8 Activities for Solo Travellers in Whistler
It’s no surprise with all that Whistler has to offer, the resort attracts travellers from all walks of life. Whether you prefer to adventure alone, or you find yourself wanting to do more while your friends opt to stay back at the hotel; there are plenty of activities for solo travellers in Whistler. If you’re in need of some much-needed solitude or some relax and rejuvenation is due, you are sure to find just that at our mountain resort. Here are our top picks for things to do in Whistler for solo travellers.
Whistler has a hike for everyone
Go Hiking
If you fall into the category of travellers that research all the best hikes at your destination to get excited for your trip, Whistler is about to become your new heaven on earth. With world-class trails, unparalleled views and luxury post-hike amenities, Whistler is the perfect catch for your hiking boots! To truly experience all that Whistler has to offer, check out these hikes.
Easy – Fitzsimmons Accessible Nature Trail – If you only have time for a short stroll, the Fitzsimmons Accessible Nature Trail is just an 800-metre round trip. From old growth cedars to stops along the creek bank, you will even see where bears have used the trees as scratching posts!
Intermediate – Blackcomb Meadows – The best opportunity to explore those iconic wild flowers, while also taking in the view of snow-capped mountains and Blackcomb Lake. This hike will take you around three to four hours walking 9.7 kilometres.
Challenging – Wedgemount Lake – At times reminiscent of the stepper at the gym, you will gain over 1,350 meters in just eight kilometres on this trail. While it is certainly a challenge at six to eight hours long and a 15.6-kilometre round trip, the stunning turquoise Wedgemount Lake is worth the work.
As a solo traveller it’s important that at least one person knows where you are at all times. So, remember to let a friend or your accommodation reception know what hike you’re heading out on.
Mountain Biking
In the warmer months, Whistler’s almost 200 mountain bike trails come alive through the valley. Taking to these trails will fill your day with endless adventure. The best part, you’re able to go them solo if you’re experienced in the trade, otherwise there are plenty of tour options to join! Here is our pick of the best mountain bike trails in Whistler.
Beginner – Tin Pants – Take the loop at Lost Lake that leads you through the forest on a trail that is easily tackled by riders of all abilities. Spot the bridges built from lodge pole pines and enjoy the views over Rainbow mountain.
Intermediate – Instant Gratification – A short but sweet ride that isn’t too challenging on riders but still has the fun swooping corners that gets the adrenaline rushing. You can access this trail via the Blackcomb service road on Blackcomb Mountain.
Challenging – Crazy Tin – If it’s certainly not your first time on the back of a mountain bike, Crazy Tin is sure to give you the thrills you’re after. With steep descents and rugged terrain, this trail is among the rowdier of the lot.
There are plenty of tour options for solo travellers, including Backcountry bike tours and Whistler Eco Tours.
Relaxing at Scandinave Spa
Spa Day
Taking a trip to Whistler solo is the perfect opportunity to indulge in the many local luxury spas. Rest and rejuvenation is a given in the Village, with endless spa options right at your doorstep. For some much needed ‘me time’, check out these Whistler spas.
Scandinave Spa
A favourite amongst both locals and visitors, Scandinave Spa will tantalise all of your senses with a traditional Scandinavian experience. Take your choice of the Finnish saunas, Nordic waterfalls, Eucalyptus steam baths or simply lounge in front of the outdoor fireplace.
Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa
As the only authentic Javanese spa in North America, this place provides a unique experience that utilises ancient practices. From deep massages to herbal and aromatherapy, you will walk out of Taman Sari feeling like a new you.
Nita Lake Lodge Spa
What better place to unwind than right beside the pristine Nita Lake. The lodge is not a typical day spa; while there are hot stones, massages and scrubs, you will also enjoy their naturopathic services including acupuncture, and intramuscular injections.
Bungee Jumping
Once you have been to recharge at one of the spas, get that adrenaline back and pumping with a bungee jump off a bridge. Whistler Bungee offer a jump situated in a unique setting with the platform hovering above the glacier fed Cheakamus River. While those turquoise waters are beautiful, your jump will also be surrounded by old growth forest, basalt column cliffs and even a view of Black Tusk. No wonder this jump is renowned as one of the most scenic in the world. You will be soaring down 160ft (50 metres), and can choose to either go solo or in tandem with one of the experts on site.
Whistler Village at night
Stroll through the Village
Comparative to the charm of the villages in Europe that are reminiscent of fairy tales, Whistler Village has plenty to explore in itself. Inclusive of the Village proper, Upper Village and Village North, you can explore each section through the interconnected pedestrian-only stroll. Don’t miss out on these four things to do in Whistler Village.
Shop – The Village is the perfect place to give your bank account a workout. With nearly 200 shops in the Village, you can work your way through clothes shops, jewelers, book shops, gift shops and boutiques.
Whistler Farmers’ Market – Not your ordinary Farmers’ Market, this one has much more than fresh produce. At Whistler Farmers’ Market, you will find local artisans selling their goods that adhere to a strict made, baked or grown in British Columbia policy.
Eat – Whistler’s foodie scene is thriving with a mix of local culture and contemporary trends popping up all over the Village. Eat your way through Bar Oso, Wild Wood Café and Purebread Bakery.
Whistler Museum – Whistler is home to a fair share of museums showcasing the regions ancient and recent history. Conveniently found on Main Street in the Village is the Whistler Museum, which has plenty to keep any mind captivated.
Peak to Peak Gondola
Regardless of what time of the year you visit, you can’t leave Whistler without riding the Peak to Peak Gondola. This lift isn’t just reserved for skiers and snowboarders. Anyone can enjoy this iconic view of Whistler. The Peak to Peak Gondola is a Guinness World Record breaking activity that has become an icon in area. Hovering at an insane 436 metres high and stretching 3.03 kilometres long, the 360˚ view of Whistler’s unique landscape is one that can’t be missed.
Eat Your Way Around the Region
From food festivals to markets and Michelin star restaurants, there is something in Whistler to tantalise every palate. Don’t miss these foodie experiences on your trip to Whistler.
Whistler Tasting Tours – Instead of having to do the hard yards and research where to eat, or risking a bad meal, you can book with Whistler Tasting Tours to ensure you will be taste testing the finest menus in the Village. Your guide is ready to take you on a mouth-watering journey down the list of the best eats. Dining with a local that has insider knowledge is the best way to experience local cuisine. For the wine lovers out there, there is also blind wine tastings on the night!
Cornucopia – In mid November, Whistler hosts an eleven-day Fall festival of food and drink. Think culinary workshops, winery dinners and even grand tastings taking over different events each day of the festival. Some of these events include the ‘Cellar Grand Door Tasting’, ‘The Picnic’, ‘With a Twist Silent Disco and Tasting’ and much more.
Dine – Whistler’s range of eateries dotted throughout the village are also a worthy dine. Try the Chalet at Fairmont Chateau, Bearfoot Bistro and Bar, Bar Oso and Christine’s on Blackcomb.
Whistler’s dining scene is thriving
Head Down to The Lake
When the sunshine makes its grand entry during the Whistler Summer, you’re going to want to make time to cool it off at one of the local lakes. Whistler’s picture-perfect lakes transform into a hotspot for water sports in the warmer months. You won’t bore easily here, with so many activities that are perfect for solo travellers in Whistler.
Our favourite thing to do out on the lakes is stand up paddle boarding. If your balance doesn’t exactly work in your favour in this department, there are plenty of other activities waiting for you lakeside. Choose from canoeing, kayaking, jet boating, fishing or, relax and just swim! If today you’re not feeling up to these tiring activities, you can laze, read a book or nap while soaking up the sun on the Lost Lake, Alta Lake or Alpha Lake docks – take your pick!
While Whistler is renowned as the ultimate destination for group trips, there is no doubt that there are also plenty of activities for solo travellers. Whether you prefer to join in on a tour, or you’re up for some alone time, there is bound to be more than enough on this list to ensure your Whistler visit is one to remember.