Sea to Sky in Winter: Private Squamish Gondola and Cypress Snow Tour from Vancouver

Squamish•moderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

7–8 hours

Fitness Level

Comfort walking and standing for extended periods; snowshoeing/tubing portions are optional and low impact.

Overview

Ride from Vancouver to the Coast Mountains for a winter doubleheader: the Sea to Sky Gondola’s sweeping vistas and Cypress Mountain’s snow play. This private day out blends fjord views, quiet forest paths, and easy logistics—ideal for families or anyone chasing crisp alpine air without the hassle.

Sea to Sky in Winter: Private Squamish Gondola and Cypress Snow Tour from Vancouver

Bus Tour

Wildlife

Sightseeing Tour

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

The city gives way to forest the moment you slip over Lions Gate Bridge, the inlet breathing salt air as the road points toward the mountains. Cypress Bowl Road switchbacks upward, and the view widens—Vancouver spreads like a map, freighters idling, the Strait glinting, and on a clear day Mount Baker hovering on the horizon. Then the highway bends north, hugging Howe Sound. The fjord keeps pace beside you, dark water pushing inland while granite walls rise abruptly, a reminder that this coast was carved by ice and tide.

Adventure Photos

Sea to Sky in Winter: Private Squamish Gondola and Cypress Snow Tour from Vancouver photo 1

Adventure Tips

Layer for rapid shifts

Weather can flip from damp in the fjord to windy and cold at the gondola summit—use a breathable base, warm mid‑layer, and a waterproof shell.

Footing on snow and ice

Packed paths near the summit and at Shannon Falls can be slick; microspikes or good winter tread make the day safer and more comfortable.

Time your gondola ride

If skies are changeable, ask your guide to aim for late-afternoon light—clear breaks often open around golden hour for the best views.

Keep it flexible

Cypress tubing has session times and height limits; if it’s fully booked, swap to a short snowshoe loop to keep your day moving.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Bald eagles
Harbor seals

History

Howe Sound’s shores are the traditional territory of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) people; Stawamus Chief’s granite formed from ancient magma that cooled deep underground and was later exposed by glacial erosion.

Conservation

Stay on designated winter trails to protect fragile vegetation near the gondola summit. Pack out all waste and respect closures that protect hibernating wildlife and steep, avalanche‑prone slopes.