Say you’re going to Whistler in the summer and people question what you’ll be doing there. If you’re not skiing, they wonder, what is there to do in the British Columbia mountain village?
Some may say there’s actually more to do in the warmer months in Whistler than in the winter.
For the adventurous traveller who still appreciates the charm and sophistication of the restaurants and shops in Whistler, this is the ideal destination.
It is especially popular for cyclists who like to hit the surrounding trails, as well as mountain bikers who take to the more challenging, mountainous paths. Bike rental shops are plenty for anyone wishing to get around on two wheels instead of two feet.
Bikes for rent in Whistler Village.
There are nearly equal amounts of pedestrians and cyclists sharing the paths in town this weekend as the CrankWorx mountain biking fest has taken over the village, filling its streets with mountain bike athletes.
Provincial parks are full of campers and one beach I passed along the Sea to Sky Highway on my way to Whistler from Vancouver was packed full of tourists and locals looking to beat the summer heat.
There are also countless opportunities for hiking in the area, as well as rocky cliffs to rappel down, ziplining through pines, breathtaking Peak 2 Peak gondola rides, bungee jumping, trampolining and many other extreme sports.
Though adventure tourism is certainly a forte, Whistler attracts and offers much for all tourists, from young families to older couples.
Peak 2 Peak Gondola in Whistler with trampoline activity in the foreground.
A view of Whistler Village.
There are many boutique shops in Whistler Village filled with clothing, souvenirs and tasty treats perfect for browsing. Bars keep the town alive with young adults when the sun goes down. Many hotels, including the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, have pools and hot tubs on site and there are three golf courses in Whistler for those wishing to hit the greens.
And, of course, in the winter there is the fantastic skiing, snowboarding and heli skiing.
The Olympic Rings in Whistler Olympic Plaza.
Whistler was the site of the ski events, as well as luge, skeleton and bobsleigh events, during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. Daring visitors can actually sign up for a thrilling ride on the Olympic slides by bobsleigh or by skeleton sled at the Whistler Sliding Centre.
The vibrant spirit of the town, so evident to many Canadian viewers watching the Games, is one of the best things about Whistler. That spirit remains and will charm you, no matter what time of year you visit.
For more information on Whistler, visit EnjoyWhistler.com or HelloBC.com.
Categories: Live from Whistler!