Begin with a pickup in city centre Vancouver in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle. As you leave the city behind, the road winds along the world-famous Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99), known for its jaw-dropping coastal views, towering cliffs, and forested mountains. Listen to interesting commentary along the way, learning about the region’s geography, indigenous history, and local wildlife.
The first stop is Shannon Falls Provincial Park, home to the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia. Take a short, easy walk through a serene cedar forest to a viewing platform where you’ll be greeted by the powerful rush of Shannon Falls, plunging 335 metres (1,099 feet) down a rocky cliffside. Allow time for photos, light exploration, and perhaps a peaceful moment to soak in the natural surroundings. Hear stories about the waterfall’s significance to the Squamish Nation, whose ancestral lands encompass the area.
Next, continue the journey just a few minutes up the highway to the Sea to Sky Gondola. Board a modern cable car and ascend 885 metres (2,900 feet) above sea level. The ride offers panoramic views of Howe Sound, the Tantalus Range, and lush coastal rainforest. At the summit, explore several scenic viewpoints, including the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, forested walking trails, and the Summit Lodge. This stop is perfect for nature photography, light hiking, or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air and sweeping landscapes. Depending on your interests, the tour can include a short guided nature walk or time for refreshments at the summit café.
After descending back to sea level, head north to the Britannia Mine Museum, a National Historic Site and one of Canada’s most acclaimed heritage attractions. Once the largest copper mine in the British Empire, the museum now offers an award-winning, interactive experience that blends education, history, and entertainment.
Begin with the underground mine tour, where you board a replica mining train and venture into a historic tunnel with a knowledgeable guide. Along the way, learn about the difficult and often dangerous conditions faced by miners in the early 20th century. In the dramatic “BOOM!” show inside the mill building, lights, sound, and special effects bring the massive industrial space to life, telling the storey of how the mine helped shape the region’s economy and community.
The museum also features hands-on exhibits where you can pan for real gold, explore mining artefacts, and interact with displays about geology and sustainable resource extraction. It’s both fun and educational—especially popular with families and curious travellers.
After the visit to the mine, return to Vancouver via the same scenic route, giving you one last chance to admire the coastal mountains, forests, and waterways that define this unique part of the world.
