During our family trip to Canda, we set aside a day for Squamish, which is a small mountain town that’s often overlooked but totally worth visiting. The main highlight was the Sea to Sky Gondola, which I’d seen in a few travel guides and photos, but experiencing it in person was something else.

Sea to Sky Gondola

Here's a quick guide if you're adding this to your itinerary.


How to Get There

We drove from Abbotsford since we were staying with family, but if you’re a tourist staying in Vancouver (which most people are), getting to Squamish is still very doable without a car. From downtown Vancouver, you can take the Squamish Connector or YVR Skylynx, both of which offer direct round-trip routes to Squamish. These services usually stop at or near the Sea to Sky Gondola parking area and the trip takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Sea to Sky Gondola
breathtaking views during the gondola ride

An easier and more scenic alternative is to book a guided tour through GetYourGuide. Some of these tours include not just the Sea to Sky Gondola, but also stops at nearby attractions like Shannon Falls, Whistler Village, and other scenic points along the way.

What to Expect at the Sea to Sky Gondola

The gondola ride itself is short, just 10 minutes one way, but the views are incredible. You’re lifted 885 metres above sea level with panoramic views of Howe Sound, surrounding mountains, and thick pine forests.

Sea to Sky Gondola
one of the view points along Spirit Trail

At the top, you’ll find a suspension bridge, several walking trails, and multiple viewing platforms. There’s also a lodge with a café and gift shop, plus plenty of outdoor seating if you just want to soak in the view.

We did the Spirit Trail, which is the shortest of the walking trails and takes less than 15 minutes round trip. It’s an easy loop with barely any incline, and it leads to another lookout point that gives you a slightly different perspective of the same incredible scenery. You’re technically on Stawamus Chief Mountain, one of the most iconic peaks in Squamish, so everywhere you turn feels like a postcard moment.

Where to Get Tickets

You can purchase tickets for the Sea to Sky Gondola either online or in person at the base terminal. Buying online ahead of time is your best bet as prices are slightly cheaper and you avoid the risk of sold-out time slots, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Tickets are also available through platforms like GetYourGuide, where you might be able to catch a promo deal.

Sea to Sky Gondola
view of Howe Sound

Tickets aren’t exactly cheap, but they’re not outrageous either. As of this writing, adult tickets are CAD 69.95 when purchased onsite, but you can save a few dollars by buying online in advance, which is what we did. They also offer family, youth, and senior rates.

Side Trip: Browning Lake and Shannon Falls

If you’re already in the area, it makes sense to check out the nearby free attractions. Right next to the gondola parking lot is Browning Lake, part of Murrin Provincial Park. It’s a small, quiet lake where locals swim, picnic, or just hang out. 

Browning Lake Squamish
Browning Lake

On the other side is Shannon Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in British Columbia. The walk to the viewpoint is short and easy, making it a nice stop either before or after your gondola ride. These spots don’t take long to explore but really round out the day.


The Sea to Sky Gondola is definitely one of those places that lives up to the hype. It’s an easy and rewarding escape from Vancouver, especially if you’re craving mountain views without the effort of a big hike. Whether you’re driving or using public transport, it makes for a great day trip that combines nature, views, and a bit of adventure - all without straying too far from the city.