First Peak — Attraction in Squamish

"First Peak" is definitely one of the most scenic and popular hiking destinations in the Metro-Vancouver region. Along steep mountainous trails lined by towering evergreens, up flight-upon-flight of stairs, and ladders, chains and sheer rock faces one climbs to experience the phenomenal summit of the "1st Peak" of the 3 peaks of the Stawamus Chief mountain. Located in one of several Provincial Parks along the Sea-to-Sky Corridor, just outside of Squamish, First Peak is perhaps the best known of these, and is a very well - frequented and busy hiking venue in Spring and Summer, not only for Metro-Vancouverites but also for the many tourists/visitors to British Columbia from all over the globe. This can make the trails to the summit a very busy, lively and sociable scene often with many familiar faces from the Northshore. During Summer long-weekend hikes, there are several plateaus and clearings (some with waterfalls) along the way up, to stop, take in the abundant nature and scenery, and refuel with the generous Trail-mix, PowerBars and H20 / Gatorade supply you very wisely (hint...hint...) put in your backpack for the uphill trek the night before. The hike up for me and my buds lasted about 1.5 hours, while the downward part was about 1.0 hour. The upward part was more enjoyable than the reverse course to climb down, and you tend to want to stay on the massive rock face summit and just absorb the breathtaking panorama of Howe Sound and Mount Garibaldi, along with the groups of other hardy hikers who persisted to the very top. First Peak is definitely an awesome mountain hiking experience with totally unforgettable scenic rewards to capture,...

If you are thinking of trying this trail, just experience it for its popularity.

I have never done a hike in my life, and never exercise. The first 30min was the hardest, I was running out of breath and getting dizzy from the steep stairs. But there is a good mix of stairs and rock steps, and I took a break after just about every sets of stairs. Then your body adapts to an effective breathing pattern and it feels easier.

I suggest at least 500mL of water per person. There is a washroom before the first stairs by the campground, but that's it.

I took tons of breaks, and I am an absolute first timer. Up I took 2h10min. Down I took 1h5min. Went on a June weekday. I arrived at the parking lot by 10:45 and there are tons of spots. There were also only few people until we almost reached the peak.

Just try it. MANY hikers were older (some with obvious peripheral vascular disease), many had children, many had their dogs, and many didn't look "fit". I went with a 5th grader - totally appropriate. YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT...

Impressive views. Please keep in mind just because you CAN do something doesn't mean you will always get away with it. This hike is highly trafficked. If you stay on trail you will see people doing the trail in sandals etc. Please go prepared regardless. With a sprinkle of rain the smooth granite can become very slippery. That said, the trail in much better shape than many parts of the grouse grind due to the stone stairs and drainage which improves the durability of the trail itself. Note the trail from 1st to 2nds and so on direct (vs. Down to the fork and back up) requires climbing some ladders, chains and iron staples (ferratta?) And as a result would not be appropriate for kids, dogs or people with a fear of heights. The direct first peak trail is great for all these but be aware of the edges, and as noted that rain makes...