Hike and Climb the Chief

An Absolute Must-Do

If you're in Squamish, you cannot leave before doing this hike. Absolutely the best view I have ever seen. It's a bit of a difficult hike (so many stairs) and the path can be a little bit difficult to follow, but it is undoubtedly worth it. There is a resting point about half way with a great view that you can stop at to catch your breath and drink some water- bring plenty! Beware that it's windy at the top, so bring a windbreaker.

Crowd Pleaser

The chief is a superb hike. I'd definitely recommend it, though perhaps not as first hike in the area. It's a good way to go if you want a slightly wilder version of the grouse grind. On bright days it tends to be busy, but it can be great fun in the rain, when it gets peaceful, and you get to watch the drama of the clouds play out through the rocks. As for climbing the chief, it's a phenomenal experience. The climbs are busy, but instant classics. Nothing compares to moving your way above the valley, getting ever higher.

The Vancouver Staple: Get After It!

Beginner to hiking? Just do first peak. Looking for a total workout, do all three peaks. First peak offers some super cool views of Squamish Inlet, we stopped and had lunch on this peak. We then decided to head back down and back up to second and third peak, there are some super cool spots along the backside of the chief as you head up to second peak - sometimes people slack line across a massive drop.

Heart Pumper With Epic Views

Although highly trafficked always a great hike. Gets your heart pumping with stops along the way to appreciate the views. First and Second peak offer spectacular views of Squamish and the sound. Not for the faint of heart when it comes to heights!

Such A Great Hike

Such a great, classic hike! It's definitely popular, and can be busy (hence only 4 stars) but still totally worth it - and what a workout.. The view from the top is unbelievable as well - pack a lunch and enjoy it if you have time!

3rd peak

Hiked Nov 4, 2013 Gorgeous day, sunshine and clear! Was brisk and a bit of ice in a few places at the top, only a couple spots with mud or areas where water was running through a little bit. No snow yet! Starts with stairs pretty much right away! After 10 minutes though they are over and you can enjoy nature!! There was a helicopter for the first 30 minutes as well... Since they are building a gondola (unfortunate) but once that noise was gone it was fabulous to hear the water running, the occasional bird and just be in the great outdoors! Steady incline and nice changes from trail to a bit of scrambling. Loved it! Took us 1 hour and 40 minutes going directing to the 3rd peak. Enjoyed the view while we ate lunch and took our time coming down as you have such a great perspective of all of creation on the way down - took us 1 hour and 30 minutes, but that was at a very relaxed pace. Enjoy! :)

Amazing Hike!

I recommend going to the third and final peak -the view is amazing and you are completely secluded. Takes about 2. 5 hrs to reach the top peak. See if you can spot the friendly chipmunk that lives there :)

A Must-do!

Did this hike on Good Friday and had great weather, luckily! There were still some wet spots up top, which made for some slick sections on the final climb. We went earlier in the morning, around 9, and managed to avoid most of the crowds. It was way busier waiting and avoiding people on our way down. Stunning views up top!

A West coast classic!!

As a well-known mountain in the rock-climbing world the Chief is also a hikers paradise. With a choice of 3 separate or conjoined trails connecting the various peaks the chief can be a morning hike or a full-day experience. The views of Howe sound are amazing and the town of Squamish below feels so close you can almost touch it. Many of the trails have chains and ladders to help you get to the top. While the first peak is the most commonly climbed the second peak has the best views and trail.