The Top 15 Tours & Things To Do In Squamish

Squamish stands out as BC’s outdoor playground, offering a perfect mix of rugged wilderness, mountain thrills, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush like white-water rafting or a scenic flight over glaciers and peaks, Squamish has an experience for every thrill-seeker and explorer.

We’ve sampled some of the best tours here, like the Wet and Wild Elaho Exhilarator Rafting, which combines wild rapids with wild scenery, or the Sea to Sky Gondola Ticket for a more relaxed but equally stunning perspective. Whatever your pace, Squamish’s range of activities is designed to keep your camera busy and your heart pounding.

Quick Overview

Squamish offers a variety of tours, from white-water rafting on the Elaho River (see more) and family-friendly river adventures (see more), to flightseeing over glaciers and mountains (see more) and Via Ferrata adventures that mix climbing with landscape viewing (see more). For a more relaxed experience, the Gondola ride (see more) offers spectacular views without breaking a sweat.

If you want an active day, try the electric eco-bike tour (see more) or a rock climbing session (see more). Now, let’s dive into each experience and see what makes them special.

1. Wet and Wild Elaho Exhilarator Rafting

At number 1, the Wet and Wild Elaho Exhilarator Rafting tour is the go-to for thrill-seekers craving wild rapids and stunning scenery. This half-day adventure takes you deep into the Squamish Valley, navigating class III-IV rapids on the Elaho River.

The tour includes all necessary equipment and offers departures from Whistler, Vancouver, or Squamish, making it convenient for travelers staying in various spots. Guides are experienced, safety-conscious, and keep the mood lively with jokes and local knowledge.

Reviewers consistently praise it as “the best tour they’ve ever taken,” emphasizing the fun and safety they felt throughout.

Expect to see native wildlife along the banks and enjoy the sense of achievement after conquering the twists and turns of BC’s roaring waters. Suitable for those looking for a full-day adrenaline rush or to challenge themselves in nature.

Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure lovers who want a half-day, high-energy experience with top-tier guides and spectacular scenery.

2. Britannia Mine Museum General Admission

Number 2 on our list is the Britannia Mine Museum, a fascinating trip into the past with interactive exhibits, films, and hands-on activities. This historic copper mine, operating since the early 20th century, offers a guided tour that includes a ride on a mine train deep into an authentic tunnel. Kids and adults alike love trying their hand at gold panning and keeping their findings.

The museum’s multi-sensory BOOM! experience and detailed displays make this a memorable visit, especially for those interested in science and history. It’s an excellent value at just over $31 per person, and reviews highlight how engaging and well-done the tour is.

It’s a great choice if you’re traveling with family or want an educational activity that’s packed with visual and tactile experiences.

Bottom Line: An affordable, educational outing that combines history, science, and fun—ideal for families and history buffs.

3. Elaho Whitewater Experience

In third place, the Elaho Whitewater Experience offers a full-day of BC’s most exciting rapids. Departing from Whistler or Vancouver, this tour includes all gear, snacks, and the chance to tackle class III-IV rapids in the unspoiled Squamish Valley.

Guides like Mariano earn rave reviews for their professionalism and fun attitude, with plenty of opportunities to laugh and shout through waterfalls and big waves. The scenery — lush rainforest, waterfalls, and towering glaciers — makes every rapid even more spectacular.

This tour appeals most to those who want a longer, more immersive adventure with the thrill of rapid navigation and wildlife viewing.

Given the reviews, it’s clear this is a highlight for many travelers—a full day packed with adrenaline, scenery, and camaraderie.

Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers who want a full-day, adrenaline-fueled whitewater adventure with excellent guides, this tour hits the mark.

4. Cheakamus Family Adventure

Number 4 is the Cheakamus Family Adventure, a great introduction to white-water rafting for families. This 4-hour trip is designed for all ages and includes all gear and safety instructions. You’ll paddle through natural landscapes rarely seen by visitors, bouncing through rapids while spotting local wildlife.

The tour is led by guides skilled at making everyone feel confident and safe, even if it’s your first time. The reviews highlight how fun and accessible it is, especially for families looking for a memorable outdoor activity.

It’s well suited for parents with kids, and the moderate pace ensures everyone can enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, you’ll get to see the lush scenery of BC’s wilderness up close.

Bottom Line: An engaging family-friendly rafting trip that balances excitement with safety and scenic views.

5. Family Friendly Cheakamus Splash Rafting

Ranking number 5, the Family Friendly Cheakamus Splash tour offers a 3.5-hour adventure suitable for parents and kids alike. Rafting through the Cheakamus River, you’ll encounter fun splashy rapids, waterfalls, and wildlife, making it a perfect first rafting experience. The tour includes all equipment, plus round-trip transfers from Squamish or Whistler, easing logistics.

The reviews emphasize how fun guides are and how the scenery adds to the experience, with many families saying it’s a trip they’ll never forget. It’s ideal for those looking for a shorter, active outing with plenty of laughs and splashes.

Bottom Line: Best for families wanting a fun, memorable, and manageable introduction to whitewater rafting.

6. Sea to Sky Gondola Ticket

Number 6 takes you above the forest with the Sea to Sky Gondola, offering sweeping views of Howe Sound, Shannon Falls, and the surrounding peaks. This 2-3 hour experience is perfect for those who prefer scenery over splashes.

The gondola transports you to a mountain-top platform with interpretive trails, viewing decks, and a cozy restaurant. Reviews highlight the stunning vistas and enjoyable walkways, making it a must-do for landscape lovers.

The small-group setting keeps the experience personal, and advance booking ensures you won’t wait in line. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic outing with plenty of photo ops.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for scenic views that require minimal effort but deliver maximum visual reward.

7. Squamish Explorer Flightseeing Tour

Number 7 offers the Squamish Explorer Flightseeing Tour, a 35-minute aerial adventure. Taking off from Squamish Airport, you’ll soar over glaciers, lakes, and peaks, including the famed Garibaldi Park.

Reviewers praise the informative pilots and breathtaking vistas of glaciers and volcanic formations. This tour is especially appealing to those who want a quick but unforgettable look at the area’s mountain majesty.

It’s suitable for couples or families with older kids, given the flight’s short duration but high impact. The experience combines comfort, stunning scenery, and a touch of excitement.

Bottom Line: Ideal for explorers seeking a short but spectacular aerial overview of BC’s rugged landscape.

8. Squamish Via Ferrata Adventure

Number 8 is the Squamish Via Ferrata, a vertical adventure using a metal rung and cable system. Starting at the Sea to Sky Gondola, this guided tour offers incredible views of Howe Sound and the surrounding peaks. It’s perfect for those comfortable with heights but not experienced climbers. The fully guided experience makes it accessible and safe, even for first-timers.

Reviewers mention Emil’s excellent guidance and how the route is more mentally challenging than physically taxing. It’s a great way to combine hiking, climbing, and sightseeing into one memorable outing.

Bottom Line: Suited for adventurous travelers ready for a vertical challenge with panoramic mountain views.

9. Squamish: Wet and Wild Elaho Exhilarator Rafting Experience

For those wanting a full-day white-water adventure, number 9’s Wet and Wild Elaho Exhilarator Rafting is unmatched. This tour extends to 5-8.5 hours, taking on class 3 and 4 rapids and traveling through iconic spots like the “Devil’s Elbow.” It includes optional pickup from Vancouver or Whistler, making logistics straightforward.

The reviews underline the excitement of the rapids, stunning waterfalls, and wildlife sightings. This is best suited for experienced thrill-seekers or those craving a longer, more immersive river adventure.

Bottom Line: If you want an all-day, adrenaline-pumping whitewater trip with top guides, this tour delivers.

10. Whistler Backcountry Flightseeing Tour

Number 10 offers an aerial tour over Whistler and Garibaldi Park. In about 50 minutes, you’ll see glaciers, volcanic formations, and the iconic Black Tusk. Reviewers mention the spectacular scenery and the knowledgeable pilot. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a romantic or introductory flight experience with minimal time investment but maximum visual rewards.

Bottom Line: A scenic flight ideal for first-timers wanting a short, breathtaking overview of BC’s rugged terrain.

11. Squamish Discovery Eco-tour

Number 11 invites you to explore Squamish’s natural beauty on electric bikes. This eco-tour covers estuaries, salmon spawning habitats, and mountains, with guides sharing expert insights. Reviewers praise the fun, informative ride and how it’s accessible even for those new to biking.

The tour is a fantastic way to see a diverse ecosystem without much exertion, suitable for casual explorers and nature lovers alike.

Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-conscious travelers wanting a gentle, educational ride through BC’s wilderness.

12. Family-Friendly Cheakamus Splash

Number 12 is the Family-Friendly Cheakamus Splash, a shorter, 3-hour tour great for families. It features splashy rapids, scenic views of old-growth forests, and wildlife. The consistent praise for guides and scenery makes it clear this is a fun, safe introduction to whitewater that’s manageable for kids and parents alike.

Bottom Line: Best for families seeking a fun, lively, and scenic water adventure.

13. Squamish: Via Ferrata Climbing Adventure

Number 13’s Via Ferrata Climbing Adventure takes you across metal rungs, bridges, and granite walls. It offers incredible views of Howe Sound and Sky Pilot Mountain, with options for gondola access. Guides ensure safety, making it suitable for climbers of most levels wanting a vertical hike with panoramic views. The route features bridges and a catwalk, adding to the thrill.

Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers ready for a moderate climb with stunning scenery, this is a memorable choice.

14. Private Squamish Rock Climbing

Number 14 features a private rock climbing session tailored to your abilities. With expert guides, you’ll explore Squamish’s top crags, climbing routes suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. Reviews commend guides like Eric for their skill and personalized approach.

The full-day format allows for multiple climbs and skill development, making it perfect for serious climbers or those wanting a guided intro.

Bottom Line: Ideal for climbers seeking a customized, in-depth outdoor experience with expert instruction.

15. Squamish Rock Climbing Taster

Finally, the Squamish Rock Climbing Taster is a half-day beginner session. It introduces the basics with a focus on safety and fun, suitable for those new to climbing. The guide Ivan receives praise for blending instruction with encouragement, and all gear is provided. This experience is great for anyone curious about outdoor climbing but hesitant to commit to a full course.

Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners wanting to try climbing in a supportive setting with professional guidance.

How to Choose Your Perfect Squamish Tour

When deciding between these adventures, consider your budget, fitness level, and what excites you most. White-water rafting like the Wet and Wild Elaho Exhilarator demands physical involvement but promises real thrills. For a more relaxed but equally stunning experience, the Gondola or flight tours like the Squamish Explorer suit travelers who want scenic views without strenuous activity.

If climbing calls your name, options like the Via Ferrata or private rock climbing cater to those looking for a vertical challenge. And families should consider the Cheakamus Splash or Family Splash, which balance fun and safety.

Booking early is wise—especially for popular experiences like the gondola or flightseeing tours—and check availability during peak summer months for the best conditions.

Squamish offers a remarkable array of outdoor adventures tailored to all interests and comfort levels. Whether you’re craving white-water adrenaline, a scenic flight, or a family-friendly river ride, you’ll find something memorable. Consider your travel style, plan ahead, and book early—these experiences won’t last long. Now, get ready to turn your trip into an unforgettable story of BC’s wild beauty.