Nestled between Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief, in the unceded traditional territory of the Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, and Musqueam First Nations, lies a breathtaking escapade for all adventure and nature enthusiasts – the Sea to Sky Gondola.
Credit: Sea to Sky Gondola
A mere 45-minute drive from Vancouver, it provides awe-inspiring views of Howe Sound and the Sea to Sky Corridor, making it an unmissable highlight of British Columbia’s travel landscape.
Summer brings an additional layer of vibrancy to the Sea to Sky Gondola experience. As temperatures rise and the days fill with sunlight, it transforms into an ultimate summer playground. Whether you’re hiking through nature trails, engaging in thrilling activities, savouring delightful food, or swaying to the rhythm of live music, every moment at Sea to Sky Gondola is a celebration of the season.
Extended Hours and Sunset Savings Program: To make the most of summer’s long days and beautiful sunsets, Sea to Sky Gondola is extending its operating hours to 8pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with the last ride down at 9pm. Additionally, the new Sunset Savings program offers 40% off day tickets after 4pm on weekends.
Summer Activities
Credit: Sea to Sky Gondola
Fitness with a View
Beginning June 19, fitness and wellness enthusiasts can enhance their workouts with a twist – morning Yoga and Fitness classes atop the mountains. Offered every weekday, this range of classes, including Mindful Yoga, Yoga Flow, and Mountain Camp, offers a unique wellness experience. Bask in the views, sounds, and aroma of the season as you reconnect with nature. Each class unfolds on the Summit Lodge deck, boasting a panoramic view of the mesmerising Sea to Sky Corridor.
Epic Hikes and Trails
Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced hiker, the Sea to Sky Gondola and its surrounding trails offer sights that are second to none. These trails range from short, leisurely walks through the Alpine Forest to full-day backcountry explorations. The popular Sea to Summit Trail is a must-try; starting at the base of the gondola and ending at the Summit Lodge, this 6.5-kilometre ascent trail promises an unforgettable hike against the backdrop of the stunning Sea to Sky Corridor.
Rise and Climb Challenge
Starting June 24th, every Saturday morning offers a thrilling Rise and Climb Challenge. Perfect for those looking to test their fitness levels, socialise, and appreciate nature simultaneously. On reaching the summit, participants can unwind with a complimentary cup of coffee while absorbing the stunning morning vistas. Early risers reaching the top before noon also stand a chance to win some remarkable prizes.
Music with a View
Starting June 9th, the Mountain Music series brings a lively kickoff to the summer weekends. Up to September 8th, enjoy a lineup of bands, including local favourites such as The Hairfarmers, The Whiskeydicks, Ruckus Deluxe, and more, set against a breathtaking West Coast backdrop.
Culinary Delights at the Summit
Credit: Sea to Sky Gondola
Complementing the remarkable summer experience is the impressive range of food options. From the Backyard Plaza to the Co-Pilot Cafe, the Sea to Sky Gondola has an updated menu filled with mouth-watering options and sweet delights.
The Co-Pilot Café welcomes the summer with its new Taco Bar. Offering an array of options, including pulled beef, chicken, pork, battered cod, and a plant-based vegan alternative, these tacos promise to be a hit among visitors.
The Sea to Sky Gondola also heralds the BBQ Season, firing up not one but two grills. The Backyard BBQ features artisan pizzas, smokies, corn on the cob, and more, while the Oceanview BBQ on the summit patio promises classic favourites like brisket and pulled pork against a spectacular view.
The newest addition, Summit Sweets, is set to cater to all the sweet-toothed visitors. With an array of treats, including ice cream, cotton candy, popcorn, slushies, and candies, it’s the ultimate stop for a summer treat.
If you have never been here:
Credit: Sea to Sky Gondola
The Gondola: The Sea to Sky Gondola, manufactured by CWA and Doppelmayr, provides a thrilling ride up to the summit with breathtaking views of Howe Sound, Shannon Falls, and Stawamus Chief climbing area. Each gondola cabin accommodates up to 8 passengers, with a level entrance/exit point for wheelchair and stroller accessibility. At the summit, you’ll find walking trails, a suspension bridge, hiking trails, rock climbing, and backcountry routes.
Sky Pilot Suspension: This approximately 100-metre long suspension bridge offers stunning 360-degree views of Sky Pilot, Howe Sound, and surrounding forests. The bridge is open year-round and is wheelchair and stroller accessible. It provides a unique feeling of exposure and height, intensifying the experience of the vast terrain.
Via Ferrata: After getting fitted with a climbing harness and helmet at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola, a guide leads you on an exhilarating climb across a catwalk, suspended bridges, and granite slabs using a fixed cable system.
Viewing Platforms: The three viewing platforms at the summit offer stunning views and are easily accessible for all ages and abilities. The Summit Lodge Viewing Deck provides a panoramic view of Howe Sound and the Tantalus Mountain Range, and hosts various events in the summer. The Spirit Viewing Platform provides an insight into the history of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation, while the Chief Overlook Viewing Platform offers dramatic views of the Mamquam Valley and Stawamus Chief.
Trip Planning – Sea to Sky Gondola
Credit: Sea to Sky Gondola
Operating with 40 state-of-the-art cabins, the gondola whisks passengers to the summit, 885 meters above sea level. Here, you can relish the thrill of walking along the Sky Pilot suspension bridge, gain unique perspectives from cantilevered viewing platforms, and venture into world-renowned hiking trails.
When: Open Year Round
Summer Season: Open Daily
- Friday – Sunday: 9:00am – 8:00pm (last download 9:00pm)
- Monday – Thurday: 9:00am – 6:00pm (last download 7:00pm)
How much:
Adult 19 – 64: $64.95 to $69.95
Senior 65 +: $57.95 to $59.95
Youth 13 – 18: $38.95 to $39.95
Child 6 – 12: $25.95 to $26.95
Child 5 and Under: Free
Family Tickets (2 Adults, 2 Child/Youth): $147.95 to $149.95
Sunset Savings: Save 40% off Day Tickets after 4 pm – Every Saturday, Sunday until September 3
Where: 36800 Highway 99, Squamish, BC
The Squamish Connector offers round-trip shuttle service from downtown Vancouver to the Sea to Sky Gondola.