Whistler Summer Activities: 8 Fun Ways to Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Whistler-Blackcomb ranks as one of the top ski destinations in North America, however the fun doesn’t end when the snow melts. With summer highs around 80 degrees and fresh mountain air, Whistler provides a large playground for visitors and locals to enjoy during warmer seasons. Guest will also find both relaxed hot spots and options for action-packed adventures. Read on to learn about the top Whistler summer activities.
8 Whistler Summer Activities for Outdoor Lovers
Whistler Water Fun
Whistler summer vacations are the perfect time to explore lakes and parks. Whether looking to relax on a beach or kayak in the water, Whistler has five lakes for water fun. Several parks have docks, playgrounds, trails and off-leash areas for dogs. Fishing fans should head to Nita Lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout and ideal for a day on the lake.
In addition to lakes, families can’t miss Meadow Park, home to a mini children’s water park. Kids love splashing, sliding and playing in water features and cooling off from the warm sun. Find the top Whistler parks and what to expect.
Play a Course
Play a round in fresh mountain air at golf courses in Whistler. Golf season begins in late April to early May and ends in mid-October. Whistler houses four golf courses – all designed by some of the world’s top designers.
These courses paired with the area’s mild summer temperatures provide the perfect playground for golfers. Additionally, these courses are located in proximity to spas, restaurants and other fun summer outdoor activities. Top courses include: Big Sky Golf Club, Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Nicklaus North and Whistler Golf Club.
Zip the Lines
With its mountain landscape and varied terrain, Whistler ranks as a top spot for ziplining. One raved-about company that offers ziplining adventures is Ziptrek Ecotours, which has tours for all ages and experience levels.
For example, first-timers and families should check out Bear Tour. This option includes five ziplines, four treetop bridges and lasts around three hours. Those with ziplining experience should book Mammoth Tour, which lasts 4.5 hours. On this tour, guests ride 10 ziplines, cross eight treetop bridges and learn about the natural environment.
Ride on Two Wheels
Ranked among the favorite Whistler summer activities is exploring Whistler Mountain Bike Park. The park houses 70 trails that wind through four mountain zones, offering some of the most expansive biking terrain in North America.
Open to all riders, Whistler Mountain Bike Park has trails for beginners, intermediate and expert riders. In addition to outdoor trails, check out Air Zone. This 8,400-square-foot indoor training facility has a large foam pit, wooden ramps and other features. The outdoor GMC Pump Track also helps riders brush up their skills and warm up before riding the trails.
Bungee Jump
Feel the adrenaline rush from jumping with Whistler Bungee. The company takes guests high above Cheakamus River, where they can jump 160 feet with experienced professionals.
Rated one of the most extreme activities, Whistler Bungee operates year-round and guarantees a safe, exhilarating experience. The company welcomes all ages and has hosted more than 100,000 jumps since 2002.
Try Horseback Riding
For a more calm activity, see natural beauty on a horseback riding trip. Rides range from one-hour to half- and full-day to three days.
For novice and relaxed riders, try the one to two-hour Pemberton, which is a flat ride through quiet forest leading to Millar Creek. Those who wish to see Whistler’s backcountry should book a Birkenhead half or full-day options. Two top companies for horseback riding include Canadian Wilderness Adventures and Pemberton Stables, each offering different tours and rides.
Sample Local Foods
Enjoy the area’s food scene and sample delicious flavors on a Whistler Tasting Tour. The company has four options available where guests can fill up at the top restaurants and learn the secrets behind dishes.
Finer Things and Hidden Gems visits four restaurants in one night with wine pairings for an additional charge. The lunch and dessert tours stop by six places for smaller portions, treats and drinks. While dining, guests also learn about British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley wine scene.
Take a Tour
Summer in Whistler means lush mountain landscapes and miles of scenery. One way to see it all is taking an area floatplane or helicopter tour. Visitors will find two top-rated options: Whistler Floatplane and Harbour Air Seaplanes. Whistler Floatplane offers tours from 20 minutes to 1 hour, where guests see mountain ranges, glaciers, valleys and rivers. Harbour Air’s tours range from 20 minutes to 1 hour, with an extended Alpine Lake option.
Blackcomb Helicopters features summer tours for all ages. For a quick ride, try the 12-minute or 39-minute tours, which fly over Whistler Resort. Those looking for longer trips should book a four- or seven-hour adventure, which offer different sites, activities and experiences. Couples and families can also take the Heli Picnic tour to see Rainbow Glacier before a picnic lunch at Beverly Lake.
Ready to try these Whistler summer activities? Browse available Whistler vacation rentals.