Squamish River, River in Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, Canada

The Squamish River is a river in the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District of British Columbia. It begins at the toe of the Pemberton Icefield and flows south for about 80 kilometres to the head of Howe Sound at the town of Squamish. Along the way it is joined by the Elaho, Ashlu, Cheakamus and Mamquam rivers.

The river valley was carved during the last ice age when massive glaciers shaped the landscape of the Coast Mountains. This glacial work created the valleys and landforms that define the waterway today.

The river holds deep meaning for the Squamish First Nations, whose people have depended on salmon runs for countless generations. The waterway and surrounding lands remain central to how the community lives and connects with the natural world.

The best way to experience the river is by walking along the banks near the town of Squamish, where access points and viewpoints are available. Between December and February, large numbers of Bald Eagles gather here to hunt salmon, offering excellent wildlife watching opportunities.

The Elaho River, the largest tributary, actually carries more water than the Squamish at their confluence about 21.8 km southwest of the source at the Pemberton Icefield. The Ashlu River joins next as the second largest tributary, followed by the Cheakamus and Mamquam rivers.