Stawamus Chief Hike in Squamish: Local Guide, Small Group

Climb to the summit on your own terms, with a guide who knows every switchback.

Stawamus Chief Hike is a guided ascent of Squamish's most popular steep trail, led by a certified local guide in small groups that adjust to your fitness level. You climb through coastal rainforest, pause at a waterfall and vistas, then ascend glacier-scoured slabs to a summit overlooking Howe Sound, nearby islands, and the Coast Range mountains. The hike lasts between 1.5 and 4.5 hours depending on your pace.

The experience

The trail earns its local nickname, the stair master, right away. You start with a gentle walk under towering trees, then the real work begins: a steep staircase that climbs beside a stunning waterfall. Your guide pauses at the waterfall and viewpoints along the way, sharing the history of the area and pointing out local plants and animals. The guide adapts the pace to your fitness level, whether you're a first-time hiker or an experienced trail runner, so you're not racing anyone but yourself.

The final push takes you up impressive glacier-scoured slabs with views opening wider at every step. At the summit, you're surrounded by panoramic vistas of Howe Sound, nearby islands, waterfalls, volcanoes, and the mountains of the Coast Range. This is where most people stop to eat, rest, and take photos. The views are the reward for the climb. Your guide is a long-time local with a deep connection to this trail and the landscape, so there's real knowledge behind the experience, not just a route.

The hike duration depends on your fitness and how often you stop: anywhere from 1.5 to 4.5 hours. Small group sizes mean you get personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, not a crowded march up the mountain. A certified guide from the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides leads every trip.

What’s included

A professional certified guide from the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides who leads the hike and shares knowledge of local history, plants, and animals.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 13:30

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (16 and older) · Youth (8 to 15 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated 12 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomeNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Rise Mountain Adventures

Is this one for you?The small group and pace-adaptive format work best if you want a real challenge without feeling rushed or left behind. Bring your own food, water, and hiking shoes. The guide handles the route and the expertise.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (8 to 15 years). Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the waterfall like on Stawamus Chief?

The waterfall is a stunning feature along the steep staircase section early in the hike. Your guide stops there so you can rest, take photos, and learn about the area's water systems and local ecology.

How steep is this trail, and will I be able to keep up?

Stawamus Chief is steep and challenging, locals call it the stair master, but your guide adjusts the pace to match your fitness level. The hike lasts between 1.5 and 4.5 hours depending on how fast you move and how long you spend at viewpoints.

What do I see from the summit?

The summit offers panoramic views of Howe Sound, nearby islands, waterfalls, volcanoes, and the Coast Range mountains. It's the payoff for the climb and a popular spot for photos and a rest.

Do I need hiking experience to do this trail?

No. The guide welcomes both first-time hikers and experienced trail runners and adjusts the experience to your level. You'll need at least a moderate level of physical fitness because of the elevation gain and steep sections.