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Climb the Stawamus Chief for sweeping views of Howe Sound, then toast the effort at a local Squamish brewery. This half-day tour includes transport from Vancouver and a post-hike tasting.
Climb the Stawamus Chief for sweeping views of Howe Sound, then toast the effort at a local Squamish brewery. This half-day tour includes transport from Vancouver and a post-hike tasting.
A granite wall rises out of the fjord like a challenge thrown down by the sea; you step off the van in Squamish, lace your boots, and the Chief pulls you upward. The route to the popular first summit snakes through cedar and fir, trades forested switchbacks for exposed stairs and short scrambles, and opens to a raw panorama of Howe Sound and the coastal ranges.
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Operated by 7 Adventures Tours · Squamish, British Columbia
A granite wall rises out of the fjord like a challenge thrown down by the sea; you step off the van in Squamish, lace your boots, and the Chief pulls you upward. The route to the popular first summit snakes through cedar and fir, trades forested switchbacks for exposed stairs and short scrambles, and opens to a raw panorama of Howe Sound and the coastal ranges.
The Chief is a piece of the Coast Plutonic Complex — hard granodiorite shaped by glaciers and sea — and its cliffs have long been part of Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation territory. The modern hike follows old access lines and carved steps, and nearby Squamish has evolved from logging and mining roots into an outdoors hub with craft breweries and climbing culture.
Expect about 3.5–4 km round-trip to the First Peak with roughly 300–400 m of elevation gain; the trail is steep in sections with rock steps and brief exposed scrambles, often reached in 60–90 minutes by fit hikers. The tour bundles roundtrip transport from Vancouver and a post-hike visit to a local brewery — a practical reward for sore legs and a chance to sample regional ales.
Timing makes the difference: start mid-morning to avoid peak heat and crowds, bring a breathable rain shell for sudden coastal showers, and carry at least 1–2 L of water. Footwear with good traction and a light daypack will keep you comfortable on the slick granite and stair sections. Keep to established trails, give wildlife space, and save the brewery celebration for after you’ve checked your footing on the descent.
Plan on 60–90 minutes to reach the First Peak from the trailhead—roughly 3.5–4 km round-trip with 300–400 m elevation gain.
The route is challenging with steep sections; beginners who are active and comfortable on stairs and short scrambles can do it, but high fitness is recommended.
This tour typically includes roundtrip transportation from Vancouver, guided arrival information, and a visit to a local brewery after the hike.
Not recommended—trail has steep stairs and some scrambling; travelers with spinal, cardiovascular, or pregnancy restrictions should avoid this activity.
7 Adventures Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A granite wall rises out of the fjord like a challenge thrown down by the sea; you step off the van in Squamish, lace your boots, and the Chief pulls you upward. The route to the popular first summit snakes through cedar and fir, trades forested switchbacks for exposed stairs and short scrambles, and opens to a raw panorama of Howe Sound and the coastal ranges.
A granite wall rises out of the fjord like a challenge thrown down by the sea; you step off the van in Squamish, lace your boots, and the Chief pulls you upward. The route to the popular first summit snakes through cedar and fir, trades forested switchbacks for exposed stairs and short scrambles, and opens to a raw panorama of Howe Sound and the coastal ranges.
The Chief is a piece of the Coast Plutonic Complex — hard granodiorite shaped by glaciers and sea — and its cliffs have long been part of Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation territory. The modern hike follows old access lines and carved steps, and nearby Squamish has evolved from logging and mining roots into an outdoors hub with craft breweries and climbing culture.
Expect about 3.5–4 km round-trip to the First Peak with roughly 300–400 m of elevation gain; the trail is steep in sections with rock steps and brief exposed scrambles, often reached in 60–90 minutes by fit hikers. The tour bundles roundtrip transport from Vancouver and a post-hike visit to a local brewery — a practical reward for sore legs and a chance to sample regional ales.
Timing makes the difference: start mid-morning to avoid peak heat and crowds, bring a breathable rain shell for sudden coastal showers, and carry at least 1–2 L of water. Footwear with good traction and a light daypack will keep you comfortable on the slick granite and stair sections. Keep to established trails, give wildlife space, and save the brewery celebration for after you’ve checked your footing on the descent.