Great Things to Do and See in Whistler

Going to Whistler? You're in for a treat. There is a lot to do in this exclusive resort town which explains why more than two million people visit annually. Located only 78 miles from Vancouver, Whistler is one of British Columbia's finest gems, polished with Canadian culture and Nordic flare.

Snowy Fun in Whistler

Because it is home to the largest ski area in North America, skiing and snow sports have become one of Whistler's most popular pastimes. Whistler has two majestic mountains located in the Coast Mountain Range with more than 40 ski drop-off points, spanning 8,100 acres. Whistler receives an average of 33 feet of snow per year.

Although there are many resorts in this Canadian town, Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort is a favorite attraction, featuring a wide variety of entertaining activities and slopes that take skiers through Lost Lake Park, the Chateau Whistler Golf Course and Nicklaus North Golf Course. Different routes are available for different levels of skiers.

Maps and rental equipment are readily available so you don't have to lug all your ski equipment with you on the trip. Whistler Blackcomb offers ski and snowboarding lessons for adults, teens and kids along with a host of other fun activities. For those who like the excitement of motor sports, snowmobiles are available for rent in addition to snowshoeing equipment.

A horse-drawn sleigh ride makes for a memorable sightseeing experience, another activity offered at the Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. Magnificent Clydesdale-Percheron horses gallop through the Canadian countryside, pulling sleigh riders through picturesque winter scenes for an unforgettable winter adventure.

Although it may be difficult to imagine, you can actually enjoy a dog-sledding escapade in Whistler. The use of dogs to pull sleds and cargo is one of the most ancient forms of transportation in the world. An expert dog sledder will teach you how to harness the dog team of Huskies that will pull you along a sightseeing trail. Running your own dog sled is an exciting activity, one that comes highly recommended.

Adventures in Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb's Coca-Cola Tube Park is fun for the whole family, another thrilling adventure in Whistler. There are eight 1,000-foot lanes that vary in levels of difficulty with each person in their own tube. A state-of-the-art conveyor lift makes it easy to travel to the top of a tubing hill, where riders propel like rockets down to the bottom at exhilarating speeds.

The number one zip line in North America is located in Whistler. Also known as a zip trek, a zip line is a series of cables and suspension bridges that run through natural terrain with a rider attached. The rider is attached by wearing special gear and a harness that clips on to the line. Once the rider lets go, the natural force of gravity pulls them along, usually at a moderate speed. The zip trek at Whistler Blackcomb is a three-hour journey that travels along Fitzsimmons Creek through the forest valley between Whistler and the Blackcomb Mountains. This is an activity that can be enjoyed year-round.

Although best known for its winter sports, Whistler is the ideal vacation spot in all seasons. For those who love golf, there are four championship golf courses in the area.
For those who love the great outdoors, paragliding, hiking, canoeing, bungee jumping, horseback riding and wildlife tours are just a few things offered when it gets warm in Whistler.

Shopping and Dining in Whistler

There is also plenty to do in Whistler that doesn't involve sports or outdoor activities. Whistler Village, the town's hub, features more than 200 shops and 90 restaurants and bars. Greek, Italian, Japanese and French food are served at the many eateries in the village. Pub food, pizza and ice cream are also available. Whistler is known for its fine cuisine and superior customer service. Five-star spa services are available for those who need some rest and relaxation including massages, manicures and pedicures and body wraps. The great thing about Whistler Village is that it's pedestrian-friendly and everything is within walking distance.

Whether you're heading out solo or bringing the family along, there is a lot to do in Whistler and it makes for the perfect vacation getaway.