Getting Here
From Sea to Sky
Every ascension up the Sea to Sky Highway is full of breathtaking views of Howe Sound at every turn; not to mention incredible wildlife viewing opportunities from the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola, to the banks of the Squamish River. The Squamish River Estuary is a local gem for birders, with over 240 species recorded throughout the year!
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1Stawamus Chief Provincial Park38049 3 Ave, Squamish, BC V0N 1T0
Stawamus Chief Provincial Park is home to one of the largest granite monoliths in the world and provides good nesting habitat for Peregrine Falcons. They can be viewed from the highway pull out day-use area, but remember to bring some binoculars. Ruffed Grouse can also be seen or heard along the trail if you’re lucky. Please note that the Stawamus Chief trails are steep and challenging.
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2Sea to Sky Gondola36800 BC-99, Squamish, BC V8B 0B6
Start this adventure with a thrilling gondola ride 885m above sea level, take in the bird’s-eye view of Howe Sound, explore a variety of frontcountry trails, and enjoy some time birding along the way.
Field Notes
Introducing the Squamish Scavenger Hunt
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3Rose Park38550 Loggers Ln, Squamish, BC V8B 0H2
From the park, take the gravel trail that follows the river past the open grassy field to a wooden viewing platform, perfect for watching the river and surrounding area for birds.
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4Skwelwil'em Squamish Estuary Wildlife Management AreaBailey St, Squamish, BC V8B, Canada
Accessible through downtown Squamish off of Main St or at the end of Bailey St, this beautiful estuary is a great place to see waterfowl and songbirds. Watch for Purple Martins, Great Blue Herons, and Spotted Sandpipers. In the winter, large numbers of bald eagles can be seen feeding on the salmon.
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5Festal Cafe38334 Buckley Ave Suite B1, Squamish, BC V8B 0E4
Festal Café in Squamish proudly presents the first 100% gluten-free café and restaurant, featuring a diverse range of Vegan, Paleo, and Keto options.
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6Caffè Garibaldi38551 Loggers Ln, Squamish, BC V8B 0H2
This cozy cafe is located right in the Squamish Adventure Centre and serves up exceptional coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.
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7Sunflower Bakery Café38086 Cleveland Ave, Squamish, BC V8B 0B7
Locally owned and operated artisan bakery specializing in donuts, breads, and many other sweet and savoury baked goods, perfect to bring along on birding adventures.
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8Fox & Oak1396 Main St, Squamish, BC V8B 0B6
This coffee and bakehouse specializes in hand crafted, naturally leavened doughnuts and specialty coffees located in downtown Squamish.
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9Peak Provisions Mountain Grocery & Goods38015 2 Ave, Squamish, BC V8B 0C3
This community grocer features a curated selection of artisan-made and local products alongside the best seasonal produce. Their popular lunch counter offers delicious breakfast and lunch options, handcrafted coffees and a drink menu featuring local craft beers.
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10The Salted Vine37991 2 Ave, Squamish, BC V8B 0R2
Experience a contemporary and inspired taste of the Pacific Northwest at this upscale restaurant located in the heart of historic Squamish in the oldest building in town.
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11Backcountry Brewing405-1201 Commercial Way, Squamish, BC V8B 0R5
The bright, modern tasting room of Backcountry Brewing is the perfect place to enjoy their menu of seasonal thin crust pizzas, salads and delicious snacks. And 20 rotating taps of draught beer to suit any taste.
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12Saha Eatery38128 2 Ave, Squamish, BC V8B 0C4
Flavours inspired by Lebanese cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients.
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13The Copper Coil Still & Grill37996 Cleveland Ave, Squamish, BC V8B 0A7
Pub fare inspired by the flavours of Louisiana but made with seasonal, Pacific Northwest ingredients. Their wooden, cabin-like space is filled with decor showcasing their love of craft beer.
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14Howe Sound Brewpub37801 Cleveland Ave, Squamish, BC V8B 0A7
Howe Sound Brewing is Squamish’s original craft brewery. Enjoy house-made pub classics with unique flavours in their rustic, friendly brewpub with beautiful views of the Stawamus Chief and surrounding mountains.
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15Valhalla Pure Outfitters1200 Hunter Pl unit 805, Squamish, BC V8B 0G8
Gear up with all the outdoor essentials, grab a pair of binoculars, or pick up local hiking books and birding guides.
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16Urban Alpine40262 Glenalder Pl, Squamish, BC V8B 0G2
Locally-owned and lifestyle-driven, Squamish’s Urban Alpine is your ultimate destination for all things ski, snow and mountain lifestyle.
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17Sandman Hotel & Suites39400 Discovery Way, Squamish, BC V8B 0R5
Surrounded by mountains with views from the rooms, this straightforward modern hotel is outfitted with modern amenities.
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18Squamish Visitor Centre38551 Loggers Ln, Squamish, BC V8B 0H2
Find all the information you need to get the most out of your visit to Squamish. From outdoor books and maps to help with bookings, friendly staff are available to offer expert advice on top experiences, attractions, and accommodations.
Adventure Awaits
Over the bridge and far away, BC’s wild west coast reveals itself as the highway snakes northward along the Sea to Sky Bird Trail. As you pass Brackendale, cross your fingers for the seasonal return of thousands (yes, thousands!) of Bald Eagles from November to February.
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19Mamquam River1940 Centennial Way, Squamish, BC V8B 0H3
Keep to the trails in this important nature area for salmon, bears, and eagles. The Mamquam Spawning Channels is perfect for slow, meandering walks along the variety of flat, gravel trails.
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20Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park40945-41057 Government Rd, Brackendale, BC V0N 1H0
Located along the Squamish River watershed, recognized as one of the most significant areas of wintering bald eagles in North America. The main viewing area is Eagle Run Vista Point, parallel to Government Road along the dyke.
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21Fisherman’s ParkRiver Rd, Squamish, BC V0N 1H0
Enjoy the white sandy beach along the edge of the Squamish River where you might see Buffleheads, trumpeter swans, common mergansers, and belted kingfishers.
Field Notes
Exploring the Sea to Sky Bird Trail
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22Alice Lake Provincial ParkBC-99, Squamish, BC V0N 1H0
Surrounded by towering mountains, dense forests, and grassy areas, Alice Lake Provincial Park offers 10 hiking trails and plenty of amenities. Keep watch for Swainson’s Thrush, Warbling Vireo, and a variety of flycatchers as you explore the area.
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23Brackendale Art Gallery Cafe41950 Government Rd, Squamish, BC V0N 1H0
Discover a world of art, coffee, and inspiration!
Brackendale Art Gallery seamlessly combines an elegant gallery with a welcoming café, offering a unique experience for art, coffee and food enthusiasts. Stop by and check out the large white unicorn outside.
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24Fergie's Café70002 Squamish Valley Rd, Brackendale, BC V0N 1H0
Tucked quietly away alongside the Cheekye River, this hidden forest oasis provides fresh, locally sourced brunch 7 days a week. Fuel up with one of their creative bennies amongst the tall trees and wildlife.
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25Pepe’s Chophouse40359 Tantalus Rd, Garibaldi Highlands, BC V0N 1T0
Steak, seafood, and pasta dishes served in this warm, rustic spot. Their heated patio also has views of the nearby mountains.
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26The Crabapple Café41701 Government Rd, Brackendale, BC V0N 1H0
Enjoy breakfast staples with a creative twist at this rustic cafe with vegan and gluten free options and a cozy covered patio.
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27Executive Suites Hotel & Resort40900 Tantalus Rd, Squamish, BC V8B 0R3
Overlooking the Squamish River, this upscale all-suite hotel is close to local birding spots. Amenities include a fitness centre, an outdoor heated pool and a hot tub.
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28Sunwolf Riverside Resort70002 Squamish Valley Rd, Brackendale, BC V0N 1H0
On the banks of the Cheakamus and Cheekye rivers, this charming, laid-back rustic lodge has several smaller cabins on the grounds as well as a cottage that sleeps up to 8. Their on-site cafe is open 7 days a week.