BC Museum of Mining

Located in Britannia Beach, a few short kilometres south of Squamish, is the BC Museum of Mining. This mine is now a National Historic Site and BC Historic Landmark. It is located on the site of the once active Britannia Copper Mines. Tours of the old mine and a video of Britannia's historical past are part of the fun. The museum is open to the public for tours between May and October each year. More information may obtained by calling 604-896-2233 or 604-688-8735,

 

 

West Coast Railway Heritage Park and Museum

The Park boasts more than 50 vintage railway cars and 10 locomotives dating back as early as 1890. Located just off of Highway 99 in the North Yards area of Squamish, it offers a number of attractions including a tour of a 1980 executive car and the largest wood frame building ever to have been moved in one piece in Canada. You are invited to climb aboard locomotives, cabooses, snowplows and the last surviving Pacific Great Eastern steam engine. For children of all ages, there is a 15-minute ride aboard a mini-railway. It is open from May 1 - October 31st each year.

 

Loggers Sports

For four days each year, Squamish Days Loggers Sports bring the world's best loggers to saw, chop, run, birl, and climb as they compete for cash and trophies in the event which will mark its 41 anniversary in 1998. Loggers Sports Days runs over the BC Day long weekend each year. Competitors regularly come from Australia, New Zealand and the Scandinavian countries to challenge their North American counterparts in competitions which test skill, stamina, and balance. Squamish Days Loggers Sports is operated totally by volunteers from the community and showcases the spirit of Squamish.

 

Thunder in the Streets

An action packed car racing event which roars down the streets of downtown Squamish. Usually held for two days in July.

 

The Chief

Mountain climbers from all over the world come to conquer our Stawamus Chief. It is the second largest granite monolith in the world after the rock of Gibraltar. It acts as an inviting gateway to our valley. In May of 1961 the world first took notice of Squamish from a recreational standpoint. Jim Baldwin of Prince Rupert and Ed Cooper of Seattle set out to climb the Grand Wall of the Chief - six hard fought weeks later they summitted. National media fell in love with the story and for the first time Squamish found itself in the spotlight. Climbers have been coming to our area ever since.

 

 

 

The Royal Hudson

The Royal Hudson steam train makes daily trips Wednesdays thru Sundays from May to September. It also makes special runs for holidays (ie: The Jingle Bell Express at Christmas). The train leaves from the North Vancouver BC Rail station and stops over in Squamish for two hours before making the return trip. It's like travelling in a little bit of history!

 

(Thanks to Meg Fellowes for producing the "Introducing Squamish 30 Minute Walk" The following five sites were taken from her article in the Squamish - CPL Map Guide & Business Directory for 1998--these wonderful booklets are free of charge and available at most places in Squamish--come visit, pick one up and explore!)

 

The Foyer Gallery at the Squamish Public Library

Built in 1997, the library has a good collection of historical documents, photographs and stories, as well as a selection of current local news sources. Exhibits in the Foyer Art Gallery feature both local and regional artisits. Shows change monthly. Locals and visitors enjoy the local granite paving the entrance foyer.

 

The Squamish Estuary

From kids to expert birders everyone loves the estuary. Geese and swans, nurse-trees, expanses of marshes and mountains, windsurfers and ocean-going freighters are visible from this short dike walk. Discover the practical-art wooden bench that invites one to pause and reflect on the natural beauty of Squamish.

 

The Sculpture Garden

Five large stone pieces sculpted by local artist Patrick Sullivan. These are found on the grounds of the Squamish Chamber of Commerce.

 

 

Government Wharf

A small, bustling working harbour in a magnificent setting. It is home to log booms and cormorants, fish boats, tug boats and the Squamish Yacht Club.

 

Log and Glass House

Large beams and innovative design are the ingredients that combine in the house at the end of 2nd Street. The use of large beams has allowed for a vast expanse of glass which provides light and warmth to the interior.