The Best Things to do in Whistler, Canada: The Insider’s Winter Guide

by Rachael Hopwood
Things to do in Whistler - Winter wonderland in Whistler Village, Canada

Located just two hours north of Vancouver, Whistler is one of the worldโ€™s most popular ski resorts. Canadaโ€™s ultimate winter wonderland, this mountain village comes alive during the winter months, as snow falls readily and snow-worshipers flock here from around the globe. But there are more things to do in Whistler than ski.ย Whether you are spending a month or just a long weekend in Whistler, this guide to activities, food, accommodation, and of course snow sports, is sure to prove essential.ย 

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Great Snow Sports

Whistler is a mecca for skiers and snowboarders everywhere, and the Whistler Blackcomb Mountains have all the makings of the perfect ski or snowboarding trip. Whether an Olympic skier or brand new to snow sports, the snow quality, terrain, and facilities make this a welcoming and well-equipped place to get your fix.ย 

Skiing deep powder in Whistler, Canada

Skiing deep powder in Whistler
Photo by Mike Crane via Tourism Whistler

Vail Resorts Inc., has just announced three new lifts for Whistler Blackcomb for the 2018/19 season. The first upgrade is a 10-seat gondola replacing the Wizard and Solar chairlifts on Blackcomb Mountain. The next is a six-passenger speed lift replacing the Emerald Chair in the family ski zone on Whistler Mountain. Lastly, the triple-passenger Catskinner chair will be replaced with a four passenger, high-speed lift on Blackcomb Mountain. As a result, these changes will create the first three-gondola connection anywhere in the world.ย 

Skiing in Whistler, Canada

Enjoying a nice, groomed slope in beautiful Whistler
Photo by Justa Jeskova via Tourism Whistler

Youโ€™ll need to purchase lift or season passes before heading for the slopes, and something like the Epic Pass comes highly recommended. Priced at around $899 USD, youโ€™ll receive unlimited and unrestricted access to Whistler Blackcomb, as well as 65 world class resorts across North America and Australia.

Things to do in Whistler for Non-Skiers

Despite Whistlerโ€™s reputation as a great place to ski, non-skiers are more than well catered for with an array of activities away from the slopes. Hereโ€™s our pick of the most exciting apres-ski activities available:

READ ALSO
The Best Things to Do in Banff in Winter Besides Skiing and Snowboarding

Go Axe Throwing

Sign for Forged Axe Throwing

Sign for Forged Axe Throwing. Get your fix here!
Photo via Forged Axe Throwing

Yes, Canadaโ€™s alternative to darts involves hurling an axe down an alley with the intent of hitting a bullseye. There really is something hugely entertaining and addictive about this very different pastime that will unleash the inner lumberjack in you and your friends. As Whistlerโ€™s only indoor axe throwing venue, Forged Axe Throwing has earned itself a reputation for being THE place to learn how to throw in style, and the team will be on hand to provide safety talks, teach you plenty of tricks, and stir up the fun.

Woman with an axe at Forged Axe Throwing

Getting focused to make that perfect axe throw!
Photo via Forged Axe Throwing

Man throwing an axe at Forged Axe Throwing

What do you think? Will that axe hit the target, or is he off?
Photo via Forged Axe Throwing

Travelling with a group? Why not check out the group packages ideal for celebrating an occasion, or compete in your own axe throwing tournament?ย 

A group of people having fun at Forged Axe Throwing

You can have a blast with a group of family and friends at Forged Axe Throwing!
Photo via Forged Axe Throwing

Try Zip Lining

What better way to see all of Whistler than from a 600 feet high zip line above the treetops at Superfly Ziplines? Youโ€™ll scoot across the zip line at speeds of 100 km/hour (62 mi/hour), taking in the jaw-dropping views of frosted conifers and staggering mountain cliffs. Just awesome!

Ziplining in Whistler, Canada

Ziplining in Whistler is as exhilarating as it is beautiful!
Photo via Superfly Ziplines

Dog-Sledding

For a truly Canadian winter experience, jump on board a dog-sled and mush your way through the fresh snow drifts behind a team of eager Arctic sled dogs. This is a great family activity, and is an ideal way to really immerse yourself in this Whistler winter wonderland.ย 

Dogsledding in the Callaghan Valley, Canada

Dog-Sledding in the Callaghan Valley with Canadian Wilderness Adventures
Photo by Mike Crane via Tourism Whistler

Bobsleigh & Skeleton

Whistler played host to a number of events back in 2010, during the Vancouver Winter Olympics. While you may not be an actual Olympic athlete, thereโ€™s nothing stopping you from experiencing the thrill of sliding. The Whistler Sliding Centre has all you need to get started on this adrenaline-fueled activity thatโ€™s not for the faint-hearted.ย 

Flying on the ice at the Whistler Sliding Centre

Flying on the smooth ice at the Whistler Sliding Centre
Photo via Destination Canada

Snowmobiling

Trade the skis and snowboards for something a little quicker, and hop on board a snowmobile at Blackcomb Snowmobile. Youโ€™ll explore the Whistler wilderness at speed, hurtling across fresh snow and taking in the unparalleled views and wildlife found here.ย 

Snowmobiling in Whistler, Canada

Getting ready for an exciting snowmobile ride
Photo via Destination Canada

Dining Picks

All this adventure is sure to help you work up an appetite, and youโ€™ll be pleased to know that you donโ€™t have to look far to satisfy those cravings. Whether youโ€™re looking for something intimate and romantic, indulgent and satisfying, or quick and tasty, youโ€™ll find an abundance of restaurants and eateries sure to please.

If youโ€™re seeking the best delicious game or seafood in British Columbia, look no further than the Bearfoot Bistro. A real favorite among the locals, each dish is prepared to an exceptional standard by Executive Chef Melissa Craig, using the very best seasonal ingredients. Thereโ€™s even a Ketel Ice Vodka Room in the same building, so you can check out over 50 different vodkas before you leave and take a totally Instagrammable selfie on the way out.ย 

Dom Perignon Dinner at the Bearfoot in Whistler, Canada

Dom Perignon Dinner at the Bearfoot in Whistler
Photo by Mike Crane via Tourism Whistler

Vodka Room at the Bearfoot Bistro in Whistler, Canada

Vodka Room at the Bearfoot Bistro in Whistler
Photo by Mike Crane via Tourism Whistler

For a European twist, head to Bar Oso where youโ€™ll enjoy a delicious selection of Spanish small plates. The peach sangria is a must-try too.

Got a sweet tooth? Then youโ€™ll need to make a beeline for the Purebread Bakery. Famous for their delicious and indulgent creations, choose from savory croissants, delicious fruit pastries, and Nutella cream buns to name just a few. Youโ€™ll need to hurry though, these treats donโ€™t stay around for long.

Craft Beer

Craft beer is a big deal right now. Grab your friends and head for the Whistler Brewing Company or Coast Mountain Brewing where youโ€™ll find a delicious selection of complex, flavorful and sessionable beers – you can even tour the brewery. It’s a really great way to pass an afternoon if the snow is falling!ย 

Well-Being

After all that action, soothe your aching muscles at the Scandinave Spa with a hot tub or massage, or rejuvenate the skin with a heavenly treatment. Bath access at the spa costs just $70 until October 31st, and then $79 from November 1st, and thereโ€™s a wide range of packages available too – perfect for treating yourself or a loved one.ย 

Scandinave Spa in Whistler, Canada

Scandinave Spa exterior on a beautiful snowy winter day
Photo via Scandinave Spa Whistler

For the yoga-lover, Whistler plays host to Wanderlust Festival each summer โ€“ a celebration of all things yoga. Throughout the winter months, youโ€™ll find frequent yoga classes taking place at Yogacara Whistler alongside pilates at Whistler Core. Itโ€™s the ideal way to enjoy a little relaxation before hitting the slopes again. Namaste!

Accommodation Picks

Whistler has accommodation choices to suit all needs and budgets, so whether you want to go all out or stay on a budget, youโ€™ll be able to find a hotel, condo, apartment or hostel to suit you.ย 

For luxury, choose from the Fairmont Chateau Whistler or the Four Seasons Resort, where youโ€™ll find lavish rooms, stunning window views and a whole host of amenities and dining options.ย 

Four Seasons Hotel in Whistler, Canada

The impressive exterior of the Four Seasons Hotel in Whistler
Photo by John Sutton via Johnsutton.com

Alternatively, for those looking for a base on a budget, the HI Hostel enjoys a useful location perfect for mountain access. If youโ€™re travelling with a group, the Aava is another great option sure to satisfy everyoneโ€™s needs, ensuring youโ€™re right at the heart of the action.

Donโ€™t forget to check out the range of homes and condos available on Airbnb if you truly want to stay like a local.ย 

Fairmont Chateau in Whistler, Canada

Fairmont Chateau in Whistler
Photo via Tourism Whistler

New for 2018, the Pangea Pod Hotel sits somewhere between hotel and hostel, and the interior design is extremely impressive. The designer pod accommodation is affordable, social and in the heart of Whistler, and this new kid on the block is sure to be a hit this winter among those seeking to mix and mingle with other Whistler aficionados.ย 

Family on winter vacation

Family on winter vacation in Whistler
Photo by Justa Jeskova via Tourism Whistler

Wherever you choose to stay in Whistler this winter, be advised that itโ€™s best to book early. The sought-after accommodations tends to get booked up quickly.

Getting Here

Travelling by air? Chances are youโ€™ll be flying into Vancouver International Airport, from where Whistler is just a two hour drive. Pacific Coach Lines and Epic Rides operate daily, frequent shuttle buses from the airport and city of Vancouver, and a meet and greet service from the airport is also available through Whistler Shuttle.

What to Pack

As youโ€™d expect, Whistler gets pretty chilly. Pack plenty of layers and a good pair of walking boots. Thereโ€™s generally a laid-back vibe in most restaurants and hotels. You can hire ski and snowboarding equipment from a number of places including Spicy Sports and Affinity Rentals.

Festivals & Whatโ€™s On

Tourism Whistler update their events and festivals page regularly, so itโ€™s well worth checking whatโ€™s on before you travel. Festivals run throughout the year, and thereโ€™s an event for everyone, celebrating everything from yoga to cycling.ย 

Slopestyle skier in the Blackcomb Terrain Park

The AFP/Gibbon’s Life slopestyle and big air in the Blackcomb Terrain Park
Photo by Mike Crane via Tourism Whistler

So, are you ready to come to Whistler this winter? It is truly a place of great beauty, packed with so many attractions and so much fun! You will surely cherish the memories you create here…in this breathtaking Winter Wonderland!

READ ALSO
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Rachael Hopwood is a freelance travel writer and PR consultant with a love of the outdoors, adventure, good food and great shoes! Splitting her time between Canada and England, she is a keen skier, tea drinker and air milesย collector. Rachael writes regularly about Canadian travel and technology with a focus around Whistler, British Columbia.

Note: The photo at the beginning of the article is by Mike Crane via Tourism Whistler.


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52 comments

Laura 08/23/2018 -

I LOVE Whistler. This post made me want winter NOW! ๐Ÿ’—๐Ÿ’—๐Ÿ’—

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Thanks so much Laura! It is funny you say that because this is exactly what I was thinking when selecting the photos for this post! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Kimberly 08/23/2018 -

Whistler is definitely on our bucket list for skiing! What a beautiful place!

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Vessy 08/23/2018 -

Same for us! We would LOVE to go as soon as this upcoming winter! ๐Ÿ™‚ It looks awesome, and I hear the skiing is fantastic! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Jocelyn 08/23/2018 -

This looks magical! My bucket list includes dog sledding, and axe throwing looks like a lot of fun. Great ideas for things to see and do! Pinned for later!

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Thanks Jocelyn! I am so glad you enjoyed the post! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Tricia Snow 08/23/2018 -

Wow this is awesome! Thanks for sharing…. on my bucket listt

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Absolutely! It is such a worthwhile destination! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Ashley Reese 08/24/2018 -

Zip lining with snow sounds fun! Iโ€™ve been in warm weather but in cold weather sounds really fun too!

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

I knoooow…hopefully zip lining on a sunny winter day! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Monica 08/24/2018 -

This looks like a really fun trip. We’ve only done Niagara Falls and although it was nice I can see there is so much more Canada has to offer. Looks like a super exciting trip. MY husband and
I would have a blast.

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Oh, Canada is gorgeous…so much beautiful nature! Definitely plan a trip there! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Ina @ Crafty For Home 08/24/2018 -

Amazing view, my first destination is the hot spring, lol..

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Hihihi! I knoooow! It is heavenly soaking in the hot spring while enjoying the winter wonderland all around! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Christa 08/24/2018 -

I love vacations that allow the opportunity for so many activities! (I’m not good at relaxing.) I’ve never been to Whistler, but this looks beautiful and fun.

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Yessss…there is definitely a lot to do in Whistler, and you will not have a lot of time to relax…if you don’t want to! ๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚

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Michele Vadnais 08/24/2018 -

What an amazing trip! And so beautiful! I would love to do this one!

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

It is a winter wonderland! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Evelyn Hernandez 08/24/2018 -

We went to Whistler a few years ago, it was an amazing trip. Canada is beautiful.

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Awww…awesome! It is a beautiful area and a beautiful country!

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Naomi 08/25/2018 -

I would love to go skiing in Whistler in the Spring, I’m not brave enough to go during winter. Great post you inspired me to visit.

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Yesss! Spring sounds wonderful! I am also worried about really low temperatures! ๐Ÿ™‚

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T.M. Brown 08/25/2018 -

Honestly, if I were a cold weather person (just moved from Northeast to Southeast US), you would have convinced me that had to go on the bucket list. I’m not, however ~ but this place certainly looks like it has a plethora of options for the skier and non-skier alike. I’ve always wanted to zip-line, but the cold air on my face….yeah, that’s a deterrent. BUT – I can’t argue the fact that you certainly wrote an intriguing piece that should pique the interest of many.

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

I understand! I used to live up north, but moved all the way down to Texas for warmer weather. However, being in a beautiful place like this with the crisp, white snow is completely different than living through the winter in the city, and trying to get to your job, freezing every morning! ๐Ÿ˜‰ This, I LOVE! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Tiffany 08/25/2018 -

I am not a skier but I sure could get into many of the other awesome activities available in Whistler. Spa day? Yes please! Axe throwing and snowmobiling? Yup! Staying at the Four Seasons? Pick me!!!

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Vessy 08/31/2018 -

I knoooow! I love all of these activities myself…and the skiing! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Kesha 08/25/2018 -

I would absolutely love to visit here in the winter. The resort looks amazing and the activities seem so memorable.

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

It really is a Winter Wonderland…a fairy tale! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Annette 08/26/2018 -

Sounds like an amazing place to visit! Sooo many different things to do! It also looks like the North Pole. ๐Ÿ™‚

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Vessy 08/31/2018 -

Hahaha! It is amazing, indeed…but I don’t know about the North Pole! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Heidi 08/26/2018 -

It looks magical there!

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚

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Tina 08/28/2018 -

We love visiting ski resorts and Whistler is definitely on my bucket list! Been to Banff several times and love Canada but I do want to get to Whistler soon. Great post and pictures.

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Thanks Tina! I hope you visit soon! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Dawnmarie 08/28/2018 -

I think that I like just about everything that you shared about Whistler, and you have some fabulous pictures!

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

Awww, thanks so much Dawnmarie! I am so happy to hear that! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Kat 08/28/2018 -

Looks like there is something to do for everyone! I am so not ready for snow yet, but I want to go there at some point!

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Vessy 08/31/2018 -

I hear you! I don’t like the cold myself but when it comes to skiing, beautiful ski resorts and winter fun, I am totally in…and LOVE IT! ๐Ÿ™‚

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shanna 08/29/2018 -

yes! This looks like so much fun!

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Vessy 10/04/2018 -

๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚ ๐Ÿ™‚

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Dot 09/11/2018 -

This looks amazing! And I totally want to go “toss” an ax! Thanks so much for sharing, I have only been to Quebec for Winter Carnival. We will have to add This to our next spot!

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Vessy 10/03/2018 -

Awww, I am so happy you enjoyed it! I also want to give the ax throwing a try! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Missy Debnar 09/11/2018 -

Awesome!! I would like to do all of those activities!! I have never thrown an ax.

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Vessy 10/03/2018 -

The axe throwing looks hilarious! I would LOVE to try it! ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Sharyn Nilsen 09/11/2018 -

We’re heading to Whistler next month. I wonder if they’ll be snow already.

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Vessy 10/03/2018 -

Oh, how fun! Let us know what you discover! It may be a bit early for snow…but you never know! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Molly Callister 09/11/2018 -

Wow! Whistler is definitely added to my bucket list. Snowmobiling in such a gorgeous place would be heavenly!

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Vessy 10/03/2018 -

Isn’t it awesome!!! I am so happy to hear it is now on your bucket list! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Christina Vieira 09/11/2018 -

Vancouver and Whistler are on our bucket list! You have such great tips you bet your bottom dollar I bookmarked this for someday ๐Ÿ™‚

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Vessy 10/03/2018 -

Thank you so much Christina! I am so glad you found this helpful! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Jeannie 09/11/2018 -

A beautiful winter wonderland! Thanks for the post, it has reminded me that there are so many things to do in our area and beyond and winter doesn’t need to stop us!

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Vessy 10/03/2018 -

I totally agree Jeannie! There is something special in every season…Although I do admit, I moved down south because living where the winter was long and cold was too tough for me! I LOVE winter vacations in the beautiful mountains, though! It is soooo absolutely gorgeous! ๐Ÿ™‚

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