You might be thinking of Whistler as a Winter town, famous for its skiing and snowboarding. You’d be right. But that’s only half the story. There are so many things to do in Whistler in Summer!
In fact, I would go as far as saying that there is MORE to do in Whistler in Summer than in Winter.
You can trust me:
I lived there for over a year.
Whistler is an outdoor enthusiasts’ playground, and the activity options are endless.
From high-adrenaline downhill mountain biking to hiking trails teeming with wildlife… you’re going to struggle to fit everything into one weekend.
Fear not!
This 3-day itinerary of Whistler will give you the best things to do, the best eateries, and more!
There is also helpful information on where to stay, the best guided tours, and how to get around.
Whether you’re in Whistler for a weekend or more, it’s somewhere you simply must visit whilst in British Columbia.
There are many fun things to do in Whistler, let us know in the comments what you think of this travel guide!
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AN ITINERARY OF THINGS TO DO IN WHISTLER IN THE SUMMER
So you’re wondering:
What is there to do in Whistler in the summer?
Use this 3-day Whistler itinerary for inspiration and to help plan your trip. You can navigate around the different attractions from here.
Day 1:
Zip Lining | Whistler Mountain Bike Park | Longhorn Saloon | Scandinave Spa
Day 2:
Joffre Lakes | Paddleboarding | Coast Mountain Brewery | Axe Throwing
Day 3:
Peak 2 Peak Gondola | Shopping | Dining Tour
WHAT IS WHISTLER FAMOUS FOR?
Well-known as one of the largest ski resorts in North America, Whistler is also famous for its beauty in the Summer.
The surrounding lakes are some of the most spectacular in the world.
The two mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – are home to countless outdoor sports opportunities.
There’s also a sense of pride in hosting the Winter Olympics in 2010; There are Olympic rings in the village and at the top of the gondola (perfect photo opportunity).
The rings in the village are located in the aptly named ‘Olympic Plaza’, which plays host to a free gig – and attracts some decent bands – most weekends throughout Summer.
Finally, Whistler is home to both grizzly and black bears. If you’re lucky, you’ll see black bears roaming the mountain whilst exploring the hiking and mountain biking trails – a special and unique experience
THINGS TO DO IN WHISTLER IN SUMMER – DAY 1
ZIP LINING WITH ZIPTREK
Zip Lining is one of the best things to do in Whistler in Summer.
There are a couple of companies offering zip-lining tours in Whistler.
My personal favorite:
It’s so much fun to take in the stunning aerial views as you fly between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Not to mention, you’ll get a real adrenaline rush!
Ziptrek Tours have various tours to decide from.
The Bear Tour, for example, is made up of 5 zip lines as well as 4 Treetop bridges, boardwalks, and trails and lasts a solid 3 hours of fun.
My favorite though:
This HUGE zip line spans a mind-boggling 2 Km! You get some serious vistas and some serious exhilaration.
You can combine the Sasquatch with other tours too if one big zip line won’t cut it.
WHISTLER MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK
Simply put, the Whistler Mountain Bike Park is the best lift-accessed mountain bike park in the world.
It is the ultimate thing to do in Whistler in Summer.
There are nearly 5,000 vertical feet of adrenaline-fueled downhill mountain bike trails. These range from family-friendly, cruisy greens to sheer, rocky, gnarly pro-lines.
You can simply choose your route, and let gravity do the work as you whizz down Whistler Mountain.
Bike rentals also include all the protective gear you need for your day out shredding the trails.
The bike park runs from May to October.
You can book lift tickets here:
Whistler Bike Park Lift Tickets
…and bike rentals here:
Ok, you might not be shredding like these guys, but it’s still one of the best things to do in Whistler in Summer!
LONGHORN SALOON
What better way to celebrate an epic day’s adventuring, than with a cold beer at Whistler’s classic “apres” spot?
The Longhorn Saloon has a DJ playing over the weekend during Summer and is one of the livelier bars in the village. There’s a great atmosphere as visitors and locals alike start to ramp up their evening’s entertainment.
What’s more, it’s located right at the foot of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park so you can slide straight in there after biking.
Make sure you grab a table outside so you can enjoy the mountain views as you get the party started.
SCANDINAVE SPA
What better way to wind down after your epic day than with a bit of R&R?
Scandinave Spa is one of the most relaxing ways to spend an afternoon or evening in Whistler in Summer.
With multiple baths (hot and cold!), saunas, and relaxation areas, it’s the perfect place to soak your muscles and relax your mind.
You can also indulge in a massage if you’re feeling particularly worn out after your day adventuring.
The setting is insane.
Nestled among spruce and cedar trees, the peaceful and natural environment will leave you feeling instantly reinvigorated.
There is also a small cafe with healthy snacks (where the above picture was taken), meaning you can chill out with a bite.
Herbal teas are available free of charge.
THINGS TO DO IN WHISTLER IN SUMMER – DAY 2
HIKE TO JOFFRE LAKES
Joffre Lakes is one of the most scenic spots in Whistler and the surrounding area! You simply cannot miss it whilst you’re there.
Joffre Lakes National Park is roughly an hour’s drive north of Whistler, straight up Highway 99 (the drive itself is pretty spectacular). You can park just off the highway in the trailhead car park.
There are 3 beautiful lakes to see here. The first is not even a 10-minute walk from the car park, and for this reason, it’s by far the busiest.
Don’t be put off by the selfie sticks galore as there are 2 more lakes to see! A lot of tourists will simply drive to the first lake, grab a selfie and leave.
Boy, are they missing out.
Not only do the lakes get better as you follow the trail, but they also get MUCH less crowded.
Ok, I’ll be honest. You do have to earn your photos at the next 2 lakes. The hike is roughly a 4-hour round trip – depending on your fitness and how long you stop for lunch – and involves a bit of a climb.
But, oh my, is it worth it!
2 tips:
- Take a packed lunch to enjoy at Lake 3.
- Go early in the morning to avoid any crowds and for prime photo opportunities.
I’d strongly recommend taking your own car or a hire car for maximum flexibility and so you can get back to Whistler for the afternoon. I recommend using the Rental Cars platform to find the best price!
However, there is a bus service/tour available through Joffre Bus should you need it.
PADDLEBOARDING AT LAKESIDE PARK
Paddleboarding is fast becoming one of the most popular water-based sports.
With all the lakes surrounding Whistler, it’s no wonder this awesome sport is now one of the top things to do in Whistler in Summer! It’s a great way to tour around the lakes or navigate down the river of golden dreams. You can even do yoga out on the water.
Paddleboarding is also a great way to slow down while still enjoying what nature has to offer. You might need it after all the adrenaline-fuelled activities!
Lakeside Park is the perfect spot for it.
Why?
You can get rental SUPs (Stand-Up Paddleboards) at a reasonable price AND Alta Lake is a sweet spot. It has great views and is big enough to tour around and keep things interesting.
The Whistler Insider has loads more information on paddleboarding in Whistler.
COAST MOUNTAIN BREWING
Coast Mountain Brewing is my favorite (and the best) brewery in Whistler.
Mostly brewing North American influenced ales and lagers, the brewery focuses on complex, flavourful, and sessionable beers. They always have seasonable beers, including fruity sours for the Summer.
Located in Function Junction – a couple of kilometers outside Whistler – the brewery has a tasting room and cozy bar to sample its excellent ales.
Coast Mountain beers can ONLY be found in Whistler, so make sure to sample some whilst you’re there.
My favorite: DayDreamer IPA
FORGED AXE THROWING
Does it get more Canadian?
Time to unleash your inner lumberjack and hurl some axes!
This action-packed sport is a great social occasion for groups as you compete to hit the bullseye. It’s by no means your average tourist activity and is sure to entertain the whole group and get your competitive juices flowing.
While you’re in the mountains, eh?
Also located in Function Junction, axe throwing is the perfect post-brewery entertainment. Just don’t overdo it on the IPAs beforehand…
THINGS TO DO IN WHISTLER IN SUMMER – DAY 3
PEAK 2 PEAK GONDOLA
Sightseeing at the top of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains is one of the most popular things to do in Whistler in Summer.
One of the main reasons for this is the impressive Peak 2 Peak Gondola.
Hanging over the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the Guinness World Record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola travels a whopping 4.4 kilometers/2.7 miles.
While you’re up there, you get stunning views of volcanic peaks, coastal rainforests, and long-standing glaciers.
Top Tip: Wait for the glass-bottomed gondola. It’s not overly advertised, but there are 2 going around and they are worth the extra wait time!
And that’s not all you get with your sightseeing pass…
Whilst at the top of Whistler Mountain, ensure you take the Peak Chairlift up to the very top and check out the Cloudraker Skybridge (pictured below).
This suspension bridge gives you unparalleled views of the valley.
There are several hiking trails to be explored at the top of the mountains. You can pick up a hiking trail map in the gondola station. Or you can simply ride the gondolas and chairs and enjoy the views.
Top Tip: Keep a sharp eye out for bears as you take the sightseeing loop and travel in the gondolas!
You can book tickets here:
Whistler Blackcomb Peak 2 Peak Gondola
SHOPPING IN WHISTLER VILLAGE
Whistler has excellent shopping facilities.
Need some new outdoor gear?
You’ll be spoilt for choice.
The village is packed with shops flogging mountain sports equipment. There are also some nice clothes stores and souvenir stops too for gifts.
Take some time out in the afternoon/evening to browse.
It might only take 15 minutes to walk from one end of the village to the other, but you’ll find you can get lost in all the great stores for hours!
WHISTLER DINING TOUR
After a long weekend of adventuring, you deserve a celebratory meal, right?
Believe it or not, Whistler is home to some fantastic restaurants, with cuisines from all over the world.
So how do you go about choosing just one?
The solution:
Don’t!
The Finer Things: 4-course Dinner Tour of Whistler takes you to the best restaurants in Whistler AND a 15,000-bottle wine cellar to learn the art of sabering.
What’s sabering, you ask?
Why, the Napoleonic tradition of slicing open bottles of champagne with a sword, of course! What else?!
The tour starts at Bearfoot Bistro (my favorite restaurant in Whistler) for an amuse-bouche and sabering.
It then goes on to visit Hy’s Steakhouse and Quattro, 2 of Whistler’s higher-end restaurants.
Finally, you head to Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for dessert before ending up at FireRock Lounge for artisan cheese.
If you can’t/don’t want to choose a restaurant, it’s a real treat.
THINGS TO DO IN WHISTLER IN THE SUMMER ITINERARY MAP
Map with attractions plotted on it.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN WHISTLER IN THE SUMMER
Have a little extra time?
You could also check out:
- Whistler Golf Club – A nice course with exceptional views
- Whistler ATV Tours – A great all-weather activity. Get out into the back-country and explore the rugged local terrain on an ATV
- The River of Golden Dreams – Whistler’s famous river winds through amazing landscapes. Hop in a canoe and go yourself or take a guided tour.
- Rainbow Park – A beautiful spot on Alta Lake (Whistler’s biggest). Take a picnic and enjoy the views, take a dip in the lake, and play some sports in the park.
GUIDED TOURS IN WHISTLER
Bear Viewing Tour – A great opportunity to take in some of Whistler’s wildlife and natural surroundings. Hopefully, you’ll get to see one of the elusive black bears!
Scenic Flight – A floatplane tour is one of the most spectacular things to do in Whistler in Summer. The views of the mountains, glaciers, lakes, and forests are unparalleled. Planes take off and land from Green Lake.
WHERE TO STAY IN WHISTLER IN THE SUMMER
Now you’re all set with your things to do, you’re probably wondering:
Where should I stay in Whistler in Summer?
Well, there are a number of accommodation options available.
These range from plush hotels to private apartments to pitches at campsites. It’s important to think about what you want from your accommodation.
Generally speaking, accommodation in Whistler is on the expensive side, it’s an EXTREMELY popular place to visit. That being said, there are a few cheaper options available when you know where to look.
Let’s break down the options.
Firstly, my favorite place to stay is The Sun Dial Boutique Hotel.
This independent hotel is immaculately decorated, is located right in the center of the Village, and is reasonably priced. What’s more, each room has a full kitchen suite!
BEST ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN WHISTLER:
High-End Hotels
The Westin Resort and Spa – Very luxurious and excellent location right at the foot of the Whistler gondola.
Independent Hotels
- The Sun Dial Boutique Hotel – Excellent location right at the foot of the gondola in the village.
- Cascade Lodge – Apartment-style rooms, often available at a cheaper rate than other hotels located in the village.
Budget-Friendly
- Pangea Pod Hotel – Pod-style hotel located right in the Whistler Village stroll.
- HI Hostel – Whistler’s best hostel. Located a short bus ride from the village.
Air BnB
Air BnB can be an excellent option for finding accommodation options in Whistler.
Options range from studio apartments in the center of the village to chalet-style cabins nestled in the woods.
Camping
- Whistler RV Park and Campground – a bit out of town but budget friendly and some great views!
- Riverside RV and Camping Resort – Excellent location close to the village.
WHISTLER TRAVEL TIPS
MY THOUGHTS ON WHISTLER
I absolutely love Whistler.
That could be the reason I lived there for over 18 months and now consider myself ‘a local’.
Why do I love it?
There is just SO much to do.
In fact, it was hard to fit everything I wanted into this itinerary! If you like the outdoors, you’re in for a real treat. The surrounding mountains and rainforest are stunning.
An additional treat I didn’t expect is the quality food scene. The village is packed with excellent restaurants and eateries with cuisines from all over the world. There really are so many things to do in Whistler in Summer.
COSTS IN WHISTLER
What you spend in Whistler depends completely on what you want to do.
For example, the more tours you take or the more you party, the more you will spend. These costs are non-essential, and you can take part in as many or as little as you like depending on your budget.
However, certain costs such as food and accommodation are non-negotiable.
Here’s a rough breakdown of essential travel costs in Whistler (all costs in $CAD):
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel room for 2: $150 – 1,000
Hostel: Dorm – $40; Private – $100
Air BnB: $80 – 400
LOCAL TRANSPORT
Bus: $2.50
Bike rental: $40/day
Short Taxi Journey: $12
EATING OUT
Dinner: $30 – 100
Lunch: $20
Take-out meal: $12
DRINKING
Beer in local bar/pub: $6
Beer in a high-end bar: $8
Cocktail: $15
Nightclub entry: $10
HOW TO GET TO WHISTLER
FLY
The closest Airport to Whistler is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Flights are available from destinations all over the world.
DRIVE
Driving is by far the least complicated way to get to Whistler. From Vancouver, Whistler is approximately a 2-hour drive north on Highway 99. This is one of my favorite drives EVER. The views are insane.
As you’ll see from the next section, a car is also the best way to see everything Whistler has to offer.
Check road conditions, weather alerts, delays, and construction that may affect your route on DriveBC. Ensure you take extra precautions when driving in the mountains.
BUS
Buses to Whistler are available from Central Vancouver and Vancouver Airport. Tickets are as cheap as $24 one way and can be booked through the following outlets:
HOW TO GET AROUND IN WHISTLER
There are public buses available in Whistler. They’re cheap and (semi) reliable, and you can simply check on Google Maps for timings.
There are also several taxis. These are less cheap and slightly harder to pin down but can be handy if staying outside of the village.
HOWEVER…
By far the best way to explore all that Whistler and the surrounding area has to offer is by car. There are some places that simply can’t be accessed without your own vehicle.
BEST TIME TO VISIT WHISTLER
Summer is, without a doubt, one of the best times to visit Whistler.
The Summer season runs from late May until early September – be wary that Whistler is significantly busier during July and August because of the school holidays!
The weather in Whistler can be temperamental.
With the Pacific Coast close by and the surrounding rainforest, storms do roll in from time to time. Generally, over Summer, the weather is pretty good. Let’s just say that swimming in the lakes is a popular Whistler Summer activity!
One more thing:
Whistler suffers from a real ‘dead season’ between Summer and Winter.
The weather starts to take a turn for the worse and the village tends to shut down from October until late November. Aim to visit before then.
HOW TO SAVE MONEY IN WHISTLER
It’s no secret that Whistler isn’t the cheapest place to visit.
BUT…
As a local, I’ve learned a few hacks to save money.
- Book your lift tickets and bike rentals in advance
- The grocery store gives out discount coupons for retail stores
- Most bars have a happy hour – check out Whistler Bites
- Do free stuff – hiking trails and lakes cost nothing!
PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR VISITING WHISTLER
- Timezone: PST (GMT – 8hrs)
- Currency: CAD
- Power: In Canada, the power plugs are two-pronged like those in the US. The standard voltage is 120 V.
- Internet Access: Free Wifi is available in abundance throughout the village.
- Drinking Water: The tap water in Whistler is second-to-none. It’s straight from the Glaciers!
Safety:
Whistler is extremely safe. The one thing to be wary of is keeping expensive mountain bikes securely locked.
Going for lunch?
Drop your bike back at the rental shop to look after it while you eat rather than leaving it unattended.
FURTHER READING FOR YOUR 3 DAYS IN WHISTLER
To help you further plan your visit to Whistler in Summer, here are some useful resources:
- Lonely Planet – British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies
- whistlerblackcomb.com – The official site of Whistler Blackcomb Resort.
- Whistler Survival Guide – An awesome resource full of great hacks created by locals.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is a must for any trip. Hopefully, everything will go smoothly, but it’s best not to take any chances.
I recommend insurance from Safety Wing
Ensure you are covered for medical expenses, theft, cancellations, baggage loss, and activities.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN WHISTLER IN SUMMER – PIN FOR LATER
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