Patios, Sunsets and Late Nights at the Sea to Sky Gondola
For many, the best part of summer consists of lazing around on a sunny patio, tasty cocktail in hand, drinking in a glorious view. In the Lower Mainland, there is arguably no patio that screams, “best summer patio experience anywhere,” than the deck of the Summit Lodge at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola.
“Everything about the patio at Sea to Sky Gondola is big,” says Ken Bailey, sales and business development at the venue. “The more than 460-square-metre deck has big, panoramic views of Howe Sound, and is perched at 885 metres above sea level.”
It’s certainly the ideal location to catch some summer rays while enjoying a spectacular view and a cool beverage, but it’s the sunsets up there that will really knock your socks off, he says.
“The patio’s orientation is perfect for sunset viewing from all angles, and, as the sun sets over Howe Sound, the alpenglow on the surrounding peaks is breathtaking,” says Bailey. “Rising 885 metres above sea level means the sun stays on the patio much longer than any establishments located in the valley. From the height of the Summit Lodge, vistas of the surrounding mountain peaks, like the famous Co-Pilot and Sky Pilot mountains as they glow in the sun’s last rays, are truly spectacular.”
Of course, the Summit Lodge’s spectacular patio isn’t the only place to experience a magnificent Sea to Sky sunset. A short hike along manicured alpine trails can take you to any number of jaw-dropping vistas.
“The Chief Overlook Viewing Platform hangs over hundreds of metres of sheer drop and provides spectacular views from above of hikers scaling the backside of The Chief, as well as the Howe Sound,” he says.
Warm summer evenings are a great time to visit with friends and family. Until September 23 you can save 50 percent on Saturdays after 5 p.m. And on Fridays and Saturdays, the gondola is open until 8 p.m., plus from August 4 to 19 the Sunset Stretch offers operations from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every night of the week. What’s more, every Friday the Mountain Music Series offers sunset sessions with some of the Sea to Sky’s most loved musicians.
So, for the best of all summer experiences in the Lower Mainland, make sure to schedule a trip to the Sea to Sky Gondola. For more info, go to seatoskygondola.com.