Sea to Sky
Ale Trail
A thrill-seeker's playground, the Sea to Sky is where the mountains meet the ocean, and craft beer brings adventurers together in Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, and Lillooet.
Drive along one of North America’s most scenic stretches of highway to visit the small town of Squamish, a mecca for rock-climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and windsurfing, that is also home to a diverse group of excellent breweries.
The mountain village of Whistler is a playground for the adventurer and those seeking the finer delights in life: powder-packed peaks, world-class food and shopping, and delicious craft beer.
And then travel beyond to the rustic, rural community of Pemberton and the picturesque village of Lillooet, both places where you might find it nearly impossible to put your camera down while you sip a tasty flight.
Whistler Brewing in Whistler, BC
Squamish BC. Photo: Ben Haggar.
Whistler Olympic Plaza. Photo: Justa Jescova
Backcountry Brewing in Squamish, BC. Photo: Ben Haggar.
High Mountain Brewing Co. in Whistler, BC
Squamish Highlands
Howe Sound Brewing in Squamish, BC. Photo: Ben Haggar.
Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, BC
The Beer Farmers in Pemberton, BC
Sea to Sky Air in Squamish, BC. Photo: Fuel for the Sole
A-FRAME Brewing Co in Squamish, BC
Coast Mountain Brewing in Whistler, BC
Pemberton Brewing Co in Pemberton, BC
Horseback Riding at Copper Cayuse Outfitters in Pemberton, BC
Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish, BC
Mamquam River dyke walk in Squamish, BC.
The Beer Farmers in Pemberton, BC
Blackcomb Helicopters Tour in Pemberton, BC. Photo: Fuel for the Sole
High Mountain Brewing Co in Whistler, BC
Audain Art Museum in Whistler, BC
Climbing Tour with Via Ferrata Squamish, BC
Peak 2 Peak Gondola in Whistler. Photo: Mike Crane
A-FRAME Brewing Co in Squamish, BC
Howe Sound Brewing in Squamish, BC
Pemberton Lodge in Pemberton, BC. Photo: Fuel for the Sole
Whistler Village in Whistler, BC
Forged Axe in Whistler, BC. Photo: Fuel for the Sole
Coast Mountain Brewing in Whistler, BC
Squamish BC. Photo: Ben Hagaar.
Cliffside Cider in Squamish, BC
Pemberton Brewing Co in Pemberton, BC
Squamish Estuary walk in Squamish, BC
The Beer Farmers in Pemberton, BC
Blackcomb Helicopters Tour in Pemberton, BC. Photo: Fuel for the Sole
Whistler Brewing Co in Whistler, BC
One Mile Lake Loop in Pemberton, BC.
Horseback Riding at Copper Cayuse Outfitters in Pemberton, BC
Fishing for salmon and trout on the Mamquam River in Squamish, BC.
The Westin Resort & Spa in Whistler, BC
Raincity Distillery in Squamish, BC (photo: Gayatri Ashta)
Lillooet, BC (photo: Lillooet Chamber of Commerce)
Lillooet Brewing in Lillooet, BC (photo: Lillooet Brewing)
Lillooet Brewing in Lillooet, BC (photo: Lillooet Brewing)
Downtown Lilloet, BC (photo: Lillooet Chamber of Commerce)
Pemberton Brewing Co in Pemberton, BC
Day 1
Travel Info
Drive from Vancouver along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway, approximately 1 hour.
Famed for their fun, themed donuts, this downtown bakery & café offers 49th Parallel coffees as well as fresh bread, pastries, pies, sausage rolls, soup, sandwiches and salads.
Your journey begins at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola, where you will be fitted with a climbing harness and helmet. Your guide will lead you on a short hike through beautiful old-growth forest to a stunning viewpoint high above Howe Sound. The Via Ferrata route starts where the guide clips you into the safety cable and your adventure begins!
Howe Sound Brewing offers house-made pub classics and seasonal dishes that focus on freshness & unique flavours! With options that are sure to satisfy your post-adventure cravings and pair with any of our craft beer on tap! The rustic Brewpub has space for your family and friends, with impressive views of the Stawamus Chief and surrounding mountains.
Located at the tip of the Howe Sound and bordered by the Spit on the west, the Squamish Estuary provides a gentle stroll offering some of the best local unobstructed views of the Stawamus Chief and is home to literally hundreds of species of birds and other habitants.
A locally born unique craft cidery in downtown Squamish.
Bringing together the character of New Orleans with the beauty and bounty of the Pacific Northwest, the menu utilizes regional and seasonal ingredients. Unique, delicious dishes are hand crafted to satisfy, while in keeping with the spirit of the fresh ingredients.
A character northwest inn with everything you need to enjoy a relaxing stay.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the SquamishVisitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Find your ride! Ranked by Mountain Bike Magazine as one of the top 25 wildest, most exotic places to ride in the world, Squamish is hardwired for adventure and one of the most talked-about destinations for outdoor lovers in North America. From famous free-ride trails to gnarly wilderness single-track and cruisy rainforest trails, you will not run out of single track in Squamish.
Chase a waterfall! Squamish is home of the third highest waterfall in BC. Just south of Squamish on the Sea to Sky Highway is Shannon Falls Provincial Park. A small park, adjacent to the Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, it is home of the third highest waterfall in British Columbia. Originating from the alpine massif below Sky Pilot Mountain and the Stadium Glacier, Shannon Creek tumbles some 335m down, over granite cliffs, to the valley below.
Explore New Heights! Stawamus Chief Provincial Park protects the 700 metre massive granite cliffs that stand at the southern entrance to Squamish on the scenic Sea to Sky Highway. Or take a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola where you’ll be treated to commanding views of the Howe Sound and its coastal mountains.
Day 2
This community coffee and bakehouse features naturally leavened brioche doughnuts and a rotating list of multiple coffee roasts that showcase changing regions, styles, and seasons.
Britannia Mine Museum offers visitors plenty of things to see and do – from guided underground tours to self-led exploration of the social history of Britannia Beach. The 10-acre site is itself an exhibit providing unique access to an important piece of Canadian history.
What began as The Locavore Food Truck, has grown into a full-service Bar & Grill. Grab your Locavore favourite to go for lunch, or enjoy them in the new dining space and bar. Located at The Squamish Town Hub, the menu features a popular assortment of burgers, sandwiches, soups and salads.
Squamish Town Hub, is a unique shopping & dining hub for the entire family celebrating local, healthy & active lifestyle. The space includes a real fruit ice cream shop, food truck, coffee and dining venues and boutique shops. Together, they form a bustling destination and community gathering place where you’ll find locally-made goods for your home and tastebuds.
A-FRAME Brewing offers a “lakeside-meets-the-mountains” cabin vibe in its cozy, family-friendly tasting room and expansive patio with fire pits.
The Squamish Mural Walk is a free, year-round self-guided tour of the 20+ murals in Downtown Squamish which includes new and existing murals. Experience the diverse local cultures, history, and heritage of Squamish dating back to 2000 at your own pace.
Backcountry Brewing is a community hub in Squamish. Along with a wide selection of beer enjoy delicious pizzas and snacks from the kitchen.
A small-batch craft distillery. With a world-class cocktail lounge and tasting room, owners Alex and Jonny envisioned a distillery that locals could call their own; a distillery that produces the finest spirits that will exhilarate your senses.
From boutique to budget, you're one step closer to finding your ideal adventure base in Squamish.
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Blazing Saddles Adventures. Discover the natural beauty and diverse ecosystem of Squamish on a high-end E-Bike. Any level of biking ability will enjoy our friendly Eco-Tour which guides you through the most scenic vistas of Squamish from river to ocean. Exclusively offering only high-end Canadian made Devinci E-Bike rentals.
Sea to Sky Air. Explore Beyond The Boundaries. Guided, unforgettable flights of British Columbia’s volcanic parks, deep fjords, glacial peaks, & Pacific west coast.
More EATS:
Free Bird Table & Oyster Bar: Warm food and welcoming service with a cast-iron soul.
The Salted Vine: Taste of the Pacific Northwest and an upscale dining experience in the heart of downtown Squamish.
Fergies Cafe: Located at Sunwolf Riverside Resort and offers fantastic locally-sourced brunch and lunch at a beautiful, lush riverside setting.
Day 3
Drive to Whistler, BC (approximately 40 minutes).
Brandywine Falls (the spectacular 70-metre waterfall) is best seen from the viewpoint which is an easy walk to get to and also presents some amazing views of Daisy Lake and the surrounding mountains. This park provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, mountain biking, and viewing of the waterfall. Note: The park is CLOSED during the winter season, and during the peak season parking is limited, so it is best to consider setting off early!
A family bakery established in Whistler with one simple mission: to bake delicious bread, savouries, cakes & treats that bring a smile to peoples' faces.
The Valley Trail connects all Whistler's neighbourhoods from Function Junction in the south to Emerald in the north, passing through the Village, Upper Village and Creekside as well as other residential areas on the way. Explore more than 46 km of trail by walking, running, cycling, skating or rollerblading. Open year-round with sections maintained in winter for walking, cross country skiing and fat biking.
The brewery features a solid line up of core beers and seasonals and the kitchen serves light snacks, nachos and pizza.
Learn to throw axes like a Canadian lumberjack with Forged. No experience necessary, come throw today! Serving canned local craft beer in the lounge.
Coast Mountain embraces community, the landscape and wildlife of the Sea-to-Sky region. You'll find a cozy tasting room and covered outdoor patio.
Celebrating mountain life with craft beer and local fare. The menu features house-smoked BBQ meats, and thoughtful vegetarian and vegan dishes paired alongside locally-crafted beer and BC boutique wines. A casual counter-order concept where families, friends, locals, and travellers come together.
A multimedia night walk in pursuit of hidden wonders. Ignite your senses with an immersive light show set in the forested surrounds of Cougar Mountain. An unforgettable evening adventure perfect for all ages, groups and families. Shows start every 30 minutes with start times varying throughout the season based on sunset hours.
Find a wide range of accommodation options in Whistler Village, from cozy condos to high-end resorts. Visit the link above for more information and rates.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Whistler Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
True to its bold and cultured character, Whistler’s offering of experiences lets you indulge all of the senses. From the cultural to the culinary, the educational to the entertaining, our boutique shops, museums, restaurants, galleries, events, and festivals deliver countless options for all in all seasons.
WINTER: Be it the waist-deep powder, the excitement of snowmobiling, or the quiet of snowshoeing in the forest, Whistler is a winter wonderland.
SUMMER: Bungee jumping, alpine hiking, bike trails, and more! Whistler offers everything you’d want in summer.
More EATS: Naked Sprout. Locally owned and operated vegetarian and plant-based café & eatery. Offering a healthy and comforting menu including hearty salads, wraps, grilled sandwiches, seasonal soups & stews, raw desserts and many breakfast options. All items are made in house with an abundance of gluten-free options.
Day 4
Bright, Australian-inspired bakery & cafe specializing in meat pies, plus tarts & crumbles, Artisan Coffee, and breakfast pies.
Guinness World Record-breaking gondola. 360-degree view of alpine vistas, 50+km of hiking and walking trails and guided tours in summer or snowy sightseeing, and mountain-top meals in winter. Note: the gondola is CLOSED for maintenance between Thanksgiving and late November. It's best to check ahead of time at https://www.whistler.com/hours-of-operation/
The Brewhouse is located right next to Whistler Olympic Plaza in the heart of Whistler Village. Featuring fresh brewed craft beer, a full pub menu and open for lunch and dinner daily.
Established in 2016 and exemplifying the richness of cultural difference in Canada, the collection takes visitors on a transformative visual journey from the late 18th century to present. Experience the art of British Columbia, from the traditional works of the province’s First Peoples through to its contemporary masters.
Learn about the art, history and culture of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. Hourly guided tours, interactive exhibits and gift shop.
From the busy streets of Mexico City to the best Whistler restaurants. Embark on a culinary journey to the rich culture of Mexico with fresh, authentic flavours using quality ingredients. Unlike any other restaurants in Whistler village, you can expect a true fusion of modern mountain life with vibrant Mexican Folklore.
Whistler’s premier cocktail bar & eatery. Inspired by Mountain surroundings, their dishes showcase sustainably sourced ingredients from the Pacific Northwest. Through a combination of quality spirits and time-proven techniques they create thoughtfully delicious and innovative cocktails.
Find a wide range of accommodation options in Whistler Village, from cozy condos to high-end resorts. Visit the link above for more information and rates.
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The Scandinave Spa is a Nordic-inspired oasis on the edge of Lost Lake Park featuring hot and cold plunge pools, a wood-burning Finnish sauna, eucalyptus steam room and massage facilities. Take a walk or snowshoe in the forest and then rejuvenate in Whistler’s most unique health and wellness spa.
Around Whistler no matter which direction you take you’ll quickly find yourself in the forest, or by a lake – even if you only have an afternoon to spend. From Cheakamus Crossing you’ll find awesome hikes to both the Train Wreck – a set of abandoned rail cars turned art installation – and the beautiful Cheakamus Lake. When you finish you’re right across from Function Junction where you’ll find both of Whistler’s popular breweries.
Day 5
Drive to Pemberton, BC approximately 30 minutes.
A family-friendly lake and a popular summer spot for locals. Take the easy 1.6 km loop trail around the lake and enjoy the views of the surrounding area. If time allows venture further with a hike to Nairn Falls via the Sea to Sky Trail.
Kick off your day with a sustainably sourced specialty coffee and pair it with either their tasty breakfast burritos or fresh baked goods.
Grab a sandwich, burger, or pizza at this family restaurant located conveniently in downtown Pemberton.
The premier horseback riding tour company in British Columbia’s Sea to Sky corridor, offering hourly horseback trips in Pemberton valley, full and half-day rides in the Birkenhead backcountry, and multi-day trips into the wilderness areas of Tenquille Lake and Historic Li-lik-hel Gold Mine. We have rides and expeditions to fit every adventurer, from beginners and families to experienced outdoor adventurers. BOOKING NOTE: This is a SEASONAL activity and typically offers rides from APRIL-SEPTEMBER, closing for Winter, please check their site for more details.
Experience Pemberton’s countryside at this fourth-generation organic family farm and brewery located on a huge acreage surrounded by mountains.
Enjoy classic pub fare and unwind on one of their covered patios overlooking the scenic views.
A charming hotel surrounded by stunning coastal mountains, making it the perfect base for all of Pemberton’s four seasons of adventure.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Pemberton Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Blackcomb Helicopters offers year-round sightseeing tours of the Pemberton Valley and Ts’zil (Mt Currie). Join them for a 15-minute tour over the Pemberton Valley, or a 24-minute tour behind the impressive Ts’zil (Mt Currie).
FALL/SPRING: Pemberton invites you to explore a variety of fall recreation including hiking/walking trails, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails as well as fishing adventures, and more. Experience Pemberton adventures from new heights with Sea to Sky Paragliding, offering tandem flights. Explore the natural, untouched beauty of the Coast Mountains from the water with Whistler Jet Boating.
WINTER: Pemberton and the surrounding area offer up a winter wonderland with ample recreation opportunities for the outdoor sports enthusiast including backcountry and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and more. Winter at Broken Boundary Adventures offers a variety of ways to experience Pemberton, from back-country snowmobiling tours to ice fishing!
SUMMER: Pemberton offers easy access to a variety of world-class summer recreation including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails as well as wonderful camping opportunities, agri-tourism, scenic flights, water activities, and more. For golf lovers, Pemberton is known for its golf courses, offering two spectacular 18-hole courses at the base of Mount Currie. So come play a round at either Big Sky Golf Club or Sunstone Golf Club.
Day 6
Weekend brunch at Town Square Restaurant is a mix of creative bennys, classic breakfasts, and wholesome lunch options.
Adventure-seekers will enjoy mountain biking on Pemberton’s vast network of trails, built and maintained by the Pemberton Valley Trails Association.
This small craft brewery is located in the Pemberton Industrial Park with a comfortable tasting room and a great new 4-season patio where you can check out everything going on at the brewery, grab a pint or a flight, fill your growlers and pick up the packaged product. Its location is ideal for cyclists enjoying any of the many nearby trails.
Offers a great selection of local craft beer plus natural beef burgers, a mac 'n’ cheese line-up, slow roasted brisket and pork belly sandwiches, and the Local's favourite, Chicken Parm.
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On Friday afternoons at the Downtown Community Barn from May to October, check out the Pemberton Farmers’ Market and discover all the goodies from local growers and makers. From June to October, explore a selection of Pemberton’s farms and farm stands through the self-guided tour. Enjoy a family farm experience at North Arm Farm, open year-round with seasonal activities and produce.
North Arm Farm is Pemberton’s family farm, open year-round! Serving soups, sandwiches, salads, and coffee daily. A seasonal U-Pick and farm animals.
For foodies, check out authentic, traditional Japanese cuisine at Fish & Rice, a sushi bar located in Pemberton Village.
The Pemberton Museum has over 2,000 artifacts, 2,000 photographs, and over 20 meters of archival and reference materials to explore that have been collected since 1982. You can also enjoy their self-guided walking tour, which takes you through downtown Pemberton, available through their website.
Be sure to continue your journey and visit Lillooet Brewing in the picturesque village of Lillooet.
Day 7
Everything at Blackbird Bakery is baked in house and created with the seasons, sourced locally with organic and natural foods. From mouth-watering fresh croissants, cookies, cinnamon buns or a selection of daily pastries ranging from pain au chocolat to a gluten free banana bread all cravings can be satisfied. Their coffee is roasted in the Pemberton Valley and their tea comes from Squamish.
Travel towards Lillooet along Highway 99, approximately 1.5 hours
The Seton Lake recreational area is part of BC Hydro's Bridge River hydroelectric complex. It includes one campground and three day-use/picnic areas that offer a range of activities, including boating, canoeing, hiking and fishing, plus a viewpoint overlooking Seton Lake Reservoir.
You can discover pieces of Lillooet's history through panels and plaques on the Golden Mile of History self guided tour. Step into Lillooet’s fascinating past with the virtual map or pick up a copy at the Lillooet Museum & Visitor Centre. Begin at the Bridge of the 23 Camels, continue along Main Street, and complete your walk at the Old Bridge of Lillooet.
Motivated by the belief that good bread has the potential to bring people together, it is the mission at Abundance to create products that can nourish both the individual and the collective whole. To do this authentically, they stuck to ingredients and flavours that are simple, local and fresh. From lunch specials to house-made donuts, it's the perfect stop to refuel before an afternoon of exploring.
Abundance also offers pizza nights on Fridays - serving up a variety of 14" sourdough pizzas.
The Lillooet Community Connect Innovation HUB seeks to facilitate collaboration and lifelong learning, and provides support to the non-profit sector, artists, farmers, small business operators, and ChangeMakers. Featuring workshops, monthly art shows, events, and of course a shop featuring the works of local artisans and makers.
This popular route takes hikers to the famous Red Rock outcropping 500 metres above town, offering an astounding panorama of the Fraser River valley. Also known as the Lillooet Grind, this a 3.4km trail rated moderate to difficult with a 500m elevation gain.
Stop by this beautiful space in a spectacular locale to sample the beers in the bright, airy taproom or on the dog-friendly patio with panoramic views that seem to go on forever.
Choose from the restaurant located just off the lobby, or the pub with its expansive patio views. Both serve quality home cooked meals and baking, with a pub menu available there after 7pm.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Lillooet Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
Looking to sample more local flavours? Explore BC’s newest wine region with a tasting at Fort Berens Estate Winery. This 38-acre vineyard has won multiple awards for its handcrafted wines reflecting the unique Lillooet terroir.
Continue your ale-venture:
Travel further along HWYs 99 + 97 into the Cariboo region with a stop at Cask and Cleaver Brewing in 100 Mile House. This craft brewery serves up quality brews and delicious bites. The tasting room brings a rustic Cariboo vibe with a hint of an old-world feel and a splash of Norse flair.
Road Trip Journals
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This authentic West Coast mountain town has people talking. It’s not just the spectacular setting that’s captured the world’s attention, its also the ease of access to the great outdoors for everything from wind and water sports to hiking and biking.
Unquestionably, the geography here will amaze you. The Pacific Ocean narrows into Howe Sound, where the spectacular Coastal Mountains surround the Stawamus Chief, a granite monolith unlike any other. From the ocean to the snowy mountain peaks; from the rocky cliffs and waterfalls to the forests, lakes, rivers and estuary, Squamish is truly extraordinary. The area’s unique mix of mountains and water has created a world-class playground for adventurers of all levels.
Less than an hour from either Vancouver or Whistler, Squamish is a unique fusion of rugged landscapes, stunning vistas and West Coast culture. Discover what the buzz is about. Start planning your Squamish adventure today!
Located in the rugged Coast Mountains just two hours north of Vancouver, Whistler is Canada’s favourite year-round destination. Surrounded by mountains, lakes and rainforest, the resort offers epic skiing and snowboarding, four championship golf courses, exceptional mountain biking and hiking plus a vibrant base village with shopping, dining and a rich arts and culture scene. Three breweries call Whistler home, offering beers to quench thirst arising from adventures of all sizes. With pubs where craft beer flows freely and a host of events celebrating food and drink, Whistler is a place where life is lived to the fullest and you don’t just après-ski – you après-everything.
Located just north of Whistler and a short 2.5 hour drive from Vancouver, Pemberton & District is your gateway to adventure. Pemberton is a year-round outdoor recreation destination. Sports enthusiasts head to the town from late spring to early fall to indulge in everything from hiking, biking, camping, golfing and horseback riding to rafting, jet boating, swimming and fishing. From late fall to early spring, the area is a hot spot for backcountry skiing and riding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Known for its hot, dry summers and mild autumn weather, Lillooet is the perfect summer destination. There is an abundance of sunshine in the semi-desert climate and no shortage of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, biking, and boating.