Take the less-travelled trail this summer
Sea to Sky Gondola offers perfect hikes and panoramic views
New adventures are always the best adventures. It’s about the joy of discovering something different and unexpected. It is the wonder of surprise. That is what’s in store for you this summer if you spend a day exploring the wide range of alpine trails and breathtaking views at the Sea to Sky Gondola. Located just forty-five minutes from Vancouver along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway, the Gondola takes visitors 885 metres above sea level for astounding views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountain ranges. There, they have access to amazing alpine trails, such as the popular Spirit and Panorama Trails.
But Katie Tikkanen, Event Programming & Marketing Coordinator at the Sea to Sky Gondola, says visitors to the summit shouldn’t forget to find new adventures on some of the lesser-known hikes. “We’ve added in lots of trails in the one- to two-hour range,” she says, giving Alpine Alley as an example. “This family trail offers exciting surprises for kids to explore. Plus, you can take a guided tour on Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. or explore it on your own.” Tikkanen also recommends Highline Trail and Sparky’s Spin for those wanting a bit more of a challenge. “Highline features 360 degrees of views, showing a unique perspective of Sky Pilot and Co-Pilot Mountains, the Stawamus Chief and Howe Sound. It’s only a short 1.4 kilometres, but the steep scrambles make it feel like a true alpine adventure,” she says. “If you’re ready to get your heart pumping, but don’t have all afternoon, Sparky’s Spin is perfect. It meanders down the mountain for a scenic walk through the forest, then links up with the Upper Sea to Summit for one kilometre of ascent.” Finally, Tikkanen says hikers could really test their mettle with the new Sea to Summit Trail Timer, available Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Hikers who register their cards online are eligible to win prizes from Helly Hansen and Sea to Sky Gondola. The more hikes you record, the more chances to win.