Stawamus Chief First Peak

Stawamus Chief First Peak in Squamish is short, steep, and absolutely no joke. This 3.7 km out-and-back packs in about 535 m of gain, so you’re basically on a giant staircase with rock features instead of handrails. It’s rated extreme for a reason, but the payoff from around 613 m up over Howe Sound and Squamish is one of the best views in the Sea to Sky.

The trail jumps straight into stairs beside a roaring waterfall, which helps distract from the burn in your legs for the first stretch. After that, it’s more stairs, roots, and rock steps, then the fun stuff: chains, a small ladder, and slabby rock you scramble up to reach the First Peak. Route-finding near the top is helped by red cairns, and once you pop out on the granite dome, you get wide-open views of the other Chief peaks, the town of Squamish, and mountains fading into the distance. Sunset up here is next-level if you’re comfortable hiking down in the dark.

Recent hikers report the Stawamus Chief First Peak trail as well maintained but a complete grind, with knees and calves taking the brunt of it. Expect it to be slippery when wet; proper hiking shoes with good grip are important, and poles help on the descent. Chains and ladders are solid, but not ideal for beginners afraid of exposure or anyone unsure on rock. It’s usually busiest on clear weekends; shoulder seasons and fall evenings are quieter but can be cold and windy on top, so bring layers and a headlamp if you’re chasing sunset. No fee or permit needed, but parking can fill fast, so the overflow lot across the highway is often your backup.