Talking Trees
Sea-to-Sky Gondola
A nature walk to learn how Indigenous people utilize the land for food, medicine, technology
Each plant, each tree has its own special story. On this nature walking tour you will hear the stories of how shíshálh (Sechelt) Coast Salish & Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) People have been utilizing the land for food, medicine and technology for thousands of years. Your Talaysay cultural ambassador guide will share our ecological practices, ancient and contemporary history, stories, legends and Indigenous ways of living (knowing) with you.
What to Expect
Each Talking Trees tour is unique; shaped by the land, the season, and the stories of those who walk with us.
Your journey begins with a land acknowledgment and gentle introduction from your Cultural Land Ambassador. Together, you’ll walk among towering cedars, maples, firs, and wild berries, exploring how Indigenous peoples have lived sustainably in this region for millennia. Through engaging stories, hands-on teachings, and sensory invitations, you’ll discover the traditional uses of plants and trees for food, medicine, technology, and culture.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the “Tree of Life”, its sacred gifts, from shelter and clothing, to healing remedies. Your guide will share how Indigenous communities have practiced stewardship, selective harvesting, and reciprocal relationships with the land.
Each experience is shaped by the season and the group’s interests. You’ll be invited to slow down, notice the forest’s intricate details, and reflect on our connection to the natural world. No experience is required, just a willingness to listen, learn, and be present.
Every tour includes a cup of Indigenous tea, a moment for gratitude, sharing, and community.
Where We Meet
We gather at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park, a lush coastal forest on the lands of the shíshálh Nation. Our meeting point is by the interpretive sign near the playground, just steps away from the main parking area.
From there, your Cultural Land Ambassador / Guide will lead you through the forest trails that wind beneath towering cedars and hemlocks, sharing stories of the land, its peoples, and the plants that sustain life here.
Parking: Free parking is available in the main day-use lot.
Washrooms: Public restrooms are located near the playground and beach area.
Trail type: Forest path with gentle slopes and compact earth. Moderate accessibility.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Please arrive 10–15 minutes early to check in and settle before the tour begins.
Before Your Tour
What to Bring
Good walking shoes
Layered clothing - dress for the weather
A water bottle on warm days
A water resistant jacket on rainy days
Weather Information
We operate our tours and programs in the rain.
The company reserves the right to cancel when extreme weather and wind impacts safety.
Guest Protocol
Tours start promptly
Arrive 15 minutes prior to tour start
Late guests or missed tours are not reimbursed
Individual booking cancellation: 48 hours notice prior to tour is required and a 20% administration fee applies
Group booking cancellation: 10 days notice prior to tour is required and a 20% administration fee applies
Cancellations with less than the required notice are 100% non-refundable
