The easiest way to truly appreciate a place is to leave it for a while.
To us, Squamish is a mystical home that many never take for granted, nestled among the mountains by the ocean, but from afar, it’s even more spectacular. It’s clearly a place that we are all tasked with protecting.
Here’s what you’ll likely miss about Squamish – and what you’ll love to enjoy upon your return – if you venture somewhere else this summer:
• The Coast Mountains and Howe Sound. Yes, there are plenty of mountains in other areas of B.C., Alberta and in countries around the world, but few cities are in such narrow valleys that they are squished by mountains on all sides, creating views worthy of international filmmaking. Plus, we have the ocean water of Howe Sound that reaches into our downtown neighbourhood.
• The trails. They’re everywhere, they’re real, and their views are spectacular. Squamish has so many trails that even people who have lived here decades are still discovering new ones to hike or bike.
• The active, vibrant people. Chances are, your co-workers, friends and neighbours climb, hike, bike, run, windsurf, sail or kiteboard – or do several of these, perhaps with children in tow. Their active lifestyles create a vibrancy and bright outlook that is refreshing. (And they’re generally polite at intersections, unlike in the big central cities of Canada, where pedestrians are sometimes in danger crossing the road.)
• The sporting events, activities and culture. Just this past weekend, Squamish hosted the Test of Metal race, celebrated the Summer Solstice with live music at the gondola, and took part in the Sikh celebration of human rights and multiculturalism. That was just a sampling of what happened this week, and there are plenty of festivals and fun all summer long. And we are lucky, here on Squamish Nation land, to also have First Nations culture with its rich and meaningful traditions.
• The peaceful tranquility. Even downtown, most days, there’s a quietness to Squamish that calms the mind and allows people to enjoy their day-to-day lives. It’s the antithesis to the craziness of a large city.
So get out of Squamish for a while this summer. That way, you’ll return to appreciate the beautiful place where we all get to live.
– Editor Christine Endicott
