Sea To Sky Gondola: The Only Way is Up
19 October, 2013
It seems everyone that spends a little time in the area has a photo from the top of the Stawamus Chief. And rightly so; the view from the top is unparalleled, with Howe Sound glistening below the mighty peaks beyond. But, unless you have a very good friend willing to carry you, the only way up has been a hike lasting anywhere from one to 4 hours, depending on how far you want to go, with some pretty difficult terrain.
Now (or rather, this May), the Sea to Sky Gondola is set to show everyone else what they’ve been missing out on. Not only is the area “up there” for sightseeing, but some pretty amazing hiking and biking trails have been completed, with more to follow. Construction-wise, everything is right on schedule: the suspension bridge is complete, the gondola towers will be installed over the next couple of weeks, and the gondola cabins arrived from Switzerland. Jayson Faulkner, general manager of the project, has more.
Where did the inspiration to start this project come from?
It came from many sources, but mostly a combination of the idea of a tourism amenity that would truly showcase all that the Sea to Sky is, and not what the perception of Squamish is. As well, it will provide access to a much more significant outdoor amenity than what currently exists.
So why should I take the gondola instead of hiking the Chief?
For one, it is 1000 ft higher! Secondly, it takes you to a place that offers way more opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, walking, biking and the like ,vs. a destination in itself. Lastly, when you get to the top, whether by hiking up or riding up, you can have a bit of your favourite refreshment!
Will the new hiking trails link in with the pre-existing ones? What level of difficulty are you anticipating?
Yes, all levels – 8 up to 80 for the hardcore enthusiast/backcountry adventurer.
Finally, if/when this is a success, and money was no object, what would YOU like to see happen next (for example, expansion or a new project in the area)?
Ultimately, a very unique non-motorised recreational area that is comprised of a variety of mountain experiences – all in as much of a natural setting as possible.