Whistler is an incredible place to explore at all times of the year. Beautiful scenery, endless outdoor activities, and vibrant nightlife make it the perfect destination for any vacation. However, wintertime in Whistler is particularly special and provides visitors with an array of thrilling activities. Skiing and snowboarding are the obvious choices, but there is much more to experience than just the slopes. From snowmobiling and ice climbing to winter ziplining and sleigh rides, here are some of the best Whistler winter activities for those looking for an unforgettable frosty journey.
Seek That Adrenaline Rush With Ice Climbing
Want to experience an adrenaline rush? Then why not try out ice climbing this winter? An increasingly popular sport, ice climbing is becoming a must-do adventure experience for thrill seekers. High in the mountains, this adventure features frozen waterfalls, vertical walls of deep blue ice, and nature's stunning natural beauty. You can even get expert instruction. Mountain Skills Academy & Adventures provides a wide range of guided activities to get your adrenaline pumping with ice climbing, rock climbing, and glacier tours.
Indoor Climbing
For an indoor alternative, try Whistler Core Climbing & Fitness Gym. They offer a range of sessions, including a 1.5-hour lesson for beginners. Their team of qualified experts will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to make your first steps in climbing as safe and fun as possible. In this session, you'll review basic knots and belaying. You'll also learn route-finding tactics, rope management, and equipment specifics to get the confidence you need to tackle your first wall climb with complete confidence.
Take a Hike
Whistler is known worldwide for its incredible ski runs, but don't forget its many hiking trails. Between the fresh mountain air, gorgeous views, and diverse wildlife, a hike is a perfect way to appreciate the beauty of Whistler during the winter. You can even put on some snowshoes and explore the incredible backcountry.
For a winter hiking trail, try Alexander Falls. Nestled within the pristine Callaghan Valley and located just south of Whistler, it's easy to get to the 141-foot waterfall. Just follow the signs for Olympic Park from Sea to Sky and make your way down the small trail that leads toward the viewing platform. If you're lucky enough, there may be some snow in the area. However, it rarely gets deep enough to need snowshoes. Looking to explore away from the trail? Then you will need those trusty snowshoes to plunge further into this picturesque winter wonderland.
Train Wreck is another popular, picturesque hike near Whistler that attracts visitors all year round. It’s important to be prepared as the weather can vary significantly. While it usually offers easy access without snowshoes, always check the conditions before you set out on your journey. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the gushing river and fallen trees as you venture towards your destination, the train wreck itself, which has been transformed with vibrant graffiti art.
Try Out Tubing
If you're looking for an exciting outing, bubly™ Tube Park at the Base 2 Zone on Blackcomb Mountain is the perfect place to get your thrill-seeking fix. Feel your adrenaline coursing through your veins as you whizz down tubes in record time with just enough bumps and jumps for added fun. Grab a group of friends, ride up to the top of the park, and enjoy a few hours of breathtaking slides as you feel the wind in your hair and hear nothing but laughter.
Go Heli-Skiing
Heli-skiing must be mentioned when talking about Whistler winter activities. Go heli-skiing with Whistler Heli-Skiing for access to incredible terrain, which includes 173 glaciers and 475 runs. With all this spread across a region 50 times bigger than Whistler Blackcomb, heli-skiing is the ultimate way to experience the beauty of Whistler in winter. With experienced guides, you'll make your way through untouched snow and slopes too steep for lifts.
Visit the Scandinave Spa for Relaxation
If you're thinking about relaxing Whistler winter activities, the Scandinave Spa is always at the top of the list. Treat yourself to a perfect getaway and relax in Whistler's most popular spa resort. They promise to do more than just soothe your sore muscles and help you relax. These spa packages are designed to maximize the magical views from Lost Lake and Spruce Grove parks. Hot baths, refreshing waterfalls, and massage treatments are all part of the experience, allowing you to turn off your daily stressors and enjoy a beautiful mountain escape surrounded by cedar and spruce forests.
Dog Sledding
Experiencing the grandeur of a Canadian winter while dog sledding is an experience you don’t want to miss. Take the Trappers Run Adventure into the Callaghan Valley’s old growth forest. Have your experienced musher show you how to harness and prepare the dogs for sledding, teach you commands and handling techniques, and then hit the relaxing trails along Lake Totem. Along the way you'll also learn about Canada’s fur trading history.
Take a Snowmobile to Fondue
Top things to do in Whistler winter include taking a snowmobile to dinner. Take part in a truly unique experience at the Crystal Hut, located at 6,000 feet atop Blackcomb Mountain. Get there by snowmobile or snowcat for an evening of alpine charm and stunning views of the Coast Mountain Range. At the Crystal Hut, you'll be treated to a traditional fondue dinner crafted by a local chef and fresh-baked fruit pie served hot from the oven. To top it off, live entertainment provided by local musicians will round out the night, and you can take in the twinkling lights of Whistler Village below from the Crystal Hut deck.
Whistler Blackcomb Fire & Ice
If you're looking for an unforgettable way to cap off a perfect day of skiing and snowboarding, head to the Fire & Ice show at Whistler Blackcomb! This display of fireworks, music and exciting live performances promises a night full of free entertainment. Remember to keep your eyes open for the freestyle skiing and snowboarding by some of Whistler Blackcomb Snow School's best professionals. Enjoy the show as they flip, jump, and spin their way through this incredible performance. The Fire & Ice Show is a must-see for anyone visiting Whistler in winter.
Soar Above The Treetops
One of the most popular Whistler winter activities is ziplining. Ziptrek Ecotour's network of ziplines and suspension bridges allows you to experience adventure from a whole new perspective. You can take your pick from three guided zipline tours. Not only will you get an entertaining adrenaline rush, but you can also educate yourself on the local ecology while exploring this stunning area. Tours are available for all levels of adventurers, from those looking for just a taste to daring thrill-seekers.
Race Down the Slopes
Racing is another of the best things to do in Whistler winter. Put your skills to the test with free racing or group events. The Race Centre on Blackcomb Mountain provides the perfect opportunity to create memorable events in a breathtaking outdoor setting. Located on Cougar Milk Run, the Race Centre creates friendly competition for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. The timed course is free from Wednesday to Sunday unless previously booked for a private race.
If you're looking for the best ski resort in North America, look no further. Whistler Blackcomb was voted the #1 ski resort in North America in the 2022 Condé Nast Traveler annual reader choice awards. With world-class skiing and snowboarding, as well as an array of après-ski activities, Whistler Blackcomb has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today.