Sea to Sky Highway Itinerary
The Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip is a spectacular 146 km journey from North Vancouver to Pemberton in Canada. It is best driven between April and October, when the weather is at its finest. The route takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of Squamish and Whistler. Along the way, you can take in the sights of Howe Sound, the Cheakamus River, and the majestic Coast Mountains. The road is well maintained and suitable for all drivers. However, seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur. The trip should take approximately two days and provides an unforgettable experience. The Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip is perfect for those looking for an adventure of a lifetime, but it does require a certain budget.
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number of days
146 km
route length
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budget
family
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START
North Vancouver
Distance 146 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
43.7 kWh
Airports
YVR
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YXX
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North Vancouver in Canada is an ideal starting point for the renowned Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip. Located in the heart of the Lower Mainland, it is close to many attractions and activities, making it a great spot to begin your journey.
The North Shore mountains are a must-see. Just a few minutes away, you can explore Mount Seymour, Grouse Mountain, and Cypress Mountain, or hit the slopes for some skiing and snowboarding. The Capilano Suspension Bridge and Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge are also extremely popular attractions, offering stunning views of the area.
The nearby Lonsdale Quay Market is a great place to grab a bite to eat, or you can take a ferry to Granville Island and explore its vibrant atmosphere. If you’re looking for some outdoor recreation, take a walk along the Sea to Sky Trail or hop on a kayak and explore the beautiful ocean.
If you’re flying in to join the road trip, the closest international airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start your journey right away.
North Vancouver is the perfect spot to begin your Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip. With plenty of sights to explore and activities to enjoy, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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North Vancouver
- Squamish
Distance 56 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
16.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip experience starting in North Vancouver, Canada, and heading to Horseshoe Bay and Squamish. This 56 km drive will take you less than an hour, and will be filled with stunning views of the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic views of the mountains, the ocean, and the forests. As you drive, you will be able to enjoy the fresh air and the serenity of the surroundings.
Make sure to stop in Horseshoe Bay and take a few photos of the spectacular views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. Then, drive to Squamish and take in the breathtaking views of the Stawamus Chief and the Tantalus Range. There are plenty of activities to do in Squamish, from kayaking to hiking.
At the end of your journey, you will be left with an unforgettable experience. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.
Squamish - Canada - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Squamish
- Whistler
Distance 58 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
17.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready to experience one of the most scenic road trips in Canada? Starting in Squamish, you'll drive 58 km to Whistler, taking you less than an hour to get there. Along the way, you'll be able to take in some of the most beautiful views in the country. The drive will take you along the Sea to Sky Highway, one of the most stunning routes in the country. You'll pass by the Squamish Estuary, the Cheakamus River, and the Tantalus Range, all of which offer breathtaking views. As you drive, you'll be able to spot some of the local wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, and mountain goats. Once you reach Whistler, you'll be able to explore the village and take in some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world.
This is just one stage of a larger tour, so make sure to pay attention to the scenic road and take your time to enjoy the sights. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!
Whistler - Canada - North America - Scenic Drive - Pikist
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3
Whistler
- Pemberton
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
9.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Whistler to Pemberton! This 32 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Canadian wilderness. As you drive, keep an eye out for the steep ramps and some sections of the route that may be closed seasonally. Enjoy the scenic road as you make your way to Pemberton! Once you arrive, you'll find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites to explore. For more information, check out the itinerary for this stage of your journey. Get ready for an amazing adventure!
Pemberton - Canada - North America - Scenic Drive - Dreamstime.com
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Pemberton
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The "Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip" is a journey through the most beautiful parts of British Columbia and comes to its end in the mountain town of Pemberton. Located in the northern part of the province, the town is surrounded by mountain peaks and lush forests, making Pemberton a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
At the heart of the town, visitors will find the Pemberton Valley where they can explore a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding, and fishing. The area also offers hot springs, lakes, and rivers where visitors can relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
Pemberton is also home to some of the best wineries in the region. Visitors can experience the unique flavors and award-winning wines of the area while taking in the stunning views of the mountains and forests.
For the adventurers, the area is full of possibilities. Pemberton is a great place to explore the many trails and paths that run through the mountains and forests. There are also great opportunities to go rafting, kayaking, or rock climbing.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). From there, visitors can either rent a car or take a shuttle to Pemberton.
At the end of the "Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip", Pemberton is a great place to explore and relax. With its stunning mountain views, the town is full of possibilities for adventure and fun.
Sea to Sky Highway at a glance
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Start:
North Vancouver
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End:
Pemberton
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Distance:
146 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Vancouver International Airport (YVR),
Abbotsford International Airport (YXX)
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When to drive:
June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip is a captivating 146 km journey along Highway 99, stretching from North Vancouver to Pemberton in British Columbia, Canada. This scenic route is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes that include coastal rainforests, towering mountains, and pristine fjords, providing an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- North Vancouver: The gateway to your journey, North Vancouver is a vibrant community nestled at the foot of the North Shore mountains, with attractions like the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain.
- Squamish: This outdoor recreation capital is home to the impressive granite monolith Stawamus Chief, the cascading Shannon Falls, and a wealth of outdoor adventure activities such as rock climbing, kiteboarding, and hiking.
- Whistler: World-famous Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort offers year-round activities, with the record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola providing spectacular panoramic views. Whistler Village pulsates with energy through its shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
- Pemberton: A quaint town offering a more relaxed pace, with opportunities to visit the serene Joffre Lakes, hike around Nairn Falls, and indulge in local organic produce.
Best Time to Go:
While the highway is accessible year-round, the optimal time for this Road Trip is from April to October when travelers can enjoy milder weather and the full range of outdoor activities available in the region.
Potential Risks:
- Weather-induced Road closures, especially during the winter months, may disrupt travel plans; checking current conditions is essential.
- The route's mountainous terrain requires attentive driving, particularly in sections with sharp curves and steep grades.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Sea to Sky Highway is renowned for its engineering and beauty, with viewpoints and rest areas along the route allowing travelers to soak in the scenery.
- Allocating at least two days for the Trip is recommended to explore the numerous sights without rushing.
- From accommodations to access to various attractions, budgeting for the Trip is important to ensure a comfortable experience.
Interesting Facts:
- The Sea to Sky Highway was extensively upgraded in preparation for the 2010 Winter Olympics, significantly improving safety and accessibility.
- The term `Sea to Sky` reflects the dramatic change in elevation from the Pacific Ocean to the peaks of the Coast Mountains.
- Along the route, travelers can spot the Tantalus Range, a striking series of jagged mountain peaks that are particularly photogenic during sunset.
- The Britannia Mine Museum, located along the highway, is a National Historic Site and offers a glimpse into the region's mining history with interactive exhibits and a mine train tour.
A good choice for:
Embarking on the Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip is to embark on a journey through some of Canada's most spectacular natural wonders and culturally rich destinations. With a blend of awe-inspiring scenery, outdoor adventure, and the opportunity for cultural enrichment, this Road Trip is a must-do itinerary for those visiting British Columbia, demanding thoughtful planning and budgeting to maximize the experience.