Stawamus Chief Provincial Park

Overview

Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, also known as The Chief, is a renowned hiking destination in Squamish, British Columbia. The park is famous for its impressive granite domes and stunning views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains.

The park is a significant geological feature and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the best rock climbing and hiking in the region.

Hiking Nature Outdoor Recreation

Location

Address

Squamish, British Colombia

Neighborhood: Downtown Squamish

Coordinates

49.704300, -123.168300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$0 (donations accepted)

Children

$0 (donations accepted)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild, rainy

• Wildflowers
• Waterfalls

summer

Warm, sunny

• Clear skies
• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cool, crisp

• Fall colors
• Cool breezes

winter

Cold, snowy

• Snowy landscapes
• Winter sports

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check trail conditions
Bring plenty of water
Wear appropriate footwear

What to Bring

essential

Hiking boots Water Map

seasonal

Warm layers Gloves Microspikes

not allowed

Drones Pets (on some trails) Glass containers

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate to high

• Steep trails
• High elevation
• Uneven terrain

Medical facilities: First aid available at park office

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

Canadian Dollars (CAD)

Typical Costs

parking $5

donation $5

guide $0

Dress Code

Hiking attire, Layered clothing, sturdy footwear, Hiking boots or trail shoes, Inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• Not required, but popular trails may have wait times
• BC Parks website
• Not applicable
• Arrive early

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

BC Parks

Size: 45 MB

Features: Trail maps, Park information, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Park office

Charging Stations: None available

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Distance: 60 km

Travel Time: 1 hour

taxi

$120 1 hour

public_transport

$10 1 hour 30 minutes

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$2.50 10 minutes

taxi

$15 10 minutes

biking

20 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: The Chief is a symbol of Squamish and a popular spot for locals to hike and climb

Historical Significance: The park has been a significant landmark for Indigenous peoples and climbers for generations

Insider Tips

Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds
Check the weather forecast before heading out
Bring layers as the weather can change quickly

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafes and restaurants in Squamish
• Ask for recommendations from park staff

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

The Chief Summit

Best Time: Sunrise or sunset

Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the panorama

Result: Breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains

#TheChief #Squamish #HikingBC

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Inside park buildings

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Permitted with permit

tripod policy Allowed

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre

Distance: 3 km

Walking: 30 minutes

Type: Museum

Sea to Sky Gondola