Weekend getaway in WHISTLER, BC 🏔️

Weekend getaway in WHISTLER, BC 🏔️

In this guide we'll be exploring all that Whistler has to offer, from its legendary ski slopes and snow-capped peaks to its lush forests, sparkling lakes, and vibrant village atmosphere. Whether you're planning a winter getaway filled with skiing, snowboarding, and après-ski fun or dreaming of a summer escape filled with hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor adventures, Whistler has something for everyone.
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Did you know that over two million people visit Whistler annually, primarily for alpine skiing and mountain biking?! In 2010 it even hosted the Winter Olympics.

Accommodations

Delta Whistler

This hotel offers very nice rooms and suites and the outdoor heated pool is a wonderful addition!

Delta Hotels Whistler Village Suites
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Whistler Peak Lodge

It is very well located and most rooms have a little kitchenette.

Whistler Peak Lodge - Whistler Vacation Rentals by Vacasa
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How to get to Whistler from Vancouver

I you don’t hire a car and drive up there yourself, the easiest and cheapest way I found was with Ride Booker. I took the shuttle at the airport and it was scheduled around my flight time arrival. I was also in contact with an employee who gave me clear directions by text message, it was perfect! The shuttle dropped me off at my Hotel and picked me up there on my way back to the Airport. It was about a 2h30 drive.

Activities

GO FOR A HIKE

Both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain offer over 50 kilometres of trails to practice your favourite activity.

You can even ride the chairlifts and gondolas to access trails that wind through a volcanic landscape surrounded by ancient glaciers and alpine lakes.

A very special hike is the “Train Wreck Hike”. The start is located on Whistler Quarry Road, a short drive from the village of Whistler. The hike follows the Sea To Sky Trail and crosses a suspension bridge, offering panoramic views of the Cheakakmus River before arriving at the brightly-covered wagons, which have been in the forest for nearly 65 years following a train derailment.

In 1956, a high-speed train loaded with wood derailed near the Cheakamus River in a section of the track that was under repair. Several of the destroyed train cars that blocked the tracks have been dragged through the woods and left to rust, and over the decades they have been reused by local artists and are now the centerpieces of this quite unique hiking and biking trail. 

Train Wreck Hike
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Another beautiful trail is the Fitzsimmons Creek.

Fitzsimmons Creek
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ATTEND AN EVENT OR A FESTIVAL

Whistler has so many events and festivals to offer such as Tough Mudder, Red Bull 400, Granfondo, Beer Festival, Cornucopia Festival, Writers Festival, Film Festival and so much more. 

Events & Festivals - Whistler
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PEAK 2 PEAK GONDOLA

At 1 427 ft above the valley floor, the PEAK 2 PEAK is the world’s highest lift!

At the top, you can enjoy a dinner on Blackcomb at Christine’s Restaurant.

Go to the very top by taking a chairlift after your gondola ride and access the Cloudraker suspended Skybridge located at the Top of the World Summit to have amazing views! The Skybridge will span 130m from Whistler Peak to the West Ridge, crossing high above Whistler Bowl.

Peak 2 Peak Gondola Whistler
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Christine's On Blackcomb
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At the summit of Whistler and in the village you'll be able to take a photo with the Olympic Rings!

Olympic Rings
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Standing proudly against the backdrop of Whistler's majestic mountains, the iconic symbol of the Inukshuk embodies the spirit of adventure, exploration, and connection to nature that defines this beloved mountain resort.

Originally crafted by Canada's Indigenous peoples, the Inukshuk serves as a guidepost, a marker of safe passage, and a symbol of community. In Whistler, the Inukshuk has become a cherished emblem, welcoming visitors from around the world and guiding them on their journey through the stunning landscapes of the Coast Mountains.

Inukshuk statue
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WALK THROUGH THE VILLAGE

Nestled at the base of the mountains, Whistler has a resort village unlike any other you’ve ever experienced! The pedestrian-only Village is huge and has lots to offer! It has an array of shops, cafés and bars, restaurants and a great nightlife. 

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MOUNTAIN BIKE OR SKI

Whistler is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts year-round, offering world-class opportunities for both mountain biking and skiing.

During the warmer months, Whistler's vast network of trails transforms into a mountain biking mecca, with over 70 trails catering to riders of all abilities, from beginner-friendly green trails to expert-level double black diamond descents. The park's extensive lift system makes it easy to access the best trails. Outside of the park, Whistler's surrounding forests offer endless opportunities for backcountry exploration, with scenic singletrack trails winding through lush forests and alpine meadows.

When the snow begins to fall, Whistler transforms into a winter wonderland, drawing skiers and snowboarders from around the world to its legendary slopes. With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain spread across Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.

Whistler Mountain
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RELAX AT THE SCANDINAVE SPA

Scandinave Spa Whistler offers a traditional Scandinavian baths experience in a natural environment. The spa is nestled on the edge of the Lost Lake Park spruce and cedar forest and the decor is enchanting!

Note that guests must be 19 and older. I suggest you book a massage as your access to the baths and robe rental will be included!

Scandinave Spa Whistler
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VALLEA LUMINA

Vallea Lumina is an incredible and magical multimedia light show and night walk through the forest of Cougar Mountain.

This experience invites guests into an enchanting universe, inspired by Whistler’s unparalleled natural beauty and local culture.

You have to purchase your tickets online since you have to choose a time at which you will go. A shuttle from Whistler Village will bring you to Vallea Lumina. 

Vallea Lumina
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BOBSLEIGH or PUBLIC SKELETON

Looking for a unique experience?! Located above Whistler Village on the side of Blackcomb Mountain, the Whistler Sliding Centre is a world-class bobsleigh, skeleton and luge facility. Public visitors can try Whistler's most unique activities, passenger bobsleigh (winter and summer) and public skeleton (winter). 

Whistler Sliding Centre
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JOFFRE LAKE

Not too far from Whistler you will find a stunning turquoise lake.

Joffre Lakes Park
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SQUAMISH LIL'WAT CULTURAL CENTRE

The Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre stands as a vibrant tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations, two Indigenous peoples whose traditional territories encompass the stunning landscapes of British Columbia's Coast Mountains.

Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre
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AUDAIN ART MUSEUM

The Audain Art Museum stands as a beacon of culture and creativity in this outdoor playground. Designed by renowned architect John Patkau, the museum's striking modernist architecture is a fitting complement to its world-class collection of art, which spans from ancient First Nations artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.

Audain Art Museum
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GO SHOPPING (My Faves)

3 Singing Birds

This store features local Whistler-made products, including handcrafted clothing and accessories. The store also carries products from Nootka & Sea, a Squamish-based company inspired by the natural healing of wild adventurers.

3 Singing Birds
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Ecologyst

Ecologyst  is an eco-conscious cafe and outdoor clothing store. The cafe offers a variety of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options made with sustainably sourced ingredients. 

Ecologyst - Whistler Cafe
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For a great little breakfast for to: CrĂŞpe Montagne on Main Street near the shops.

CrĂŞpe Montagne
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I hope you enjoy beautiful Whistler!

Marie - Mlle Wanderlust

Want to see more? Watch my Whistler vlog on YouTube:

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Hello everyone, I'm Marie, a Canadian 🇨🇦 in her 30's who’s excited to share her travel knowledge! Let me help you plan your upcoming trips! I have travelled to more than 35 different countries...and counting, and my travel videos have been viewed over 262 000 times on YouTube. Welcome to my Thatch Shop where I hope you’ll be inspired to discover the world!
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