Plan Stawamus Chief Park in Squamish with steep summit hikes, granite climbing, camping, peregrine falcon closures, parking rules, and Howe Sound views.
Stawamus Chief Park protects the 700-metre granite cliffs at the south entrance to Squamish on the Sea to Sky Highway. BC Parks describes the Chief as one of the world’s largest granite monoliths, with internationally significant rock climbing, steep hiking to three summits, camping, and broad Howe Sound views.
The park sits immediately beside Shannon Falls Park.
Why Visit Stawamus Chief Park
The Chief is one of British Columbia’s signature hiking and climbing landscapes. Summit trails begin near the day-use parking and campground, follow Oleson Creek, and then divide toward First Peak, Second Peak, and Third Peak. BC Parks lists distances of 1.5, 1.7, and 1.8 kilometres respectively, with elevation gains from 540 to 630 metres.
Climbers come for world-class granite and bouldering at the base of the Chief. The cliffs also provide peregrine falcon nesting habitat, so route closures may be posted during the critical nesting season.
Things To Do
Hike to the three summits, connect to Shannon Falls by trail, camp on designated sites, climb where routes are open, boulder, watch peregrine falcons from a distance, and join seasonal Discover Parks programming when offered.
Planning Notes
The Chief Trail is steep and difficult, requiring fitness, sturdy footwear, food, water, and weather-ready clothing. Rockfall can occur at any time, and winter trail or stair treads may be slippery. Park only in designated lots; illegally parked vehicles may be towed. Camping is allowed only on designated sites, with generator hours limited by BC Parks rules. Commercial climbing requires a valid park-use permit.