Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
WORTH A DETOUR
SQUAMISH
Midway between Vancouver and Whistler on Hwy 99, Squamish enjoys an incred-
ible natural setting at the fingertips of Howe Sound. Once little more than a
rough-and-ready logging town, it's undergone an Olympics-triggered boom and is
now a popular base for outdoor activities, especially in summer.
For mountain bikers, the 100 or so forested trails around Squamish are ideal -
especially if you've had enough of the crowds at the ever-popular Whistler Moun-
tain Bike Park. Check out the
Cheekeye Fan trail
near Brackendale, or join the
downhill thrill seekers in the
Diamond Head/Power Smart
area, where the routes
have inviting names like Dope Slope and Icy Hole of Death.
If you're looking for some sights that are a little less strenuous, there are plenty
other must-sees in the area.
Just before Squamish on Hwy 99, the
Britannia Mine Museum
(
www.britanniaminemuseum.ca
; adult/child $21.50/13.50; 9am-5pm)
is a popular stop.
Once the British Empire's largest copper mine, it's been preserved with an im-
pressive restoration. Its underground train tour into the pitch-black mine tunnels
is a highlight and there are plenty of additional kid-friendly exhibits - including
gold panning - plus a large artsy gift shop.
Historic-train nuts should continue just past Squamish to the popular
West
Coast Railway Heritage Park
(
www.wcra.org
; 39645 Government Rd; adult/child $15/10;
10am-5pm, reduced hours off-season)
. This large, mostly alfresco museum is the final
resting place of BC's legendary Royal Hudsonsteam engine and has around 90
other historic rail cars, including 10 working engines and the original prototype
SkyTrain car. Check out the new Roundhouse building, housing the park's most
precious artifacts.
Attracting hardy climbers, the highlight of
Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
(
www.bcparks.ca
)
is 'The Chief. You don't have to be geared up to experience the
summit's breathtaking vistas: there are hiking routes up the back for anyone who
wants to have a go. Consider
Squamish Rock Guides
( 604-892-7816;
www.squamishrockguides.com
;
guided rock climbs half-/full day from $75/115)
for climbing as-
sistance or lessons.
If you prefer to travel under your own steam, the
Squamish Spit
is a popular
kiteboarding (and windsurfing) hot spot; the kiteboarding season runs from May
your first point of contact for information on weather, water conditions and ac-
cess to the spit.
