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Winter Activities

A Paradise for Athletes and Non-Athletes Alike, Including Kids

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Whistler, BC, is globally recognized as one of the best winter destinations, not just for avid skiers and snowboarders, but also for those who prefer more relaxed activities. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, someone seeking leisurely outdoor experiences, or a family with young children, Whistler offers a diverse range of winter activities that cater to all levels of ability and interest. Here’s a guide to the best winter activities in Whistler for athletic individuals, non-athletic visitors, and children of all ages.

For Athletic Individuals

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

  • For Who: All levels (Beginner to Expert)
  • Overview: Whistler Blackcomb is North America’s largest ski resort, offering over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. The mountain is perfect for every skill level, from beginner slopes to challenging backcountry runs. Whether you’re an expert looking for powder or a beginner taking your first lesson, the world-class facilities and stunning alpine scenery will make your day unforgettable.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: Whistler Blackcomb offers ski school programs for kids as young as 3, with gentle beginner slopes and dedicated learning areas.

2. Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

  • For Who: Athletic, nature lovers, all skill levels
  • Overview: For those who want to explore the beauty of Whistler’s forests and mountains without the speed of downhill skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are perfect alternatives. The Whistler Olympic Park, located in nearby Callaghan Valley, offers more than 90 kilometers of groomed cross-country ski trails, as well as snowshoeing paths. It’s a peaceful way to immerse yourself in the snowy wilderness.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: The park offers beginner-friendly trails and equipment rentals, making it a great spot for families with young children. Kids can learn snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in a fun, laid-back environment.

3. Ice Climbing

  • For Who: Adventurous and physically fit individuals
  • Overview: For those looking for a more extreme winter activity, ice climbing is an exhilarating challenge. With Whistler’s rugged mountains and frozen waterfalls, there are plenty of opportunities to try this unique sport. Guided tours are available for all levels, from beginners to advanced climbers, allowing you to safely scale frozen waterfalls and vertical ice walls.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: This is better suited to older teens and adults, as it requires physical fitness and experience, but for those looking for an adventure, ice climbing is a thrilling challenge.

For Non-Athletic Visitors

1. Scenic Gondola Rides

  • For Who: Everyone, including non-athletic individuals
  • Overview: Even if you’re not planning to ski or snowboard, you can still enjoy the incredible winter landscapes from above. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain peaks, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and alpine lakes. For those who enjoy beautiful vistas without the physical exertion, this is a must-do experience.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: The gondola ride is suitable for families with children of all ages. The views from the top are awe-inspiring, and the experience itself is leisurely and relaxing.

2. Whistler Village Stroll

  • For Who: All ages, non-athletic individuals
  • Overview: Whistler Village is the heart of the town, with pedestrian-only walkways lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The village is beautifully decorated during the winter months, with twinkling lights and festive displays. It’s the perfect place to explore at a leisurely pace, enjoy a hot drink, or indulge in some holiday shopping.
  • The Hat Gallery: The Whistler Hat Gallery is a unique and charming shop located in the heart of Whistler Village, specializing in custom-made, high-quality hats. Known for its eclectic collection, the gallery offers a wide range of hats for all styles and occasions, from classic fedoras to trendy beanies and functional outdoor headwear. The gallery also features hats created by local artisans and designers, making it a must-visit for those looking for a one-of-a-kind accessory or a memorable souvenir from Whistler. Whether you’re shopping for fashion or practicality, the Whistler Hat Gallery provides a distinctive experience for hat lovers of all kinds.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: The village is stroller-friendly, and there are many family-oriented activities, including ice skating at the Whistler Olympic Plaza and the giant outdoor fire pits where kids can warm up while enjoying hot chocolate.

3. Snowmobiling

  • For Who: Adventurous, non-athletic visitors
  • Overview: Snowmobiling is an exciting way to explore Whistler’s snow-covered backcountry without requiring any significant athletic ability. Several companies offer guided snowmobile tours that take you through scenic mountain terrain, where you can enjoy the thrill of driving your own snowmobile or simply enjoy the ride while being chauffeured. It’s a thrilling yet accessible option for non-athletes.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: Many tour companies allow children as passengers (age limits apply), making it a fun family activity, especially for those who want to experience the beauty of Whistler’s backcountry without exerting too much physical effort.

4. Spa and Wellness

  • For Who: Everyone, especially those seeking relaxation
  • Overview: After a day in the cold, a spa day in Whistler is the perfect way to relax. Many resorts and hotels offer luxurious spa treatments, from hot stone massages to rejuvenating facial treatments. The Scandinave Spa Whistler is especially famous for its outdoor hot baths, sauna, and steam rooms, offering a serene environment to unwind and rejuvenate.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: While some spas have age restrictions (Scandinave Spa is only for those 19 and older), several resorts offer family-friendly spa treatments, including kid-friendly massages or a relaxing soak in a hot tub after a long day of exploring.

For Children (and Families)

1. Tube Park

  • For Who: Kids, families, and thrill-seekers
  • Overview: Located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, the Bubly Tube Park offers a fun and exciting experience for children and families. Kids (and adults) can race down a snow-covered hill on inflatable tubes in a safe, controlled environment. It’s easy to learn, and everyone gets a thrill from the fast-paced descents.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: The Tube Park is specifically designed for families and children, with designated areas for younger kids and safer, gentler slopes for beginners.

2. Skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza

  • For Who: Families, children, casual skaters
  • Overview: Whistler Olympic Plaza features an outdoor ice skating rink, surrounded by the breathtaking mountain views. During the winter months, the rink is open to the public for skating, and skate rentals are available on-site. It’s a fun and family-friendly activity, especially for kids who want to try their hand at skating.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: The rink is perfect for beginners and kids, with plenty of space for those just learning to skate. There are also fire pits nearby where families can warm up and enjoy hot drinks.

3. Snow Play and Sledding

  • For Who: Young children and families
  • Overview: Whistler offers numerous areas for snow play and sledding, where kids can slide down gentle slopes on toboggans or snow discs. Alpha Lake Park and the areas surrounding Lost Lake are popular locations for families to bring sleds, build snowmen, and enjoy classic winter activities.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: The sledding hills in Whistler are perfect for young children, with safe, controlled areas for them to enjoy the snow without any dangerous obstacles. It’s a fun, traditional winter activity that families can enjoy together.

4. Kid’s Ski and Snowboard School

  • For Who: Kids, beginners
  • Overview: Whistler Blackcomb offers world-renowned ski and snowboard schools for children. With a wide range of lesson options, from group lessons to private sessions, young skiers and snowboarders can learn at their own pace in a fun, supportive environment. The Whistler Kids Ski School caters to children as young as 3 years old, and the resort’s ski instructors are skilled at making lessons enjoyable for kids.
  • Family-Friendly Aspect: The lessons are tailored to children’s needs, with age-appropriate groups and specialized instructors who are great with young learners.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an athletic individual looking for adventure, a non-athlete seeking relaxation, or a family wanting to keep the kids entertained, Whistler has something for everyone during the winter season. From the adrenaline of skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing to the peaceful beauty of snowshoeing and scenic gondola rides, this world-class destination has an endless variety of winter activities that ensure everyone has an unforgettable time. So, pack your warmest layers, embrace the winter magic, and head to Whistler for the ultimate winter escape.