Driving to Whistler

Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane

Enjoy the Journey

Hello BC Has some great resources that are helpful to ‘Know Before You Go!’

Driving to Whistler is approximately two hours north of Vancouver. You will travel along Highway 99, also known as the Sea to Sky Highway. The drive offers beautiful views of the Howe Sound and the stunning mountains of Garibaldi Provincial Park. There is no need to rush this spectacular drive as the journey to Whistler is definitely an experience not to miss!

We feel that a vehicle is not necessary once you are in Whistler. The resort town is easy to get around via free local transportation, affordable taxi’s or along the Valley Trail. That being said, should you decide to drive your own vehicle or rent a car we have provided some helpful information including directions, weather and highway reports plus a list of must-do activities along the way. These will help you plan your trip so that you can arrive here worry free.

Get in touch with our team and we can help you find the right transportation to Whistler for your needs!

Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane

Driving to Whistler from Vancouver Airport (YVR)

Continue over the Arthur Lang Bridge into Vancouver.
Exit the bridge via. Granville Street.
Continue north into downtown Vancouver and over the Granville Street Bridge.
Exit the Bridge via the Seymour Street exit, a right lane off ramp.
Continue on Seymour (6-7 blocks).
Take a left on Georgia and then continue on, over the Lions Gate suspension bridge.
Merge left for the West Vancouver exit which will circle you under the bridge onto Marine Drive.
Stay in the right-hand lane, over a green bridge to the first stop light at Taylor Way.
Turn right and head up the hill and then merge to the left under the overpass, immediately turn left to access Highway 1.
As you approach Horseshoe Bay, watch for the exit to Squamish and Whistler.
You are now on Highway 99. This road will take you all the way to Whistler (approx. 2 hrs.)
You will pass through Squamish, a small town, which you may wish to stop at Walmart etc. for supplies before reaching Whistler.

Please check out the snow and road conditions before you start your drive:

Sights Along the Way

SHANNON FALLS

Shannon Falls Provincial Park is located 58 kilometers North of Vancouver and 2 kilometers South of Squamish. It is the third highest waterfall in British Columbia, falling from a height of 335 meters. From the parking lot it is a short walk, about 10 minutes, through a beautiful old growth forest to the base of the waterfall. This is a perfect place to snap some photos and take in the breathtaking views.

Photo Credit: Mike Benna/Unsplash

Photo Credit: Vlad Agou/Unsplash

SEA TO SKY GONDOLA

The Sea to Sky Gondola creates a unique way for visitors to view the beautiful Howe Sound and Squamish Valley area. Take the gondola or hike to the top on the Sea to Summit trail. There is a trail network, suspension bridge and lodge at the top offering breathtaking ocean and mountain views.

TOWN OF SQUAMISH

Squamish is 60 kilometers north of Vancouver. It is known as the adventure capital of Canada and eagle capital of the world. It is also a great place to stock up on supplies. Groceries in Squamish are cheaper than Whistler so we recommend that you take the time to stop at Walmart or Save-on-Foods. Squamish is also a great place to grab a bite to eat. Our staff recommend the Howe Sound Brewery right in downtown, the Watershed Grill in Brackendale or visit Backcountry Brewing for delicious craft beer and pizza.

Photo Credit: Pete Nuij/Unsplash

Photo Credit: Brayden Law/Unsplash

BRANDYWINE FALLS

Brandywine Falls is a great place to stop and stretch the legs for a short walk before you get to Whistler. From the parking lot it is just 15 minutes. You walk across the bridge and over the train tracks to get to the lookout point. The waterfall drops approximately 70 meters and is stunning in every season. There are also spectacular views of Daisy Lake that you would have just passed on the drive up.

*Please note that Brandywine Falls parking lot is closed during the winter months. Please do NOT park on the highway as you may get towed.*