You don't have to be local to take advantage of the manifold beauties and diverse activities within easy daytrip distance from Vancouver BC. Popular come snow or summer temperatures is the region north and inland of Vancouver, traced by the Sea to Sky Highway.

The route skirts the water's edge until Squamish. Rock hounds of the climbing sort should put a stop here high on the ?to-do' list. With over 200 climbing routes, neither novice nor expert can leave let-down. Avid hikers can start from here on the six-day slog overland to the Sunshine Coast, accessible by foot only, or under sail by water.

Whistler, lush and green when winter snows have melted, is world-famous for scenic skiing and snowboarding on adjacent peaks. With runs open year-round, but plenty of hiking trails come summer sunshine, this resort area is a favorite with those in the know. Even well traveled visitors won't be disappointed by the chic ambiance exuded by the bars and boutiques in the village, nor will those not ski-pole inclined. Take a lift up instead to do some mountain biking down, or ditch the bike and go it on foot.

Whistler is 78 miles from Vancouver, but keep an eye on peak traffic times to avoid making this drive longer than normal.