Squamish Tourism Reaches New Heights
25 April, 2014
The wait is finally over. BC's latest and most-anticipated tourist attraction Sea to Sky Gondola is set to launch its inaugural season on Friday May 16. The event kicks off with a media and VIP ribbon cutting ceremony at 10am followed by the official public opening and first public upload at 11am.
“After years of hard work and effort, we are excited to finally share our vision with the community of Squamish and the public that has been so supportive throughout this entire process,” said General Manager Trevor Dunn. “We are really looking forward to being able to have the world finally come and visit.”
The $22-million project, which has been under construction for over a year, provides year-round access to hiking trails, interpretive walks, panoramic views and a 9,000 square foot Summit Lodge where guests can enjoy self-serve dining and local Squamish fare.
In addition to a breathtaking 10-minute ride 885 metres above Howe Sound, visitors will be treated to local entertainment by Squamish musicians Juno Award-winner Cam Salay and Matt Blackman of The Squamtones, singer Jana Lahti and fiddler Jocelyn Pettit. Local artist Toby Jaxon will document the launch “en plein air”, a traditional style of live open-air painting that will allow her to recreate the colour and light of the venue’s spectacular 360 degree alpine views on its opening day.
"It will be a special day for all of us,” said Dunn. "The first of many we expect."
Tickets are $34.95 for Adults, $32.95 for Seniors, $22.95 for Youth aged 13-18 and $13.95 for Children aged 6-12. Summer passes also on sale for $99 adult and $249 family (two adults and two children). Tickets include a round-trip visit to the Summit along with access to the Summit Lodge, Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, viewing platforms and trail network.
The official opening day activities will run from 11am-9pm on Friday May 16 with live entertainment from 11am-2pm. Sea to Sky Gondola will resume regular hours of operation beginning Saturday May 17.