Coming into our own
O
VER the last few years, Squamish has gone through a transition from a small, beloved, but sleepy little town, that many bypassed on their way to our resort neighbours to the north, into a world-renowned destination in our own right.
By JENNIFER THUNCHER Discover Squamish Editor
6 | Discover Squamish Winter 2019
There have been growing pains, as any local will likely tell you. As we became the place to move to, for example, our housing sale and rental prices soared — hammers and backhoes have been the soundtrack in many neighbourhoods for some time now. As our “secret spots,” have been universally celebrated, some long-time residents have felt pushed out further afield from their favourite watering holes, hiking and camping spots. But there have been amazing positives as well. As you can see in the pages of this Discover Squamish, we now have restaurants with cuisine from around the world. Similarly, Squamish has big-
city worthy breweries, cideries and cafés, but with a uniquely Sea to Sky Corridor feel. With all the new developments, we have many new types of housing in the pipe that will allow locals and newcomers to enjoy the outdoor recreational lifestyle we are known for. Walk down our main street and you are likely to rub elbows with world-class, elite athletes who our heightened presence globally has helped draw. And other aspects of life here have improved, too. Unlike in our past, Howe Sound is alive with sea creatures not seen in our heavy-industry days. And with all that is new, the very best of our town has gotten even better.
Porteau Cove. Photo: Haley Ritchie
Our First Nation Snowboard Team is a source of pride for Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike. We have headlining musicians who thrill audiences both at home and beyond. Our landscape fosters professional photographers who highlight the best of both the people and nature of this place. But through it all Squamish has remained Squamish. We have kiters, climbers, and hikers galore, as we always have. Whether you are new to the district, just stopping in or were born and raised here — this winter edition of Discover Squamish is for you. We’re glad you’re here, and we hope you’ll stay awhile. •
