When you depart on your next Squamish boat tour, in addition to the stunning scenery, you will be treated to an abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities. Seals are found all over the Howe Sound, while Pam rock is a bird sanctuary. Resident eagles call the western side of the Howe Sound home, year long. Groups of herons can also be spotted feasting on the fish.

Dolphins have been frequenting the Howe Sound more often with the occasional killer whale spotting.

Fishing and crabbing is also a fun option. Please check with the provincial standards and please ensure you have your licences.

The awe inspiring views of dramatically steep mountains rising sharply from the ocean are best experienced from the water.

The landscape that provides us with endless adventure was formed about 15,000 years ago when our valley was covered in ice.

This was a rugged an uninhabitable time of volcanic action and frozen landscapes, with only the highest peaks showing above the frozen landscape. The slow glacial melt carved our current landscape and uncovered the land that would eventually be settled. Archaeological studies date the first inhabitants of the area to over 9000 years ago. The culture of these original inhabitants of our land has evolved into what we know today as the Coast Salish and Squamish Nations.

Archaeological Sites of the Howe Sound

The Howe Sound and lush Squamish Valley was an ideal place to call home, and many village sites along the coast and rivers have been uncovered. A 1975 Archaeological survey uncovered sites on the islands of Keats, Bowen and Gambier. Shell middens, granite hammers, a basalt adze and many other artifacts were collected, and provided a glimpse into where and how people lived.

The Howe Sound is also home to several sacred burial sites. The oldest known remains were found at Gower Point near Gibsons, but burial sites sites are located along the coast, and even on some of the islands in the Sound. The islands provided protection from wolves and other predators that might disturb the remains. These sites are still protected and not open to visitors. Some areas, such as Defense Island are still used for events and ceremonies today.

In addition to these artifacts and sacred grounds, pictographs can be found on the rock walls of the Howe Sound at tide line. Furry Creek is home to native rock paintings believed to be anywhere from 800 to 3000 years old. The site is currently undergoing carbon dating to determine the exact age, and the images are of the same style as other First Nations art found from California to Siberia. Be sure to keep your exploring eyes out for ancient paintings the next time you are boating on the Howe Sound.

EXPLORING THESE SITES RESPONSIBLY:

Book your Squamish boat rental and enjoy visiting these sites responsibly. When visiting these islands on a summer boating trip, explorers should be aware of the possibility to find native artifacts. Please see our guide to exploring responsibly below!

• Enjoy the paintings from afar, take as many pictures as you like but do not disturb these archeology sites so that others can enjoy them for more years.
• Leave zero trace of your visit
• Certain island are bird sanctuaries and native burial grounds. These are no go lands to be enjoyed from the water so know before you go!