Sea to Sky Gondola
On the Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler, a gondola climbs 885 meters from the waters of Howe Sound to the summit of Sky Pilot Mountain. The Sea to Sky Gondola offers one of British Columbia's most accessible alpine experiences - in 10 minutes, visitors rise from sea level to a summit lodge with views spanning from Vancouver Island to the Coast Mountains. But the gondola is known for more than views. In August 2019, the cable was deliberately severed; 30 cabins crashed to the ground. The gondola was rebuilt and reopened in February 2020. Four months later, the cable was cut again. The gondola was rebuilt again, reopening in May 2021. No one has been caught. The gondola now operates with enhanced security, a testament to both vulnerability and determination.
The Experience
The Sea to Sky Gondola rises from the Shannon Falls area near Squamish, climbing above the rainforest to alpine terrain. The 10-minute ride offers views of Howe Sound, the Squamish River valley, and surrounding peaks. At the summit, the lodge features a restaurant, viewing decks, and access to hiking trails. The Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge spans a gorge, offering vertigo-inducing views. Trails range from accessible boardwalks to challenging alpine hikes. The Summit Viewing Deck looks north toward Whistler; on clear days, Vancouver Island is visible to the west. The gondola operates year-round; winter brings snowshoeing and Nordic skiing.
The Sabotage
On August 10, 2019, at approximately 4:00 AM, someone severed the gondola's haul rope near the base station. Thirty cabins crashed to the ground, falling through the forest. No one was injured - the gondola was closed overnight. The damage was estimated at $5 million; criminal investigation began immediately. Theories ranged from environmental activism to personal grudge to insurance fraud (ruled out). The gondola was rebuilt, reopening February 14, 2020. On September 14, 2020, the cable was cut again, destroying newly installed cabins. The second attack occurred during COVID-19 closure. As of 2024, no arrests have been made; the case remains open.
The Resilience
The Sea to Sky Gondola's response to sabotage became a story of determination. The company rebuilt twice, investing millions in new equipment and enhanced security measures. The second reopening, in May 2021, included surveillance systems and physical security upgrades. Staff and community rallied around the attraction; the story gained national attention. The sabotage ironically increased the gondola's fame - visitors now come partly to see the attraction that refused to stay closed. The cabins that crashed through the forest are gone; new cabins carry passengers over the same terrain. The mystery of who cut the cables remains unsolved.
The Setting
Squamish, once a logging and mining town, has reinvented itself as an outdoor recreation center. The Sea to Sky Highway connects Vancouver to Whistler, passing through some of British Columbia's most dramatic scenery. Shannon Falls, one of Canada's tallest waterfalls, plunges beside the gondola base station. The Stawamus Chief - a granite monolith popular with climbers - looms above town. Squamish has become known for rock climbing, mountain biking, and wind sports on Howe Sound. The gondola fits this recreation economy, providing accessible alpine access to visitors who might not otherwise reach the summit. The town's growth reflects Vancouver's outdoor culture spilling north along the highway.
Visiting the Sea to Sky Gondola
The Sea to Sky Gondola is located in Squamish, British Columbia, approximately 40 minutes north of Vancouver via the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99). The gondola operates year-round; hours vary seasonally. Tickets include unlimited rides, summit trail access, and suspension bridge crossing. Dining is available at the summit lodge. Hiking ranges from easy to challenging; the Chief Peaks trail connects to challenging backcountry routes. Shannon Falls Provincial Park is adjacent; the Stawamus Chief is nearby. Winter offers snowshoeing and tubing. Vancouver International Airport is the nearest major airport. Whistler is 40 minutes north. The gondola is wheelchair accessible; trails vary. Book online, especially for weekends and holidays.
From the Air
Located at 49.67°N, 123.15°W near Squamish, British Columbia. From altitude, the Sea to Sky Gondola is visible as a cable line climbing from Howe Sound to a summit station on a peak. The gondola rises from near Shannon Falls, which appears as a white streak on the cliff face. The Stawamus Chief - the massive granite dome - is visible immediately south. Howe Sound extends south toward Vancouver; Squamish town sits at the sound's head. The Sea to Sky Highway winds along the coast. Whistler and the Coast Mountains rise to the north. The terrain is classic British Columbia: forested mountains meeting ocean fjords. The summit station is visible as a building perched on the ridge.