The Super Canadian Itinerary in Whistler
Whistler is the perfect backdrop to enjoy endless activities and check them off your Canadian bucket list. Whether you want to see a bear in its natural habitat or try a Caesar or poutine to see what all the hype is ‘aboot’, in Whistler, Canada you have the opportunity to do both and so much more. Whistler’s activities are exceptionally Canadian.
Why Whistler is the Perfect Canadian Destination
There’s a reason why millions of people travel from around the world to visit this hamlet in the mountains. Within close proximity of the Vancouver International Airport, Whistler is an easy option that gives visitor’s access to numerous outdoor endeavours while still having the comforts of modern amenities and services. With many activities to choose from in Whistler, the world is your oyster!
- Natural Beauty
Surrounded by the Coast Mountains, ancient forests, and clear rivers and lakes, Whistler is a sight for sore eyes and a nature lover’s paradise. Postcard-worthy shots await around every corner – from watching the sun rise over Fissile Peak to watching it set across the Tantalus Range. Take a tour to get you closer to nature or just walk out your hotel door – natural beauty is abundant in Whistler.
- Culture and History
The Coast Salish First Nations people lived on the land around Whistler for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. Whistler was a trade route between the Squamish Nation (to the South of Whistler) and Lil’wat Nation (to the North of Whistler), as it was an area of rich resources and abundant wildlife. For more First Nations history, be sure to check out the award-winning Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.
What once was a three-day journey from Vancouver via steamship and pack horse is now a beautiful multi-lane highway with access to the largest ski resort in North America. From humble beginnings to a world-class resort, learn how Whistler came to be by visiting the Whistler Museum (free by donation).
- Fun for The Entire Family
You don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to visit Whistler – there’s something to do for all ages and abilities. From shopping on the stroll and relaxing at the Scandinave Spa to flying down the mountain on skis or a bike, the choice is yours in Whistler.
Got a few children in tow? Don’t worry, there are easy-going outdoor adventures like ziplining and the Vallea Lumina Night walk to keep them entertained. Take it as extreme or as low-key as you’d like – it’s your holiday after all! Check out whistler’s activities for every single member of you entourage.
What It Means to Be Canadian
An argument for Whistler as the perfect Canadian destination
Canadians are often perceived by other cultures to be kind natured, humble, and polite. Canada is a large country with a strong sense of internalized national pride. Our shirts might not be emblazoned with maple leaves and we might not chug maple syrup, but we will stand with pride when we sing our national anthem ‘O, Canada’.
As Canadians, we are so lucky to live in a country that offers so many luxuries we may take for granted but what others strive for. Clean air, water, and wild spaces nurturing our native flora and fauna. Rugged landscapes and modern cityscapes (and everything in between).To be Canadian is to respect and acknowledge the First Nations people who have had a relationship with this land since time immortal.
From the East Coast to the West Coast and beyond, the definition of ‘Canadian’ could be completely different from one Canadian to the next and that’s what makes it so great, eh!
A Suggested Itinerary for Getting Your ‘Canada On’ in Whistler
- Eating a hearty Breakfast Poutine from Southside Diner in Creekside washed down with an all-Canadian Caesar.
- Drive down to Cheakamus Crossing and hike the Train Wreck Loop to work off your breakfast and marvel at the beautiful Cheakamus River from a suspension bridge.
- Hop over to Forged Axe Throwing in Function Junction for an hour of Lumberjack fun.
- Lunch at the Wildwood Cafe in Function Junction for a Halifax Donair or cup of soup.
- Exercise your brain at the Whistler Museum and/or the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.
- Get ready for adventure and suit up for a late afternoon RZR tour.Alternatively, sign up for a Bear Watching Tour (bears are most active at dusk!
Top 5 Super Canadian Activities in Whistler
Hiking
With minimal equipment required and generally free to access, hiking in Whistler is the perfect Canadian activity. Take in the beauty of your surroundings, breathe in the fresh mountain air and get some exercise. In Whistler, there’s everything from a gentle stroll around Lost Lake to multi-day alpine hikes.
Try this:
- Easy: Train Wreck Hike in Cheakamus Crossing
- Medium: Cheakamus Lake
- Hard: High Note Trail on Whistler Mountai
What to Bring:
- Shoes with tread and a sturdy sole (ie. hiking boots or trail shoes)
- A small pack with water, snacks, extra layers
- Camera
How to Book: Online at or by phoning 604-262-9833.
Go bear watching, with the professionals!
Bear Watching
Beginning in May, black bears wake up from their winter slumber in search of food and a mate. While you may see a bear unintentionally while in Whistler, Bear Watching Tours are the best way to see a bear in Whistler safely and, most times, successfully. Sit back and relax as guides tour you around bear territory in a Land Rover in search of our furry friends.
What to Bring:
- Clothing Layers
- Camera and binoculars
- Sturdy footwear and bug spray
Bear tips:
- If you see a bear, remain calm and give it lots of space, it’ll likely see you and continue to munch on grass.
- Talk, sing, or make noise while you’re out hiking or in the forest.
- NEVER feed a bear, keep them wild.
How to Book: Online or by phoning 604-262-9833.
RZR Tour
Strap on a full-face helmet and goggles and prepare to get muddy on a RZR Tour! A ‘RZR’ is a small two person four-wheeled off-road vehicle, also known as a ‘side-by-side’ or ‘UTV’. The guided tour takes guest up forested roads, over rocks and roots, and into the complete wilderness of Cougar Mountain. You’ll be amazed at what the RZR can do and where it will take you! With three tour options – Alpine Sunrise, Wilderness Ride, and the BC Tour, this Whistler activity will keep you smiling from start to finish.
How to Book: Online or by phoning 604-262-9833.
Treetop Adventure Course
Unleash your inner monkey on the Treetop Adventure Course on Cougar Mountain, a ten-minute drive from Whistler Village. The Treetop Adventure Course features 70 different obstacles from rope swings to balance beams that reach heights of up to 60 feet above the forest floor.
Rise to the challenge and experience the canopy from an elevated perspective. Participants must be able to reach to 180 cm or 5’11” to do the full course, or there is a kids course for ages 7-13.
Whitewater Rafting
There’s no better way to view Whistler’s beautiful surroundings than from a raft on the river. From the scenic and mild Cheakamus River perfect for families to the fun and bouncy Green River, see why whitewater rafting in Whistler is the best way to cool down in the summer. Experienced rafting professionals will guide you down the river (with a bit of your help paddling, of course!) and if you’re lucky, you may even see some of Whistler’s local wildlife!
How to Book: Online at or by phoning 604-262-9833.
Top 5 Super Canadian Activities in Whistler – When it Rains
The sun can’t shine every day! Here are some options to keep you dry when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Rainy? Why not get your competitive spirit going with some axe throwing?
Axe Throwing
The most ‘Canadian’ activity you’ll ever do – embrace your inner Lumberjack and throw some axes! Learn how to handle an axe from qualified axe throwing gurus before taking part in fun games and competition, similar to darts (or another Canadian classic – curling) but with axes of course. Drop in for an hour of fun with engaging and energetic hosts sure to get you hooked on the hottest new sport.
How to Book: Online or by phoning 604-262-9833.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
Discover the spirit of partnership between two Nations who have lived in the area since time immortal – the Sk̲wxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation, Coast Salish) and Líl̓wat7ul (Lil’wat Nation, Interior Salish) Nations. The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (or, SLCC) offer hourly guided tours run by Cultural Ambassadors from the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations to guide visitors through cultural exhibits including a short film, a welcome song, and a cedar bracelet making station.
How to Book: Purchase admission online or walk in (open Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Whistler Museum
Located in the centre of Whistler Village is the Whistler Museum and Archives. Come discover Whistler’s history and unique mountain culture. The Museum offers a variety of exhibits year-round and admission is by donation.
Visit: The Museum is located at 4333 Main Street, behind the Whistler Public Library and Florence Petersen Park. Open from Friday to Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Thursdays from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
The Perfect Poutine
Originating from Quebec, poutine is the combination of hot crispy french fries, squeaky cheese curds, and savoury gravy. It is the perfect dish after a long day on the mountain when you need that combination of carb-y salty goodness. The best place to get poutine in Whistler is at Zog’s: an outdoor food stand not far from the Whistler Village Gondola at the base of the mountain.
Try it!: Follow your nose towards the aroma of buttery fried onions and you’ll find Zog’s, likely with a line up of peckish poutine enthusiasts. With several varieties of poutine available, start with the classic and be sure to add their complimentary fried onions. Pack it up to go and eat it from the comfort of your hotel bed – because you can!
The Perfect Caesar
The Caesar was invented by a Canadian in 1969 and is a combination of vodka, clamato (clam and tomato) juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. It is served with a celery salt rim and with a celery stalk. Many restaurants and bar take it to the next level by adding all sorts of toppings from pepperoni sticks to pickled beans. Sound appetizing? To most Canadians of legal drinking age, it is – with over 350 million Caesars consumed every year. Some swear it is the ultimate hangover cure.
Try it: from the Beacon Pub in the heart of Whistler Village
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Whistler is filled with activities and experiences that embrace Canada’s beauty and charm. If it’s your first time visiting Canada, Whistler is a great place to pack a lot of ‘must do’s’ into one trip. With a mix of culture and history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, Whistler is sure to please even the most discerning palate – add Whistler’s many activities to your summer plans, you won’t regret it.