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Sea to Sky Highway
The Most Romantic Road in the World
Highway 99 from Vancouver to Whistler is often referred to as the "Sea to Sky" Highway.
This two hour drive was voted the most romantic road in the world.
There are gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores in Squamish - the half way point to Whistler.
Photo Opportunities
Snow-capped mountains
Bald eagles and wildlife
Shannon Falls waterfall
Roaring hydro electric dams
Ferries and cruise ships in Howe Sound
Historical landmarks and Aboriginal craft stores
The Stawamus Chief granite monolith (one of only two in the world)
Highway 99 is a mountain highway, and it is recommended that you have snow tires on your vehicle when travelling the highway during the winter season.
Sights along the way to Whistler
Horseshoe Bay
The main reason Horseshoe Bay exists is as one of the main hubs for BC Ferries. Several routes take both foot and car traffic to Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast and beyond. Because of this, the neighbourhood is home to many restaurants, quaint shops and stores with all of the essentials. Take a bit of time in Horseshoe Bay before you head to Whistler or hop on a ferry.
Porteau Cove Provincial Park
This picturesque spot is located on the most southerly fjord in North America. Carved by a glacier thousands of years ago, the area surrounding Porteau Cove is a stunning example of the West Coast's beauty. Scuba divers, campers and kayakers are attracted to Porteau Cove for its wealth of near-perfect activities for both the casual and serious outdoor enthusiast.
Britannia Beach
Pull over for a snack and browse the Native arts and crafts in this small highwayside community. If you have some time, take a look at the BC Museum of Mining and explore the history of resources in the province.
Murrin Lake
This roadside lake and adjoining park is the perfect spot to stop for a picnic and swim. Families enjoy the calm, warm water and the easily accessible facilities while recreational anglers enjoy the stocked trout waters. Murrin Park is also a haven for rockclimbers who get their fill on the many bouldering and climbing routes nearby.
Stawamus Chief
Known by locals simply as "The Chief", this natural wonder is the second largest granite monolith in the world and is a haven for rockclimbers and hikers looking for a challenge or a pleasant way to spend a day outdoors. Whether you choose to hike up the back side and take in the views (4 hours roundtrip) or stay at the base and gaze at the climbers as they navigate the crags and cracks.
Shannon Falls
BC's third highest waterfall, Shannon Falls cascades 335 metres down Mount Habrich in stunning fashion making it a worthwhile stop on your journey. Trails wind through Shannon Falls Provincial Park and picnic tables provide the perfect opportunity to stop for a bite of lunch.
Squamish
Claiming to be the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada, the town of Squamish lives up to the name by providing opportunities to hike, windsurf, golf, mountain bike and more all in one day. Squamish is a vacation in itself.
Brackendale
Just north of Squamish is the community of Brackendale which hosts one of the world's largest gatherings of bald eagles. During the fall, thousands of eagles are known to line the banks of local rivers to feed on spawning salmon. Keep your eyes peeled for these beautiful birds soaring overhead.
Alice Lake
A local favourite, Alice Lake is the perfect spot for a paddle in a canoe or lazy swim in its relatively warm water. A large system of trails winds its way through Alice Lake Provincial Park where casual walkers, more serious hikers and mountain bikers can find solace among the towering trees. Keep your eyes open for wildlife.
Cheakamus Canyon
The Cheakamus River is a haven for kayakers, anglers and people looking for stunning views. Stop at one of the various roadside pullouts and take a look at the raging river below. This is one of the most photographed areas on the Sea-to-Sky highway.
Brandywine Falls
This picture perfect 70 metre waterfall is a short walk along a trail from the Brandywine Falls Provincial Park parking lot making it an ideal spot to stop on your Sea-to-Sky trip. The viewpoint from above the waterfall is simply spectacular as the Brandywine River flows its way towards Daisy Lake.
Garibaldi Provincial Park
This colossal park covers 194,650 hectares (750 sq. mi.) of mountain wilderness: towering peaks, ancient glaciers, tumbling rivers, alpine meadows and West Coast rainforest. Nirvana for hikers, skiers and campers, the park is home to a seemingly endless list of trails and treks, sure to keep even the most seasoned outdoors addict happy. Highlights include: Diamond Head, Black Tusk, Cheakamus Lake, Mount Garibaldi and the Elfin Lakes. If you plan to head into the backcountry make sure you are properly equipped – it is called the wilderness for a reason – animals are common sights in the park and amenities are non-existent. But as long as you are prepared, you will safely discover that Garibaldi is like nowhere else in the world.
Callaghan Valley
A spectacular expanse of West Coast wilderness, Callaghan Valley is a playground for outdoor lovers from around the world. The area is situated west of Whistler and is the destination for snowmobilers, hikers, paddlers, anglers, campers, backcountry skiers and more, varying on the season. There are few views in the world comparable to being in a canoe in the centre of Callaghan Lake on a calm day in the winter. Snow-capped peaks reflect upon the lake in surreal fashion and the view provides a 360-degree panorama, it is truly outstanding.
Directions: From Downtown Vancouver
West on West Georgia Street
Continue over the Lion's Gate Bridge
Take the West Vancouver Exit
Continue on Marine Drive to Taylor Way
Take the Taylor Way Exit
Up Taylor Way to Highway 99 West
Take the Highway 99 West Exit
Continue to Whistler
