Squamish is famous for climbing, epic trails, and being a hub for crazy sends – but honestly, sometimes the best days are the slow ones. If you’re looking to take it easy, wander a little, and soak up the local vibes, here’s our local’s guide to a rest day in Squamish. Think gentle hikes, lake swims, coffee stops, and hanging out like a local.
PSST we currently have a special campaign running – Wake Up Wild: Book a private room on our website using code WAKEUPWILD and you’ll receive your $50 Wake Up Wild Pass* at check-in, put it toward any of the experiences listed on this page.
Low-Elevation Hikes & Walks in Squamish
You don’t need to climb a mountain everyday… right? These low-elevation hikes are perfect for a rest day:
- Squamish Estuary Trail – Flat, peaceful trail in our beautiful estuary; great for birdwatching and gentle strolls.
- Murrin Loop and Jurassic Ridge Trail – Quick hike with a rewarding viewpoint overlooking the mountains and ocean.
- Mamquam Falls (free trail or paid boardwalk with Squamish Canyon) – Short walk to rushing blue falls in a mossy forest.
- Smoke Bluffs Park Loop – Not just for climbing,
- Shannon Falls – Iconic waterfall, short paved trail, and perfect for photos.
Local tip: Go early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds. - Smoke Bluffs Park Loop Trail
- Four Lakes Trail
Rest Day Hangouts in Squamish
Some days in Squamish are best spent taking it slow. Here are some favorite spots for a relaxed day:
- Brackendale Art Gallery – Large, cozy space with board games and rotating events. Grab an iconic Zephyr cookie and check out what’s going on.
- Squamish Adventure Inn – Grab a board or card game and find a spot on the grass or inside! Maybe make a friend or two – our guests don’t bite!
- Arrow Wood Games – Pick up a game for your stay or join a community game night.
- Chieftain Pinball – Classic pinball machines in a dark bar. Weekends are $12.50 for unlimited play, go hit that thing?
Local tip: On Thursday evenings in summer there is live music and slackline meetups at the park.
Chill Days on the Water in Squamish
Squamish sits on the ocean, with so many rivers and lakes in the area that are just waiting to be splashed around in.
- Canadian Coastal Sailing – Sailing tours on Howe Sound – the best view of the Chief in our opinion. PSST BYOB for a relaxed experience with views of the surrounding mountains.
- Squamish Watersports – Rent a SUP, kayak, or a small boat for a short rip on the water. Crew tested and approved! Aye aye captain.
- InFlow Adventure Co. – Offers foiling, sailing, and sauna experiences. A good way to spend a few hours on the water or relax afterward.
Local tip: Bring a picnic. On a budget make it in your hostel kitchen. Otherwise grab a sandwich from Buvette or onigiri from Sakura Mart… there are so many options!
Treat Yo Self: Spa & Treats
A rest day in Squamish isn’t complete without a little self-care, a sweet treat, a cold drink, or all of the above. Here are some favorite spots:
Sauna
- Plunge Wellness – Inside every day of the week – sauna and cold plunge tubs.
- The Finnish Sauna – Heat up, then cool down in the river and repeat with Friday night social community saunas.
Local Brews
- Squamish Craft Tasting Trail – Squamish has a handful of breweries offering craft beers, grab a bike or the bus or your two feet and see if you can hit up all the best spots.
- Squamish Coffee Crawl – Grab a donut, a croissant, a good roasted cup of joe and plan your next mission.
Rest today, adventure tomorrow
Take it slow, soak in the views, and enjoy all the little moments – Squamish has plenty to offer even on a rest day or relaxed weekend.
Book directly on our website for the best rates for your adventure basecamp, right by all the action.