One of the highlights of our time in the Pacific Northwest was the day we spent on the Sea to Sky Highway. During my research, I read over and over that it is one of the most beautiful drives in all of North America. Perfect for Living Superlatively! After two days galavanting around Vancouver, we broke up our time in the city with a day trip to Whistler, BC on Highway 99.
Most of our transportation on this trip consisted of the ferry system, but we did rent a car for this one day. It was a simple process — we had reserved ahead of time through Avis, and Scott picked up the car that morning at their downtown office which was directly behind the beautiful Fairmont Hotel. After getting breakfast and snacks at Urban Fare (a fantastic gourmet grocery store near our hotel in Yaletown), we were on the road by 9:00 am, which was a feat in itself with two teenagers!
Sites Along the Way
It is quickly evident why this highway is called Sea to Sky. Leaving Vancouver at sea level, the road hugs the coastline and winds west and then turns north while overlooking Howe Sound, North America’s southernmost fjord region. I spent time in Norway last summer, and I was quickly reminded of the day my mom and I spent in the fjords there. This drive was every bit as stunning with towering peaks rising straight from the turquoise sea.
One of the reasons I decided to blog about my travels is that I learn so much from other bloggers when I plan my trips. My hope is that eventually, I will be able to provide some insight or inspiration to other travelers! For instance, I came across Greta’s Travels when looking for cool stops along the Highway, and one of her favorites is Porteau Cove Provincial Park, which is about 45 minutes up the road from Vancouver. The stunning views of Howe Sound are undeniably beautiful, and we spent quite a bit of time there. Days like the one we spent on the Sea to Sky Highway are always my favorite — no set itinerary and time for the kids to wander, play, and connect with nature (and disconnect from electronics!)
There are picnic tables, bathroom facilities, and campsites at the park. There were several people kayaking and paddleboarding, and there are even sunken ships for scuba diving. We enjoyed exploring the driftwood beach and seeing the wildlife in and around the beautiful tidal waters.
The Third-Largest Falls in BC
Our next stop was Shannon Falls. Crashing over a 1,100-foot cliff and tumbling down several rock faces, it is the third-largest waterfall in British Columbia. There are several hiking trails, but you can easily access the main viewing area from the parking area. The walk takes you through old-growth forest and along meandering streams.
The centuries-old red cedar, hemlock, and Douglas fir trees are enormous. There is also evidence from prior logging done in the area, as you can see on this stump. The notches in the tree were for springboards that loggers attached to provide small platforms while cutting the tree.
My advice is to visit as early in the day as possible because this is a popular spot, and there can be crowds. Facilities include picnic tables, an information center, and a really nice restroom — or washroom, as we learned the Canadians call them. The Outdoor Project provides a great field guide with lots more information on the trails, facilities, and history of the area (and scores of other outdoor adventures).
Although there are many more stops along the way (Alice Lake Provincial Park, Sea to Sky Gondola and Britannia Beach to name just a few), we were ready to get to Whistler and begin our adventure in the sky! More on that later….
