10 Best Things to Do
Whistler sits beneath two vast mountains, with forest trails and lakes spreading out from its lively village. Winter revolves around skiing and snowboarding; summer brings alpine walks, cycling and long afternoons by the water. Between outings, explore British Columbia's art at the Audain or learn about the area's Indigenous cultures at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre. Stay in the Village for restaurants and lifts, Upper Village for resort hotels, or Creekside for a quieter base.
Ski Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, Canada
Whistler and Blackcomb offer an enormous choice of skiing and snowboarding, from gentler groomed runs to more demanding alpine terrain. A single lift ticket covers both mountains, linked by the PEAK 2 PEAK gondola. Book lessons if you are learning or want help finding suitable terrain, and check the daily lift and snow reports before heading up. Winter 2026–27 opening is targeted for 20 November, with actual terrain availability dependent on conditions. Reserve equipment and lessons ahead of busy weeks.
A full day on two major mountains
Ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
The PEAK 2 PEAK gondola crosses the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb, giving non-skiers a memorable way to experience the mountains. The journey itself takes around eleven minutes each way, but allow much longer for the access lifts, viewpoints and a stop at the top. Summer visits can include alpine trails when open. Check the seasonal schedule and weather before buying: sightseeing closes between operating seasons and is scheduled to return on 20 November 2026.
Mountain views without skiing
Visit the Audain Art Museum
Whistler Village, Canada
The Audain Art Museum introduces British Columbia through carving, painting, photography and contemporary work. Its permanent collection makes a rewarding counterpoint to Whistler's outdoor attractions, while changing exhibitions give returning visitors something new to explore. Allow time to move slowly through the galleries rather than treating it as a quick wet-weather stop. Check the programme and opening days before visiting; regular hours currently run Thursday to Monday, with additional changes around public holidays and special events.
British Columbia art and striking architecture
Explore the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre
Upper Village, Canada
The Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre shares the living cultures of the two Nations whose territories include Whistler. Join a guided tour to hear stories and see carved house posts, canoes, weaving and contemporary art with context from cultural ambassadors. The galleries and gift shop deserve time beyond the tour itself. Check the visit calendar carefully: renovation closures run from 2 to 5 November 2026, followed by a revised weekly schedule and several special-event changes.
Learning from local Indigenous cultural ambassadors
Unwind at Scandinave Spa Whistler
Mons Road, Canada
Scandinave Spa offers a deliberate change of pace, with hot, cold and rest areas set among forest just outside the Village. Silence and a phone-free environment are central to the experience, so come expecting to slow down rather than socialise. A massage can be added to the thermal visit if booked in advance. Allow several hours, check the current entry requirements and bring what the preparation guide requests. It is an appealing way to break up an active holiday.
A quiet afternoon among the trees
Spend time at Lost Lake Park
Lost Lake, Canada
Lost Lake offers a beach, swimming docks and forest trails close to the Village, making it an easy summer outing on foot or by bike. Bring a picnic and follow posted notices, including temporary measures during the western toad migration. Winter changes the experience completely: the trail network becomes a ticketed cross-country skiing and snowshoeing area, with walking and dogs excluded during Nordic operations. Check seasonal access and transport before leaving, and do not assume summer parking remains available.
Lakeside summer days and winter Nordic trails
Explore the Valley Trail
Whistler valley, Canada
Whistler's Valley Trail connects neighbourhoods, lakes and picnic spots through a broad network of paved paths and boardwalks. Hire a bicycle for a relaxed outing or choose a shorter walk, using the map to link stops that suit your energy. The route is shared, so ride gently and give other users space. In winter, only some sections are cleared or maintained for particular activities; ask locally about current conditions rather than expecting the whole network to be walkable.
An easy introduction to lakes and neighbourhoods
Walk to the Whistler Train Wreck
Cheakamus Crossing, Canada
Colourfully painted railway cars sit among cedar and fir trees at Whistler's Train Wreck, reached by a forest walk and a suspension bridge over the Cheakamus River. Use the signed public trail from the Cheakamus Crossing area rather than approaching along the active railway. Leave time to explore the site and enjoy the river views. The path includes uneven ground, so wear suitable footwear and check conditions after snow or heavy rain before setting out.
Forest scenery and an unusual outdoor art site
See Brandywine Falls
South of Whistler, Canada
Brandywine Falls drops seventy metres into a steep canyon south of Whistler. A forest path leads to the official viewing platforms, with further views towards Daisy Lake and the surrounding mountains. It makes a good stop on a Sea to Sky journey as well as a separate outing from the resort. Stay on designated paths and behind barriers; there is no public access to the lower falls. The gate closes in the off-season and trails are not maintained in winter.
A short walk to a dramatic waterfall
Follow the lights at Vallea Lumina
Cougar Mountain, Canada
Vallea Lumina turns a forest trail into an evening of light, sound and storytelling at Cougar Mountain. The walk begins after sunset, so start times vary considerably between summer and winter. Book a shuttle-inclusive departure if you want transport from the Village, and dress for time outdoors rather than an indoor show. The natural route includes uneven surfaces, slopes and stairs; discuss accessibility needs with the operator before booking. Course length and duration also change with the season.
An evening forest experience