Stawamus Chief Provincial Park: Stawamus Chief Hike

Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s stunning Squamish region, the Stawamus Chief Provincial Park beckons adventurers with its iconic three-peaked granite monolith. The Stawamus Chief Hike, a popular guided excursion, offers an exhilarating opportunity to conquer these majestic summits and revel in the breathtaking vistas of Howe Sound. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, hikers can expect a challenging yet rewarding journey through a landscape teeming with natural wonders. As you ascend the trails, the true allure of this remarkable destination begins to unveil itself, leaving you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• The Stawamus Chief Hike is a 6-hour guided tour priced at $98.16 per person, with a maximum group size of 8 participants.
• The hike features 3 hours of moderate to strenuous hiking with photo stops, sightseeing, and 30 minutes of free time in Squamish-Lillooet.
• The hike starts at Shannon Falls Provincial Park and includes a challenging ascent to the First, Second, and Third Peaks with panoramic views.
• The tour includes an ACMG-certified guide, use of trekking poles and Microspike Crampons, and emergency equipment for safety.
• The hike is not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women and requires a certain level of fitness and experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Stawamus Chief Hike is an exhilarating outdoor adventure that takes visitors on a stunning journey through the picturesque Stawamus Chief Provincial Park.

Priced from $98.16 per person, the 6-hour hike is limited to just 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. This activity is offered in English and French, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For those who prefer, there’s a "reserve now, pay later" option to secure a spot without upfront payment. With a focus on showcasing the park’s natural beauty, the hike features photo stops, sightseeing, and 3 hours of moderate to strenuous hiking.

Itinerary and Transportation

How does the Stawamus Chief Hike itinerary and transportation work?

Guests are picked up in Vancouver and transported by bus/coach for a 1.5-hour ride to Stawamus Chief Provincial Park.

The hike includes:

1. A photo stop and sightseeing along the way.
2. 3 hours of hiking with a certified guide.
3. 30 minutes of free time in Squamish-Lillooet.
4. A 1.5-hour return trip by bus/coach to Vancouver.

Please note that itineraries are subject to change.

Roundtrip transportation from Vancouver or Squamish, as well as all necessary permits, are included in the tour price.

Hiking Experience

The hike begins at the Shannon Falls Provincial Park parking lot. From here, hikers embark on a moderate ascent to the First Peak, which offers stunning views of Howe Sound and Squamish. The trail then becomes more challenging, with steep sections, scrambling, chains, and ladders leading to the Second Peak. The final leg to the Third Peak is a strenuous climb, rewarding adventurers with spectacular panoramic vistas, though caution is advised due to the exposure to steep drop-offs.

Peak	Difficulty	Notable Features
First	Moderate	Stunning views
Second	Challenging	Steep sections, scrambling, chains, ladders
Third	Strenuous	Panoramic views, steep drop-offs

Included in the Tour

Roundtrip transportation from Vancouver or Squamish is included, allowing participants to conveniently access the trailhead.

The tour also includes:

• An ACMG-certified hiking guide to lead the way and provide expert commentary
• Use of trekking poles and Microspike Crampons if necessary to navigate the terrain
• Entrance fees and national park permits to ensure a seamless experience
• Emergency equipment, such as a first-aid kit and satellite phone, for added safety and peace of mind

Personal items like clothing, rain gear, and water bottles are the responsibility of participants.

Gratuity for the guide is recommended at 10-15% of the tour cost.

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Suitability and Preparation

The Stawamus Chief hike is not suitable for children under 12 years old or pregnant women. This challenging trail with steep sections, scrambling, chains, and ladders requires a certain level of fitness and experience. To properly prepare, hikers should wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.

What to Bring	Why
Hiking Shoes	For traction and support on the rugged terrain
Water	To stay hydrated during the 3-hour hike
Layered Clothing	To adapt to changing weather conditions on the mountain

Following these guidelines will ensure an enjoyable and safe experience on the Stawamus Chief hike.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers who cancel within 24 hours of the scheduled departure time aren’t eligible for a refund.

However, the following flexible options are available:

1. Reschedule the tour for another date at no additional cost.
2. Transfer the booking to another person.
3. Receive a credit voucher for the full amount paid, valid for 12 months.
4. If the tour is cancelled by the operator, a full refund or rescheduling will be provided.

Customers are encouraged to review the cancellation policy before booking to ensure it meets their needs.

Guided Tour Details

Guided hiking excursions up the renowned Stawamus Chief provide adventurers with the opportunity to experience the region’s stunning natural beauty and challenge themselves along the multi-peaked trail. Experienced ACMG guides lead small groups of up to 8 participants on a 6-hour journey, utilizing transportation from Vancouver or Squamish. Along the way, hikers can expect photo stops, sightseeing, and free time in Squamish-Lillooet. The trail features a moderate first peak, a challenging second peak with steep sections and scrambling, and a strenuous third peak offering spectacular panoramic views. Hikers may spot wildlife such as birds of prey, black bears, and deer.

Activity	Difficulty Level	Estimated Time
First Peak	Moderate	1-2 hours
Second Peak	Challenging	1-2 hours
Third Peak	Strenuous	1-2 hours

Additional Considerations

Participants should prepare adequately for the Stawamus Chief hike. The trail involves steep, challenging sections that require proper hiking gear and fitness. First-time hikers or those with mobility issues should consider the difficulty level.

Additionally:

1. Bring plenty of water and snacks to maintain energy.
2. Wear appropriate, layered clothing and sturdy, broken-in hiking boots.
3. Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect from the elements.
4. Familiarize yourself with the trail map and be aware of your physical limitations.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable hike to the top of the iconic Stawamus Chief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Hike Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The hike may not be suitable for people with mobility issues, as it involves a challenging trail with steep sections, scrambling, and exposure to steep drop-offs. Participants should have a good level of fitness and hiking experience.

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

The hike is not recommended for bringing dogs. The trail is challenging with steep sections, scrambling, and exposure to drop-offs, which could be dangerous for pets. The tour operator doesn’t allow dogs to join the guided hike for safety reasons.

What Is the Weather Like on the Stawamus Chief Hike?

The weather on the Stawamus Chief hike can be variable and unpredictable. Hikers should expect cool temperatures, wind, and possible rain or snow, even in the summer. Dressing in layers and bringing rain gear is recommended for this exposed, high-altitude trail.

Is There an Option to Only Hike the First Peak?

Yes, there is an option to only hike the first peak. The first peak is a moderate ascent with stunning views of Howe Sound and Squamish, making it a more accessible option for some hikers.

Can I Extend My Stay in the Area After the Hike?

Yes, you can extend your stay in the area after the hike. The tour includes free time in Squamish-Lillooet, allowing you to explore the local town and surrounding attractions at your own pace.

Recap

The Stawamus Chief Hike offers an exceptional outdoor adventure for hikers of various skill levels. With a professional guide, participants can explore the park’s stunning natural landscapes, navigate the challenging trails, and enjoy breathtaking views of Howe Sound and Squamish. The tour’s inclusive pricing and comprehensive itinerary make it an attractive option for those seeking an unforgettable hiking experience in British Columbia’s wilderness.

You can check if your dates are available here: