Whistler | A Different Kind of Adventure

Whistler is the home of adventure. From its snow sports in the winter to biking in the summer there is something available in all seasons. You really get to choose your own adventure in this town of ours. Prefer something a little more relaxing? Whistler has more to offer! With a little panning, you can always find great Whistler activity deals and you will never run short of choice.

Whistler is home to some of the best spas, hotels, and restaurants in British Columbia. Plus, because you are so close to the backcountry, wildlife spotting is a guarantee. 

This guide will help you make the most of your stay in Whistler no matter what time of year you visit. Read on for some of the best Whistler activities and find out why Whistler is the resort you need to head to on your next big Canadian vacation.

Why Whistler is Different Than Those Other Resort Towns

Go big or go home!

Let’s get some statistics out of the way first. As a winter resort, Whistler and Blackcomb have 36 lifts, plus the Peak to Peak Gondola connecting both mountains. There are over 200 runs, 3,307 hectares of skiable terrain and an average snowfall over 10 meters during the season. 

There are terrain parks on both mountains plus a half-pipe and snowcross run on Blackcomb. If your legs are up to it you can ski the longest run, which is of 11km on either mountain. The Peak to Creek on Whistler which is a varied blue run or Green Road into Easy Out on Blackcomb which is an enjoyable green.

When Spring skiing wraps up,, that only means bike season has started. Possibly the number one bike park in the world accessible by lifts, the trails head straight down into Whistler Village or Creekside (which is a new bike park addition for 2019) so you can aprés straight from the mountain. 

What makes Whistler different from other resorts? It is year round, there really is no down season. It may be a little quieter in Spring and Fall but the restaurants and nightlife do not stop but you might just be able to pick up some Whistler activity deals in the shoulder seasons.

Whistler | Four Season of Adventures

• Winter

  

  Ready, set, shred.

Where to start with winter Whistler activities? The skiing and boarding are sublime. The lifts are easily accessible from the main village, upper village and Creekside, with comfortable gondolas heading straight up the mountain. There are family-friendly runs, learner areas for beginners and plenty of restaurants to stop at when you need a break. 

Grab waffles at the Crystal lodge on Blackcomb, you will not be disappointed. For more experienced skiers and boarders, you will not be short of technical and steep terrain. If you have a need for speed get on the Dave Murray Downhill run. This is the second longest downhill run in the world dropping 3,300 vertical feet in just over a mile and a half. 

If you are ready to leave the lifts behind, the slack country and backcountry can be accessed from both Blackcomb and Whistler. Book a guided trip and head away from the resort in search of fresh powder and hidden runs.

For non-ski days, and for those of you who do not ski, do not worry, there are still plenty of winter activities in Whistler without having to strap on skis. Take a loved one out on a romantic sleigh ride through Whistler’s winter wonderland, or speed down the Coca-cola Tube park on Blackcomb. 

• Spring

Spring is the part of the year where you can probably do all activities in the same season. Spring conditions on the mountains for skiing and boarding, this could be another good time for that guided backcountry trip. 

But heading later into the season the biking and hiking trails open up, you can even look into taking to the skies for a Heli-tour over Whistler and the beautiful Coast Mountains. From short journeys above the backcountry to Heli-hiking and heli-yoga, there will be a helicopter ride for everyone. You can see a full list of heli-tours here.

• Summer

  

  Green, blue and beautiful all over

The biking season will be in full swing and Whistler will be back to its usual busy, fun and thriving self. You can shred in the bike park or hit the trails around Whistler. Rentals are available in the village, and you will also be able to pick up excellent tips from Whistler locals. We’ve got full details on rentals or guides. 

Summer can get very hot in the Sea to Sky corridor, so why not cool off with some White Water Rafting There are varying river trips for all abilities, from gentle cruising down class one rapids, to fast and furious class three and four.

Summer is also a fantastic time of year for wildlife spotting, and if you head to one of the golf courses, there is a high chance you will see black bears wandering around the green.

• Fall

Fall is a great time to be keeping an eye out for shoulder-season deals on Whistler activities. Wrap up and bring waterproofs as the weather could be wet, but do not let that stop you from booking onto a thrilling Zip Line adventure, or heading out to the freshwater for Sockeye Salmon fishing season. 

When you have finished your day’s adventure (or if you are taking the day off from activities) head to the Scandinave Spa just north of the main Village. This is the place to unwind and relax, then re-energize for tomorrow’s activity.

All Year round | Fine Dining and Drinks 

Whistler has some of the best restaurants and bars in the Sea to Sky corridor. Renowned for its nightlife and partying, you will also find delicious fine dining in the Village. Read on for suggestions of where to eat out in Whistler.

• Red Door Bistro
  

  Set the night off on the right foot with Red Door Bistro

This is the place to visit after a day skiing or biking in Creekside. Located on Lake Placid Road you will be able to sample delectable French-inspired cuisine by chef RD Stewart. We recommend the Wild Board or Mushroom Risotto, but any dish will be a guaranteed delight.

• Rimrock Cafe 

Situated off Highway 99 just after Creekside you will find this incredible restaurant and oyster bar. The food is exquisite and the staff will see to your every need. If you manage to visit Whistler in the Spring or Fall Rimrock offer fantastic deals on four course meals, a perfect addition to your Whistler activity deals you’ve already scored.

• Basalt Wine and Salumeria 

Found in the centre of the Village near the information centre you will find mouthwatering food and local wines picked by a knowledgeable team. Think of the highest quality cheese and most delicious meats. Basalt  will be a perfect venue for aprés with class

• Need an Apres?

For a place to lounge and aprés after a day of adventure check out the Crystal Lake Lounge, or for a lively atmosphere with excellent live music, head to the Dublinh Gate, directly opposite the Black Gondola in the main Village.

Other Adventures Not to Miss in Whistler

You will never be short of activities in Whistler, from heart-pounding bungee jumping over Cheakamus Canyon to more gentle activities like Night Walks along the Vallea Lumina and Bear Watching a good time is guaranteed. 

For days when the weather is wet and cold, or in summer to avoid the heat you can check out Axe Throwing with Forged, just outside the main Village in Function Junction too. Check out our full list of recommended activities here.

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Whistler, it is a different kind of adventure because it has all the adventure you could need, in such a convenient place. Whatever time of year you plan your trip, you will not be short of beautiful views of the Coast Mountains, daring adventures and thrilling activities, and fantastic places to eat. Whistler could be your next family trip, a romantic getaway or a place to celebrate a big event. Whistler is the place to be in any season, especially when you score Whistler activity deals!