Whistler Beyond the Slopes: A Summer & Fall Guide

Whistler gets a lot of press as a ski resort, and rightly so — but between May and October it turns into a completely different mountain playground, and one that costs roughly half what a ski week does. Here's how to do Whistler when the snow melts.

Get up high The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola links Whistler and Blackcomb mountains in an 11-minute ride across a valley 436 metres below. The view alone justifies the ticket; do the loop and stop at the suspension bridge on the Whistler side. Hikers can take the gondola up and walk down the High Note Trail — a half-day alpine classic with glacier views.

Mountain biking Whistler Bike Park is world-famous, with lift-served trails from beginner green runs to pro jump lines. Never ridden downhill? Book a half-day intro lesson — the gear and coaching are excellent.

Hike the alpine Beyond the High Note, try the Comfortably Numb trail, the Rainbow Lake route, or the easy Lost Lake loop right from the village. Wildflowers peak in late July and early August.

Relax in Scandinave Spa A stack of outdoor hot and cold pools tucked in a spruce forest a few minutes from the village. The hydrotherapy circuit — hot soak, cold plunge, sauna, repeat — is the best post-hike recovery in the province.

Paddle the River of Golden Dreams A flatwater paddle through the wetlands between Whistler and Blackcomb. Rent a canoe or SUP; you'll see beavers, bald eagles, and the back side of the peaks.

Eat in the village Whistler's restaurant scene punches above its weight. Look for the farm-to-table spots on the quieter side of the village, and the après patios that stay sunny until late summer evenings.

When to go July and August for the fullest trail network and warmest weather; September for thinner crowds, fall colours, and cheaper rooms; October for crisp hikes and the first dustings of snow on the peaks.