What is the Sea to Sky highway from Vanvcouver to Whistler like?

Question

I have seen comments that it is still under construction, will it still be at the end of August 2007? I have also heard it is not a good highway to drive the first time....is it scary, are there big cliff drops with no railing? I am afraid of heights, but I love scenic views. We are planning on renting a car and going from Whistler to the Horseshoe Bay Ferry in Vancouver via this highway, and then to go over to Vancouver Island, is this the best route?

I am trying to create a "loop" as much as possible. I am trying to book a kayak trip that meets in Duncan, so I figured drive down from Nanaimo to Duncan, stay the night, then after the kayak trip go to Victoria area for a couple of days and back on that ferry to the other one in Vancouver that is closer to the airport.

Answer 1

The current construction is planned to go on all summer. The advisories say until October. The route is undergoing major upgrades for the 2010 Winter Olympics. So, I imagine there will always be construction for the next couple years.

That bad? Well relatively speaking, it isn't. I have been around BC and there are a lot worse. Like the road past Whistler will make your heart stop, but is very scenic too. The thing about Sea to Sky is it is too close to Vancouver and is traveled more than other areas and gets more complaints. Just drive within the speed limit and you will be fine. Add extra caution if road conditions are less the perfect. (Night, rain, etc.)

I don't recall the drive as ever being scary. Yes, there are great views along the way, especially if you aren't use to coastal terrain. The type of things us locals take for granted.

Horseshoe bay is fine. It is the easier ferry for you to get to and avoid a drive through Vancouver. But also depends on your plans on the Island. Where are you going? I live on Central Vancouver Island and take that ferry normally. However, it does get busy summers. Very busy. I suggest making a reservation. Otherwise you may have a several ferry wait. This route has fewer ferries each day. There are a lot more that go to Victoria.

Answer 2

The Sea to Sky is not in the best shape by any means; it IS being upgraded for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

The road winds through the mountains and along the sea & thus requires close attention to the road. It is really not that difficult a drive and the road is better shape than many roads I've driven through the Wilds of New Jersey.

The scenery is spectacular, especially on a bright, clear day.
The ferry at Horseshoe Bay takes you to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. The Sea to Sky IS the best route from Whistler to Horseshoe Bay and Vancouver.