32 Best Things to Do in Whistler in Summer

Whistler is a charming resort town set in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia north of Vancouver, packed with adventures and stunning natural scenery. It is a popular destination in both summer and winter and is certainly one of the best places to visit on your West Coast holidays!

There is no shortage of things to do in Whistler. During summertime, you can experience the famous Whistler Mountian Bike Park or the record-setting Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Explore scenic hiking trails and glaciers, visit waterfalls, relax by a lake, and go swimming or kayaking.

Whistler is home to a range of upscale hotels, spas, an outstanding selection of restaurants serving dishes with locally sourced ingredients, and a diversity of shops. There are so many thrilling things to do in Whistler; it is impossible to do it all in one trip.

How to Get To Whistler

Whistler is less than two hours from Vancouver via the scenic Sea to Sky Highway. There are multiple viewpoints along the way where you can stop and enjoy the picturesque vistas.

The “Sea to Sky Highway” is the name given to the section of Highway 99 from Horseshoe Bay to Pemberton. From Horseshoe Bay, the highway travels along the beautiful coast of Howe Sound. It continues to Lions Bay, Squamish, and Whistler and finishes in Pemberton.  

• Getting to Whistler by Car: The best way to experience Whistler is by car. It will give you the flexibility to explore the stunning Provincial Parks and other areas outside of Whistler. If you need to rent a car, you can do so in Vancouver. >>Book your Car Rental here

• Getting to Whistler by Bus: You can book an affordable bus from downtown Vancouver or Vancouver airport straight to the heart of Whistler. Once you arrive at the village, everything you need is within a short distance. >>Book your Bus to Whistler here

• Getting to Whistler by Seaplane: Fly in style from Vancouver to Whistler and marvel at the stunning vistas along the way. You will be treated to aerial views of the snow-capped mountains and the ocean. >>Book your Day Trip by Seaplane from Vancouver here

• Book a Day Trip to Whistler: You can book a full-day trip to Whistler from Vancouver. The tour includes a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish, a stop at Shannon Falls (the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia) and a visit to Whistler Village. >>Book your Whistler Day Trip from Vancouver here

Best Things to Do in Whistler in Summer 

For centuries, the Whistler Valley was hunting and berry-picking territory for the Squamish and Lil’wat peoples.

Nowadays, Whistler is known as one of the world’s best ski resorts, but there are tons of amazing things to do in Whistler in summer as well! In fact, you will have to make multiple trips to Whistler to experience everything it offers!

We live in British Columbia and have visited Whistler many times. In our list of 32 amazing things to do in Whistler in summer, we also include our pick of the best places to stay and eat. If you plan on visiting Whistler in winter, check out our post on 28 Epic Things to Do in Whistler.

Visit Brandywine Falls

Brandywine Falls is a must-visit during your trip to Whistler. It is a stunning 70-meter waterfall along the Sea to Sky Highway, just 17km south of Whistler village.

• Distance: 1.3 km
• Estimated Time: 25 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 56 m

Reaching the viewing platforms takes a 10-15 minute walk on a well-marked trail. Brandywine Falls Provincial Park is also a fantastic place for a picnic. The picnic area is near the parking lot, situated between trees. 

If you enjoy hiking, the park has several trails. One of them will take you to the Whistler Bungee Bridge. It is an easy 5.8-km out-and-back trail with some scenic views along the way. And if you arrive at the right time, you may see someone make the jump!

Hike to Garibaldi Lake

Garibaldi Provincial Park is diffused with nature’s splendour, snow-capped mountains, glacier-fed lakes and lush west coast rainforest. It is around a 25-minute drive from Whistler, along the Sea to Sky Highway.

• Distance: 18.2 km
• Estimated Time: 6-7 hours
• Elevation Gain: 972 m

One of the most popular hikes inside the park is the Garibaldi Lake, renowned for its beauty and stunning turquoise-coloured water. It is surrounded by spectacular peaks and alpine meadows. 

You can also camp by the lake, but remember to reserve your spot well in advance because it books up fast!

The two most visited trails from Garibaldi Lake are Panorama Ridge and Black Tusk. Panorama Ridge is a 13.5km hike with a 704 m elevation gain. It offers breathtaking views of Garibaldi Lake and surrounding mountains. 

Black Tusk is a 10.3 km hike with 831m of elevation gain and requires scrambling through a “chimney” with some exposure. It is recommended only for the experienced. If you have no intention of scrambling the Black Tusk, you can hike only part of the trail and enjoy the stunning views along the way. 

Go Ziplining

Whistler is surrounded by magnificent natural beauty, and one of the best ways to experience it is from a zipline. You can reach speeds of over 100 kilometres (62 miles) an hour while flying above rivers and large old-growth forests.

The Bear Tour is perfect for families and those who have never ziplined before. The Eagle Tour is the second-longest zipline in Whistler. You will soar through the air on five separate ziplines connected by a series of boardwalks. >>Book your Zipline Adventure here

Whistler is also home to North America’s longest zipline, called The Sasquatch. It spans a mind-blowing distance of over 2 km (7,000 ft) and 180 meters (600 ft) above the ground! It connects the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains and offers spectacular views of forests, lakes, peaks, rivers and glaciers. >>Book your Sasquatch Zipline Adventure here

Spend a Day Mountain Biking

In the summer, Whistler is a world-class mountain biking destination with hundreds of kilometres of trails and stunning mountain scenery. Biking revolves mainly around Whistler Mountain Bike Park, but one can also enjoy single-track cross-country trails located on Whistler’s Valley floor.

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is rated as one of the best mountain biking parks in the world. With more than 80 kilometres of lift-accessed trails, ranging from beginner to expert, you will find your favourite adrenaline-fuelled ride according to your skill level and preference.

Whistler’s cross-country trails are a good place to bike without spending money on a lift ticket. The trails vary in difficulty and skill levels and run through old-growth forests, over green hills and open valleys. 

You can rent downhill mountain and cross-country bikes in several locations throughout Whistler Village. If you want to hire a local guide to take you through the beautiful Whistler Valley, you can! High-performance mountain bikes and helmets are provided. >>Book your Half-Day Mountain Bike Adventure here

Take a Helicopter Tour Over Pristine Landscapes

Make your trip to Whistler extra memorable and admire British Columbia’s spectacular natural beauty from the air.

Take a helicopter flight over the rugged landscape of the Coast Mountains and soar high above rolling alpine meadows and turquoise glacial lakes. Marvel at ancient glaciers, impressive ice formations and waterfalls cascading through the countryside. 

This unique adventure promises an unforgettable experience that will take your breath away and leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. The helicopter tours run year-round. >>Book your Helicopter Tour here

Hike to Wedgemount Lake

Wedgemount Lake is another fantastic hike inside Garibaldi Park. It is steep and challenging but worth the effort! You will be rewarded with unbelievable views of Wedgemount Lake and the massive Wedgemount Glacier.

• Distance: 12.6 km
• Estimated Time: 6.5-7.5 hours
• Elevation Gain: 1362 m

The Wedgemount Lake is one of the most pristine, turquoise lakes you will ever see! You can camp at the lake for the night and scramble to the summit of one of the nearby peaks. About 20 wooden tent pads are scattered around the hut and the lake’s northern edge.

Take an ATV Tour and Explore the Backcountry

Venture off-road and discover the best of Whistler’s backcountry on a guided ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) tour. Experience a thrilling journey deep into the coastal region of British Columbia and explore the backcountry trails of the Brandywine Valley.

You will drive on various mountain trails, forest roads, and bush trails, stop at lookout points and enjoy incredible views of Whistler, Blackcomb and Black Tusk. Keep a lookout for wildlife, including deer, bears and eagles.

You will be provided with helmets, goggles and full rain gear. Drivers must be at least 19 years old and have a valid driver’s license. >>Book your ATV Adventure Tour here

Go Whitewater Rafting

Add some adrenaline to your vacation and try water rafting. Along the way, you can admire Whistler’s snow-capped mountains and deep valleys and spot wildlife.

You can choose from a Class 2 or 3 ride along the Green River just a few minutes north of Whistler Village to a more challenging Class 3-4 ride on the Elaho and Squamish Rivers. Paddle hard or hold on and enjoy the ride while certified guides navigate you safely through the rapids.

Wetsuits, helmets, life jackets, and booties are provided to keep you comfortable, rain or shine. Wear a bathing suit under the wetsuit and bring a towel and a dry set of clothes to change into after the trip. >>Book your Whitewater Rafting Experience here

Hike to Joffre Lakes

Spend a day among the splendour of mountains and turquoise lakes and recharge in nature. Joffre Lakes Provincial Park is located north of Whistler, past Pemberton.

• Distance: 7.4 km
• Estimated Time: 3 – 4 hours
• Elevation Gain: 491 m

The trail leads to not one but three stunning alpine lakes! You can hike up all the way to the magnificent Matier Glacier that sits above the Upper Lake. There is also a campground if you wish to stay longer. The best time to visit is from May until October.

If you are short on time, you can hike to Lower Lake, only a few hundred meters from the parking lot. That said, the Middle and Upper Lakes are, without a doubt, much more beautiful and scenic. 

Go Horseback Riding in Pemberton

Did you know that Pemberton has more horses per capita than any other area in British Columbia? Located only 33 kilometres from the Whistler Village, the Pemberton Valley offers countless options for horseback riding.

You can choose from gentle trails along the banks of the Lillooet River to longer journeys through mountains and valleys. 

The guided tours range from 1 hour to multi-day wilderness adventures and are suitable for all ability levels, from the beginner to the expert. >>Book your Horseback Ride in Pemberton here

Relax at the Scandinave Spa

There is nothing more soothing than a trip to the spa, especially after a long day of hiking. Inside the Scandinave Spa, you can relax your body and mind as you breathe fresh mountain air and immerse yourself in the hot and cold pools.

The Scandinave Spa is located in a beautiful natural setting on the edge of Lost Lake, surrounded by spruce and cedar trees, offering incredible mountain vistas. The experience includes eucalyptus steam baths, wood-burning saunas, hot and cold baths, and lovely relaxation rooms.

We spent an afternoon inside the spa on a rainy, cold winter day, and it was heavenly. The origins of hydrotherapy have a long history of soothing sore or inflamed muscles and joints, rehabilitating injured limbs, relieving headaches, promoting relaxation and stimulating the immune system.

Bike the Valley Trail 

Biking is one of the best ways to explore Whistler in the summer. The Valley Trail is a 40-kilometre paved pedestrian and bicycle trail that links some of Whistler’s beautiful parks, lakes, beaches and neighbourhoods. 

It is a multi-use network shared by cyclists, walkers, runners, dog walkers and skateboarders. You can use pretty much any type of bike on the Valley Trail, and if you do not have one, rentals are available in the Whistler Village.

Breathe in the fresh air, explore hidden gems and take in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains as you cruise around. Occasionally you might come across a bear; they are usually most active early and late evenings.

Whistler’s latest trend is electric biking, allowing you to explore the biking network without working too hard. It will help you cover a lot of distance without using as much energy. >>Book your eBike Adventure in Whistler here

Ride the World’s Longest Gondola

Experience Whistler’s mountain landscapes via the Guinness World Record-Breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Connecting the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, it is the longest unsupported lift span in the world, measuring 3.024 kilometres (1.88 miles). It is also the highest lift of its kind at 415 metres / 1,361 feet.

The gondola provides access to over 50 kilometres of amazing hiking trails and countless scenic vistas and viewpoints in the summer.

First, you will be transported up Blackcomb Mountain via the Blackcomb Gondola. Enjoy the stunning scenery, hike the alpine trails, or have lunch with a view. 

After exploring Blackcomb Mountain, take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola across the valley to Whistler Mountain. The ride takes about 11 minutes, and if you do not mind waiting a bit longer, you can catch a ride in the special glass-bottom gondola.

Once you are on Whistler Mountain, you can take the Peak Express Chair and catch a lift up to Whistler Mountain Peak, where the Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk are located.

Walk over the suspension bridge, hike the alpine trails, or try Via Ferrata. I will provide further information in the post.

From Whistler Mountain, you can take the Whistler Gondola back down to the Village. You can also make the trip in the opposite direction, starting at Whistler Gondola in Whistler Village and finishing on the Blackcomb Gondola in Upper Village. 

The 360 Experience pass will give you full-day access to all three gondolas, the Peak Express Chair and the Skybridge. >>Book your Whistler & Peak 2 Peak Gondola Tour from Vancouver here

Walk Over the Suspension Bridge on the Whistler Mountain 

The Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk are situated on Whistler Mountain. They are accessible via the Whistler Village Gondola and the Peak Express Chair from late June to mid-September. Entry to both is included in the ticket price. 

The suspension bridge is 130 metres (426 feet) long and crosses from Whistler Peak to the West Ridge, where Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk viewing platform is located. 

As you walk across the bridge, you can admire stunning views of Rainbow Mountain, Black Tusk and Coast Mountain Range. We recommend bringing some extra layers, as it can get chilly up there. Even in the peak summer, there is still snow around.

Explore the Alpine Trails

Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains are home to over 50 kilometres of alpine trails accessible from July. They range from easy to difficult. You will need to take the Whistler Gondola or Blackcomb Gondola or do the work and hike yourself.

Once in the alpine, you can explore many hiking trails, admire stunning views, smell wildflowers and spot wildlife.

Our favourite hike in the alpine is The High Note Trail, which offers spectacular views of Cheakamus Lake. You can view the trail maps for both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains here. 

Interesting Fact: The original name of Whistler was Alta Lake, but the settlers started to call the area “Whistler” because of the shrill whistle sound made by the western hoary marmots who live among the rocks.

Explore the Snow Walls on Whistler Mountain

Every year Whistler Blackcomb carves an incredible path through the several meters of snow left over from the winter, creating what is known as the Whistler Snow Walls. 

The best time to see the Snow Walls is from May to June or July, depending on the snowfall in the winter and how quickly it thaws in the spring. 

Take the Blackcomb Gondola and then Peak 2 Peak Gondola to Whistler Mountain. Look for Pika’s Traverse to Matthew’s Traverse Road, where the Snow Walls are located. You can view the trail map here. 

Before you go, make sure the gondolas are open, they change their hours depending on the season. 

Via Ferrata

Would you like to try rock climbing but do not have any experience? No problem! The ‘Via Ferrata’ tour will help you climb up Whistler Mountain while using safety cables and metal rungs, minimizing any risk if you lose your grip.

First, you will take the gondola. At the top, your guide will outfit you with a harness and helmet. The adventure will continue with hiking for 30-45 minutes across the base of a glacier. There will be a small scrambling section before you begin the climb. 

Halfway up the climb, you will stop for water, snacks and photos. Then you will continue climbing until you reach the mountain summit at 2160 meters (7,087 feet). Enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. >>Book your Whistler Via Ferrata Tour here

Canoe the River of Golden Dreams

Take a trip back in time and canoe or kayak through the Whistler Valley on the River of Golden Dreams (officially Alta Creek). Long before roads and highways were built, the original inhabitants used waterways as their primary method of transportation in this area.

Your journey will begin at Alta Lake and continue through the Whistler wetlands, down a scenic glacial river and finally out into magnificent Green Lake.

While you paddle, enjoy the picturesque surroundings, local wildlife and stunning mountain backdrop. The river is alive with fish and critters such as beaver and mink, and occasionally one can spot bears playing in the water.

The river is relatively shallow (changes with the seasons) and slow-moving, but you need to watch out for the corners. >>Book your Golden Dreams Canoe Experience here

Explore Whistler Village

One of the best things to do in Whistler Village is wander through the Village Stroll. It is the main street in the village, filled with boutique stores, art galleries, and gift shops. Lining the street, you will also find more than 200 amazing restaurants and eateries of every description. 

After you enjoy some food and shopping, you can visit the Olympic Plaza. There you will find one of Whistler’s most photographed spots, the Olympic Rings. The Plaza was the location of the medal ceremonies for Whistler events during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. 

There are also several coffee shops, a large playground for children and many benches to sit on and relax. It is a popular place to enjoy outdoor concerts in the summer months and skating in the winter. 

The easiest way to discover the top sights in Whistler is by booking a sightseeing tour. You will learn about the local community and stop at scenic spots like Green Lake Lookout and Lost Lake. 

The tour also includes visiting Whistler Blackcomb and Olympic Village and an optional stop at Whistler Brewing Company. >>Book your Whistler Sightseeing Tour here

Vallea Lumina

Vallea Lumina is a multimedia night walk through an enchanted old-growth forest in pursuit of secret wonders. The journey is inspired by a legend about a long-lost trail hidden between the trees that led to a valley where stardust fell from the sky, filling all living things with its pure light.

After the sun goes down, the journey will take you between the Rainbow and Cougar Mountains to the hidden valley. You will be charmed by the magical lights and sounds of the forest as you walk under the stars.

The total walking distance is 1.5 kilometres, and it takes about an hour to complete. You can watch the Vallea Lumina night walk video here.

Visit Alexander Falls 

Alexander Falls is a hidden gem nestled inside the pristine wilderness of the Callaghan Valley. Majestic, powerful, and captivating, this cascading wonder is a testament to the splendours of Mother Nature.

Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone needing peace and serenity, Alexander Falls will surely impress. The surrounding lush green forest and vibrant flora add to the enchantment. 

Alexander Falls is located near the Whistler Olympic Park, where the 2010 Olympic Nordic events took place. It drops 53 meters (173 feet) down a cliff in three steps.

You can view the waterfall all year round from a platform next to a large parking lot. In winter, you can snowshoe to the base of the falls to see them up close. 

READ MORE: Alexander Falls – A Hidden Gem Inside the Callaghan Valley

Relax by the Lake 

Beat the summer heat by jumping into one of the pristine lakes, fed with glacial water from the surrounding mountains. You will leave feeling relaxed and recharged.

There are five lakes in Whistler: Lost Lake, Alta Lake, Green Lake, Nita Lake and Alpha Lake. All of Whistler’s lakes are connected by the 40 km Valley Trail. 

You can bring a blanket and a book to spend the afternoon at the lake, picnic, or rent a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. 

Lost Lake

Lost Lake is the most popular as it is the closest to the Upper Village and is easily accessible via walking through a lovely pine forest. It is also one of the most scenic lakes in Whistler. Lost Lake is used for swimming, walking, hiking, and mountain biking in summer, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in winter. 

Alta Lake

The Lakeside Park and Rainbow Park on Alta Lake are great spots to relax, have a picnic and enjoy great views of both Blackcomb and Whistler mountains. Alta Lake is the warmest lake in Whistler, so it is a favourite place for swimming with locals. You can also paddle and kayak or play volleyball.

Green Lake

Green Lake is the largest of the five Whistler lakes, with a stunning turquoise colour and beautiful mountain scenery. It is an excellent place for kayaking, it offers year-round fishing, and you can also take a sightseeing tour by floatplane. Green Lake is the only lake in Whistler that allows motorized water sports, making it very popular for wakeboarding. 

Alpha Lake

Alpha Lake Park features a small sandy beach, kids’ playground, dog park, volleyball and tennis courts, picnic tables, and BBQ stands. It is an excellent place to take your dogs for a walk and enjoy the area with children.

Nita Lake

Nita Lake is a small lake in front of the luxurious Nita Lake Lodge. It is a beautiful lake with open views and a nice dock where you can relax and take photos. It is a popular spot for winter ice skating.

Glacier Sightseeing by Floatplane

Soar high in the sky as you take in panoramic views of majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. With a seaplane tour, you can witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Whistler like never before.

The Sea To Sky’s mountainous region was formed during the last ice age. A time when active volcanoes erupted into the vast icefields that once dominated the landscape.

Whether you are a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or simply seeking a new and unforgettable experience, exploring Whistler by seaplane will surely leave you awestruck. You will board a floatplane at Green Lake, just a 5-minute drive from downtown Whistler. >>Book your Glacier Sightseeing Experience by Floatplane here

Visit the Mysterious Train Wreck

If you are looking for a family-friendly adventure or something unique to do in Whistler, the train wreck is a place to visit. Numerous trails lead to the site. The main trailhead is next to the Train Wreck car park off Whistler Quarry Road. 

• Distance: 2.3 km
• Estimated Time: 35 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 46 m

After a train derailed in 1956, the boxcars were left inside the old-growth forest, and they are still there today! Now, they are a free public art gallery. Local graffiti artists have transformed the wreck into a one-of-a-kind photo opp.

You will cross a lovely suspension bridge over the Cheakamus River to access the Train Wreck site. The hike is easy and takes around half an hour. You can book a guided sightseeing tour that includes visiting a hidden waterfall. >>Book your Mysterious Train Wreck Experience here

Blackcomb Glacier Safari 

Venture off-road in a jeep from Whistler Valley between May and November. Get a healthy dose of adrenaline as you drive close to the Blackcomb Glacier and take in stunning views of the Hortsman Glacier, Whistler Village and Coast Mountain Range. 

Your driver will navigate the winding trails as you travel from Whistler Valley up Blackcomb Mountain. He will take you to all the best spots for photos and introduce you to the area. The tour lasts for approximately two hours and is a lot of fun. >>Book your Blackcomb Glacier Safari here

Go Rock Climbing

The Sea to Sky Corridor from Squamish to Whistler is famous for rock climbing and bouldering. Quality rock routes are abundant for all abilities. A vast selection of climbs is nestled in a unique old-growth forest with incredible vistas of the glacier-capped Tantalus Mountains. 

Do you want to climb but are not sure how to do it? Whether you are a novice or an experienced climber, you can book a half-day tour with a professional guide who will introduce you and your group to the local rock climbing crags. 

You can choose from various climbs, from easy to very challenging routes; the excursion can be tailored to fit your skill level. If you are an experienced climber, you will be introduced to the best climbing areas where you can fine-tune and develop your climbing.

Rock climbing equipment and a professional certified guide are provided. >>Book your Rock Climbing Experience here

If you prefer the indoors, you can visit The Core Fitness Gym; it has an impressive 5500-square-foot indoor rock climbing wall. Pick from easy, kid-friendly routes to crack climbing, steep overhangs or tricky slab climbing. 

Treetop Canopy Walk

Want to have some fun in Whistler? The treetop canopy walk is an adventure for all ages. You can choose from various obstacle courses, depending on your experience level. Everyone will be safely harnessed.

You will journey through a spectacular network of suspension bridges, boardwalks, stairways, rope swings and mini zip lines, all done in the canopy of the old-growth forests.

The Obstacle Kids Course is specifically for 7-13-year-olds. With obstacles such as a climbing wall, cargo net and suspension bridge, your kids will love the experience.

The Beginner Obstacle course takes around 1.5 hours and will take you through the green and blue sections. The Full Obstacle Course is for those seeking ultimate adventure. You will reach heights of up to 60 feet (18 meters) above the forest floor. This tour takes around 3 to 4 hours.

The treetop canopy walk is situated on the outskirts of Whistler at Cougar Mountain. >>Book your Treetop Canopy Walk Experience here

Visit Ice Cave

Yes, you can visit a 12,000-year-old ice cave in Whistler in the summer! It is not cheap, because you have to take a helicopter, but what could be more memorable than that?

After landing on the glacier, a certified guide will take you inside a spectacular azure-blue ice cave and lead you through a labyrinth of chambers. You will be left in awe as you admire the breathtaking natural beauty of this magical place.

Some of the tours also include a mountain-style artisan lunch. The helicopter portion of the trip offers stunning vistas of the Coast Mountains, the ancient glaciers of the Pemberton Ice Cap and the Whistler Valley.

Try Axe Throwing

It is pouring outside, and you want to have some fun? Axe throwing is a fantastic adventure that will turn you into an ultimate Canadian lumberjack. Challenge yourself, acquire a new skill, and laugh with friends and fellow ace throwers. 

During this 1-hour experience, you will learn the basics of safety, one-handed throws and two-handed throws. You will feel confident after a short training session. Afterwards, your coach will run a series of games and competitions with your group. 

This activity is also suited for families. Children must be at least ten years old to participate, but all ages are welcome to watch. For safety reasons, you must wear closed-toed shoes. >>Book your Axe Throwing Guided Experience here

Spot Bears

Whistler is one of the best places to go bear-watching in BC. The Whistler and Blackcomb mountains are home to more than 60 black bears!

They love to graze on the lush grassy slopes, and you can view them from above as you travel on the Whistler Village Gondola or Blackcomb Gondola towards the top. We have seen two black bears from the Blackcomb Gondola.

If you are wandering around Whistler Golf Course in spring or racing down Whistler Bike Park in summer, there is a strong likelihood that you will bump into a bear as well!

Bears are most commonly seen at dusk and dawn, but we recommend booking a bear tour if you want the best chance of witnessing them. Viewing these animals in their natural habitat is a truly unique experience.

Audain Art Museum

The Audain Art Museum is nestled in a serene forested location, steps away from the Whisler Olympic Plaza. It is beautiful from both the inside and the outside.  

The museum is privately owned, and it shares a unique and evolving collection of both historical and contemporary works and temporary international exhibitions. The permanent collection will take you through a visual journey of art history from coastal British Columbia from the 18th century to the present day. 

The museum is also home to the world’s finest collections of Northwest Coast First Nations masks. Purchase your ticket ahead of time to avoid line-ups. >>Buy your Audain Art Museum Ticket here

Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is located across from the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Resort in the Upper Village. It is the first centre of its kind in Canada, found in the shared, traditional territories of the Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation.

Admission includes access to the galleries and exhibits throughout the main level (Great Hall) and mezzanine. There are live demonstrations of weaving, carving, and cedar prepping. You can also join an hourly guided tour offered daily. 

Cultural Ambassadors from both the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations share unique stories that uncover the meaning behind their traditions, legends, songs and ceremonies. 

The hourly guided tour includes a traditional hand drum welcome song, a fifteen-minute film, an exhibit tour, and a cedar rope bracelet-making activity. You can finish your visit with lunch at the Thunderbird Cafe, an Indigenous-inspired eatery. 

Where to Stay in Whistler

Whistler is home to hotels in all sizes, styles, and budgets to suit everyone’s needs. It is best to book your accommodation as far in advance as possible. This will not just guarantee availability, but it may save you some of your hard-earned money too. 

Luxury Hotels

• Fairmont Chateau Whistler: Situated next to Blackcomb Mountain and 600 meters from Whistler Village, Fairmont Chateau has a perfect position. After a long day of activities, you can enjoy a variety of hot tubs, a sauna, a relaxing eucalyptus steam room or a massage at the Vida Spa. >>See prices and availability for Fairmont Chateau

• Four Seasons Resort Whistler: Located in Whistler’s Upper Village. Besides a comfy accommodation, you can enjoy a hot tub, a heated outdoor pool and a spa. The rooms are gorgeous, and the staff is exceptionally nice and accommodating.  >>See prices and availability for Four Seasons Resort

• Nitka Lake Lodge: Nestled alongside a lake, the Nita Lake Lodge is a peaceful retreat with mountain views. Aura Restaurant and Cure Lounge serve fresh West Coast cuisine. The ingredients are sourced daily from local farms and Nita Lake Lodge’s rooftop garden. >>See prices and availability for Nita Lake Lodge

Mid-Range Hotels

• Sundial Hotel: The Sundial Hotel is situated a one-minute walk away from Whistler Blackcomb Gondola and right at the base of Whistler Bike Park. It features a rooftop hot tub, gas fireplace and a full kitchen in all suites. >>See prices and availability for Sundial Hotel

• First Tracks Lodge: Located at the base of the beautiful Whistler Mountain and a short walk from the Creekside Express Gondola. The lodge features a 4-season outdoor pool, two hot tubs and a gym. >>See prices and availability for First Tracks Lodge

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Pangea Pod Hotel: Conveniently located in the heart of Whistler and within 200 m of the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas. The Pangea Pod Hotel is an excellent choice if you are travelling alone. >>See prices and availability for Pangea Pod Hotel

• Whistler Village Inn & Suites: The hotel features a heated, year-round outdoor pool, a restaurant and a fitness centre. A hot tub and a dry sauna are available. Some of the suites include a kitchen. >>See prices and availability for Whistler Village Inn & Suites 

Where to Eat in Whistler

There is no shortage of restaurants and summer patios in Whistler. The region has taken up a reputation for its farm-to-table dining, owing to the surrounding farmland with its fresh produce. Following is our pick of the best places to eat in Whistler.

Fine Dining

• Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar: One of Whistler’s best fine dining spots with creative flavours, aromas and textures.
• Il Caminetto: High-end Italian restaurant with generous servings of pasta, risotto, and other Italian classics. All of their pasta is freshly made daily.
• Alta Bistro: Classic French cuisine with a seasonal alpine influence. One of the best fine dining experiences in Whistler Village.
• Bearfoot Bistro: Known for its mouth-watering cuisine, extensive 20,000-bottle underground wine cellar and the world’s coldest vodka tasting room.
• Red Door Bistro: Hidden gem nestled away in Creekside neighbourhood. The food is rich and comforting, made with local ingredients.
• Rimrock Cafe: Known for its fresh Pacific Northwest seafood dishes. Chalet-style interiors with elegant ambiance. 

Casual

• Creek Bread: Delicious thin-crust pizzas loaded with local and seasonal ingredients, cooked in a wood-fired hand-built clay oven.
• Crepe Montagne: You will love this place whether you are into sweet or savoury crepes. It is one of the best breakfast spots around.
• Caramba: Pizza and Mediterranean dishes. Caramba’s two sourdough starters are from a 100-year-old grape leaf from “somewhere in Europe.”
• Elements: Located in the Summit Lodge Hotel. The best brunch spot in town with many vegetarian options. Their food is fresh and locally sourced.
• Pizzeria Antico: Artisan wood-fired pizzas, pasta, salads and other Italian fares. The setting is open and rustic, and they have a small outdoor patio. 

Fast Casual

• Purebread: One of the most popular spots in Whistler for savoury and sweet baked goods. You will never want to leave this place. 
• Peaked Pies: Their authentic Australian pies are incredibly delicious. You can choose from a variety of sweet and savoury options.
• La Cantina: Authentic Mexican fares. Made-to-order tacos, burritos and quesadillas. Fast and friendly service.

Read More Travel Guides

We hope you enjoyed our guide on Best Things to Do in Whistler in the Summer. Let us know in the comments below what is your favourite activity in Whistler. Here are a few of our articles to inspire your travels around the Sea to Sky Corridor.

• Alexander Falls – A Hidden Gem Inside the Callaghan Valley
• Cross-Country Skiing in Whistler – The Nordic Paradise
• Beautiful St.Mark’s Summit Hike
• 27 Best Things to Do in Vancouver
• Our Guide to False Creek – Vancouver, BC

This post may include affiliate links. We will earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.