Walking in Squamish

Walking is a healthy and enjoyable way to get around Squamish. Walking not only reduces pollution and greenhouse gases, but it also increases health and fitness, community connectedness, and even retail sales! Through the Active Transportation Plan, The District of Squamish has outlined priority pedestrian infrastructure to make walking safer and more accessible. If you have a sidewalk maintenance concern, contact Operations by phone (604.815.6868 or 604.815.4040) or use the online comment form.

Squamish is home to a vast network of trails for people of all abilities. You can find out more information about using trails here.

It is important to be aware of other users when on the trails. Here are some courtesy tips to help everyone share the space.

• Keep right on trails so that others can pass safely.
• If you choose to listen to music, keep one ear clear and stay aware of your surroundings.
• When passing equestrians, say hello early and pass wide and slow.

Humans are not the only users of Squamish trails. Follow these tips to avoid wildlife encounters and stay safe: 

• Be alert and aware at all times (avoid using ear buds, especially when you are farther from town).
• When possible, walk in groups.
• Make noise by using your voice i.e. talk, sing, or give a shout when approaching a blind corner, near rivers, or near natural bear food.
• Go slowly around blind corners. Riding or running quickly and quietly puts you at a higher risk for surprise encounters.
• Look for signs of recent wildlife activity i.e. claw marks on trees, fresh scat, food caches, day beds, ripped apart logs or overturned boulders.

If you encounter a bear:

• Stop and stay calm;
• Do not run or turn your back;
• Back away slowly to give the bear some space;
• Speak calmly;
• Do not make eye contact.

If you encounter a coyote or cougar:

• Stop and stay calm;
• Do not run or turn your back;
• Back away slowly to give the animal some space; 
• Make eye contact and speak in a confident voice;
• Make yourself appear big by standing tall and raising your arms over your head or opening your jacket;
• If in the very rare occasioned you are attacked, fight back.

For more information, please contact Wildlife Education & Coordination Services at wildlife@squamish.ca or 604.815.5066.

Resources:

• Living with Wildlife
• Sign up to receive Wildlife Alerts.
• Ministry of Environment: Cougars and Coyotes webpages.

Please report all wildlife interactions to the RAPP line: 1.877.952.RAPP (7277) or #7277 on the Telus Network.