11 best things to do in Whistler in summer

Whistler is mostly known as a ski resort, but it’s also a great destination during the warmer months. These are the best things to do in Whistler in summer.

Table of contents hide

1 About Whistler

2 The best things to do in Whistler in summer

3 Practical tips for your visit to Whistler

4 Where to stay in Whistler

5 Book your trip to Whistler

6 Read more about Canada

About Whistler

Whistler is a popular destination in Canada for both summer and winter vacations. It is located in British Columbia, about 120 kilometers north of the great city of Vancouver. The city is easily accessible via the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99), a beautiful road that goes along the coast and through the mountains.

Whistler is best known as the world’s largest ski resort. It offers more than 200 runs, 37 elevators, 16 alpine bowls, and three glaciers spread over 8,171 acres of terrain. Whistler and Blackcomb are the two sides of the ski area, connected by the Peak 2 Peak Gondola.

But Whistler has much more to offer than just skiing and snowboarding; you can also have a great time in the summer. For example, take a scenic hike to a picturesque waterfall, go ziplining or visit one of the many nature parks in the area.

Fun to know: Whistler was one of the main locations of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.
You can therefore regularly find the image of the Olympic rings in the town.

Whistler is a year-round destination. Whether you love action and adventure or prefer to enjoy nature in peace and quiet, there is something for everyone in Whistler.

I myself visited Whistler during a road trip in Western Canada in the summer and I absolutely loved it. There’s so much to see and do! In this blog post, I’ll share tips for the most beautiful sights and fun activities in and around Whistler during the summer months.

The best things to do in Whistler in summer

These are the best things to do and the most beautiful sights in Whistler and the surrounding area during the warmer summer months.

The town of Whistler

It is a bit touristy (expect to see lots of hotels and souvenir stores), but the town of Whistler is also definitely a must see. It is almost always cozy. You will find many nice boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants. The center is mostly car-free, which makes it always nice to stroll around. There are also several parks and benches where you can sit comfortably.

The central plaza (Whistler Olympic Plaza) often hosts events and performances. I was in Whistler on July 1 (Canada Day) and then I was able to enjoy music performances all day, including one by the amazing band Walk off the earth.

Whistler Museum

Want to learn more about Whistler’s history? Then a visit to the Whistler Museum is highly recommended. Located in the middle of town, it tells in various exhibits how Whistler transformed from a mountain village to a popular ski resort.

Think of animals living in the area, fun props from the 2010 Olympics, and old gondolas.

The museum is free to visit, but a donation (of $5) is greatly appreciated. Check the official website for opening hours.

Lost Lake

This beautiful mountain lake is within walking distance of the village. In summer, you can swim, sunbathe, picnic, and hike around the lake. In winter, it turns into a picturesque snowy landscape with cross-country ski trails.

Mountain biking

Whistler is also a perfect destination for mountain bikers in the summer. The Whistler Mountain Bike Park has more than 70 trails for all skill levels. From technical singletracks to fast flow trails, there is something for everyone. Even if you are not a mountain biker, it is fun to take a look here, if only to see the many bikes being hoisted up the mountain by ski elevator.

Peak 2 Peak Gondola

This cable car connects the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain. During the 4.4 km ride at an altitude of 436 meters, you have spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes. You can use this special gondola in both winter and summer.

Check the official Whistler Blackcomb website for prices and tickets. There are several combination tickets you can choose from.

Brandywine Falls Provincial Park

Around Whistler are several beautiful provincial parks where you can admire waterfalls, among other things. Brandywine Falls Provincial Park is one of them and is just a 15-minute drive from Whistler.

The park is best known for its impressive, 70-meter-high waterfall, Brandywine Falls. A short hike takes you to a platform from which you have a spectacular view of the thundering waterfall and the surrounding forests. In addition, there are several other scenic hikes to enjoy.

Scandinave Spa

Fancy a day of relaxation? You will totally unwind in this Scandinavian spa in the middle of the woods. Enjoy the hot water baths, steam rooms, cold water baths and lounges with cozy fireplaces. Pure indulgence for body and mind, both in winter and on rainy days.

Check the website for opening hours and prices of this wonderful spa.

Whistler Train Wreck

Another cool place to visit just outside Whistler is the Whistler Train Wreck. This is a unique attraction born out of a tragic incident. In the 1950s, a train derailed here, leaving old cars scattered throughout the forest. Instead of removing the wreckage, artists painted it over the years and transformed it into colorful works of art.

You can visit the Whistler Train Wreck on a short forest hike. You’ll also cross a cool suspension bridge suspended over a fast-flowing river. If you like it, you can extend your hike by following one of the many mountain bike trails and hiking trails, including the Sea to Sky Trail.

Suspension Bridge at Train Wreck Trail Whistler

Ziplines

Fancy a cool adventure? Fly like a bird through the treetops on a zipline tour. Whistler has several zipline courses where you whizz through nature at great heights. Which is awesome! There are several options, with this tour you will take the Blackcomb Gondola to the top and fly back down North America’s longest zip line (2000 meters). Free adrenaline rush included.

Nairn Falls Provincial Park

North of Whistler you will also find a couple of beautiful parks. Nairn Falls Provincial Park is about a 25-minute drive from Whistler, and here you can see another beautiful waterfall. On a gentle forest trail, you walk along the river to a spectacular waterfall. Near the parking lot is also a cozy spot for a picnic, where you can take a nice break among the trees with the sound of a roaring river in the background.

Nairn Falls Provincial Park is free to visit.

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is a special museum that gives you a glimpse into the rich culture and history of the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nations, the original inhabitants of the Whistler area. At this center you will learn about their traditions, art, stories and way of life. You will find beautiful totem poles, impressive artifacts, and can participate in cultural activities and tours. Very special and very interesting.

Good to know: the museum is closed on Mondays. Regular admission is $25 and there are discounted prices for children and families. Check the official website for current opening hours.

Practical tips for your visit to Whistler

These are all my Whistler tips if you are visiting Whistler in Summer. In addition, I would like some practical tips and facts for your trip to Whistler.

The best travel time depends on your interests. For summer activities, July and August are the most popular months and have the best weather. June and September are great when you want to visit Whistler when it’s less crowded and the prices of accommodation might be lower as well. Be prepared for weather changes though. And of course, for skiing and other winter sports, December through March is the high season.
Whistler is easily accessible year-round from Vancouver by rental car, bus, or shuttle service. With a rental car, you have the most flexibility to explore the area.
Free parking is unfortunately not really common in Whistler, except at some stores and restaurants (and then there is a maximum time attached). There are several large parking lots on the east side of downtown where you can pay to park. Check this website for rates. I myself usually parked in lot 4 or 5 after 5 in the afternoon, then you didn’t have to pay. Outside the town you can park for free in most places.
There is a wide choice of accommodations in and around Whistler, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels and apartments. Make sure to book well in advance, as Whistler is a popular destination.
Although Whistler is primarily known as a ski destination, there is plenty to do in the summer as well. With mountain biking, hiking, golfing, spa and other activities, you won’t get bored for a moment. After reading this article, you will no doubt have gotten a good idea on what to see and do in Whistler in summer.
Whistler is in the wilderness with bears, mountain lions and other wildlife. Be aware of your surroundings, don’t leave food lying around and keep your distance if you spot wildlife.

Whether you go for winter sports, summer action or just want to enjoy the mountain air and nature, in Whistler you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable vacation. Hopefully these tips have inspired you and given you practical info for your visit to Whistler. Have fun!

Where to stay in Whistler

As you can see, you can have a great time in Whistler. Therefore, staying here for a few nights is highly recommended. These are some of the nicest accommodations in Whistler.

Whistler Lodge Hostel – The perfect accommodation for travelers on a slightly smaller budget (Whistler is quite pricey after all). It is not located in Whistler itself, but it is close by; in Whistler Creek. The hostel has fine sleeping quarters (nicely separated by walls and curtains), a large common living room, and a kitchen.
Mountainside Lodge (3⭐) – Comfortable hotel with suites (very spacious rooms with a small kitchen) in downtown Whistler.
Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel by Paradox (4⭐) – One of the nicest hotels in Whistler. The location (behind the Olympic Plaza) is prime and the spacious rooms are very nicely decorated. There is even a fireplace in every room. Very cozy!

And for more options, availability and prices, check Booking.com.

Book your trip to Whistler

Would you also like to visit Whistler and maybe even more amazing places in Western Canada? Book your trip now!

✈️ Plane tickets – To visit Whistler, it’s easiest to fly to Vancouver. Check Skyscanner to find the best deals on plane tickets. From Vancouver, it’s a 2-hour drive to Whistler

🚘 Rental car & RV – If you plan to explore more places in Canada or if you prefer to have a lot of flexibility, it’s smart to get a rental car. Check Discover Cars to find the best deals.

📱E-sim – While traveling in Canada, I use an e-sim from Airalo to stay connected. It was very useful for navigation, but also easy to keep family and friends updated on my adventures.

💊 Having good travel insurance will give you peace of mind. Check Insubuy to find the best travel insurance that fits your needs.

🐻 Tours and activities – There are plenty of fun tours and activities to do in Whistler. From helicopter tours to ziplines. Check out Get Your Guide for options.

11 best things to do in Whistler in summer

About Whistler