Header Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane
Welcome to Winter in Whistler
A Whistler Winter is what made our home here in BC one of the most popular holiday destinations for Canadians and International guests worldwide. Whistler Blackcomb is renowned for its vertical terrain and being the largest ski resort in North America but there is so much more to love about visiting Whistler in the winter.
Feel at home in the mountains with Harmony Whistler Vacations.
Outdoor Winter Activities
We have compiled a list of some of the best winter activities (that aren’t just skiing and snowboarding) to help make the most of your winter vacation in Whistler!
Skiing & Snowboarding
There is no question Skiing and Snowboarding is at the top of our list. Whistler and Blackcomb mountains offer a combined 8,171 acres of ski-able terrain, 16 alpine bowls, three glaciers and over 200 marked runs! We receive on average 1,000+ centimeters of snow annually and we have one of the longest ski seasons in North America.
Enjoy all the perks of ski and snowboard rentals without the hassles of a conventional shop with this ski delivery service! Spirit Bear offers quality product rental with the added convenience of delivery/pick up right at your location and full support while you ski. You and your family can be outfitted and ready to hit the slopes in no time at all.
Snowshoeing
This magnificent area boasts a network of over 30 km of groomed trails from beginner to advanced, with some amazing vistas overlooking Lost Lake and the surrounding mountains. It is conveniently located next to Whistler Village and you can arrange rentals and lessons at Cross Country Connection, located at the trail-head in the Passive Haus. Kindly note that dogs are not permitted on the Lost Lake trails in the Winter.
Whistler Olympic Park provides access to more than 30 kilometres of marked trails (almost 20 kilometres of which are dog-friendly). Tread upon the winter snowpack, weaving between beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Olympic monuments. Whistler Olympic Park has the biggest off-leash area in the Sea to Sky Corridor! Bring your whole family, including your dog, for an adventure in the snow. Almost 20 kilometres of the snowshoe trail network are dog-friendly (on- and off-leash)!
Local Tip: A typical season runs from mid-December to the end of March, depending on weather. Operating hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Snowmobiling
Whistler has some spectacular backcountry terrain and the best way to experience it all is by snowmobile. An unforgettable experience! There are lots of different tours to choose from. Beginner to advanced tours leave daily and last 2-3 hours. Tour choices may include a fondue dinner at the top of the mountain, a brief stop for a hot chocolate in a warming hut or a detour to hang out with the local sled puppies.
Local Tip: If you are going snowmobiling for your first time then we would recommend booking with The Adventure Group. They are located just north of the Village in stunning Cougar Mountain.
If you have a little more experience and are looking for something more challenging then we would recommend booking with Canadian Wilderness. They are located just South of Whistler in the Callaghan Valley.
Dog Sledding
Dog Sledding is at the top of our staff picks! Based in the Callaghan Valley, an eager and powerful dog team will lead you into the magnificent old growth forest. A magical winter experience lasting 2.5-3 hours. Join your professional musher in harnessing and staging the dogs, learn the commands and how to handle a sled. Relax with your family as you ride a mellow mix of open and winding trails for an unforgettable winter journey.
Local Tip: Did you know that dog sledding can book up months advance?
Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity and book your next dog sledding adventure today!
Cross Country Skiing
The trail system at Whistler Olympic Park includes 56 kilometers of cross-country ski trails expertly groomed for both classic and skate skiing, ranging from beginner to expert caliber. Experience the magic of skiing under the stars with our network of night skiing trails. The Whistler Olympic Park trail system also includes over 20 km of wilderness snowshoe trails, select dog-friendly terrain, and backcountry-access.
Local Tip: Cross-country skiers and their dogs have access to over 30 kilometres of dog-friendly trails (the biggest off-leash trail network in the Sea to Sky)! Off- and on-leash options and trail-side parking available.
The dog friendly trails are NOT lighted at night and a head torch will be required so best to take your furry friends in the day if you’re a beginner.
Tubing
The tube park offers great fun for all ages! Fly down the hill, no experience required on this multi lane tubing park. Whistler Blackcomb’s Coca-Cola tube park is located a Base 2 on Blackcomb Mountain. The tube park still stays open when the chair lifts close – tube up until 6pm.
Open mid-december through to mid-april.
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Local Tip: Go during the day for less crowds while everyone else is skiing. You can also get the guides to spin the tube for that extra excitement factor.
Fire & Ice Show
Every Sunday from December through March head to skiers plaza at the base of Whistler Mountain for the Fire & Ice Show; a free, all ages night of entertainment. Whistler’s best skiers and riders perform spin’s and twist’s right in front of you through a burning hoop. Make sure to dress warm and grab a hot drink while you enjoy the atmosphere. This family friendly winter activity is set to impress. Make sure that you stay until the end for the celebratory fireworks!
When: Sunday – Practice from 6:30pm, live show at 7pm Free!
Extra event on New Years Eve / 8pm starts in March due to daylight savings
Ice Fishing
Tourists and locals alike refer to Whistler and Pemberton as a Winter Wonderland. Most of the ice fishing is done in Pemberton, because the fish are much larger, but the lakes in Whistler also provide an exceptional ice fishing experience. Make sure you bring your camera along. The Guides combined have over 100 years of knowledge fishing the local lakes. You will experience a full day on a scenic adventure with the whole family and friends!
Local Tip: All anglers ages 16 and up require a valid BC Fishing License
Indoor Winter Activities
In peak season, the temperatures can plummet however Whistler also offers multiple indoor activities to make your holiday memorable and maximize your Whistler Winter experience.
Audain Art Museum
Experience the art of British Columbia, from the traditional works of the province’s First Nations through to it’s contemporary masters, anchored by the important collection donated by Michael Audain and his wife Yoshiko Karasawa at the Audain Art Museum.
The collection includes centuries-old Northwest Coast works, some created before European contact, to the internationally renowned Vancouver photo-conceptualists of our era.
Did you know?: The building itself has won multiple architectural awards and is one of the most spectacular in Whistler.
Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is the first centre of its kind in Canada.
Designed to evoke the form of a Squamish Longhouse and Lil’wat Istken (earthen dwelling), the SLCC in Whistler’s Upper Village stunningly embodies the spirit of partnership between two unique Nations who wish to preserve, foster, and share their traditional cultures with the world.
Local Tip: You may like to make a night of it with a culinary journey that blends traditional ingredients and food prep with songs and stories.
Escape! Whistler
Welcome to Whistler’s original escape room facility! A live escape room is a real-life gaming experience where groups are placed inside a themed room. Your group will be presented with puzzles, riddles, and clues which you must work together to solve within 45 minutes in order to “Escape” from the situation you are in. How far you make it will depend on your group’s ability to solve the challenges laid out for you. But don’t waste time…you only have 45 minutes to Escape!
Local Tip: There are four rooms to choose from, rated by difficulty level with the Pirate Ship rated at a beginner level. This room is best suited to families with younger children. All children 12 years or younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Scandinave Spa
The Scandinave Spa is an adult sanctuary like no other and is perfect to unwind and enjoy some down time during a fun filled Whistler getaway. The spa is situated in a beautiful spruce and cedar forest with stunning mountain and valley views. They offer a range of massages, hot and cold pools, saunas, steam rooms and even a bistro. Restricted rules on noise are in place to ensure the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
Local Tip: Book with us for a 10% discount of the bath experience.
Forged Axe Throwing
Forged Axe Throwing opened its doors in 2017 and has since been teaching locals and visitors the art of Axe throwing. You competitive edge will swing into overdrive whether you are a beginner using both hands, an intermediate using one hand or trying out two axes at once. The friendly and experienced staff will ensure you have the most fun possible with a variety of challenges. A perfect date night or get a group together and come try it our for yourself. Bring out your inner Canadian and dress in your favourite flannel for this fun filled day.
Local Tip: We recommend booking ahead as this is a very popular activity and books up fast!
Indoor Rock Climbing at the Core
From easy kid-friendly routes to crack climbing, steep overhangs or tricky slab climbing, The Core is the place to learn and get stronger for the outdoors. They offer you an amazing 5,500 square-foot indoor climb wall. Equipment rentals and retail sales available.
Local Tip: New to climbing? The Core even offer guided sessions with one of their professionals, teaching you everything you need to know.
Whistler Tasting Tours
With so many amazing restaurants in Whistler it can be hard to get to them all. Trust us – we are still trying. Whistler Tasting Tours will give you an array of cuisine and offer lunch, dinner, optional wine pairing and even a dessert tour sampling some of Whistler most popular dishes to help satisfy your appetite after a day of adventure.
UNTIL NEXT TIME
There is so much to do and see in Whistler, especially during the winter season.
Operating since 2014, Harmony Whistler Vacations is Whistler’s locally owned & operated boutique Vacation Management company. We are dedicated to helping guests discover their inner adventure through our CONCIERGE SERVICES and 24 /7 support to deliver the perfect Whistler vacation. We manage over 60 vacation VACATION RENTAL PROPERTIES in Whistler and carry the highest standards for our homes. Our small team will always provide unparalleled service and deliver a personable experience for our guests. Our goal is to make you feel at home in the mountains so that you can create lifelong memories with family and friends.
We want you to Feel at Home in the Mountains
Be a repeat guest with Harmony Whistler Vacations to receive our return guest special offer (see BOOKING POLICIES for more info).
