Scenic Views · British Columbia

Second Peak

4.9 · 67 Google reviews

The second summit of the Stawamus Chief above Squamish, BC, with arguably the best view of the three peaks over Howe Sound. A steep, demanding hike with stairs, chains and a ladder.

Area D (Elaho/Garibaldi), British ColumbiaSquamish, BC V8B 0J3, CanadaView: MountainAccess: About 5 km return, roughly 600 m gain, from the Stawamus Chief Provincial Park parking lotBest time: Late spring to early fall on dry days; early morning to avoid crowdsFees: Check BC Parks for current parking or day-use pass requirementsFishing: There's no fishing water on this summit trail.

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What visitors say

Second Peak is the middle summit of the Stawamus Chief, the granite dome that towers over Squamish. From the broad top you look down on First Peak, across Howe Sound and the town, and out to the Garibaldi mountains. Reviewers describe the view as breathtaking and worth every step.

It isn't an easy hike. The trail climbs about 600 metres, starting on long flights of well-built wooden stairs, then gets rockier near the top, with chains to hold and a ladder. Most groups take four to five hours for the round trip of roughly 5 km. Hiking shoes are strongly recommended, and some narrow sections become one-way bottlenecks on busy days.

The shaded forest makes it more pleasant on a hot day. The Chief is part of Stawamus Chief Provincial Park; the view is the reward, and there's no fishing on the trail. Some hikers continue to Third Peak, and those with children or less experience may prefer First Peak.

The trail gets crowded on weekends and holidays, especially in the first half. Arrive early for parking and pack out all litter.

Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 67 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.