Sea-to-Sky Family Day: Squamish, Porteau Cove & Britannia Mine Private Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, easy walks and brief stair sections—children and older adults should be comfortable walking 10–20 minutes at a time.
Overview
A private, family-friendly loop along Highway 99 that pairs an underground mine tour, oceanfront exploration at Porteau Cove, and a ten-minute gondola ride with panoramic views over Howe Sound. Ideal for families who want big scenery with minimal logistics.
Sea-to-Sky Family Day: Squamish, Porteau Cove & Britannia Mine Private Tour
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You pull away from downtown Vancouver and the city peels off behind you—glass towers shrinking as the Sea-to-Sky Highway climbs. The road leans into the mountains, and the fjord-like arms of Howe Sound open like a map bound for exploration. On this private family tour the highway becomes the prelude: ocean flashes below, forested bluffs rise up, and every turnout promises another photo.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Coastal weather shifts rapidly—bring a light insulating layer plus a waterproof shell for sudden showers.
Comfortable shoes
Walks at Porteau Cove and Britannia include uneven gravel, boardwalks and steps—sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes keep kids steady.
Hydrate and snack
The tour is 7–8 hours; pack snacks and a refillable bottle even though bottled water is provided.
Charge your camera
Battery and storage fill fast with panoramic gondola shots and industrial museum artifacts—bring a spare battery or power bank.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles
- Black bears (rarely seen near developed stops)
History
Britannia Beach was a copper-mining boomtown from the late 1800s; the mine’s legacy shaped settlement patterns and remains a focal point of local heritage.
Conservation
Porteau Cove’s intertidal zones are ecologically sensitive—stay on marked paths and avoid collecting wildlife; Britannia Mine has undergone remediation and museum work highlights ongoing environmental recovery.
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Adventure Hotspots in Vancouver
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Grip and ankle support for mixed terrain at beaches, trails and the museum.
Light rain jacket
Waterproof layer for coastal showers common any time of year.
Daypack with snacks
Carry water, snacks, and layers for a long day out of the city.
Compact camera or smartphone with spare battery
Capture gondola panoramas and Britannia’s industrial architecture without running out of power.