Skyline Ridge

Skyline Ridge in Squamish, BC is one of those big, committing days that doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it deserves. At 20.1 km with about 1,609 m of climbing and a high point around 1,551 m, this out-and-back route is rated very difficult for good reason. Expect a full-on effort that will take most strong hikers around nine hours and feel longer on the way down.

The first 5–6 km out of Squamish follow an old overgrown logging road: shaded, gradual, and honestly a bit dull, but it’s an efficient warmup. Once Skyline Ridge leaves the road and heads into old-growth forest, things turn steep fast and stay that way as you grind up toward the alpine. Break out above the trees and you’re rewarded with big views toward Mount Habrich, Sky Pilot, Copilot, and the valley below, with melt ponds and rock slabs at the far end if you push to the true turnaround.

Recent hikers call Skyline Ridge “super tough” but rave about how underrated the views are, so go in ready to suffer a bit and you’ll be happy you did. The trail can also be accessed from the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola to shave off some distance and elevation, though you’ll need to plan around gondola hours. Aim for a long summer or early fall day, start early, bring plenty of water and food, and be prepared for changing weather and lingering snow patches higher up, especially in shoulder season.