The Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) is often touted as being 'the most beautiful drive in Canada'. Having been on many breathtaking drives the length and breadth of the country, we just had to see if the Sea to Sky lived up to its reputation. Simply put, it did. It really, really did. Although, we only had time to drive this highway in one day, we've included 'pro tips' for those want to experience the drive at a slower pace.
The first stretch of the Sea to Sky Highway is nothing short of majestic and it's clear to see how to highway gets it's name. Driving north, you are lashed by the powerful, restless Pacific Ocean to your left and mountains so tall their peaks disappear into the sky to your right. It's easy to talk for hours about the visual beauty of the area, the blending of blue water, green trees and cold grey rock. Just be sure, however, to roll down your windows and enjoy the smell of the sea air from one side and fresh forest musk to the other.
Tantalus Lookout
Without a doubt, one of the single most beautiful views from a highway in the world. The Tantalus lookout refers specifically to a stop 15-20 minutes further down the Sea to Sky from Squamish, however there are several places along the route to take in the beautiful snow capped peaks. The Tantalus range are full of beautiful contradictions. They feel although they are right in your face, dwarfing you, despite being so far in the distance. Their cold snow adorned summits glistening away in the 30 degree summer sun. Nothing about the mountains seems to make sense, yet at the same time they make perfect sense in all their perfection.
Pro tip: Make sure not to pass this up on your Sea to Sky itinerary. When approaching from the Squamish side, be sure to slow down as the actual entrance to the lookout is some distance before what google maps tells you and there isn't a place to turn around for a long time!
Bears in Whistler!
Onwards to Lillooet
Lillooet and the drive to Kamloops
Honourable mentions
As we wanted to make the trip back to Kamloops in one day, we decided it wouldn't be possible to stop off at every scenic location, however below is a list of places we have heard great things about and will be sure to see next time.
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