Sea to Sky Summit Trail (Upper Shannon Falls Trail)

The Sea to Sky Summit Trail (Upper Shannon Falls Trail) in Squamish is a proper grind with a big payoff. You’re looking at 17.7 km out-and-back, about 1,000 m of gain, and a solid half-day of work, even if AllTrails optimistically says 3 hours 44 minutes. This is one of those Squamish classics people come back to, partly for the workout, partly because the combo of Howe Sound, Shannon Falls, and the gondola at the top is hard to beat.

The route starts from the Stawamus Chief / Shannon Falls area and hits you early with long wooden stairs and rocky steps through the forest. From there it turns into varied, rough terrain: steep scrambles, roots, boulders, and a few rope and chain sections, especially around the upper slabs and near Upper Shannon Falls. Views open up over Howe Sound and the edge of Squamish, plus a great look at Upper Shannon Falls, before the trail eases off onto an old forest service road for the final, more relaxed walk to the Sea to Sky Gondola summit area.

Right now, hikers report a well-defined but strenuous trail, with some muddy or icy patches in cooler months and a few spots that feel like they should have more fixed protection. The junction with The Chief can be confusing, so watch signage or your GPS to avoid ending up on “The Climb” by mistake. AllTrails driving directions are off; use the Sea to Sky Gondola address in Google Maps, arrive early as parking fills by around 8:30 am, carry at least 2 litres of water, and consider taking the gondola down, especially if it’s wet, snowy, or you’re hiking with dogs or tired knees.