Whistler Sea to Sky Gondola and Shannon Falls Day Trip Vancouver

DailyGroup

Overview

This full-day shared tour takes you north from Vancouver on the Sea to Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler. Hotel pickup and drop-off, a driver-guide speaking English, a Sea to Sky Gondola ticket, a walking tour through Whistler Village and free time in the village are included in the default option. The day lasts about ten hours and suits visitors who want the mountain scenery, waterfalls and alpine village atmosphere without driving themselves.

Highlights

The scenic Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler
Shannon Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in British Columbia
Sea to Sky Gondola ticket included, with views over Howe Sound
Walking tour and free time in Whistler Village
Hotel pickup and drop-off from one of 16 pickup points in central Vancouver
English-speaking driver-guide
About ten hours, starting around 8:50

Full Description

The Sea to Sky Highway

The Sea to Sky Highway, Highway 99, runs about 120 kilometres from Vancouver to Whistler along the edge of Howe Sound, one of the most scenic drives in Canada. It climbs above the water with views of fjord, islands and steep Coast Mountain slopes, and your guide stops at viewpoints and explains the geology and history.

The road was upgraded before the 2010 Winter Olympics, which were shared by Vancouver and Whistler. Travellers who search for the best Whistler day trip from Vancouver often choose a guided tour because the road is long and parking in Whistler in busy periods can be difficult.

Shannon Falls

Shannon Falls Provincial Park lies just south of Squamish and is the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia, dropping more than 300 metres in a series of cascades through forest. A short, easy trail leads from the car park to a viewing platform close to the base.

The falls are at their strongest in spring and early summer, when snowmelt swells the stream, and in autumn rain. Your stop here is short but rewarding, and it is a good place to stretch before continuing north. Below the falls, the stream runs into a pool that is cool even in summer.

The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish

The Sea to Sky Gondola climbs from the highway to about 885 metres above Howe Sound in around ten minutes. At the top you find viewing platforms, a suspension bridge and walking trails, with the Stawamus Chief granite dome rising above Squamish on the other side of the valley.

Your ticket for the gondola is included in this tour, so there is nothing extra to buy at the base. Time at the top is limited to fit the schedule, but it is enough for the main viewpoints. Weather can change the view, and your guide will advise on timing.

Whistler Village

Whistler Village is a pedestrian-only alpine resort centre at the foot of two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb. It hosted alpine events during the 2010 Winter Olympics, and Olympic Plaza is a popular photo stop. The walking tour explains the village layout and its history, and you then have free time to explore, shop and eat.

In summer visitors come for hiking and mountain biking, and in winter for skiing and snowboarding, though the tour does not include lift tickets or equipment. Free time is on your own, so plan lunch in the village. Meals are not included.

Itinerary

Hotel pickupPickup at your chosen point in central Vancouver around 8:50 (16 pickup points).
Sea to Sky HighwayScenic drive along Howe Sound with photo stops.
Shannon FallsA short stop to walk to the waterfall viewing platform.
Sea to Sky GondolaRide to the summit with your included ticket and enjoy the platforms and suspension bridge.
Whistler Village walking tourA guided walk introducing the village, Olympic Plaza and the history of the resort.
Free time in WhistlerExplore, shop and have lunch at your own pace.
Drive back and drop-offReturn to Vancouver and your hotel area after about ten hours in total.

What's included

Driver-guide (English)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Sea to Sky Gondola ticket
Free time in Whistler
Walking tour through Whistler Village

Not included

Meals
Tips

Not suitable for

Travellers who cannot manage a long day in a vehicle
Guests who need a fully private or flexible itinerary

Meeting point

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included from one of 16 pickup points in central Vancouver. Choose your point when booking. The tour departs around 8:50, and the exact pickup time is confirmed after booking.

Important information

Meals are not included; use the free time in Whistler for lunch
The Sea to Sky Gondola ticket is included in the default option
Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers, as weather changes with altitude
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a camera; carry some spending money for lunch and souvenirs
Ski, snowboard and other activity tickets in Whistler are not included
Tips are not included, and the schedule can change with traffic and weather

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions

Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.

How much does the Whistler day trip from Vancouver cost?

The price depends on the option and the age of the traveller. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for each option, adult and child.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off are included from one of 16 pickup points in central Vancouver.

How long is the tour?

About ten hours, starting around 8:50.

Is the Sea to Sky Gondola ticket included?

Yes, the gondola ticket is included in the default option.

How much free time is there in Whistler?

There is a guided walking tour through the village followed by free time to explore and have lunch, planned to fit the day.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes. Age categories are shown in the booking panel. The day is long, so bring snacks and entertainment for young children.

What should I wear and bring?

Comfortable shoes, layers, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera and some spending money for lunch.