Whistler is a town north of Vancouver, British Columbia, that's home to Whistler Blackcomb, one of the largest ski resorts in North America. Besides skiing and snowboarding, the area offers snowshoeing, tobogganing and ski jumping at the Olympic Park, a venue for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. The hub of Whistler is a compact, chalet-style pedestrian village at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.
Best Time to Visit Whistler, British Columbia:
Winter (December to February): Winter is the peak season for Whistler, as it's known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. Temperatures range from -5°C to -15°C (23°F to 5°F), with plenty of snow. The town transforms into a winter wonderland, offering skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snowshoeing, and après-ski activities.
Spring (March to May): Spring offers a quieter and more relaxed experience in Whistler. While you can still enjoy skiing in March, the weather gradually warms up, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The spring months are great for hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding nature.
Summer (June to August): Summer is an excellent time to visit Whistler for outdoor adventures. With temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, and exploring the stunning mountain trails. The Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain resorts offer a variety of activities, including scenic gondola rides and alpine hiking.
Fall (September to November): Fall is a serene time to visit Whistler, with the crowds thinning out and the fall foliage creating a beautiful backdrop. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). It’s a great time for hiking, biking, and enjoying the changing leaves without the summer crowds.
How to Get There:
By Air: The closest airport to Whistler is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), located about 2 hours away by car. From Vancouver, you can take a shuttle, rent a car, or use public transit to reach Whistler.
By Car: If you're driving, Whistler is accessible from Vancouver via Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99), a scenic route that offers beautiful views of the coastline and mountains.
By Bus: Pacific Coach Lines and other bus services operate between Vancouver and Whistler, making it easy to travel by bus if you prefer not to drive.
By Train: While there is no direct train to Whistler, you can take a train to Vancouver and then travel to Whistler by bus or car.
Top Attractions in Whistler, British Columbia:
Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort: The largest ski resort in North America, Whistler Blackcomb offers world-class skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter, and mountain biking, hiking, and scenic gondola rides in summer.
Peak 2 Peak Gondola: The Peak 2 Peak Gondola connects Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain, offering jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s the highest lift in the world and a must-do for visitors year-round.
Lost Lake: A stunning, serene lake just outside Whistler Village. It's perfect for swimming in summer and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in winter.
Whistler Village: A pedestrian-only village filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. It’s a great place to stroll, enjoy local food, and soak in the mountain atmosphere.
Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain Trails: These mountains offer a range of hiking trails suitable for all levels, providing incredible views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
Audain Art Museum: This museum showcases British Columbia’s art and culture, featuring First Nations art, modern art, and other exhibitions related to the region’s history and natural beauty.
Scenic Drives and Views: Explore the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, which runs between Vancouver and Whistler, offering spectacular views of the ocean, mountains, and waterfalls.
Zip-lining: For a thrilling adventure, try zip-lining through the forests and mountains of Whistler. This is an exciting way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Whistler Blackcomb Alpine Gardens: These beautiful gardens on the top of Whistler Mountain offer breathtaking views, and they’re accessible via gondola in summer.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre: This cultural center showcases the art, culture, and history of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. It's a great place to learn about the Indigenous culture of the region.
Activities to Do in Whistler, British Columbia:
Skiing and Snowboarding: Whistler Blackcomb is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities, with over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. Whether you're a beginner or expert, the resort offers a variety of slopes.
Mountain Biking: Whistler is a top destination for mountain biking, with a vast network of trails for all levels. Whistler Mountain Bike Park is one of the best places to ride in the world.
Hiking: Whistler offers a range of hiking trails that take you through alpine meadows, forests, and up to spectacular mountain vistas. Popular trails include Garibaldi Lake, Joffre Lakes, and Whistler Mountain Trails.
Scenic Gondola Rides: Take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains, or try the Whistler Village Gondola and Blackcomb Gondola in summer for scenic rides.
Zip-lining and Aerial Adventures: For an adrenaline rush, try zip-lining through Whistler’s forests. Companies like Ziptrek Ecotours offer eco-friendly zip-lining experiences with spectacular views.
Golfing: Whistler boasts some stunning golf courses, including Whistler Golf Club and Nicklaus North Golf Course, offering scenic views and challenging fairways.
Dog Sledding: During the winter months, dog sledding is a fun and unique way to explore Whistler’s winter wilderness.
Whale Watching and Coastal Adventures: For those visiting in the summer, take a day trip from Whistler to explore nearby coastal areas and go whale watching off the coast of Vancouver.
Spa and Wellness: Whistler offers numerous spa and wellness options for relaxation after an active day, including the Scandinave Spa Whistler, where you can enjoy hot baths and massages surrounded by nature.
Shopping and Dining in Whistler Village: Whistler’s village is full of unique boutiques and top-notch restaurants, perfect for shopping and dining after a day of outdoor activities.
Accommodation in Whistler, British Columbia:
Fairmont Chateau Whistler: This luxury resort is located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and offers ski-in/ski-out access, a spa, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
The Four Seasons Resort Whistler: A five-star resort offering luxurious rooms, a full-service spa, gourmet dining, and easy access to both skiing and hiking.
Whistler Village Inn + Suites: A more affordable option, this hotel offers modern rooms and suites in the heart of Whistler Village, close to shops, restaurants, and the gondola.
Nita Lake Lodge: Located just outside Whistler Village, Nita Lake Lodge is a boutique hotel that offers lakeside views, a relaxing atmosphere, and access to outdoor activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Airbnb: For a more private experience, there are many Airbnb options in Whistler, including mountain cabins, luxury condos, and chalets.
Hostels and Budget Lodging: If you're traveling on a budget, there are several hostels in Whistler, such as HI Whistler, offering affordable accommodations with easy access to the mountains.
Food and Restaurants in Whistler, British Columbia:
Araxi Restaurant + Oyster Bar: Known for its fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, Araxi is one of Whistler’s top fine dining spots, offering an extensive wine list and contemporary Canadian cuisine.
The Bearfoot Bistro: This upscale restaurant offers an incredible selection of food, including fresh seafood, steaks, and a fantastic vodka ice room experience where you can chill in sub-zero temperatures.
Rimrock Café: A cozy, mountain-side restaurant known for its superb seafood, wild game, and upscale ambiance. It's one of the best places for a romantic evening out.
The Lift Coffee Company: A popular spot in Whistler Village, The Lift serves great coffee, breakfast items, and pastries, making it a great place for a morning stop.
Pasta Lupino: This Italian restaurant is a local favorite for pasta and pizza, offering hearty meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
Whistler Brewing Company: Enjoy craft beers brewed locally in Whistler at the Whistler Brewing Company. They offer a great selection of beers along with a relaxed pub atmosphere.
El Furniture Warehouse: A popular, budget-friendly option, El Furniture Warehouse offers great food at affordable prices, with items like burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
Portobello: Located inside the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Portobello is known for its delicious breakfast and gourmet sandwiches.
Local Culture in Whistler, British Columbia:
Outdoor Lifestyle: Whistler has a vibrant outdoor culture, with locals and visitors alike participating in skiing, mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The town is deeply connected to nature and adventure.
Indigenous Culture: Whistler is located on the traditional land of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, and both cultures are an integral part of the local community. You can learn about their heritage through art, storytelling, and cultural experiences.
Mountain Hospitality: Whistler residents pride themselves on their friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The town has a strong sense of community, with many events and festivals that bring together locals and visitors.
Arts and Festivals: Whistler hosts several arts and cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Whistler Film Festival and Whistler Village Beer Festival, celebrating the arts, film, food, and music.
Environmental Awareness: Whistler is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. Many businesses and organizations in town prioritize eco-friendly practices, and the community supports conservation initiatives in the surrounding natural areas.