Squamish's Stawamus Chief Provincial Park is home to one of British Columbia's most iconic landmarks: The Chief. The popular rock-climbing and hiking destination towers 2,300 feet (700 meters) above Squamish and is the second-largest granite monolith (freestanding piece of rock) in the world. Though it might be hard to believe from looking at the steep rock face, hiking to the top is a relatively moderate, two-hour hike. The Chief doesn't get as much snow during the winter as the other nearby mountains and so enjoys a fairly long hiking season. The summit is usually clear of snow in the early spring, making The Chief a great warmup hike for the summer months ahead. There are three peaks, each accessible from the single trailhead. You can hike up each one individually, or summit all three if you're feeling ambitious. Hikers should be prepared with sturdy footwear, clothing, food and water.
In addition to being a popular hiking destination, Stawamus Chief Provincial Park is a rock-climber's paradise. There are hundreds of granite walls and multi-pitch crack climbing routes, the most well-known being The Apron and The Grand Wall. Even the most advanced rock climbers come from all over the world to be challenged during the busy summer season by these routes.
Practical Info
Hiking and climbing trails are easily accessible from the dayuse parking lot at the base of The Chief as well as from Shannon Falls Provincial Park. Camping at the Stawamus Chief includes 47 forested walkin sites and 15 vehicle-accessible sites. The campground has a cooking shelter with a counter, and sink and food storage lockers to protect food from bears. The campground costs $10/night and is officially open April 13 October 13. Please note pets must be on a leash at all times except on the Chief Peaks trail.
