A Romantic Escape for Any Season
Whistler sure has its ups and downs—literally—when it comes to mountain activities. Whether you come for the skiing, mountain biking, or golf or visit the area in the winter or summer, you will always find something to do in this majestic wonderland. Pick a season, select a hotel, and travel to Whistler for an exhilarating way to reconnect.
Winter
It may be a given that Whistler has plenty to do in the winter. It is one of North America’s premier ski resorts and the largest ski resort in Canada. Beginners can stay on the gentle slopes, while advanced skiers and snowboarders can hit the more challenging inclines. More than 200 ski trails offer something for everyone.
If you want a unique experience to be alone and get away from the tourists in Whistler Village, take a Heliskiing excursion. You’ll go into the backcountry, where a helicopter will take you to the top of a fresh, powdery run. You’ll be the first to dig your skis into the fluffy snow and feel the cool wind whip around your face. You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy heliskiing, either. The untouched slopes are just as inviting to intermediate and advanced skiers as they are to professionals.
Another way to spend your vacation like never before is to take a dogsled excursion. Ride a sled pulled by Alaskan Huskies through the forest or over the mountains. A moonlight dogsled ride takes you to a secluded campfire, where you can have a midnight snack under the stars. Or you can take a tour through an old growth forest and learn the history of the Canadian fur trade. You’ll learn how to give the dogs commands and handle your own sled, just like a professional musher.
Spring
The coastal hemlock cedar forests that surround Whistler are home to the beautiful black bear. On a bear-viewing tour in a four-by-four vehicle, you will get to see more than just this impressive creature. In addition to visiting active dens and feeding sites, you might catch a glimpse of black-tailed deer, coyote, red-tailed hawks, and great horned owls.
Go for a romantic nature walk, or take it one step further and take a “scrambling” tour to the top of Whistler Mountain. You will negotiate your way along a mountain ridge using hand and foot holds to propel you further along. The Via Ferrata at the top of Whistler Mountain offers a breathtaking experience. Fasten your harness to this iron pathway built into the rock of the mountain, and climb the vertical path to share some stunning views.
Summer
After the snow melts, Whistler is all about water. The famous River of Golden Dreams is lined by old-growth forest and wildflowers, with snow-covered mountains in the distance. Rent a double kayak or canoe and paddle your way down the river, keeping your eye out for small critters and huge black bears.
Are you looking for something a little more pulse-pounding? Go whitewater rafting on a raging river. Melting snow makes the rivers run a little faster and the foam a little frothier. Certified guides can take you on tours down one of the four rivers near Whistler.
Fall
Travel from tree to tree above the forest on a zipline tour. You will be strapped into a harness and maneuver across ziplines, swing like Tarzan, and cross tightropes. It is a great way to take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage before Whistler becomes white with winter once again.
Another way to enjoy Whistler’s autumn sparkle from above is to go bungee jumping. Whistler Bungee is open year round and lets visitors enjoy the scenery provided by an old-growth forest, a rushing river, and basalt cliffs while plummeting through the air at breakneck speed.
Although it is perhaps best known for its snow activities, Whistler Village is an ideal place to escape any season. Whether you are enjoying the breathtaking scenery together or testing the boundaries of your relationship with activities that get your heart racing, you will enjoy each other’s company in Whistler.
Photo credits: Whistler view of Blackcomb by Tim in Sydney/flickr; Hiking at Rainbow Lake by Iwona Erskine-Kellie/flickr; Ghosts in a forest by Sang Trinh/flickr
A writer from British Columbia, Devon Peterson also contributes content for whistlerhotels.org, a local guide to activities, hotels in Whistler, area information as well as unique Whistler vacation rentals.
