Things to Do in Whistler
Whistler is North America's biggest ski resort and a year-round mountain destination just two hours from Vancouver, with two connected pedestrian villages at th…
Whistler is North America's biggest ski resort and a year-round mountain destination just two hours from Vancouver, with two connected pedestrian villages at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. From the Peak 2 Peak Gondola to the mountain bike park, there is more to do here than any single trip can hold. This guide covers the best things to do in Whistler for every kind of traveller, from the must-see icons to the free trails, the family-friendly stops, the romantic corners, the outdoor adventures, the rainy-day refuges, the seasonal highlights and the best day trips beyond the village.
What to do in Whistler
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Top things to do in Whistler
Start with the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the record-breaking cable car that connects the summits of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, and the Whistler Village Gondola for the ride up. In summer, ride the Whistler Mountain Bike Park (one of the world's best) or hike the High Note Trail. In winter, ski or snowboard Whistler Blackcomb, and visit the Scandinave Spa Whistler for a hydrotherapy soak. Stroll Whistler Village for the shops, restaurants and the après-ski scene, and walk the Valley Trail to Lost Lake for a quiet forest swim.
Free things to do in Whistler
The Valley Trail is a free network of paved paths connecting Whistler Village, Lost Lake, Alpha Lake and Creekside, great for walking, running or cycling. The Lost Lake trails are free to hike, and the Lost Lake beach is free to swim. The Whistler Farmers Market (summer Sundays) is free to browse, and the Whistler Olympic Plaza and the village are free to wander. The Fit Park outdoor fitness area is free to use.
Things to do in Whistler for families
Families love the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the Family Adventure Zone (with mini-golf and the Westcoast Slide), and the Whistler Mountain Bike Park's kids programs. The Lost Lake beach is a summer family favourite, and the Valley Trail offers an easy, car-free cycle. In winter, the Whistler Kids ski school and the outdoor skating at the Whistler Olympic Plaza are hits with kids.
Things to do in Whistler for couples
Couples should book a sunset ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, a soak at the Scandinave Spa Whistler, and a dinner in Whistler Village. Hike the High Note Trail for alpine views, and rent a canoe on Alta Lake for a quiet, romantic paddle. In winter, a horse-drawn sleigh ride on Lost Lake and a torchlight ski descent make the trip feel special.
Outdoor activities in Whistler
Whistler is an outdoor capital. In summer, hike the High Note Trail, the Garibaldi Provincial Park trails and the Wedgemount Lake trail; mountain bike the Whistler Mountain Bike Park; and paddle the River of Golden Dreams. In winter, ski Whistler Blackcomb, snowshoe the Lost Lake trails, and try dog sledding or snowmobiling. The Valley Trail offers easy cycling, and the Via Ferrata on Whistler Mountain offers a guided climb.
Rainy-day activities in Whistler
Whistler's indoor options include the Scandinave Spa Whistler for a hydrotherapy soak, the Whistler Museum for local history, and the Whistler Village cinemas. The Audain Art Museum offers a striking collection of Indigenous art, and the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre (in the upper village) offers Indigenous culture and a café. The Whistler Village restaurants and the Meadow Park Sports Centre offer indoor downtime.
Seasonal activities in Whistler
Summer (June–September) is the high season for hiking, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola and the mountain bike park, with long days and wildflowers. Fall (October–November) brings larch colour and quieter trails. Winter (December–March) is for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, with the World Ski and Snowboard Festival in April. Spring (April–May) brings the Cornucopia food and wine festival and quieter slopes.
Day trips from Whistler
Drive to Vancouver (2 hours) for the city and the airport, to Squamish (45 minutes) for the Sea-to-Sky Gondola and the Stawamus Chief hike, and to Pemberton (30 minutes) for farm stands and the Nairn Falls. The Garibaldi Provincial Park (30 minutes) offers alpine hikes and the turquoise Garibaldi Lake, and the Whistler-Blackcomb backcountry offers heli-skiing and cat-skiing for the adventurous.
Day trips from Whistler
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Where to stay in Whistler
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Whistler?
Three to four days is ideal for a ski trip or a summer hiking trip, with a day for the Peak 2 Peak Gondola and a day for the mountain bike park or a valley trail. Add a day if you want to include a backcountry hike or a Sea-to-Sky road trip.
What is the best time of year to visit Whistler?
Summer (June–September) is the high season for hiking, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola and the mountain bike park. Winter (December–March) is for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, with the World Ski and Snowboard Festival in April. Shoulder season (April, November) offers the lowest rates and fewer crowds.
Do I need a car in Whistler?
Not really. The free Whistler Transit shuttle connects Whistler Village, Blackcomb, Creekside and the outlying neighbourhoods, and the village itself is pedestrian-only. A car is useful for day trips to Squamish, Pemberton and Garibaldi Provincial Park, but parking in Whistler Village is limited and paid.
What are the best free things to do in Whistler?
The Valley Trail is a free network of paved paths for walking, running or cycling, and the Lost Lake trails and beach are free. The Whistler Farmers Market (summer Sundays) is free to browse, and the Whistler Olympic Plaza and the village are free to wander.
Is Whistler good for families?
Yes. Families love the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the Family Adventure Zone (with mini-golf and the Westcoast Slide) and the Whistler Mountain Bike Park's kids programs. The Lost Lake beach is a summer family favourite, and in winter the Whistler Kids ski school and the outdoor skating at the Whistler Olympic Plaza are hits.
How do I get from Vancouver to Whistler?
Whistler is about 2 hours north of Vancouver along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99). Epic Rides and YVR SkyLynx offer scheduled shuttles from Vancouver and the airport to Whistler Village, or you can rent a car for the most flexibility.
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