Stawamus Chief

The Stawamus Chief is the landmark that dominates Squamish. The park protects 700 metre granite cliffs, and the Chief is described by BC Parks as one of the largest granite monoliths in the world. Hikers climb steep trails to three summits: First Peak is 1.5 km with 540 metres of elevation gain, Second Peak is 1.7 km with 590 metres, and Third Peak is 1.8 km with 630 metres, and the trail is steep and difficult, so hikers need good fitness, proper footwear and enough food and water. There are stairs, chains and rock sections that reward patience, and the views from the top look across Howe Sound, the town and the Tantalus Range. The park also offers rock climbing of international significance, with bouldering at the base. Climbing closures generally run from March 15 to July 31 to protect nesting peregrine falcons, and visitors can watch the birds from the highway pull-out day-use area with binoculars. In winter, trail and stair treads can be slippery, falling ice is a hazard and rockfall can happen at any time, so go in November and December only with experience and the right gear, and consider the easier Shannon Falls walk if conditions are poor. The park has a day-use parking area near the campground and frontcountry camping sites, and parking rules are enforced. It is free to enter, but you need to be self-sufficient.

Choosing your summit. The three peaks share a trail network, and First Peak is the shortest and the most popular. A strong hiker can combine peaks for longer days, while a first-time visitor should be content with First or Second. The climb is a workout, not a stroll, and the time it takes depends on fitness and crowds on the stairs and chains, so start early, especially in summer.

Climbing and wildlife. Squamish is one of North America best-known climbing destinations, and the Chief is the centrepiece. Beginners can book a guide, noting that commercial guiding requires a park-use permit, while experienced climbers should check the Squamish Access Society for current closures. Peregrine falcons nest on the cliffs in spring and summer, and respecting closures protects them. Listen for the birds and keep your distance.

Practical tips. Bring more water than you think you need, wear boots or sturdy trail shoes, carry layers and a headlamp if you start late, and check the weather because wet rock is dangerous. Dogs must be leashed in most of the park, except on the Chief Peaks Trail according to BC Parks. Parking fills on summer weekends, and illegally parked vehicles are towed. If you are not a hiker, you can see the Chief from the highway, the Sea to Sky Gondola and the pull-out near Shannon Falls, and still get the scale.