination. Winter fishing months allow anglers to target a variety of winter species such as: bull trout, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, dolly varden and winter steelhead.
Mountain Biking & Hiking
The mountain biking and hiking trails around Squamish remain ride-able year round at lower elevations. The four lakes trail is a great place for winter hikes due to the lower elevation, wind protection and thick trees for rain coverage. Please respect SORCA closure signs as some mountain bike trails are more impacted by water flow than others.
Western Style Horseback Riding
Squamish is home to the only western style horseback riding near Vancouver. Winter is the best season to explore upper Squamish Valley on horseback while spotting the wintering bald eagles. Be sure to pack your camera and cowboy boots for this memorable and fun experience.
Indoor Rock Climbing at Ground Up
Ground Up just celebrated its 2 year anniversary. Drop by today to stay in climbing shape on the wet days! Enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while watching the climbers challenge themselves on this great new indoor climbing gym.
Dirt Biking
The dirt bike trail network around Squamish is simply awesome. There are trails suited for all skill levels from beginner to advanced which are ridable year round at lower elevations.
Cat Skiing
Cat Skiing & Snowboarding is an experience of a lifetime, nothing beats untouched powder with a small group of friends in the beautiful Coastal BC mountains. We are blessed with epic backcountry skiing so close to the city, and hit with deep powder due to the pacific storms. The Snowcat allows you to be a world away, yet so close to the city.
If the wet weather is getting you down, remember that means it is usually snowing at the higher elevations. In the meantime, be sure to check out our tips for the best things to do on a Rainy Day in Squamish.
All of these activities and more are available within a short drive of downtown Squamish. Our unique landscape allows for winter adventures from Sea to Sky. We invite you to experience Squamish this winter, call or book your winter adventure today!
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