THE SUMMER SIDE OF WHISTLER
In summer, Whistler’s mountains share star billing with the valley’s grassy parks and extensive trails, flanked by freshwater rivers and lakes. With more accessible terrain and waterways, a wealth of possibilities open up; and the long, sunny days provide more precious daylight to fit everything in.
Whether you decide to set out on a daybreak kayak across the still waters of Alta Lake, hike Tin Pants in the late afternoon, barbeque a tasty dinner at Lakeside Park, or relax with a refreshing beverage on a village patio, summer is the time to slow down and relax. Wander through the Village, café latte in hand, to browse the eclectic shops and art galleries. Take the time to pause and view the many public art displays and street entertainment. Afternoons are for venturing beyond the Village Stroll to experience the immaculate parks, lakes, rivers, forests and mountains that Whistler is famous for.
Forge out on the Lost Lake hiking and cross- country mountain bike trails, or book a tour from the abundant choices of Whistler’s tour operators. Sightseeing trips on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, canoe excursions down the River of Golden Dreams, bear-viewing tours, and zipline adventures are just a few of the must-do activities.
While you’re here, be sure to stop and enjoy the sights and activities of our neighbouring
communities in the Sea to Sky Corridor— Squamish to the south and Pemberton to the north. For incredible sweeping coastal views of Howe Sound, Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief, take the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish. Spend the day on a hiking adventure taking in the spectacular views from the three viewing platforms or enjoy a snack and freshly brewed tea at the Summit Teahouse.
If you’re a golf aficionado, sign up for 18 holes at one of Whistler or Pemberton’s courses, and enjoy the views of pristine waterways and the towering peaks of Whistler’s ‘other mountains’: Armchair, Wedge, Rainbow and Sproatt. The four championship courses were designed by international players Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Arnold Palmer and Robert Cupp to challenge your abilities with the integration of natural water features and terrain.
For those who wish to accelerate the tempo, there is a full calendar of high-energy activities and sporting events to dive into. Downhill mountain-biking on Whistler Mountain is summer’s gravity-fed answer to winter’s need-for-speed. Surprisingly, you don’t need to be an uber-athlete to join in on the fun.
The latest technology in downhill bikes, protective armour, and starter-level trails
makes it possible for everyone to give it a try. And you don’t have to be able to ride a bike to enjoy Crankworx, a 10-day mountain bike festival with some of the most extreme fat-tire riding on the planet.
Whether you wish to immerse yourself in exercise endorphins, or simply cheer on the athletes, the bounty of endurance events begins before summer barely has time to take a breath, with The North Face Whistler Half Marathon. Close on its heels comes the gritty—and if you’re a spectator, hilarious—Tough Mudder. The excitement clicks into the big chain ring with the inspirational Subaru Ironman Canada, and RBC GranFondo Whistler cycling event.
From Squamish to Whistler to Pemberton, the long, warm summer days and nights provide the ultimate backdrop for outdoor music and arts festivals. The growth of the Squamish Valley Music Festival has definitively launched the feel-good party vibe of the Sea to Sky Corridor into orbit. This all-age, camp-out music festival celebrates the best of local B.C. musicians and some of the biggest names in the industry. At the north end of the corridor is the Pemberton Music Festival. Internationally renowned headliners rock out under the striking vertical face of Mt. Currie by day and the stars by night. The festival showcases an eclectic smorgasbord of musical styles including indie, rock, hiphop and electronic dance music.
When you plan to visit Whistler, be sure your stay includes a weekend when the Whistler Presents Concert Series showcases live bands and orchestral music at the Whistler Olympic Plaza. Pack a picnic and lounge on the lush lawn of the plaza. For an exceptional weekend for the whole family, don’t miss the Whistler Children’s Festival, packed with hands-on art workshops, music, theatre and dance.
Of course, no summer holiday would be complete without savouring the exceptional dining options using produce, poultry and meat sourced from local farms and seafood from Pacific coastal waters. Fortunately, there’s no need to stop soaking up the sun, either, since Whistler’s dining establishments migrate to our beloved patios.
Crisp mountain air, blue sky views and delectable meals laden with fresh fruits and vegetables round out the perfect summer experience in Whistler. With a bit of research and organization in advance, you’ll be able to fit in as many fun adventures as you wish. So start your planning now,and return for our relaxed sunny season, when you’ll discover why locals say they “came for the winter, and stayed for the summer!”