A road trip from Vancouver to Whistler is a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway with breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and forests. We did this roundtrip late fall and unfortunately the gondola was closed for the season. So, instead we hiked to the top of Stawamus Chief, the hike was challenging with a lot of steps and some ladders, but the view from the top was stunning. Here are the stops we made along this roadtrip.
Vancouver to Whistler Road Trip via Sea-to-Sky Highway
Porteau Cove Provincial Park
This park is located just 20 minutes north of Vancouver and is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and camping. Take a stroll along the beach or go for a swim in the calm waters of Howe Sound.
Shannon Falls
One of the most popular stops along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, Shannon Falls is a stunning waterfall that drops 335 meters (1,099 feet) into a pool below. Take a short hike to the viewpoint for a close-up view of the falls.
Sea to Sky Gondola
Just a short drive from Shannon Falls, the Sea to Sky Gondola takes you on a scenic ride up the mountain to an observation deck with panoramic views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains.
Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
This park is home to the iconic Stawamus Chief, a granite monolith that towers over the surrounding landscape. The hike to the top is challenging but well worth it for the stunning views of the ocean and mountains.
Brandywine Falls Provincial Park
A short drive south of Whistler, Brandywine Falls is a 70-meter (229-foot) waterfall that plunges into a canyon below. Take a short hike to the viewpoint for a stunning view of the falls and the surrounding forest.
Whistler Village
The final stop on your road trip, Whistler Village is a charming pedestrian-only village with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Take a stroll through the village and soak up the mountain atmosphere.
Other suggestions for stops along the way include Alice Lake Provincial Park, Garibaldi Provincial Park, and Squamish, which is known for its outdoor activities such as rock climbing and kiteboarding. Be sure to plan ahead and check for any closures or schedule changes that may affect your travel plans.
