Stawamus Chief First Peak via Sea to Summit Trail

Stawamus Chief First Peak via Sea to Summit Trail in Squamish is short on distance but huge on effort. This 3.7 km out-and-back with about 557 m of gain is a full-on leg workout, packed into roughly a couple of hours. If you’re training for bigger objectives around Squamish or just want a steep, intense climb with a huge payoff, this route delivers.

The hike kicks off with endless stairs that hit you right away and don’t really let up, then blends into rocky, rooty sections, chains, ladders, and some scrambling near the top. It feels longer than it looks on paper because of the constant elevation, but the views over Howe Sound, downtown Squamish, and the surrounding peaks from First Peak are the kind that make people forget how much their legs hurt. Expect company: this is a popular grind, especially on weekends and in the afternoon.

Recent hikers report very steep, slippery sections after rain, especially on rock slabs near the top and if you wander toward Second Peak, so solid footwear and careful footwork are key. Pack more water and electrolytes than you think you’ll need, stretch before and after, and don’t underestimate the downclimb on tired legs. Stawamus Chief First Peak via Sea to Summit Trail is rated extreme for good reason and is not a beginner-friendly outing, but in dry conditions from spring through fall, fit hikers who don’t mind endless stairs and exposure will find it a tough but very rewarding climb.