Just over an hour north of Vancouver, British Columbia, the quaint town of Squamish is rife with adventure. It used to be a pit stop along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway—a place to gas up or stretch your legs on the way to Whistler and beyond—but outdoor adventurers are quickly realizing that Squamish is a destination all on its own. With boutique shops and a number of eateries, downtown Squamish has enough going on to fill an afternoon with, but the real draw are the beautiful mountains and rivers that flank it, plus access to the Howe Sound.
Adrenaline junkies can find extreme sports adventures here like whitewater rafting along the Elaho River, kiteboarding at the Squamish Spit, and more mountain biking trails than you can dream of. The giant granite dome, Stawamus Chief, is perhaps the most recognizable natural feature in Squamish—it's a haven for rock climbers but it’s also a draw for hikers who want to explore its three peaks. For more laidback adventures, visit the four freshwater lakes at Alice Lake Provincial Park, spot the more than 1000 eagles that return to the nearby community of Brackendale between November and January every year, and explore the nearby waterfalls. Don't skip on winter, either—there's loads of skiing and snowboarding to do nearby.
The best way to explore Squamish and the surrounding area? From a cozy cabin as home base. There are loads of them on vacation rental sites like Airbnb and VRBO, so we're here to filter out Canada's best. Each of these cabins, from upscale retreats to simple cottages, will make a perfect HQ to explore Squamish, no matter the experience you’re after.
