Ski resort town in British Columbia's Coast Mountains. Year-round destination for winter sports, mountain biking, and hiking. Pedestrian village with shops and restaurants.
Whistler, located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, is a year-round destination known for its alpine scenery and outdoor activities. The town is home to Whistler Blackcomb, a major ski resort, as well as numerous hiking trails, lakes, and a central village with shops and restaurants. You can experience thrilling winter sports, enjoy summer activities like mountain biking, or take in mountain views from the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Whistler offers a range of experiences for those seeking an active mountain getaway.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler Blackcomb is North America's largest ski resort, covering over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain across two mountains. The resort receives an average of 11.6 meters of snow annually, creating excellent conditions for winter sports. You'll find runs for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging double black diamond runs. The lift system, including the Peak 2 Peak Gondola connecting Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, helps reduce wait times. For those interested in exploring untouched snow, you can book heli-skiing or cat-skiing excursions to access remote backcountry areas.
Summer Activities in Whistler
In summer, Whistler becomes a hub for warm-weather activities. The Whistler Mountain Bike Park attracts riders with its extensive network of trails for various skill levels. Hikers can explore over 50 kilometers of trails, from easy walks around Lost Lake to challenging alpine routes. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola operates year-round, offering views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and valleys. To cool off, you can visit one of the area's five lakes for swimming, paddleboarding, or relaxing on the beach.
Exploring Whistler Village
The center of Whistler is its pedestrian-only village, located at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. As you walk along the cobblestone streets, you'll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations. The village has high-end boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and art galleries featuring local artists. In the late afternoon, many bars and restaurants offer specials and live music during "après-ski" hours. The Audain Art Museum is worth a visit, housing a collection of British Columbian art, including works by Emily Carr and contemporary First Nations artists.
Wildlife and Nature Experiences
Whistler's natural setting allows you to observe local wildlife in their habitat. You can join a bear viewing tour to safely see black bears foraging in the mountain forests. The area is also home to marmots, deer, and various bird species. For a more immersive nature experience, visit the nearby Callaghan Valley to explore old-growth forests and subalpine meadows. In winter, this area has cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, while in summer it's popular for hiking and viewing wildflowers.
