Whistler Parks: Top 7 Places for Outdoor Adventures
Situated north of Vancouver among scenic mountains, Whistler offers a year-round playground for nature enthusiasts. The city houses one of the largest ski resorts in North America, as well as several summer retreats for biking, hiking and water fun. Looking for a new mountain destination? Here are the best Whistler parks for outdoor activities and adventures.
Top 7 Whistler Parks: The Outdoors Are Calling
Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler Blackcomb operates as the area’s award-winning ski resort. Nestled in the heart of the village sits Whistler Olympic Plaza. This area features an outdoor performance venue and playground. At night, the plaza comes alive with summer concerts and festivals. During winter, see it transform into an outdoor ice skating rink for the whole family. Before leaving, take photos in front of the iconic 2010 Olympic Rings.
Other winter activities include snowboarding, ziplining, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, heli-skiing, tubing, sledding and bungee jumping. Get a peek at the best Whistler winter activities and where to try them.
Whistler Mountain Bike Park
Enjoy mountain biking in the summer? Head to Whistler Mountain Bike Park, the city’s top place for action, obstacles and adventure. Gear up, grab a bike and plan for a downhill ride through the woods. Whistler Mountain Bike Park even ranks among the best lift-accessed downhill bike parks in the world.
Bikers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. The park has four zones for beginners, intermediate riders and experts. The Fitz Zone offers trails for all riders and GMC Pump Track, which helps riders warm up before riding trails. Intermediate to advanced should try Garbanzo Zone and its 2,700 vertical feet. To take it to the next level, ride Creek Zone and Peak Zone. Both offer jumps, twists and turns only suitable for expert riders.
To access the park and features, pick up a pass. Park passes are available for five and 10 days, as well as unlimited and during twilight hours.
Rainbow Park
Located on the popular Alta Lake only 15 minutes from Whistler Village, find Rainbow Park. This area welcomes both residents and visitors to relax by the lake, swim, play volleyball and picnic. In the summer, concessions open where guests buy food and refreshments. In addition, pet owners have an off-leash area called Barking Bay where dogs run and swim.
Alpha Lake Park
Another top among this Whistler parks list is Alpha Lake Park located in the Creekside neighborhood. This park features sandy beaches for sunbathing, docks, a kids playground, volleyball and tennis courts, and picnic areas with barbecues. Relax in the sun or rent canoes, kayaks and paddleboards for a day in the water. Alpha Lake Park also has a designated off-leash area.
Whistler Skate Park
Skaters can’t miss Whistler Skate Park. As one of the largest skate parks in Canada, the park measures 50,000 square feet full of bowls, ledges and street-style elements. Other features include quarter pipes, a spine, volcano and central pyramid. In addition, BMX riders can test their skills.
Brandywine Falls Provincial Park
Need some time to reconnect with nature? Visit Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, which is home to Brandywine Falls. Visitors have access to hiking and mountain biking trails, and picnic areas perfect for spending time with loved ones or enjoying some solo time.
Trails offer views of a waterfall that measures about 230 feet (70 meters), Daisy Lake and surrounding mountains. Guests should wear appropriate hiking gear and bring plenty of drinking water.
Lost Lake
Lost Lake offers a more serene retreat in winter and summer. The park sits about 15 minutes from Whistler Village, and a free shuttle runs from mid-June to early September. In the summer, find over 60 miles (100 kilometers) of hiking and biking trails. Cool off in the swim area, then enjoy a picnic with loved ones. For something new, play a friendly game at Whistler Disc Golf Course.
When snow starts to fall, Lost Lake Park turns into a winter playground. The area offers over 15 miles (25 kilometers) of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails. Guests should note: Dogs are not permitted on Lost Lake beach.
There’s never a bad time to visit these Whistler parks. Check out available Whistler vacation rentals today.