Whistler steals your heart the moment you hear that first crunch of ice underfoot. Looking up you’ll find the village blanketed in snow, transporting you to a scene from a fairytale; there’s something about Whistler that just warms the soul. The snow was falling as we arrived and it made our first few moments that much more magical. As you get to know Whistler you’ll also come to appreciate why it is a popular destination and a beloved home for the ski season with Whistler winter activities aplenty. But for those visiting these magical mountains in the hotter months, this guide includes what to do in Whistler in summer too.
A beautiful clear day on Whistler Mountain Canada. Image © Skye Gilkeson
Getting to Whistler
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- The entry rules for Canada have recently changed and you may now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) or a visa. Find out whether you need either here.
- The snow season runs from November until April with plenty of activities running throughout the rest of the year for locals and visitors alike. Check Whistler deals.
- Vancouver International Airport is the closest airport to Whistler. Whistler is about 2.5 hours drive north of Vancouver. The trip will fly by as you savour the incredible natural scenery along the Sea to Sky Highway from the mountains to the ocean and beautiful forests.
Whistler Transfers
Bus
Pacific Coach Lines | Greyhound
- Pacific Coach Lines offers daily services between Vancouver and Whistler. The Whistler Express service runs daily between December and April and (with fewer trips) between April and December from downtown Vancouver to Whistler village (or specific hotels for an added cost). The YVR to Whistler departs from the Vancouver airport (it’s more expensive) and takes you to Whistler village. The buses also have wifi. The Pacific Coach desk is located near the bottom of the escalator at International Arrivals.
- Greyhound also operates between Vancouver and Whistler. Pre-book online for a cheaper fare and book the Express service for wifi access, extra leg room and to reserve your seat so there is no aggressive sprinting competition when the coach arrives. They also offer ride and ski packages.
Shuttle
- We got to Whistler from Vancouver with Epic Rides, a local mini bus service. Our driver was super friendly and it was much cheaper than other services that we spotted online at about $35 CAD return. You even get one free date and time change if you decide to stay on longer in Whistler (which happens a lot). They do not offer pick ups from the airport, so you will need to take a train to a pick up location instead.
- If you are coming direct from a flight the Whistler Shuttle might suit. It is more expensive than Epic Rides but picks you up straight off your flight and takes you straight to the village, so it’s more convenient for airport arrivals. Book at least 72 hours in advance to secure their wait time guarantees.
Car
- Hire an SUV at the airport and drive out to Whistler. This is a great idea if you are travelling as a family, staying outside of the main village or you want to head out exploring (especially in summer). Make sure you factor in parking costs when budgeting (most hotels charge extra for parking, per day).
- Avis and Budget have offices in Whistler for those who want to arrange a one-way hire or you change your mind and need a car once in the village.
- Check the weather and road conditions before you start your trip here.
- Find and book a parking station in Whistler here.
Related: Whistler Dining Guide
Skye and The Hubby enjoying an Olympic moment on Whistler Mountain. Image © Skye Gilkeson
What to do in Whistler Canada
Make your first afternoon in town the time to get organised while strolling the village. Buy your lift passes, book lessons, organise gear hire or bike rentals, get hiking maps, check the weather forecast and pick up some groceries or snack supplies from the village. Whistler Visitor Centre is a good place to start.
Cultural Activities in Whistler
The Cultural Connector is a scenic pathway and bikeway that links six cultural Whistler institutions; Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (First Nations history), Whistler Museum (Pioneer history and the resort), Whistler Public Library, Maury Young Arts Centre, Lost Lake PassivHaus (2010 Winter Games), Audain Art Museum (below). A fun and active way to learn more about the areas history and development, perfect for families.
The 56,000 square-foot Audain Art Museum building is a work of art in itself. Designed by Patkau Architects, the museum is nestled a patch of spruces trees. Housing about 200 art works in their permanent collection, including works from the 18th century to present day. Open 10-5 daily (except Tuesday).
Book a spot on a tour of the Prior Factory Tour. Held every Wednesday at 5.30pm and every Saturday at 5pm see how their boards and skis carefully handcrafted on site. A local business, Prior has been making all of their premium products on site since 1990. I bought The Hubby a custom board from Prior many years ago and he is madly in love with it. They have demo boards and skis available for about $25 CAD per day if you’re tempted to buy your own.
Every Sunday night during winter the resort puts on a Fire and Ice Show in Skier’s Plaza. The show is free and features Whistler’s best skiers and boarders who show off their skills accompanied by fire spinners, a DJ and fireworks display. Grab a cocktail and a spot on the deck at Garibali Lift Co to enjoy the show.
Related: The Ultimate Banff Travel Guide
The Hubby, Andrew enjoying a perfect day on Whistler Mountain, Canada. Image © Skye Gilkeson
Whistler Winter Activities
Pre purchasing your Whistler Blackcomb lift tickets (min. 3 days in advance) could save you anywhere from $19 CAD to more than $500 CAD, so it’s worth buying them before you arrive. There are special multi-mountain passes, season passes and discounts for Canadian, US Washington State and Oregon State residents.
Thrill seekers can slide the newly opened baseboarding route at Whistler Olympic Park. Start with a little guidance on the 200 metre training hill and then tackle the 1.5 kilometre course. Offered on weekends and holidays, snow permitting. Check these safety requirements first.
Snowshoeing is a great family activity, particularly if you aren’t a skiing family. For the advanced, book into the Eagle Summit Tour where you’ll be taken through the stunning Callaghan valley.
Take on Callaghan country with a local guide on a cross country skiing tour. Ski Callaghan Nordic Centre has more than 130 kilometres of trails to explore. Locals consider the Callaghan the pick of the area for cross country.
Immerse yourself in a full alpine experience with a snowmobiling tour. Canadian Wilderness Adventures offers a 3 hour après tour of the mountains up to 6000ft. The tour includes a stop at the rustic Crystal Hat with a panoramic view over the valley and the village.
Related: Banff to Columbia Icefields: An Epic Road Trip
The Hubby exploring an abandoned bridge during a hike in Pemberton, outside of Whistler, Canada. Image © Skye Gilkeson
Whistler Summer Activities
While Whistler winter activities are in abundance and centre around things to do in Whistler village, there are so many things to do in Whistler in summer too. Some are in the village, others are things to do around Whistler, while others are adventures that require a Whistler day trip to the surrounding mountains or waterways. Here are a few must-do activities in summer as recommended by a local.
Alpine Hiking | Summer Tickets
The Alpine trails on Whistler and Blackcomb are a hikers dream. There are trails to suit all levels and each is accessed initially by jumping on the Village Gondola using a sightseeing ticket. While you are up there you can catch the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for some additional stunning vistas on the same ticket. Make sure you hike the High Note Trail for incredible views from beginning to end. Don’t forget your GoPro. Lost Lake Park is another popular