20 Reasons Whistler is Better in Fall

 There are endless things to do in Whistler year-round, but the crisp temperatures and beautiful changing leaves make fall one of the best times to visit. As the days get shorter and the die-hards pray for snow, there are still many opportunities to see the best and most beautiful aspects of Whistler. 

Know Before You Go

With fewer crowds and less demand, sight-seeing on the actual mountain shuts down for now, mostly to prep for the winter ahead. Some businesses slash their hours or take extra days off, so make sure you check seasonal operation hours. 

But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t still endless things to do in Whistler this time of year! You’ll find fewer crowds, better deals, and a more relaxed atmosphere around the entire Village. 

20 Things To Do In Whistler This Fall Season 

So, if you are visiting this fall, what should you get up to in Whistler?

1.Zipline Through The Cool Fall Forest on Cougar Mountain

One for the adrenaline junkies, ziplining is an epic way to see the beautiful valley surrounded by epic mountains. 

• Great for couples, the whole family or even solo, Whistler has multiple tours to suit all of your adrenaline needs. 
• Superfly has multi-line tours making it easy to pair up with another adventurous soul in your group. 
• Prices start at $129.99 and tours run rain or shine or snow! 

2. Indulge and Experience Whistler’s Cornucopia

Cornucopia takes over November in Whistler and has a long list of food tastings, cultural events, informative talks and of course, wine! 

• Curated for the foodie who likes to have fun, the two-week event is jam-packed with things to do. 
• Ranging from $40 to upwards of $250 for the most high-end tastings, you can choose one of the events or even try to tackle all of them! 

For a complete guide to Cornucopia, check here.

3. Experience Complete Serenity at Scandinave Sp

Nothing beats an outdoor spa when the weather is cold and sunny. Treat yourself to a day at the Scandinave Spa without the peak summer/winter crowds. Plunge in cold pools, relax in hot tubs, stretch in the solarium-anything that rejuvenates you can be found at the Scandinave. 

• Located just 2km up the road from Whistler Village
• Bath access starts at $85 as of November 1, 2019

For a full rundown of what to expect and why the spa is one of the favourite things to do in Whistler, take a look at our ultimate guide to Scandinave.

4. Eat at Whistler’s Top Restaurants For Less

The beauty of the “dead” or “shoulder season” (the time when summer has wrapped up and the snow has yet to arrive), is that many local businesses put on specials to drive business Monday-Thursday. You can find five-star multi-course meals for a fraction of the price at high-end hot spots such as:

• Araxi
• 21 Steps 
• Mexican Corner
• Sushi Village and more!

5. Hike, Hike, Hike 

Wander the valley floors, and visit the highest peaks before the snow flies.

Hiking is definitely a top activity to do in Whistler this fall.  As crowds dwindle and temperatures drop many run for inside. But October and November may be the best time to hike some of the best spots.

•  With less demand, you’ll be more likely to get that perfect insta shot. 
• Make sure to check conditions beforehand and dress in layers. 

For the best fall hikes, check out our local’s guide to October and November hiking.

6. Get Stoked for the Snow With Feature Films

While we all anxiously await the first big snowfall and opening day, the pros and daredevils are busy editing together their best and most jaw-dropping footage from last year. Teasers of new videos, challenges and adventures are enough to get even the stuck-in-summer folks wishing for winter to hurry up! Films often premier at The Conference Center and make for an ideal cheap night for the snow junkie. 

• Tickets range between $10 to $20
• Often advertised via Whistler Facebook events and groups 

Check the events pages in the Pique for specific scheduling.

7. Get Off-Roading Before the Snow Comes

Whether by ATV or RZR Buggy, exploring the mountains on a 4×4 is like no other. With tours ranging from the very beginner to expert, there is something for everyone. 

For those who want to enjoy the experience but are not comfortable driving, a Razor Tour is perfect as you can sit back and relax while someone else drives. 

• Prices range from $180 to $250. 
• Tours are are even more fun in the rain. 

8. Enjoy The Entire Park To Yourself for Sunset 

As the days get shorter and colder, people have packed up their BBQ’s for the summer and spend less time lazing around the lakes, as they are not comfortably swimmable anymore. 

This is the perfect opportunity to grab some blankets, hot chocolate and your favourite person and watch nature’s free film: the sunset behind the mountains and over the lakes. 

Local’s Tip: Rainbow Park and Lost Lake are local’s favs. Try taking a time-lapse! 

9. Get Those Ski Muscles Loosened Up At Nita Lake

One of Whistler’s favourite local spas is Nita Lake. The full service spa provides manicures, pedicures, and facials. It also provides a range of massage options, including registered massage therapy treatments. Nita’s RMT’s will have you relaxed and ready for the season. 

• Offering a $99 massage in the off-season.
• Enjoy access to their hot baths, saunas and amenities before and after your massage. 
• Nita Lake Lodge is located Creekside. Close to all the amenities. If you are hungry after your relaxing appointment, check out the Cure Lounge, an excellent option for dinner and drinks right onsite.

10. Keep The Party Going on a Bar Hop

Although numbers are down in the fall, the party never stops in Whistler, and partying is one of the most fun things to do in Whistler. Join outgoing, energetic locals on Bar Hop as they take you to all the best spots. Your $60 ticket includes:

• Complimentary cover.
• Skip the lines.
• Coat check.
• A drink at each bar.
• 3 to 5 stops at the best local pubs and clubs.

  Great for groups and, of course, 19+. 

11. See The Valley From a Bird’s Eye View 

Helicopter tours are next level, and in fall offer some of the most spectacular views you could ever ask for. While a bit more on the splurge side, experiencing Whistler by air is like no other experience and is worth every penny. 

• Make sure to check the weather and pick a day with minimal cloud cover.
• Lots of different options to best suit you, starting at $179 per person.

 Everything you need to know about seeing Whistler from above is a click away.

12. Get Lost in the Magic of Vallea Lumina

Mystical adventures await you and the little ones along the trails.

An outstanding, award-winning multimedia walk in the enchanted forest of Cougar Mountain, Vallea Lumina has been so successful the past two years that The Adventure Group has created a winter version. Opening for the first time at the end of November 2019, it has the entire town talking.

For the media, art and story lover, Vallea Lumina takes you on an hour adventure featuring intricate music, thousands of sparkling lights and an engaging story. 

• Showtimes beginning when the sun sets, so fall is a great time to go as quieter times and more available time slots allow you to have a private experience.
• Prices start at only $25.

13. Skip Lunch to Make Room for the Hidden Gems Tour

If you’re a foodie but can never decide where to eat, the Hidden Gems Dinner Tour is a great option for you. You’ll enjoy four full courses at an assortment of high-end restaurants, specifically curated by locals. 

• Get off the beaten track with incredible dishes
• No wait time,
• Great value at $109 per person.
• Perfect for a date night or for a celebration.

14. A Photographer’s Dream Landscape

Everyone knows the colours of fall are absolutely stunning, and coupled with the epic mountains, Whistler is one of the most picturesque places ever, and capturing this is one of the best things to do in Whistler. 

Whether you’re an amateur with an iPhone or a professional, fall is the perfect time to capture stunning landscapes and portraits. Grab a picnic and make a day of it. You might even capture a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Local’s Tip: The golf courses are stunning at this time of year, and you may even catch a late-to-hibernation bear on camera! 

15. Classic Date Night With Dinner and a Movie

Village 8 Cinemas in the village features new releases each week. The convenience of 3 Below right next to the theatre is perfect for a classic dinner and a movie date. Fall is a great time to cozy up for a movie, and it won’t break the bank either as 3B offers a dinner and movie deal! 

• In a central location in Whistler Village.
• Typically a $25 dinner and movie offer.

Local’s Tip: In the mood for a matinee or earlier night? Swing by Earl’s happy hour from 3 to 5 pm for great food and drink deals, it’s a stone’s throw from the theatre. 

16. Sip Seasonal Craft Beers at Local Pubs

The arrival of a new season excites the craft beer lovers as it means it’s time for the seasonal taps to change! Moving away from fruity and summer beers, local pubs introduce a multitude of beers to match the season. A self-guided pub tour in the village will introduce you to Chestnut Ales, sweet chocolate porters, and anything else that tastes like fall. 

• The village has more than enough bars within walking distance for you to spend the whole day tasting.
• Expect to pay $6 to $12 for a sleeve.

17. Get in the Lumberjack Spirit With Axe Throwing

Finally, an activity where the  toque and plaid shirt are a wise choice! You don’t need to move into a wood-stove heated house to have fun with an axe this fall. 

• Forged Axe is located in Function Junction, which is a rustic, laid back environment  10 km south of the village.
• Local experts will teach you all the tricks of the trade-no experience necessary.
• Monday to Thursday is only $37 per person for an hour.
• Forged Axe Throwing offer’s group rates and full-book outs.

Spend the afternoon chucking axes and getting to know Function Junction, great for a staff party or corporate event.

Local’s Tip: Stop by Whistler Brewing Company down the road when you’re finished for some of the aforementioned seasonal beers!.

18. Try Your Hand at Fly-Fishing

Fall makes for great fly fishing around Whistler.

Fall is the perfect time to experience the art of fly fishing, as there is excellent fly-fishing in the sea to sky corridor. Before the lakes start to freeze, try something new this fall. Knowledgeable guides take even beginners with no experience through an exhilarating day of learning. To find out what to expect, check out our run down on fly-fishing. 

• Private sessions start at $250, and group options begin at $179 per person.
• Dress for the weather, it’s often a bit chilly and always a bit wet.

19. Get Prepped for Spring Climbing

Not everyone loves the winter, some are anxiously waiting for spring as soon as the first flake falls. Avid mountain climbers can keep their skills sharp and generally have fun with Whistler’s only indoor climbing wall at The Core Climbing and Fitness. As well as a fully equipped gym, the Core has climbing difficulties for all ages. 

• Youth drop in is $15, and adult is $18.
• All rental equipment is available. 
• Wednesday is local’s night.
• Located in the heart of Whistler Village.

20. Practise Your Figure Eights at Meadow Park

While the lakes aren’t typically safe to hold our weight in November, an afternoon drop-in at Meadow Park is the perfect way to sharpen your skills before winter comes. Meadow Park offers:

• Regular drop-ins.
• Skate rentals and sharpening.
• Discounted pricing on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Skating is a great family activity and a great way to stay in shape during the seasonal slow down.

…

So, there you have it. Put the rumours to rest that there isn’t much to do in Whistler in “dead season.” Fewer crowds, discounts, stunning landscapes and the return of cozy clothes, Whistler is the place to be this fall.