Planning to hike the Stawamus Chief or check out the Sea to Sky Gondola? Good news: you don’t need a car. You can get there by bus, taxi, or on foot. Bad news: the signs aren’t always clear, so a bit of direction goes a long way. Don’t worry – you won’t have to walk on the highway.
If you’re staying with us at the Squamish Adventure Inn, you’ve already got the best launch point, and maybe you’ll even make a friend or two to join you.
Note: In summer, Bus Line 5 stops near the Chief Parking Lot as well as the Sea to Sky Gondola car park entrance a few times daily. Or if you’d rather save your steps, we have taxis to call.
Now normally, we would say Google Maps has all you need to know – but the current edition doesn’t show the right path and can be confusing. Keep reading to see how we get to/from by foot or bike.
Here’s what to remeber:
- Google Maps is slightly wrong but shows the right direction.
- There is no segment where you need to walk on the highway.
- It is not fully flat – there are some gravel uphills and downhills.
- Signage is minimal but this is completely doable to find your way – we believe in you!
Getting to the Chief Without a Car
The Chief is Squamish’s most visited hike. It looks like a wall of rock from town, but the trail takes you through forest and up to three separate peaks. Most of the hike is covered in the forest, but the top part is quite exposed so make sure to dress for the weather and stay safe!
From the Squamish Adventure Inn
- Distance: 3.2 km
- Walking time: 40–60 minutes
- Bike time: 20-30 minutes
Walking/Biking Directions to the Chief
Always stay on the sidewalk/path on the Chief side of the highway, facing traffic. You’ll be heading southbound, while cars beside you are going northbound. (See map image for reference.)
- From the hostel, head south on the sidewalk, facing traffic (Chief side).
- Continue straight until you reach the Squamish Valley Gas Bar intersection.
- Keep going along the same side, cross the small bridge, a second intersection, and you’ll see the Apron Parking Lot.
- Walk through the Apron Parking Lot trail – it connects straight into the official Chief Parking Lot and trailhead.
What peak to do?
The Chief has three peaks. You can do one, two, or all three in a day.
- First Peak: Shortest and busiest. About 4.5 km return, 540 m elevation. Plan for 3–4 hours.
- Second Peak: A little steeper, some scrambling. About 5 km return, 590 m elevation. Plan for 4–5 hours.
- Third Peak: Longest and roughest. About 6 km return, 630 m elevation. Plan for 5–6 hours.
Local tip: If you’re aiming for all three, start with the Third Peak first while your legs are fresh. If you’re doing just two, link First and Second together.
Getting to the Sea to Sky Gondola Without a Car
The Summit Lodge (and its activities) sits just up a gondola past the Chief. This higher vantage point is a worthwile stop for snackies, or heading deeper into the backcountry (or fun snow activities in the winter).
- Distance: 3.9 km
- Walking time: 50–70 minutes
- Bike time: 20-30 minutes + 5 minutes walk
Walking/Biking Directions to the Chief
Always stay on the sidewalk/path on the Chief side of the highway, facing traffic. You’ll be heading southbound, while cars beside you are going northbound. (See map image for reference.)
- From the hostel, head south on the sidewalk, facing traffic (Chief side).
- Continue straight until you reach the Squamish Valley Gas Bar intersection.
- Keep going along the same side, cross the small bridge, a second intersection, and you’ll see the Apron Parking Lot.
- Walk through the Apron Parking Lot trail – it connects straight into the official Chief Parking Lot and trailhead.
- Continue walking south through the parking lot, all the way down to a tiny tiny sign that says “Sea to Sky Gondola” – from there walk (don’t try to bike) down the steep gravel until you reach the gondola parking!
Budget Options
- Hostel guests can get a discount code when using a special code. Just ask us!
- Want the views without hiking down? Walk up the Sea to Sky Summit Trail and download on the gondola for $20.
- There are often promotions for discounted tickets (ex. 40% after 4PM on certain days), check their website before booking!
Once You’re at the Top
The gondola station has plenty to fill a few hours:
- Short hiking trails + backcountry trails
- Suspension bridge for your photos
- Cafe and patio (bring cash)
- Events and live music in summer
- Guided tours like the Via Ferrata with MSA Adventures
What to Pack
Even if you’re just heading up First Peak or hopping the gondola, you should always be prepared:
- Water: At least 1–2 litres.
- Snacks: Energy bars, fruit, or last night’s pizza.
- Layers: The weather can change quickly.
- Good footwear: Runners with grip are fine. No flip flops.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
- Phone & power bank: For maps, photos, or emergencies.
- First aid basics
Safety Tips
Not to nag, but here are a few things that make your day easier:
- Stay on the trail. Shortcuts = bad idea.
- Check the time. Hiking down in the dark is a pain.
- Tell someone your plan. Even just a quick text.
- Respect wildlife. No feeding birds or chipmunks.
- Pack out your garbage. Yes, even fruit peels.
- Know your limits. One peak is still a win.
Final Notes
You can reach both the Chief and the Gondola without a car, and both are worth the effort. Bring the basics, take your time, and enjoy the views.
And hey – if you post your photos and tag us @squamishadventureinn, you’ll be entered into our monthly draw for a $25 gift card. Easy win.