Whistler, British Columbia is located just 2 hours north west of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada in the Coast Mountain Range off the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

Originally named Alta Lake, in the early 1960s a group of businessmen from the Lower Mainland of British Columbia went looking for a site to develop in order to host the 1968 Winter Olympics. They were brought to what was then called London Mountain known locally as “Whistler Mountain” because of great numbers the whistling marmots that called it home. Although their bid to host those games was unsuccessful the seed was sown and Whistler Mountain officially opened on February 15, 1966. From there Whistler has grown to become one of the best mountain resorts in North America.

Presently, Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains give visitors access to over 8,000 acres of prime mountain terrain to enjoy. Through careful planning and effort, Whistler has quickly become a four season playground. There are many days in Whistler when it is possible to ski on the glacier, golf one of our 5 local courses and swim in one of our pristine mountain lakes all before the sun sets to reveal the beautiful heavens above. There truly is no mountain playground like in the world.

While millions visit every year and know it as an alpine vacation resort, Whistler is also home to a thriving community of professionals, artists, athletes, families, and groups. Residents and community groups share a strong sense of community and a passion for the environment, and work hard to create a welcoming alpine culture. Today, Whistler has over 11,000 local residents in the community providing for those that visit and invest here. With its small town charm and international flare Whistler is the most unique mountain community in the world.

The originating dream of hosting an Olympics here, although unsuccessful in 1968, was never lost and we were proud to be the host resort for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Whistler was truly able to shine because of its ability to Welcome the World. Those amazing experiences should bring Whistler to the forefront of many minds.

Summer Activities

Many people come because of the winter and end up staying or investing here because of the summer. Having lived here for over 10 years I can honestly say that I enjoy the summer just as much as the winter. Over the years Whistler has become more of a four season resort. There are now 5 destination golf courses in the valley. We have some of the nicest and most pristine lakes for swimming, boating and fishing. The mountain biking and hiking are second to none in all of North America. You can even ride the glacier in the summer before running off to enjoy another summer activity. It’s true you can have it all in Whistler.

Family Destination

There is no place like Whistler with a family. We have one of the best ski programs in the world for children on both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Imagine your kids riding through an enchanted forest and riding on the Excalibur Gondola to find the Wizard on Blackcomb Mountains. They’ll be the talk of their friends when they return from their adventures in Whistler.

Shopping

Whistler’s main Village has no cars and the strolls are all lined with boutiques and shops to suit the most professional of shoppers. You will find many charming retail locations in the area including art galleries, unique clothing shops & gift shops. As well you will find many of the recognizable names like Roots, Artizia, Lole, Lululemon, The North Face Store, Salomon Store, Columbia Store, Helly Hanson, The Gap and of course Starbuck’s.

Dining

There are over 80 different restaurants in Whistler to enjoy, each with their own unique take on culinary adventures. From casual apres ski snacks, to craft breweries, to fine dining, Whistler’s award winning restaurants offer diverse dining options with many featuring organic, locally sourced ingredients. If you love wines some of our restaurant wine lists have won international accolades the world over. You could be here in Whistler for months and never eat in the same restaurant twice.

WINTER ACTIVITIES

• Downhill Skiing | 
If you want a big mountain experience you’ll get it. We have over 200 runs on Whistler and Blackcomb including 3 glaciers, 12 bowls for all ages, abilities and sizes. As an ex ski pro, I know the mountains and I can honestly say that I enjoy every bit of them to this day.

• Heli-skiing/Snowboarding | Imagine being guided through untouched powder for a over 40,000 feet of vertical in one day. Enough said.

• Cross Country Skiing | There are set trails around Lost Lake from November – March that offer many ability levels the chance to enjoy the outdoors throughout the day. Once night falls, you can ski under the lights and get those last few pounds off from dinner the night before. If you’re looking for more adventure, just a short drive off we have several other areas perfect for the skinny ski enthusiasts. Many of the golf courses also have trails maintained for cross-country skiing so you can bring your family and even your dog. If you don’t have your own equipment we’ll even rent you some!

• Snowshoeing | There are snowshoeing trails in and around the Lost Lake area with rentals also available at various locations in Whistler.

• Snowmobiling | 
There are miles of open terrain around the Whistler area to go snowmobiling. There are many companies in town that rent snowmobiles and offer lessons and guided tours.

• Helicoptor/Airplane Tours | Aerial tours will take you high above Whistler, over the glaciers, peaks, ice caps, mountain lakes and waterfalls and are offered by many local sightseeing companies.

• Zipline Ecotours | 
This is one of Whistler’s most unique outdoor adventures. You will get a bird’s eye view over Fitzsimmons Creek, gorges and rivers for 2.5 hours while harnessed to a series of cable cords. Naturalists educate you on the local ecology as part of this activity.

• Skating |  Whistler offers both indoor and outdoor skating. The Meadow Park Sports Centre, 5 minutes north of the Village offers an Indoor skating rink while many of the lakes in Whistler can be skated upon should the weather permit.

• Eagle Viewing | Forty-five minutes south of Whistler is an area called Brackendale. This area has the world’s highest population of Bald Eagles. The best viewing times are between November and February. Guided tours from Whistler to Brackendale are available.

• Bungee Jumping | 
They are set up for a 160 foot jump off a bridge into a glacial river. Don’t forget to take your toque off when you jump in the winter.

• Dog Sledding | 
Imagine being pulled through an old growth forest by a team of sled dogs and settling in for fondue when you arrive. This is something to behold.

• Sleigh Rides | 
You know Dasher and Dancer and Comet and Cupid. Well they aren’t here but the horses will pull you around in the forests around Whistler for the most ultimate romantic or family outing ever. It truly is the icing on the cake of your winter wonderland vacation.

SUMMER ACTIVITIES

• Floatplane or Heli-Tours | 
This is one of the best kept secrets of Whistler. Fly high above the snowcapped peaks of the local mountains and gaze over the pristine mountain lakes in the comfort of a small float plane or helicopter. Your see more of the area on these tours than any other offered anywhere.

• ATV Tours | These things are a riot and offer the riders a real thrill at all levels. You can ride tandem or solo on the guided tours along the trails throughout the mountains in the valley. There are several outfits who offer packages with slightly different feels. I’ve done many of them and I’d be happy to recommend any of them when we chat.

• Bungee Jumping |  Whistler Bungee offers a 160-foot drop over a brand new 300-foot pedestrian bridge.

• Canoeing/Kayaking | Whistler has many rivers and lakes to enjoy. All different ages and abilities will find what they are looking for here. You can meander down a slow flowing river or brave the white waters of many of the glacial rivers around town.

• Fishing | Whistler’s lakes and rivers are full of fish and with the right knowledge and tackle you can have a wonderful fishing experience here any day. Guided tours are also available and your imagination is the only limit to these experiences. We can arrange helicopters, boats, ATVs, 4x4s and even hummers to get you where you want to go.

• Glacier Access | Imagine being able to ride the Horstman Glacier on Blackcomb Mountain in the hot summer days of June, July and August. Wear a t-shirt, shorts and goggles. Our beach is a mile high one.

• Golf | We are lucky enough to have 5 wonderful golf courses in the immediate area of Whistler: Nicklaus North Golf Club, Chateau Whistler Golf Club, Whistler Golf Club, Big Sky Golf and Country and Club and Pemberton Valley Golf and Country Club. Each are amazing in their own right and appeal to all levels and ages.

• Hiking/Climbing | 
Walk out your door, and you have access to some of the most amazing terrain anywhere. You can be in alpine meadows and valleys with as little or as much effort on your part. If you choose, you can ride the Whistler Gondola in the summer to start you out and go from there. It is truly magnificent.

• Horseback Riding | Professional trail rides can be arranged on trained horses throughout the valley. There are several operators to choose from. The whole family can join in as there are horses better suited for children available.

• In Line Skating | 
There are miles and miles of paved trails throughout the valley also known as “The Valley Trail”. You can go from Spring Creek to Emerald Estates and back again never getting off the trail once. It is one of our greatest assets.

• Mountain Biking | Whether you like a hard tail or full suspension, you will be blown away by what Whistler has to offer. Our terrain park on Whistler Mountain is unbelievable and offers some of the most thrilling and exciting rides this planet has to offer. If you like getting back to nature, we have miles of single track or gravel trails for all levels, abilities and ages.

• White Water Rafting | There are a number of rafting companies that offer a full spectrum of adventures for the mild at heart to the all out adventurer. This is fun!

• Rock Climbing | We have some of the best climbing in this region of British Columbia. Let one of the local companies arrange a guided experience or just come and talk to one of the locals and they will set you up with the right climb based on your ability.

• Sailing | The wind can be quite consistent in Whistler as the air flows up the valley from the ocean. There are several outfitters that offer rentals and packages throughout Whistler.

• Skateboarding |
 Our skate park is one of the best outdoor parks in North America. You find all ages and abilities enjoying this venue. Bring your helmet and your skateboard or BMX.

• Tennis | There are many outdoor tennis courts that are free to the public located in parks throughout Whistler.

• Zipline Ecotours | This is by far one of the best activities that Whistler has to offer. Take a 2.5 hour tour and enjoy being in the tree tops around Blackcomb Mountain along Fitzsimmons Creek. They harness you in and send you along a zip line all the while teaching you about the area’s natural habitats and ecosystems.