A Whistler Weekend (winter)
I’ve been to Whistler a few times now and I’m never disappointed. I’m not so great at skiing but that doesn’t matter because Whistler has incredible alternatives for those who want to enjoy the snow without zooming down from the peaks!
I’ve compiled the activities I did which are all under $30 (unless stated otherwise). There’s an abundance of other activities, these are just the ones that I prioritised on my 2 day trip!
So let’s get into it …
Here’s where to stay (budget friendly)
Listen, accomodation in whistler is definitely expensive, even without the ski resort luxuries and addditions. BUT staying at the Pangea Pod Hotel was by far the best decision! Pangea Pod offers, you guessed it, Pods in dorm rooms with curtains for added privacy. It’s funky, in the centre of town with friendly staff and a cool vibe. When I stayed, there’s was a mixture of people who wanted to socialise and people who were just using it as a base to get some z’s - making it perfect for whatever kind of traveller you are!
🌺Book Here:
Budget friendly activities
❄️Walk to Lost Lake ($)
Head to Lost Lake Park to grab some snow shoes and your trail pass - super affordable ~ $20 inclusive (prices may have changed from 2019) and easily accessible from Pangea Pod Hotel by foot or shuttle
You’ll get a map and off you go! Just be careful of the cross country ski lanes and beware of wildlife, especially if you are hiking alone like me! Keep safe 🙌🏽There are lots of trails so make sure you remember which route you took!
❄️Walk to Alta Lake (Free)
This was one of my favourite trails to explore.
Head from Pangea Pod down through the village and join the trail head towards Alta Lake. The route I took was out and back the same way which was comforting as a lone hiker there for the first time - especially when the snow can mask the tracks.
You’ll spend some time on roads and some time through the forest. When you get to Alta Lake you can sit and enjoy your packed lunch from the picnic area. Remember to leave no trace and take your rubbish with you or place in bins provided ✅🥰
I also enjoyed seeing people play Ice Hockey on the frozen lake which is something you don’t see in Ireland, so that was a treat 🤩
❄️ Peak2Peak Gondola ($)
This is on the expensive side BUT in my opinion, well worth it (Roughly $75)
Route: Whistler Blackcombe - Peak2Peak - Whistler Blackcombe
-->What I did
I took the Blackcombe Gondola to Blackcombe Peak and admired the views🏔️
I then took the Peak2Peak Gondola to Whistler Peak where the Olympic rings are and a lookout! You can also enjoy a cold cider or a non alcoholic drink while you admire the views 😍
I then headed back down to Blackcombe to enjoy the markets and explore the shops on that side of town!
Walking back to Pangea Pod was super easy and if you like being active in the snow then all the steps are worth it!
❄️ Explore Creekside and Whistler Villiage Shopping (Free-ish 🤪)
So many shops to browse through with memorabilia and keepsakes
❄️Apres Ski Bars
Enjoy Apres Ski vibes with the skiers who’ve just arrived down from a hard days work 🏔️
Getting to Whistler
Getting to Whistler doesn’t have to be stressful, expensive OR require a car, I got you!
We love the ✨SKYLYNX✨ around here!!!!
🚌SkyLynx
💰Roughly $30
⏰2H30m / 3H one way
🌺perks: Sea to sky highway (stunning views), comfy, convenient, charging port & WiFi on board.
📍YVR Airport or Downtown Vancouver
You can get the SkyLynx from Vancouver Airport (international arrivals, bay 9) or you can join the SkyLynx Downtown (Hyatt Regency, Melville Street - conveniently by Burrard Station)
The bus will drop you off in Whistler Villiage (Gateway Loop) or Whistler Creekside.
PRICE: depends on season, day,time etc but a return was roughly $30
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