Quick answer
The Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) runs about 120 km from Vancouver to Whistler, roughly 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours without stops. Top stops: Porteau Cove, the Sea to Sky Gondola, Shannon Falls (335 m), the Stawamus Chief and Brandywine Falls (70 m). In summer, popular trailheads in Garibaldi Park and Joffre Lakes need a free BC Parks day-use pass.
Stops from south to north
| Stop | Why stop |
|---|---|
| Porteau Cove Provincial Park | Waterfront views of Howe Sound, about 38 km north of Vancouver |
| Sea to Sky Gondola (Squamish) | 10–15 minute ride to a summit lodge at 885 m (Sea to Sky Gondola) |
| Shannon Falls Provincial Park | A 335 m waterfall a short walk from the parking lot (BC Parks) |
| Stawamus Chief Provincial Park | Granite cliffs about 700 m high; steep hiking trails |
| Brandywine Falls Provincial Park | A 70 m waterfall with a short trail to the viewpoint |
BC Parks day-use passes (2026 season)
Free day-use passes are required at some busy trailheads in season. They are released two days in advance at 7 am on the BC Parks reservation site. The 2026 seasons were:
- Garibaldi (Diamond Head and Rubble Creek): Friday to Monday, June 12 to October 12.
- Garibaldi (Cheakamus Lake): daily June 13 to September 7, then Friday to Monday to October 12.
- Joffre Lakes: May 11 to October 25.
Dates change each year, so check before you go.
Winter driving
BC requires winter tires or chains on many highways from October 1, with requirements ending March 31 on some routes and April 30 on others (BC government). Check the signs and DriveBC for Highway 99 before you travel.
No car? Take the bus
- Epic Rides: about 1 hour 45 minutes; listed at $33.50 one way or $44 return.
- YVR Skylynx: airport and downtown service to Whistler; check current fares.
Fares checked November 2026.
Sample day
- Morning: leave Vancouver early, stop at Porteau Cove.
- Late morning: Sea to Sky Gondola and Shannon Falls in Squamish.
- Afternoon: Brandywine Falls, then arrive in Whistler.
Next: our Whistler travel guide.
Travel rules, prices and product details change. Check official government, airline and manufacturer sources before you book or buy.
