Vancouver 
Photo Credit: Tourism Squamish
When winter comes, don’t look to the tropics for vacation – look to Squamish region of British Columbia! The Squamish region is popular with tourists all year round, and it’s easy to see why. Find trip tips and ways to find adventure below.
Brackendale Eagle Festival
The month-long festival that takes place each January celebrates the fact that Brackendale is the World Eagle Capital. While researchers take the time for an annual bird count, the public can enjoy a lineup of concerts, speakers, art shows, and much more. Watch for more details as the date draws near. Details
Date: January 1 – 31, 2020
Strap on the skis
1. Nordic Skiing
Nordic skiing, also known as cross country skiing, is a sport the whole family can enjoy. Sea to Sky country is home to some of the world’s best, and most scenic, groomed trails for both classic and skate skiing for all skill levels. From Brandywine Falls to the Nordic Centre in Callaghan Valley, find routes and rentals to enjoy.
2. Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort
Consistent snow levels, incredible views, and, of course, some of the best runs in the world, make Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort a world-famous ski destination. The ski and snowboard season is almost 200 days long, so you’re sure to find a time to go. From the slope of the bunny hill to the steep alpine black diamonds, find the perfect run. Details
Where: 4545 Blackcomb Way; 1-800-766-0449
3. Heli-Skiing & Snowboarding
Pristine powder awaits! Endless backcountry runs can be found when you take a helicopter up the mountain to find that perfect run. Several different companies in Whistler offer everything from single run to multi-day trips. Details
4. Backcountry Skiing & Snowboarding
Who needs to wait in line for the chair lift when there’s acres of backcountry wilderness to explore? Try Elfin Lakes Trail at Garibaldi Provincial Park or Callaghan Valleyjust 50 km north of Squamish for snowy paradise.
5. Biathlon
Ski fast and shoot straight. But can you do it like an Olympian? This sport is full of speed and skill, so whether it’s your first time out or you’re on your way to the Olympics yourself, give it a shot. There are lessons available to help get your footing and aim straight. DetailsWhere: Whistler Olympic Park, 5 Callaghan Valley Rd; 604-964-0059
Play in the snow
Photo Credit: Whistler Bungee
1. Snowmobiling
Get the blood pumping when you get that motor going! You don’t need to be on skis to explore the mountain wilderness; snowmobile tours are available throughout the Squamish area. Consider checking out Brohm Ridge, Tricouni Ridge, and Brandywine – all popular sites.
2. Tobogganing
Feel like a kid again on the back of a sled flying down the hill! Kids of all ages love tobogganing. Find community hills wherever you go, but for a real experience, head to the Whistler Olympic Parkfor their designated hill (rentals available onsite).
3. Eagle Floats
When you’re in the worldwide eagle capital, eagle watching is a popular activity. Get up close to the eagles without disturbing them in their natural habitat with a float down the Squamish and Mamquam Rivers. Book these experiences through Canadian Outback Rafting or Squamish Rafting, November to February.
4. Heli and Flight-seeing
Get a bird’s eye view of the mountain landscapes that have captured your eye the whole trip. Squamish from above will take your breath away and get you excited to continue your adventures. There are several outfits in the area to take you up; see some of the options at the website provided. Details5. Scenic Drives
Hit the road and explore the area in and around Squamish and discover breathtaking views and exciting opportunities for adventure. From the Squamish Estuary to Furry Creek, there’s always something waiting for you around the next bend of the road. Details
6. Snowshoeing
From old to young, newbie to pro, there are snowshoeing trails in the area for everyone to enjoy. The whole family can find rentals throughout town, then head out to the groomed trails to explore. Find routes for all skill levels, from flat and easy to steep for the more advanced. Visit the website for suggestions on where to go. Details
7. Zipline
Not just for summer! Superfly’s zipline adventures offer spectacular views of the mountains and forests for everyone – they’re even wheelchair accessible. Fly side by side with their two-person lines and get incredible sights on the forest walk. The three-hour tour includes access to and from the mountain from Whistler. Details
Where: Superfly Ziplines 211-4293 Mountain Square; 855-824-9955
8. Bungee Jumping
Even the locals say it’s the most extreme activity in town! Get the adrenaline pumping with a 160 foot jump over the glacier-fed Cheakamus River. With the snow-capped mountains and icy terrain below, it’s considered one of the world’s best bungee jumps. Are you brave enough to jump? Details
Where: Whistler Bungee, Calcheak Forest Service Road; 604-938-9333
9. Bobsleigh
Now, here’s something to cross off your bucket list! Fly down the world’s fastest bobsleigh track, through 10 turns at speeds up to 125 km an hour. Hop in the back of a four person sleigh – there’s no experience necessary since it’s piloted by a pro. Details
Where: Whistler Sliding Centre, 4910 Glacier Lane; 604-964-0040
Plan on parks
1. Garibaldi Provincial Park
Garibaldi Provincial Park, named after the towering Mount Garibaldi, is a favourite hiking destination year round. Dress warm and wear good boots, then head out into the great outdoors and explore the wilderness. Keep an eye out for wildlife – bear sightings are common in the park and they don’t hibernate the entire winter! Details2. Callaghan Lake Provincial Park
You know it’s a good place for winter recreation when it was one of the sites of the Winter Olympics! Steep slopes offer ski spots, and wide meadows are perfect for cross country skiing. Backcountry snowshoeing is abundant, but keep in mind that cell service is limited, so be prepared. Details
3. Porteau Cove Provincial Park
This provincial park is located on the southernmost fjord in North America, and their waterfront campsites are open year round. It’s a draw no matter the time of year, with specific dates available for reservation. Day use activities include winter hiking to points such as Howe Sound. Details
4. Tetrahedron Provincial Park
Tetrahedron is the place for backcountry adventure. There are no groomed trails, but explorers can get out on skis and snowshoes. There are cabins and huts available, but campers should be self-sufficient for all weather. Details
5. Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park
Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park is a great way to get close to nature year round. The park has opportunities to camp in the winter, though some services may be limited. Take in snowshoeing, hiking, and cross country skiing while you’re there. Details
6. Cypress Provincial Park
The mountain views from Cypress Provincial Park are spectacular. And, there are lots of opportunities to enjoy them. Cypress Mountain Resort has skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, tubing, and 11 km of snowshoeing trails. There are also designated areas for snowmobiling and tobogganing. Details
7. Mount Seymour Provincial Park
There is tons to do at Mount Seymour Provincial Park during the winter! Skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and more are all available in different areas of the park. Find toboggan runs near parking lot 2. Details
Out of the cold
Photo Credit: Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
1. The Ninja Gym
Burn off some energy without having to be out in the cold! The Ninja Gym is home to a 7,000 square foot indoor obstacle course that will bring out your inner ninja – just like American Ninja Warrior. Who can make it through the course fastest? Details
Where: 21 38936 Queens Way Squamish; 604-390-3909
2. Tenderfoot Creek Hatchery
Tenderfoot Creek Hatchery aims to “protect Squamish wildlife – one fish at a time.” It works to enhance fish populations through catch and release hatching programs. Take a self-guided tour through the facility to see the work they do and the effect it has on the area. Details
Where: 1000 Midnight Way Brackendale; 604-898-3657
3. West Coast Railway Heritage Park
Take a guided tour of Canada’s railroad history and how it shaped the west coast at the Railway Heritage Park. From how it was built to the history of the restored rail cars on site, it’s one of the most extensive railway museums on the west coast. DetailsWhere: 39645 Government Road, Squamish; 604-898-9336
4. Sea to Sky Art House
The Sea to Sky Art House has been carefully and intentionally curated to showcase art of local and international artists. Plus, they have local art for sale in the form of prints, originals, totes, cards, and more. Visit the website for info on upcoming exhibitions. Details
Where: 38166 Cleveland Ave, Squamish; 604-567-2787
5. Brackendale Art Gallery
Brackendale Art Gallery is a cultural hub for the Squamish area. Find art exhibits, workshops, theatre productions, concerts, and more. Then, warm up by the fire after a day watching eagles outside and art inside. Details
Where: 604-898-3333
6. Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
This “living First Nations cultural centre” was built by the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations to share and showcase their culture with others. Preserving art, culture, and history, as well as using their stories to inspire visitors, this centre is not to be missed for an insight into the first inhabitants of the area. Details
Where: 4584 Blackcomb Way; 1-866-441-7522
7. Britannia Mine Museum
From working mine to world-famous museum and tourist destination. Take an underground tour of what was a successful mine and learn about how it shaped the region. The new Boom! attraction, named one of the area’s top attractions, is a multi-sensory, live action telling of the story of Mine No. 3. Details
Where: 1 Forbes Beach, Britannia
Treat the tastebuds
1. Squamish Ale Trail
The Squamish leg of the BC Ale Trail takes you to craft breweries that are just as exciting as the adventures outdoors. The different beer on tap at each location just provide more opportunities for tasting rooms and finding your new favourite. Details2. Squamish Craft Tasting Trail
Get a taste of all things brewed in Sqamish – beer, coffee, cider, and more. Work your way through the map guiding you through the tasting trail, collecting stamps as you taste each offering. You can even get prizes for stamps collected! Details
3. Howe Sound Brewing
Howe Sound was Sqamish’s first craft brewery, breaking into the scene in 1992 and staying strong ever since. Their extensive lineup on tap brings people in from all over for tastings, and their pub menu can’t be beat. Take home your favourite brew in one of their potstopper bottles. Details
Where: 37801 Cleveland Avenue, Sqamish; 604-892-2603
4. Zephyr Café
Zephyr Café is popular with the tourists, but even more popular with the locals who feel right at home in this café in the heart of downtown. Discover creative and unique vegan, raw, and gluten-free dishes, paired with local coffee to die for. Details
Where: 38084 Cleveland Avenue, Squamish; 604-567-4568
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