“Whistler Travel Guide | Canada’s Top Ski and Summer Destination”

Introduction to Whistler

Located just two hours north of Vancouver along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, Whistler is one of Canada’s most iconic travel destinations—renowned for its world-class skiing, vibrant village life, and stunning natural beauty. As the proud host of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler offers a perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and culture, making it an ideal destination for travelers year-round.
 

From skiing the legendary Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains to mountain biking, spa retreats, and Indigenous cultural experiences, this alpine resort is much more than a ski town—it's an unforgettable escape into the heart of British Columbia’s wilderness.


Why Visit Whistler?

Whistler is a dream destination for:

Winter sports enthusiasts (skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling)

Adventure seekers (ziplining, mountain biking, hiking)

Luxury travelers (5-star hotels, spas, fine dining)

Nature lovers (lakes, alpine trails, wildlife)

Families and couples looking for a memorable escape

Whether you're chasing powder or soaking in alpine views from a mountaintop gondola, Whistler delivers four seasons of magic.


Top Attractions in Whistler

1. Whistler Blackcomb – A Skiing & Snowboarding Paradise

Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America, offering over 8,100 acres of terrain, 200+ marked runs, and some of the longest ski seasons on the continent.

Winter Highlights:

Powder skiing and heli-skiing for advanced riders

Ski schools for all levels (including kids)

Snowboarding terrain parks

On-mountain dining with panoramic views

Tip: Book lift passes early to save and avoid peak-season lines.


2. Whistler Village – Heart of the Action

At the base of the mountains lies Whistler Village, a pedestrian-only hub brimming with energy, charm, and amenities.

What to do:

Browse boutique shops, local art galleries, and gear stores

Enjoy fine dining, après-ski bars, and casual cafés

Attend festivals, markets, and free outdoor concerts

Relax at cozy fire pits or elegant hotel lounges

Stay: Choose from luxury hotels like the Four Seasons Resort or family-friendly options like the Pan Pacific Whistler.


3. Peak 2 Peak Gondola – An Aerial Marvel

This record-breaking gondola connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountains and offers jaw-dropping 360° alpine views.

Ride above deep valleys and ancient glaciers

Explore alpine hiking trails in summer

Take photos from glass-bottom cabins (select rides)

Enjoy mountaintop dining at Rendezvous Lodge or Roundhouse Lodge

This is one of Whistler’s signature experiences, ideal for all ages.


4. Scandinave Spa Whistler – Wellness in the Wilderness

Tucked in a tranquil forest setting, Scandinave Spa offers an oasis of calm with its Scandinavian-style hydrotherapy circuit.

Soak in hot baths, cold plunges, and eucalyptus steam rooms

Enjoy professional massages and peaceful lounging zones

Digital detox – silence and nature take center stage

Perfect after a day on the slopes or trails.


5. Lost Lake Park – Year-Round Outdoor Escape

Just a short walk from the village, Lost Lake is a favorite for:

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter

Swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking in summer

Forested bike and hiking trails year-round

Great wildlife spotting and mountain views

Families and nature lovers will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.


Whistler in Summer – Adventure Beyond the Snow

Whistler isn't just a winter paradise—it’s one of Canada’s best summer adventure destinations.

Mountain Biking Capital of Canada

Whistler Mountain Bike Park is world-famous, attracting riders of all levels

70+ trails, technical descents, and beginner zones

Summer bike festivals and competitions (e.g. Crankworx)

Rentals and lessons available onsite

Hiking & Trail Running

Discover alpine meadows, lakes, and wildflowers

Popular trails: Garibaldi Lake, Joffre Lakes, Train Wreck Trail, and Brandywine Falls

Guided tours available for all abilities

Golf in the Mountains

Tee off at championship golf courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer.

Nicklaus North Golf Course

Whistler Golf Club

Big Sky Golf Club (nearby Pemberton)

Ziplining, Rafting & Canoeing

Ziptrek Ecotours: Zipline over rivers and forests

Whitewater rafting on the Green River or Elaho-Squamish River

Canoe the River of Golden Dreams, a scenic and serene paddle route


Cultural Experiences in Whistler

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

Discover the deep Indigenous roots of the region through:

Guided tours by First Nations cultural ambassadors

Traditional drumming, carving, and weaving demonstrations

Authentic Indigenous cuisine at Thunderbird Café

Audain Art Museum

A stunning architectural space housing:

Contemporary BC art

Historical works by Emily Carr

A celebrated collection of Indigenous masks

Art lovers will appreciate Whistler’s creative spirit here.


Events & Festivals

Whistler’s year-round event calendar adds life and culture to every visit:

Whistler Pride and Ski Festival (January) – One of the world’s leading LGBTQ+ ski weeks

World Ski & Snowboard Festival (April) – Skiing, music, fashion, and art

Crankworx (August) – The world’s premier mountain bike competition

Whistler Film Festival (December) – Celebrating cinema from Canada and beyond

Whistler Farmers’ Market (May–October) – Local food, crafts, and family-friendly fun


Where to Stay in Whistler

Luxury

Four Seasons Resort Whistler – 5-star alpine luxury with spa and fine dining

Fairmont Chateau Whistler – Ski-in/ski-out elegance at Blackcomb base

Mid-Range

The Westin Resort & Spa – Spacious suites with full kitchens

Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites – Central, modern, and family-friendly

Budget

HI Whistler Hostel – Affordable stays with communal vibes

Aava Whistler Hotel – Comfortable and stylish without the premium price


Where to Eat in Whistler

Whistler’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, with options ranging from gourmet to casual.

Top Restaurants:

Araxi – Farm-to-table fine dining with oysters and seafood

Bearfoot Bistro – Sabering champagne and nitrogen cocktails

Alta Bistro – Sustainable ingredients and creative plates

El Furniture Warehouse – Budget-friendly meals with big portions

Creekbread – Wood-fired organic pizzas in Creekside


Best Time to Visit Whistler

SeasonActivities
Winter (Nov–April)Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, après-ski
Spring (April–June)Hiking, spa, wildlife watching, shoulder-season deals
Summer (June–Sept)Mountain biking, hiking, golfing, festivals
Fall (Sept–Nov)Quiet beauty, fall colors, art & food events

Tip: Fall and spring offer great value with fewer crowds.


How to Get to Whistler

From Vancouver:

By car: 2-hour scenic drive via Sea-to-Sky Highway (Hwy 99)

By shuttle: Year-round services from Vancouver Airport or downtown hotels

By private transfer: Custom luxury SUV or van transport

Nearest airport:

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) – Major international hub


Travel Tips for Whistler Visitors

Book accommodation early, especially during ski season and summer

Pack for all weather – Mountain conditions change quickly

Buy lift passes online for best prices

Plan activities in advance, especially for spa, bike park, or fine dining

Stay in Creekside for a quieter, more local feel


Plan Your Whistler Adventure With Us

At [Your Company Name], we create unforgettable Whistler journeys customized to your travel style:

✅ Luxury ski and spa packages
✅ Summer adventure tours
✅ Romantic weekend getaways
✅ Family-friendly itineraries
✅ Cultural and Indigenous experiences

Let our local travel experts design your perfect alpine escape—so you can focus on creating memories.

📞 Contact us today to get started with your Whistler trip!