Planning a weekend in Whistler is an excellent destination for getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Known for world-class skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor activities, Whistler has something to explore for everyone.
As a local to Vancouver who has visited Whistler many times, I can help you with planning your weekend in Whistler.
A Weekend In Whistler
Whistler is worth visiting during any time of the year as it offers a balance of adventure and relaxation. Depending on when you want to visit Whistler will determine the activities you will be doing.
Whistler In Summer Weekends
Whistler is an excellent destination for a summer weekend getaway. Its stunning natural surroundings offer plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Friday – Explore the Village & ATV/UTV Tour
The first day, especially after a travel day, can be hectic. The best way to unwind is to explore the Village and get your bearings. Whistler Village has many retail stores, places to buy unique souvenirs and restaurants.
If you want something to do later in the day, ATV and UTV tours are fun for everyone to explore Whistler’s back country. Guided tours for ATV and UTV are available for all riders, from first-time and families, private tours to experts.
Saturday – Mountain Biking, Biking or Hiking
Mountain biking
Whistler is famous for its world-class mountain biking trails and extensive network spread over four zones. Many mountain biking competitions, such as the Crankworx Whistler Mountain Bike Festival, happen throughout the summer.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are trails for all skill levels. There are practice areas near the parking lots. I have seen many children practising their skills with their parents.
Biking
You can always rent a bike in Whistler along the Valley Trail and towards Lost Lake, where there are other paths to bike along or make a loop around the lake. Click here to see the available guided bike tours.
Hiking
Some of the most beautiful hiking locations in British Columbia are near Whistler. While most hikes around Whistler are considered moderate to challenging, there are easy hiking trails you can find. The hikes will mostly be outside Whistler, but they are easy to get to by driving.
Some popular hiking trails include the Joffre Lakes Trail (moderate) and Wedgemount Lake Trail (difficult). These trails offer breathtaking views of Whistler’s natural beauty, including lakes and mountain peaks. (You must purchase a provincial park pass to access these hikes).
Also, be aware that there are potential grizzly and black bears that may be around when you’re hiking in Whistler, especially on the more remote hikes. You can always opt for a guided hike with a professional guide.
Sunday – Lake Activities or Bear Viewing
Lake Activities
Whistler is surrounded by lakes and rivers, making Whsitler an ideal destination for different water activities. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards to explore the beautiful lakes and rivers. Or you can try whitewater rafting or jet boating for a more thrilling adventure.
Bear Viewing
While you may want to avoid encountering them in the wild, Whistler offers Bear viewing tours where you can see bears from the safety of 4×4 vehicles.
The tour will take you through Whistler Olympic Park to visit the resident black bears and their cubs. There are also points of interest where you can get out of the vehicle to take photos.
Whistler In Winter Weekends
In winter, Whistler transforms into a winter wonderland. There are many activities to do in Whistler in the winter. If you prefer not to do anything winter sports-related, do not worry. There are also things to do in Whistler in winter for non-skiers.
Friday – Explore The Village & Tubing
The first day, as I mentioned previously, can be hectic. So the best way to enjoy your travel day is to walk around and explore the Village. Whistler Village is decorated with Christmas lights in winter, so everywhere you walk will look magical.
Tubing
Tubing at Bubly Tube Park is fun for everyone of all ages. There are over 1,000 feet of snowy slides, multiple lanes, and a conveyor belt to bring you back up to the top.
If you happen to be arriving on the last Friday of the month, you’re in luck. Tube Park Activity Days is a fun thing that the park does for guests, featuring outdoor adventure games, music, fire pits, and more.
Saturday – Skiing or Snowboarding
Whistler is a world-renowned resort for skiing and snowboarding, and its reputation speaks for itself. With skiable terrain spread across two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, there are all levels of trails to experience.
There are some of the best ski-in-ski-out hotels in Whistler. Some hotels are right beside the ski lifts, and others are only a few minutes’ walk from the Village.
Lift Tickets And Rentals
Before hitting the slopes, you must purchase lift tickets and rent equipment if you do not have your own. Lift tickets can be purchased online or in person at the base of the mountain, and prices may vary depending on the time of year and length of your stay.
Rentals, such as skis, snowboards, boots, and other gear, are available at various locations in Whistler. Be sure to book your rentals in advance to ensure availability.
Ski and Snowboard Schools
If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, Whistler offers ski and snowboard schools. These schools provide lessons for all ages and skill levels, and experienced instructors teach them. Click here for more details.
Sunday – Ziplining & Ice Skating
Ziplining
Ziplining in Whistler during winter is an excellent option if you want something exhilarating but not too extreme. While you can also experience ziplining in the summer, doing it during winter feels more magical.
You will enjoy the panoramic views of zipping from tree to tree in a snowy forest. While I have not done ziplining in the winter in Whistler, I have done it in the summer, and I loved my experience. Click here to book.
Ice Skating
And if you’re looking for something to do during the evening, head down to the Winter Olympic Plaza, where you can enjoy outdoor skating surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights. Or you can go skating at the indoor Meadow Park Sports Centre, a National Hockey League (NHL) size ice rink.
Other Things To Do In Whistler
There are many other things to do and see in Whistler or near the area that you can add to your weekend or swap out.
Alta Lake
The biggest lake in Whistler, Alta Lake, is one of the most popular locations with outdoor water and lakeside recreation. Three public parks are connected to the lake: Rainbow Park, Wayside Park, and Lakeside Park.
Lakeside Park, on Lakeside Road, is the second largest park surrounding Alta Lake. There is a grassy area where you can picnic and access the lake and dock. There is also a concession hut called Backroads Whistler Boat Rentals and River of Golden Dreams Paddling Trips, where you can rent kayaks or canoes for the day.
Wayside Park is the smallest park and is mainly used as the starting point for renting kayaks and canoes at Whistler Eco Tours Wayside Park. However, there are three picnic tables that you can use.
Lastly, Rainbow Park is the largest park that surrounds Alta Lake. It’s the most popular location for those visiting the lake. There is a dog park, sand volleyball courts, and a shuttle from Whistler Village during the summer only.
There is also a concession stand for renting kayaks and canoes, picnic tables and barbeques.
During winter, you can walk around the lake loop on snow-covered trails, and the lake is usually frozen over.
Axe Throwing
If you want something fun with friends or family (children must be 10+ years of age), check out Forged Axe Throwing in Whistler. There are options for one to three hours, private or non-private options.
Train Wreck Trail
A local tourist attraction before you enter the Whistler Village area is the Train Wreck Trail. The easy one-hour hike has views of the rushing water of the Cheakamus River flowing under the suspension bridge as you cross.
As you continue along the trail, you will come across two box sites painted by people over the years. Many tree roots are along the trail, so be mindful of sticking out of the ground. If you continue, there are also more box sites, as seven are on the trail.
If you’re into mountain biking, there are ramps that are built for mountain bikers to use. The area can be busy during the summer months as it’s a popular tourist location.
Golfing
If you enjoy golf, Whistler has a couple of golf courses. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club and Whistler Golf Club (designed by Arnold Palmer) are the two courses in Whistler.
Both courses have beautiful forest and mountain scenery. As a precaution, black bears have been seen on both golf courses. Keep your distance and wait for them to leave if you see them.
Where To Stay In Whistler
When planning your weekend getaway to Whistler, you will have various accommodation options, from Whistler’s best ski-in-out ski hotels to budget-friendly hotels. Staying in Whistler can get expensive depending on when in the year you visit.
Best Hotel For Winter – Fairmont Château Whistler
The Fairmont Château Whistler Hotel is a luxury hotel that is perfect during the winter because it’s located right at the base of the Blackcomb Ski Lift. There is also a full-service spa, ski valet, outdoor hot tubs, and other excellent facilities. Click here to check the latest rates, and here to see the reviews on Tripadvisor.
Best Hotel For Summer – The Crystal Lodge
The Crystal Lodge is in an excellent spot in Whistler Village. It’s popular among couples and families and easily accessible to the lifts if you’re here to mountain bike. Click here to check the latest rates, and here to see the reviews on Tripadvisor.
Best Budget-Friendly (Year-Round) – Pangea Pod Hotel
The part hostel, part hotel is an excellent spot for those seeking a budget-conscious option. Again, in a fantastic location in the Village, you can sleep in a pod (with shared common areas) or a suite. Click here to check the latest rates, and here to see the reviews on Tripadvisor.
Travelling To Whistler
Whistler is easily accessible by car or shuttle from Vancouver. If you’re flying into the Vancouver International Airport (YVR), you can take a shuttle directly to Whistler. It will be approximately two to three hours.
Alternatively, suppose you want to avoid travelling by shuttle. In that case, you can rent a car and enjoy the stunning scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) at your own pace and stop at many popular locations or viewpoints.
If you rent a car during the winter, be sure to check if it has winter tires. It’s mandatory to have winter tires on the Sea To Sky Highway from October 1st to March 21st.
In addition, remember that winter snow and black ice can make driving more challenging, so check the weather and road conditions before departing.
How To Get Around Whistler
If you’re travelling to Whistler without a car, public buses operate from Whistler Village to Whistler Creek and the neighbourhoods. However, the wait between buses is at least a 30-minute wait or longer, depending on the type of day and season.
Weather and Packing Tips
Whistler’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for various conditions. During winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, so bring warm layers, hats, gloves, boots, and a waterproof snow jacket.
Summer temperatures in Whistler can reach around 25°C (77°F) or higher. Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for walking around the Village or nearby trails.
Stops Along The Way
These are some popular stops in Whistler that you can check out.
Porteau Cove
Porteau Cove is a popular spot for people to stretch their legs, take pictures of the beautiful view of Howe Sounds, and explore the old dock. It’s also a popular spot for camping and scuba diving.
Britannia Beach
Britannia Beach is home to the old Britannia Copper Mine, which has been converted into a museum. The mine tour is an excellent tour to take children or anyone to learn about the old copper mine. The location has other attractions, such as panning for gold and gems and outdoor building exhibits.
Squamish
Squamish is the last stop and the halfway point between Vancouver and Whistler. While there are many other things to do in Squamish, I recommend using it as a pit stop. Cleveland Avenue is where all the best shops in Squamish are.
- Stawamus Chief: Popular and famous rock climbing spot. There is also hiking The Chief, but it will take the whole day.
- Sea To Sky Gondola: This popular tourist attraction will take you to the top of a mountain with beautiful views and other activities.
- Shannon Falls: Quick, easy trail that will take you to a stunning waterfall. You can see it from the highway on your right.
Conclusion
As you can see, you can make the most of a Whistler weekend whether you’re visiting in the winter or the summer. Ziplining through the forest or skiing down the slopes on Whistler Blackcomb is the ideal destination for a memorable weekend getaway year-round.
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This is on my bucket list!!!
I’m definitely putting this on my list for a winter vacation! Whistler looks amazing.
Aaah Whistler! I love it at all times of year. We don’t normally stay overnight in the winter as it is so expensive, but we often drive up for the day.
I LOVE the hikes even closer to Whistler than Joffre Lakes – like the musical bumps trail to Russet Lake, or Iceberg Lake or all the Garibaldi options… It’s such a gorgeous area isn’t it!? 😀
Whistler looks amazing, especially Whistler Village. It reminds me of a winter wonderland. Having been to Vancouver as you child, my goal is to return as an adult and it sounds like Whistler is just a few hours away and the drive is scenic. I especially love how you can get so much done in just a weekend!