Squamish sits at the head of Howe Sound, where the Sea to Sky Highway squeezes between dark water, rainforest, and granite. It is close enough to Vancouver for a day trip, but it has a different mood: less city escape than outdoor workshop.
The town's symbol is the Stawamus Chief, the great granite face rising above the highway. Climbers come for the rock, hikers for the summit views, and almost everyone else at least stops to look up. Just south of town, Shannon Falls gives the quick, easy version of Squamish scenery.
Squamish also works for people who want the view without the climb. The Sea to Sky Gondola rises above Howe Sound to suspension bridges, trails, and big mountain views. In winter the river flats become one of British Columbia's best bald eagle viewing areas.