Travel Guide to Whistler, Canada

Why Adventurers Love Whistler

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Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America with over 8,100 acres of terrain, 200+ marked runs, and an average snowfall of over 10 meters per year. But Whistler is a genuine year-round adventure destination. In summer, the Whistler Mountain Bike Park is the gold standard for lift-accessed downhill riding with over 80km of trails from mellow flow to expert-only gnar. The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola connecting Whistler and Blackcomb mountains is an engineering marvel with the longest unsupported span of any gondola on earth. Add zip-lining, bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, and backcountry hiking to alpine lakes, and Whistler delivers adrenaline 365 days a year.

Top Activities

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• Ski Whistler Blackcomb — Over 8,100 acres of terrain with alpine bowls, gladed tree runs, and the biggest vertical drop in North America
• Ride the Whistler Mountain Bike Park — 80+ trails of lift-accessed downhill from green to double-black, bikes available to rent at the base
• Cross the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola — 4.4km spanning the gap between Whistler and Blackcomb with glass-bottom cars and 360-degree views
• Zip-line through the forest — Multiple courses including the Superfly with lines stretching over 2km across Fitzsimmons Creek valley
• Hike to Garibaldi Lake — A turquoise alpine lake reached by a moderate 18km round-trip trail through old-growth forest

Where to Stay

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Whistler Village is pedestrian-only and puts everything within walking distance of the lifts, restaurants, and nightlife. Budget travelers should check HI Whistler Hostel ($35-55/night for dorms) or look at accommodations in nearby Function Junction or Pemberton for lower prices. Mid-range options include condo rentals in the Village or Creekside ($100-160/night, more affordable when split with a group). Ski-in/ski-out properties carry a premium. For summer mountain biking, staying near the Village gondola base means you can ride out your door. Book accommodation well in advance for peak ski season (Christmas through March) and peak bike season (July-August).

Getting to the Adventure Spots

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The gondola base stations are right in the Village — walk out and ride up. The bike park and ski lifts are the same infrastructure. For backcountry hiking, many trailheads are a short drive on the Sea to Sky Highway. The Valley Trail is a paved network connecting the Village to surrounding areas by bike or foot. Vancouver International Airport is 2 hours south via the stunning Sea to Sky Highway. The Whistler Mountaineer bus runs daily shuttles.

Budget Tips

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Buy lift tickets online in advance for 20-30% savings over window prices. The EDGE Card offers discounts for early-season ski purchases. In summer, the bike park multi-day passes save significantly over single-day. Shop at Nesters Market or IGA for groceries and cook at your rental — restaurant prices in the Village are steep. Consider shoulder seasons (early December, late March for skiing; June, September for biking) for lower accommodation costs. The free Village shuttle connects all neighborhoods.