If you've spent any time at the Squamish Adventure Inn, or planned a trip to visit, then you've likely got a Squamish bucket list. Full of ideas, you're ready to tackle adventure head-on, see the sights, and take in all the "Adventure Capital of the World" has to offer.

But what should you put on said bucket list, and, where will you get ideas? As a volunteer at the hostel, I've had a bit of time to review what's important, where to get started, and how to get more ideas. Let's jump right in!

How To Make Your Squamish Bucket List

Map It

Grab a map from reception, from the Adventure Centre, or even just take a snapshot of one on your phone. I recommend asking for the Tourism Squamish map available at the hostel reception; it provides both a 3D overview of downtown Squamish and a wider overview of its beautiful surroundings.

I found this super useful for initiating myself into Squamish life, finding the necessary local amenities, and creating a list of must-dos while I’m here.

Looking at the trails along the river, down at the beach, and over at The Chief and The Gondola, I created a little brainstorm of all the activities I wanted to do and marked down the relevant areas with big crosses.

I also headed over to the Adventure Centre down the road and talked a nice employee there about the best places to hire kayaks and go paddling in the area. They helped me add a few more crosses to the map.

The tools for preparing an epic Squamish bucket list.

Get Access and Stay Connected

Not got a climbing partner? Need someone with a roof rack to help you haul around a kayak?

By changing your social media location to Squamish, BC on Facebook you are able to access important groups like Squamish Buy and Sell and Squamish Free that can help you get your show on the road. You’ll also find active communities (E.g. Squamish Rock Climbing) where you can meet new friends and get to know your chosen adventure activity. All of this can be done before you even arrive.

Another way to stay connected when you’ve checked in at the hostel is by using our community board, where people share information about lift shares, jobs and local events and groups.

Facebook groups are a good way to get tips on items for your Squamish bucket list, and find friends to join you.

Don’t Waste Time, Just Do It!

The best way to get a good idea of where everything is and where you’d most like to explore is to get outdoors and find yourself a viewpoint. If you didn’t know already, Squamish has the ultimate such viewpoint: the Stawamus Chief. On my second day, two other new volunteers and I hiked to the first peak of Chief to take a good look out at our new home. From there we could see the whole city and its magnificent surroundings and pick out plenty of great trail areas to explore.

Scouting out new items for the bucket list from the cliffs of The Chief.

What’s On Your Bucket List?

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to get started on your own Squamish bucket list. There are no rules on how long you make it or what you put on it. It all depends on the duration of your stay, your budget, and how adventurous you are.