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

Located just two hours north of Vancouver, Whistler is one of the world’s most popular ski resorts. Canada’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. 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. 

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. 

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. 

You’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, you’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 Whistler’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. Here’s our pick of the most exciting apres-ski activities available:

Go Axe Throwing

Yes, Canada’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 Whistler’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.

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

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? You’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!

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. 

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, there’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 that’s not for the faint-hearted. 

Snowmobiling

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

Dining Picks

All this adventure is sure to help you work up an appetite, and you’ll be pleased to know that you don’t have to look far to satisfy those cravings. Whether you’re looking for something intimate and romantic, indulgent and satisfying, or quick and tasty, you’ll find an abundance of restaurants and eateries sure to please.

If you’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. There’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. 

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

Got a sweet tooth? Then you’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. You’ll need to hurry though, these treats don’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 you’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! 

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 there’s a wide range of packages available too – perfect for treating yourself or a loved one. 

For the yoga-lover, Whistler plays host to Wanderlust Festival each summer – a celebration of all things yoga. Throughout the winter months, you’ll find frequent yoga classes taking place at Yogacara Whistler alongside pilates at Whistler Core. It’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, you’ll be able to find a hotel, condo, apartment or hostel to suit you. 

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

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

Don’t forget to check out the range of homes and condos available on Airbnb if you truly want to stay like a local. 

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. 

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

Getting Here

Travelling by air? Chances are you’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 you’d expect, Whistler gets pretty chilly. Pack plenty of layers and a good pair of walking boots. There’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 & What’s On

Tourism Whistler update their events and festivals page regularly, so it’s well worth checking what’s on before you travel. Festivals run throughout the year, and there’s an event for everyone, celebrating everything from yoga to cycling. 

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!

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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 miles 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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