There’s something special stirring just a 15-minute drive from downtown Squamish—Squamish Canyon, a newly unveiled eco-adventure that, unlike many other exciting activities in Squamish, is refreshingly accessible (you don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy!) and profoundly immersive.

A Forest Walk Unlike Any Other
Opened in early August 2025, Squamish Canyon is a 1.5–1.7 km elevated boardwalk gently guiding visitors through towering second- and third-growth rainforest and dramatic canyon walls. This isn’t your average hike, but a walk above nature while preserving it.

Designed with intention—from cedar railings sourced in BC to foundations woven between root systems—this infrastructure preserves every mature tree. Remarkably, not a single mature tree was removed in creating it.

Designed for All Ages—And All Adventurers
This experience welcomes families and nature lovers alike. No rough hiking needed—just an elegant, accessible walkway; perfect for grandparents, kids, and “big kids” too.

Strategically placed rest spots, cantilevered platforms, and framed views of the Mamquam River and falls create unforgettable moments—thrilling, yet entirely safe.

Midway along, discover the Forest Lounge—a peaceful enclave surrounded by ferns and moss, offering light eats, coffee, and regional refreshments. It’s paired with a play area where young adventurers can explore nature playfully amid interpretive learning.

You’ll also find artisan retail featuring local makers, giving you a taste of Squamish’s creative community.

A Vision Born from Care
Squamish Canyon was a 12-year journey—from a dream to the meticulously built reality it is today. Founder Robin Sherry, a former Squamish SAR team member, envisioned a space to connect and teach safely in nature.

Planning Your Visit

• Tickets: Advance booking saves 10%.

• Duration: Budget 1.5 to 2.5 hours for wandering, relaxing, and play.

• Visitor Tips: Strollers and pets aren’t permitted on the boardwalk—opt for baby carriers if needed.

• Squamish Canyon is open all year round

As a Squamish realtor, I don’t just sell homes—I sell a way of life. If you’re looking for a move, let’s get you into a home where this adventure is part of your everyday backyard. 😊

~Julie

As a Squamish local, I can tell you there’s nothing quite like Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival. Every summer, it brings out the heart, grit, and charm that make this community so special and is one of our most iconic annual traditions.

What is Squamish Days?

Held every BC Day long weekend in early August, the Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival is a five-day celebration of logging culture, community spirit, and good old-fashioned fun.
Now in its 68th year, this event is a true hometown tradition. It blends world-class logger sports competitions with lively family events, a parade, community pancake breakfasts, and one unforgettable bed races night!

This isn’t just about nostalgia — it’s a thriving modern festival that attracts visitors, competitors, and performers from all over the world.

Loggers sports: The main event
With roots in Squamish’s forestry heritage, the Logger Sports Competitions showcase traditional logging skills — think axe throwing, tree climbing, log rolling, and chainsaw events.

Highlights include:

• World-Class Open Loggers Sports Show

• Novice & Intermediate Loggers Sports — perfect for new competitors

• Ladies Loggers Sports Show — a crowd favorite showcasing women’s skill and strength

Bed Races, Parades & Pancakes: Only in Squamish
Beyond the logger sports, the festival is packed with quirky, family-friendly events that show off Squamish’s community pride:

• World-Famous Bed Races: Teams race wheeled beds through downtown — costumes encouraged!

• Squamish Days Parade: Local businesses, dance troupes, bands, and floats wind through the streets, cheered on by families lining the sidewalks.

• Community Pancake Breakfasts: Served by local groups

• Kids Festival, axe throwing competitions, & evening entertainment: There’s truly something for everyone.
  Why it matters (and why I love it)

Squamish Days isn’t just a festival — it’s a celebration of who we are as a town.
It’s a reminder of Squamish’s deep roots in logging, of neighbours coming together, and of our shared love for adventure, sport, and community spirit.

As a Squamish realtor, I often tell my clients: When you move here, you’re not just buying a home — you’re joining a community. And Squamish Days is one of the best ways to experience that firsthand.

The 2025 Squamish Days Festival runs July 31 – August 3. Check out the full event schedule.

Thinking about making Squamish your home? Reach out anytime — I’d love to help you find your place in our community.
~ Julie

Summer in Squamish is more than just a season—it’s a way of life. Whether you’ve lived here for years or are just starting to explore what it means to call this town home, the longer days and warmer weather are a chance to enjoy the best of the Sea to Sky lifestyle.

Discover 6 low-key ways to experience summer in Squamish like a local: From forest trails to paddleboarding and patios—perfect for locals who live and love the Sea to Sky lifestyle.

1. Explore Local Trails
Squamish is home to hundreds of kilometers of forested walking and biking trails. Local favourites like Crumpit Woods, the Estuary, and the Four Lakes Trail offer peace, beauty, and easy access to nature right in town. These are the spots locals return to week after week for their flow, shade, and serenity.

2. Squamish Farmers Market on Saturdays
Every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm, the Downtown Squamish Farmers Market brings local growers, makers, and musicians together in the heart of the community. It's more than shopping—it’s a weekly ritual. Pick up produce, listen to live music, or enjoy a handmade snack while you catch up with friends.

3. Mountain Music at the Sea to Sky Gondola
Take a summer evening ride up the Sea to Sky Gondola for panoramic views and fresh alpine air. On Friday nights, the Mountain Music Series offers live music on the summit patio—perfect for a laid-back summer night with a local feel and a spectacular sunset.

4. Local Patios and Pints
Squamish's craft brewery patios are a cornerstone of summer evenings. Head to Backcountry Brewing, A-Frame Brewing Co. or House of Lager for award-winning beer, casual eats, and relaxed conversations.  If you’re looking for upscale cocktails and share plates, check out The Broken Seal, located off Loggers Lane on the Mamquam Blind Channel.

5. Morning Paddleboarding or Kayaking
For many locals, a quiet paddle on Brohm Lake or Alice Lake is a favourite way to begin the day. These calm waters are ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding, offering a peaceful setting surrounded by forest and mountain views.  

6. Local Music & Arts Culture
The creative spirit runs deep here. Whether it’s open mic night at Zephyr Café or a performance at The Brackendale Art Gallery, there are plenty of ways to experience Squamish's arts scene. These small, meaningful events are where culture and community meet.

Summer isn’t just a season here—it’s a lifestyle. We garden, we bike, we paddle, we linger on porches. The longer days invite us to slow down, spend time outside, and appreciate where we are. It’s this mix of adventure and calm that gives Squamish its magic.

Thinking About a Home in Squamish?
As a local Squamish Realtor, I love helping people discover the right home AND the lifestyle that comes with it. If you’re curious about finding your place in this community, I’d be happy to talk.
~ Julie

Follow me for more local insight

An opinion piece written for Business in Vancouver (posted May 2, 2025) by Dan Scarrow, President and CEO, Macdonald Realty Group of Companies

You can’t get affordability by scaring off the investors and developers who create supply.

In March, housing starts in Vancouver collapsed by 59%. That’s not a typo, it’s a warning siren. And a 59% drop in new supply isn’t a correction — it’s a crisis that is the entirely predictable result of years of political choices driven more by optics than by sound economic reasoning.

Let’s rewind to 2016. At that time, British Columbia faced what many places would consider an enviable problem: Too much capital was flowing into our economy, particularly into real estate. Rather than celebrating this influx of global investment, we vilified it, blaming capital for overwhelming our housing market, inflating prices and pushing homeownership out of reach for many locals.

Faced with mounting pressure from a frustrated public, political leaders had two broad options: Increase supply to absorb demand by accelerating permitting, incentivizing construction and unlocking more land for housing; or suppress demand to fit the existing supply, by targeting the people and capital driving investment in housing.

They chose the latter.

Rather than making it easier to build homes, we made it harder to buy them — especially for anyone labelled as “non-local.” We turned our policy focus toward scapegoating. Foreign buyers, real estate investors, Airbnb hosts, developers and flippers were all branded as “toxic demand.” It became politically fashionable to demonize capital, particularly if it came from outside our borders.

But here’s the reality: Housing isn’t built by end-users. It’s built by developers, investors, speculators and, yes, often with foreign capital. The very people we pushed out of the market are the ones who finance and build the homes we now so desperately lack.

A local first-time buyer isn’t going to fund a multi-year construction project. But a developer or investor will — if the policy environment rewards the risk. When you choke off that capital, you don’t get affordability. You get stagnation. Fewer builders. Fewer units. Higher costs. Higher prices. And a construction sector in retreat.

This is the doom loop we’ve created: We punish capital, we get less housing, prices go up and politicians blame capital even more. It’s a cycle of self-inflicted damage.

And yet, we continue to treat housing as different from every other asset class. When gas prices rise, we don’t ban oil exports. When groceries become expensive, we don’t demonize restaurants. When Ontario’s auto sector faces tariffs, no one expects car prices to drop in Vancouver. But with housing, we somehow believe that banning demand will bring down prices — even as supply collapses.

That’s not how markets work. The health of any economy — especially a growing one — is based on how efficiently it can produce high-quality goods and services. In housing, we’ve done the opposite.

To put it in perspective, we now build housing at only half the rate we did in the 1970s, despite having twice the population and far more wealth. If we had simply maintained that historical pace of building, Vancouver would never have had a housing crisis.

It’s time to reframe the conversation. There is no such thing as “toxic demand.” Demand is a sign of desirability. We should welcome people who want to live here. But we should also welcome people who want to work here, invest here or own a second home here. It’s our job to ensure supply keeps up — not to gatekeep who gets to participate.

Vancouver still has a shot at being a great global city. But that future requires us to build boldly. We need to welcome capital, talent and ambition, wherever it comes from. The path to affordability is not through scarcity and protectionism. It’s through abundance and growth.

~ Julie

The Squamish real estate market is buzzing this spring—and if you've been considering selling your home, now might be the perfect time to make your move. The resale market is showing strong signs of momentum across the Sea to Sky region, driven by a combination of low inventory, increased buyer demand, and renewed confidence in the BC housing market. Here’s why current conditions are especially favorable for homeowners looking to sell in Squamish.

Low Inventory = Less Competition
Inventory in the Squamish resale market remains relatively tight, especially for detached homes and well-maintained townhouses. This means sellers are facing less competition, and in some segments, homes are receiving multiple offers. As of April 2025, there were 86 new listings in the last 28 days, with 29 homes sold during that period. The average days on market for a home is 12 days, indicating a brisk pace of sales*

Stable (and Gently Rising) Prices
After a period of market adjustment in 2023 and early 2024, home prices in Squamish have stabilized and are showing modest growth as of spring 2025. The current average house price is $1,213,82. Buyers who were previously waiting on the sidelines are now entering the market, buoyed by lower mortgage rates and increased confidence. For sellers, this translates to a stronger resale value, especially if your home is staged well and priced strategically.

Squamish’s Lifestyle Advantage
It’s no secret that Squamish continues to attract buyers from the Lower Mainland and beyond. With its unbeatable combination of outdoor recreation, small-town community vibe, and proximity to Vancouver and Whistler, demand for Squamish properties isn’t going away. Young families, remote workers, and retirees alike are looking to plant roots here—which keeps demand high for resale homes in good condition.

Smart Pre-Sale Prep Pays Off
In today’s market, well-presented homes are selling quickly and close to (or even above) asking price. This doesn’t mean you need a full renovation—simple updates, thoughtful staging, and good marketing can make a significant difference. I work with local partners to virtually stage vacant homes and bring listings to life online, helping buyers envision the full potential of your space.

Timing is Everything
The spring season typically sees a surge in buyer activity—and this year is no exception. With families hoping to move before the new school year and interest rates expected to stay steady for the short term, the window of opportunity is wide open right now. Listing your home now puts you in front of serious buyers who are actively looking.

Ready to Explore Your Selling Options?
If you’re curious about what your home could sell for in today’s market, I’d love to provide a free, no-pressure home evaluation. Whether you’re ready to sell now or just starting to plan, I’m here to guide you through the process with expert advice, professional marketing, and a deep understanding of the Squamish market.

Let’s connect—and turn your real estate goals into reality.
~ Julie

Note: All market statistics are sourced from the latest available data as of April 2025.

As Easter (and longer days) approach, Squamish comes alive with events and activities suitable for all ages. Whether you're a local resident or planning a visit, here's a curated list of spring happenings in April 2025:

Easter Egg Hunt at Stan Clarke Park, downtown Squamish
When: Saturday, March 30, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Join a fun-filled morning featuring an Easter egg hunt, face painting, games, crafts, prizes, and storytime sessions. This free event is perfect for families with children eager to celebrate the holiday. ​


Easter Egg Gathering and Brunch at Sea to Sky Gondola
When: Sunday, April 20, 2025 -10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

​Children of all ages are invited to search for chocolate treasures hidden around the Summit Lodge and Plaza. Guided by friendly staff, little explorers can collect treats at themed stations. This activity is free with a lift ticket or annual pass.
Brunch seatings at 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM​ - Reservations are recommended due to limited seating. ​


Eagle Viewing and Spring Bird Watching at Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park
April marks the transition between winter and spring, and while the peak eagle-watching season is in the winter, many bald eagles still remain in the area. This is also a fantastic time for spring bird watching, as migratory birds return to the region. Bring binoculars and enjoy spotting herons, hawks, and other native bird species along the Squamish and Cheakamus rivers.

Best Time? Early mornings or late afternoons for optimal bird activity.


Hike to Crooked Falls for Stunning Spring Meltwater Views
April is a great time to visit Crooked Falls, as the spring snowmelt makes the waterfall extra powerful. This moderate 6 km (round-trip) hike along the Sigurd Trail offers breathtaking views of the falls and the Squamish Valley below. Expect lush greenery, vibrant moss-covered trees, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Where: Sigurd Trail, off the Squamish Valley Road

Happy Spring!

~ Julie

Selling a home requires strategic preparation to stand out in the competitive real estate market. One proven method to accelerate your sale and potentially increase your property's value is through home staging. Specifically, virtual staging offers a cost-effective and impactful solution to showcase your home’s full potential.

The Power of Home Staging

Home staging involves arranging furniture and decor to highlight a property's strengths, making it more appealing to prospective buyers. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, 20% of buyers' agents reported that staged homes increased the dollar value offered by between 1% and 5%, compared to similar homes that were not staged.

Virtual Staging: A Modern Solution

Traditional physical staging can be expensive and time-consuming. Virtual staging, on the other hand, utilizes advanced graphic design to digitally furnish and decorate a property, offering several advantages:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Virtual staging is typically more affordable than traditional staging methods.

• Flexibility: Easily update designs to match current trends or target specific buyer demographics.

• Quick Turnaround: Rapidly transform empty spaces into beautifully furnished rooms without the logistical challenges of physical furniture.

Bella Staging: Your Virtual Staging Partner

For homeowners and real estate professionals in Squamish, I recommend partnering with a reputable virtual staging company like Bella Staging. Their team of interior designers and real estate experts focuses on high-quality, realistic virtual home staging and creating bespoke designs tailored to each property's unique characteristics and target audience.

Bella Staging has contributed to over $5 billion in real estate sales since 2019, demonstrating their effectiveness in enhancing property listings. They emphasize a personalized approach, avoiding generic templates, and instead, crafting designs that complement the space and appeal to potential buyers.

Incorporating virtual staging into your home-selling strategy can significantly impact your property's market performance. By showcasing a well-designed, inviting space, you can attract more potential buyers, reduce time on the market (by up to 73%!), and achieve a favorable sale price.

~ Julie

January is the perfect time to explore the area’s beautiful trails and snowy landscapes. For cross-country skiing enthusiasts—or anyone looking to try something new—Squamish’s proximity to world-class skiing destinations makes it an ideal winter base.

One standout spot that locals and visitors alike flock to is Whistler Olympic Park.

Nestled in the Callaghan Valley just north of Squamish, Whistler Olympic Park is a premier destination for cross-country skiing. Originally built for the 2010 Winter Olympics, the park offers over 90 kilometers of groomed trails suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned skiers. What Makes Whistler Olympic Park Special?

Gear up with ease: Need equipment? Their on-site rental shop has everything you need, including classic and skate skis, poles, boots, and even snowshoes. Their knowledgeable staff will ensure the right fit and offer tips to get you gliding smoothly.

Affordable adventures: Don’t miss Cheap Wednesday Nights, when trail passes and rentals are offered at discounted rates. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a budget-friendly winter adventure under the stars.

Bring your furry friend: Dog owners will love the park’s dog-friendly trails.

Exciting events and activities: Whistler Olympic Park hosts regular events, including races, family days, and guided tours. Whether you’re looking to join a race or simply enjoy a guided ski through the snowy wonderland, there’s always something happening.

Other Cross-Country Skiing Options:

Sea to Sky Gondola: Experience Nordic skiing right in Squamish with their 2.2km backcountry access road, groomed every day and offering unparalleled views of the snow-capped Sky Pilot and its neighbouring peaks.

Brandywine Falls Provincial Park: While not officially groomed for skiing, this park offers trails that adventurous skiers can explore on their own. It’s a scenic spot, though more suitable for backcountry-style skiing.

Callaghan Country Wilderness Adventures: Adjacent to Whistler Olympic Park, this area offers expertly groomed trails, backcountry skiing, and even an overnight lodge experience at Journeyman Lodge.

Lost Lake Nordic Trails (Whistler Village): Located near Whistler Village, Lost Lake features a well-maintained network of classic and skate-skiing routes. Rentals and lessons are available on-site.

Cypress Mountain Nordic Area: If you’re willing to drive a bit farther south, Cypress Mountain’s Nordic area offers 19 km of groomed trails, rentals, and lessons.

So, bundle up, hit the trails, and experience the magic of cross-country skiing just a short drive from Squamish.

*Looking for more Squamish area tips or thinking about making this stunning region your home? Contact me today!
~Julie

Photo: Sea to Sky Gondola website

Hello, Squamish neighbours and future residents! December is upon us, and Squamish is ready to bring some holiday magic. Whether you’re new to town or a long-time resident, there are so many ways to enjoy the season in our beautiful mountain town. Here are some top festive events and activities to enjoy this December in Squamish!

Sea to Sky Gondola’s Spirit of the Season
The Sea to Sky Gondola transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Explore the snowy landscape and beautifully lit forest trails, warm up by outdoor fire pits, and sip hot cocoa with friends and family, or attend specific events.

• Decorated Forest Walk - Starts Dec 1st

• Storytime in Nature  - Mondays starting Dec 2nd at 10am

• Live music: Sundays starting December 8th

• Photos with Santa – Register for a time on Dec 1-2, 6-8 between 9:30am - 2:30pm

Squamish Farmers’ Winter Market
Where: 37996 Cleveland Avenue at Victoria Street, downtown Squamish
When: December 7th & 14th - 10am - 2pm
This special holiday edition of the Squamish Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for unique, handmade gifts and holiday treats. It’s a fantastic way to shop for stocking stuffers and festive items while supporting the community.

Squamish at Dusk 
Where: Rose Park, Squamish
When:  December 5th–7th, 12th-14th; Hourly, 4:30 - 9:30pm
As the sun sets, stroll through the park to experience mesmerizing light installations and soak in the enchanting ambiance; A perfect evening for all ages.

North Pole Express
Where: Railway Museum of BC - 39645 Government Road, Squamish
When: December 1st, 7-8th, 14-15th & 21st
Take a magical journey where a vintage train ride transports you to the North Pole. Enjoy the festive decorations and music, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself.

Brackendale Art Gallery Winter Events
Where: 41950 Government Rd, Brackendale, BC
When: Various dates
Enjoy cozy winter evenings at the Brackendale Art Gallery, which hosts winter concerts featuring local musicians and holiday-themed performances, as well as an Artisan Holiday Market on Dec. 7th. The gallery is a great spot to enjoy music, arts, and the unique culture of Squamish.

Christmas Tree Hunting & Forest Walks
Squamish is known for its breathtaking outdoor spaces, and if you're ready for a winter hike, head to one of the area’s many trails for a winter walk through the forest. For a special holiday experience, you can also obtain a permit for a Christmas tree hunt and find your own tree! Remember to follow the guidelines to preserve our natural spaces.

Get into the Squamish Spirit!
Whether you're visiting or calling Squamish home, the holiday season here has something special for everyone. As your local realtor, I’m always happy to share what makes our community unique. If you’re looking for a home in this beautiful town or just want to know more about life in Squamish, feel free to reach out. Happy holidays!

~Julie

Winter in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor of British Columbia is nothing short of spectacular. With world-renowned ski resorts, stunning backcountry trails, and breathtaking mountain views, the region offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. But to make the most of the season, you'll need the right gear. Here are some tips and top spots to stock up on all your winter gear in the Sea-to-Sky area.

Tips for Winter Gear Shopping:

·  Plan ahead: The best gear can sell out quickly, so start shopping early to ensure you get the equipment you need.
·  Consider rentals: If you’re only hitting the slopes a few times, renting gear might be a cost-effective option.
·  Check for sales: Many stores offer seasonal sales and promotions, so keep an eye out for deals to save on your winter gear.
·  Consider pre-loved.

Retailers:

Valhalla Pure Outfitters - Squamish, Vancouver, BC or online
VPO caters to all your winter adventure needs with a range of gear from well known, quality brands. And you can join their Adventure Pass rewards program for an added benefit.

Urban Alpine – Squamish, BC
A one-stop shop for all of your skiing and snowboarding needs, plus a unique selection of casual clothing, footwear and accessories, as well as rentals, boot fitting and a full-service tech shop. 

SkiUphill – RunUphill – Squamish, BC
For the best backcountry ski gear.

Whistler Blackcomb Outlet Store – Squamish or Whistler, BC
Deals on your favourite brands and demo skis.

Evo - Whistler Village, Whistler, BC
Known for their excellent customer service and extensive product ranges, Evo offers a wide selection of snowboards, skis, boots, bindings and winter apparel as well as ski and snowboard rentals.

Pre-loved options:

Facebook Marketplace and Groups

Search Marketplace or local groups like the “Squamish Online Buy & Sell” for specific pre-loved items.

Whether you’re an avid skier, a snowboarding aficionado, or just someone who loves to enjoy the outdoors in winter, the right gear can make all the difference.

What are your favourite winter activities?

~Julie

As the vibrant hues of fall start to show, there's no better time to explore the seasonal charm and community spirit that the Sea to Sky region has to offer. From pumpkin patches to festive events, here’s a roundup of must-visit happenings this October.

Glacier Valley Farms: Pumpkin Paradise

If you’re looking for the quintessential fall experience, this beloved local farm is a pumpkin-lover's dream. Stroll through their picturesque fields, find the perfect pumpkin, and snap some family photos against the stunning backdrop of autumn leaves.

Glacier Valley Farms also offers a Finnish Sauna experience and hosts family-friendly activities like hayrides and corn mazes.

Squamish Rotary Club: Downtown Pumpkin Patch

In the heart of Squamish, the Squamish Rotary Club offers their annual pumpkin sale downtown. This community-driven initiative is not only a chance to pick up some fantastic pumpkins for your fall decor or Halloween festivities, but it also supports local causes.

 North Arm Farm, Pemberton:

Just a short drive from Squamish, North Arm Farm in Pemberton offers an enchanting autumn experience that’s perfect for families. Known for their farm-fresh produce, they host an array of fall-themed events, including pumpkin picking and farm tours.

In addition, you can explore their farm store, brimming with local goods and seasonal treats. Don’t miss their mouth-watering pumpkin pies and other fall specialties, perfect for those cozy evenings at home.

Halloween Happenings

With festive decorations and local gatherings, the Sea to Sky corridor always embraces the spirit of Halloween. Check local community boards or social media for updates on community events like Halloween at the Sea to Sky Gondola.

Grab your sweater, gather your loved ones, and immerse yourself in the delightful autumn atmosphere our beautiful region has to offer. Happy fall, everyone!

What are your favourite events or activities of the season?

~ Julie

In Squamish we are all about mountain biking...well almost! Some people also love challenging themselves by road biking! 

This Saturday September 7th is the 15th annual Whistler Gran Fondo, a 122km ride from Vancouver to Whistler however that's not the only option! There are options for many physical abilities including a 55km route starting in Whistler looping to the top of Callaghan Road and back to Whistler. Or if you really want to challenge yourself there is a 152km option that combines the 122km route with the 55km route! 

This ride includes iconic Sea to Sky views and the only traffic-free day of the year for cycling the Sea to Sky Highway! It is also fully supported with aid stations including drink, food, medical, mechanical and washrooms. As well as finish line festivities like hot food, a beer garden and an awards ceremony for the top finishers!

Not participating this year? Find a safe place to be a spectator and cheer on all the riders! A good spot to pull up a chair with plenty of parking would be near the Squamish Adventure Centre...don't forget your sunscreen; it's forecasted to be a hot one this year!

Have you participated in the Whistler Gran Fondo or plan to in a future year, leave a comment below I would love to hear all about your experience! 

~ Julie

It's officially August and the weather forecast is full of sun and blue skies! So I thought that I would share a handful of my favorite family friendly Squamish activities that don't break the bank!   

Corridor Trail | Bike or walk on a paved path from Rose Park, past the Squamish Adventure Centre and up until you spot Canadian Tire and Cloudburst Cafe.  

Eagle Run Dike | Located in Brackendale overlooking the Squamish River. Keep an eye out for eagles and if you are lucky you might also spot a seal or three!

Squamish Estuary | A nature walk accessible for most abilities that is filled with flat trails, wildlife spotting and views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls. 

Squamish Mural Walk |  A self-guided tour of 20+ murals in Downtown Squamish. Including new and existing mural installations, both permanent and temporary, painted by local and visiting artists. 

Squamish Oceanfront | A beach surrounded by grassy areas, pathways, a playground, indigenous art and more! Take a bike ride to this stunning Squamish backdrop, walk down one of the many pathways and find a spot to take in the views of Howe Sound. 

Don't forget to pack a picnic and enjoy! Comment below, if you have a favorite free Squamish activity to add to my list? 

~ Julie 

On May 25th the Squamish Oceanfront had its soft opening, once again allowing residents and visitors access to the beach at the southern tip of the peninsula. 

In addition to an oceanfront beach, a windsport beach, a boardwalk as well as a sailing centre and boat storage facility, a playground, grassy area, rock/paved pathways and public art have also been installed. The grassy area also includes a sound stage and I can't wait to see a local show!

The Squamish Oceanfront opening is part of a 60-acre mixed-use master plan development that will include future retail, office and residential spaces. With the park complete, the next milestone will be the opening of the Presentation Centre in September, followed by House of Lager in December and pre-sales on the first residential units are anticipated to begin in late 2024. 

The area is surrounded by water as well as views of the surrounding mountains and Shannon Falls. Take a bike ride to this stunning Squamish backdrop, have a drink and a bite to eat at House of Lager and take a walk down one of the many pathways to find your favorite viewpoint while taking in the sunset over Howe Sound.

On August 17th the Squamish Oceanfront will have its grand opening and the day will coincide with the annual Sp’akw’us Feather Shakedown in partnership with the Squamish Art’s Festival. 

Have you visited the Squamish Oceanfront since it opened? I would love to hear what you thought, comment below! Interested in more information regarding pre-sales reach out, let's chat!

~ Julie

If you know me, you know that I love supporting local Squamish businesses and eating yummy food! 

So here are my Top 10 Restaurants in Squamish:

- Joe Pesto's Pizzeria | Best Pizza in Squamish! They don't skimp on the serving sizes and have a variety of plant based options.

- Fergie's Café | The Perfect Brunch Spot! Take a bike ride up Squamish Valley road with friends on the weekend and enjoy dining in nature. 

- Saha Eatery | Best Mediterranean Food in Squamish! A short walk from downtown Squamish, eat indoors in the winter or outdoors in the summer.  

- Samurai Sushi | Best Sushi in Squamish! If you call for takeout after a hike at 4 Lakes Trail your order will be ready for pickup on your way home.

- Sky Pilot Restaurant | Looking for an Adventure! Hike up and take the Sea to Sky Gondola down after a bite to eat and drink! Don't forget to take in the views of Howe Sound!

- Noshy | A Hidden Gem! Enjoy a simple and yummy menu in a casual and fun setting, leaving enough room to make your way back down Cleveland Avenue for a doughnut at Fox & Oak!

- The Crabapple Café | The Perfect Breakfast Spot! Enjoy a yummy breakfast in Brackendale and take a walk afterwards to checkout the community, a great spot to live near in Squamish!   

- Taka Ramen & Sushi | Best Ramen in Squamish! If you're looking for a great restaurant in downtown Squamish this is it, afterwards take a walk to checkout some of the local shops on Cleveland Avenue. 

- The Locavore Bar & Grill | Best Indoor and Outdoor Atmosphere! The perfect spot for a bite to eat and drink after mountain biking or meeting up with your favorite realtor to discuss new Squamish listings!   

- The Watershed Grill | Location, location, location! If you have family or friends visiting the water views can't be beat here, afterwards take an easy walk on the dike which is accessible for a variety of abilities and you might just spot an eagle in the sky or seal in the water. 

Let me know if you try any of the above Squamish restaurants! I would love to hear what menu item you tried! 

~ Julie

Squamish is well known as the Outdoor Adventure Capital of Canada, with over 300 km's of mountain biking trails. When the sun is shining the local Squamish mountain biking community and its visitors from Whistler, Vancouver and beyond can be found here on the trails. This includes myself as well as my husband, Rob, who has proudly built some of our local Squamish trails! In fact, many people may know that I was heavy into mountain biking as well as racing, however, I have also been struggling with a back injury since late 2022. Since then, I've been working hard to regain my strength and mobility by trying a variety of solutions including physio, massage, chiropractic, osteopathy, personal trainer...you name it, I've tried it. Although I found that physio has been the best for me so far, I have also discovered that Dynamic Cyclist was very helpful as well. 

I thought that I would share my progress here as I think that Dynamic Cyclist is a great tool for healing from an injury as well as injury prevention, and could be helpful for our local Squamish mountain biking community. After three months of use, it has now become a daily habit for me and with the programs being only 15-20mins a day there are no excuses to fit it into my schedule. I already feel stronger and have more mobility. I am starting to feel better and believe that introducing the Dynamic Cyclist programs into my daily routines has helped so much.  

Many cyclists have weak abdominals, hamstrings and hip flexors combined with tight quads and IT Bands. Not only can this affect your pedaling mechanics, but it can also lead to knee and hip pain as well as a pelvic tilt...all of which I have been struggling with. The Dynamic Cyclist daily programs were specifically developed to correct these muscle imbalances through a combination of dynamic movements, strength training and stability work.   

If you are a cyclist, I highly recommend that you try Dynamic Cyclist.  The videos are easy to follow along with at home and there is a 7 day FREE trial! If you love it and want to sign up for the monthly or annual subscription, please feel free to enter the coupon code JULIE for a 10% discount as my gift to you!

Comment below if you sign up! I would love to hear your experience! 

~ Julie