Sea-to-Sky Highway Road Trip: Explore the Trans Canada Trail
Get ready for an epic adventure along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99)!
This legendary route from Vancouver to Pemberton is packed with jaw-dropping views, cozy towns, and unforgettable outdoor stops. Running parallel to the highway, Trans Canada Trail section of the Sea to Sky Trail connects Squamish, Whistler and Pemberton. Whether you’re after a quick stretch or a full-on hiking adventure to break up your drive, there’s a perfect stop for you.
Soak in the coastal vibes, hike to breathtaking views and chase waterfalls — this Sea-to-Sky Highway road trip is all about adventure!
Your ultimate Sea to Sky road trip guide
Must-visit scenic trails and stops along the Sea-to-Sky Highway
BC, West Coast- Whytecliff Park Photo credit : Jennifer Mahon
1. Whytecliff Park – coastal beauty
Near: West Vancouver, BC
Why Stop? The perfect spot for a short break just outside of Vancouver, Whytecliff Park boats dramatic marine views, rugged shorelines and sometimes even the sight of seals basking on the rocks.
Trail Connection: Whyte Lake Trail, the Trans Canada Trail section of the park, offers a six-kilometre round trip through old growth trees from Whyte Creek to White Lake.
BC, Howe Sound – Salish Sea Marine Trail
2. Howe Sound – scenic vistas
Near: Lions Bay, BC
Why Stop? The Sea to Sky Marine Trail passes by the enchanting village of Lions Bay, with some of the best views of Howe Sound — arguably BC’s most picturesque fjord — in the area.
Trail Connection: Lion’s Bay overlooks the Sea to Sky Marine Trail, offering paddling, swimming and marine activities.
3. Porteau Cove – ocean and mountain views
Near: Porteau Cove, BC
Why Stop? A spectacular waterfront stop along Howe Sound, Porteau Cove Provincial Park offers stunning vistas where the ocean meets the mountains. A great spot for a short walk along the pier, watching for marine wildlife, or enjoying a picnic on the rocky beach.
Trail Connection: With Trail sections beginning and ending at Porteau Cove and a waterway passing right by, this coastal haven is a Trans Canada Trail hot spot!
BC, Squamish, Photo credit : Jennifer Mahon
4. Squamish – outdoor adventure hub
Near: Squamish, BC
Why Stop? The Sea to Sky Trail begins at the Squamish waterfront, providing access to an incredible array of outdoor activities all year long! From hiking and biking to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, the Sea to Sky Trail has something for everyone. Take a short detour off the Trans Canada Trail to the Sea to Sky Gondola trails – they are well worth the visit for unparalleled vistas and hiking opportunities.
Trail Connection: The Sea to Sky Trail runs through Squamish, providing year-round Trail access.
5. Shannon Falls – BC’s majestic waterfall
Near: Squamish, BC
Why Stop? A must-see stop along Highway 99, Shannon Falls is BC’s third-tallest waterfall and just a short walk from the parking area. Viewpoints along the trail offer incredible up-close views of the rushing cascade.
Trail Connection: Shannon Falls is near the meeting points of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail and the land-based Sea to Sky Trail.
6. Britannia Mine Museum – historic mining site
Near: Britannia Beach, BC
Why Stop? A great stop for history buffs, the Britannia Mine Museum offers an interactive look into BC’s rich mining past. Take an underground tour and learn about the fascinating history of the area.
Trail Connection: The museum sits a few kilometres from the start of the Sea to Sky Trail.
BC, Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, Photo credit : Jennifer Mahon
7. Brandywine Falls Provincial Park – short walk to stunning views
Near: Whistler, BC
Why Stop? A short walk leads to an epic waterfall viewpoint, where Brandywine Falls plunges 70 metres into a dramatic canyon. This quick stop offers one of the most photogenic sights along the highway.
Trail Connection: Smack dab in the middle of the Sea to Sky Trail, Brandywine Falls sits on one of the most popular sections of Trail in the area.
BC, Town of Whistler
8. Village of Whistler – mountain resort town
Near: Whistler, BC
Why Stop? The Sea to Sky Trail runs right through Whistler, connecting to various local trails. Explore the pedestrian-friendly village with access to numerous restaurants, outdoor activities, and scenic spots.
Trail Connection: A Sea to Sky Trail hub, Whistler Village offers a seemingly never-ending network of Trail connections.
9. Tantalus Lookout – iconic mountain viewpoint
Near: Squamish, BC
Why Stop? One of the best roadside viewpoints along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, Tantalus Lookout provides a breathtaking panorama of the Tantalus Range. Nearby, The Looking Glass Trail offers a short but rewarding hike for an even better vantage point.
Trail Connection: The Looking Glass Trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail!
10. Nairn Falls – unique rock formations and rapids
Near: Pemberton, BC
Why Stop? A 1.5-kilometre scenic walk leads to Nairn Falls, where powerful rapids cut through unique rock formations. It’s a fascinating natural wonder and a great place to stop before continuing north towards the Sea to Sky Trail terminus in Pemberton.
Trail Connection: Just 4 kilometres south of where the Sea to Sky Trail ends in Pemberton.
Make your Sea-to-Sky road trip one to remember
Next time you drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway, take time to explore these incredible Trans Canada Trail sections and road trip stops. Whether it’s a quick nature break or a scenic viewpoint, these stops will make your BC road trip even more unforgettable.
Have a favourite Sea to Sky Trail stop? Share it with us using #OnTheTrail #TransCanadaTrail!
