The Panorama Trail

The Panorama Trail in Squamish is one of those rare “almost no effort, huge reward” walks. This 1.9 km loop starts at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola, so you get lifted straight into big mountain views without a grind. With only about 45 m of elevation gain and an average time of 30 minutes, it’s very easy and works well for most ages and fitness levels.

Once you step off the gondola, the Panorama Trail loops through coastal forest with frequent peeks out toward Howe Sound and the Stawamus Chief. The path is wide enough in most spots, with a few narrower sections when you’re passing other people. Several viewpoints and bridges give you classic Squamish scenery, and sunset or golden hour here can be especially good if the skies are clear.

Recent hikers report a well-maintained, clearly signed trail that’s dry and bug-free in warmer months, but expect crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. In winter and shoulder season, snow and ice are common; the loop stays easy, but it can get slippery, so bring boots with good grip or microspikes, and know that a few side viewpoints may be closed off. The Panorama Trail is open year-round, family friendly, and more of a scenic walk than a backcountry hike, so plan on taking your time for photos and factor in the required gondola ride to reach the trailhead.