a day in whistler

A Day in Whistler: Your Ultimate Guide For A Fun Adventure

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Spending a day in Whistler might seem like a short trip, but it’s packed with adventure and beauty. This was a beautiful place to visit with many things to do, especially if you love the outdoors. Whether you are looking to explore more than the hikes around Vancouver, want to delve into bird watching, or just looking for things to do near Vancouver, this guide will help you make the most of your day trip to Whistler from Vancouver.

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Getting to Whistler

Start your day trip to Whistler from Vancouver early, to make the most of your time. The Sea To Sky Highway is one of the most scenic drives I have ever taken. Coming from someone who lives an hour from the Canadian Rockies, this says a lot. Enjoy the scenery along the highway and soak it all in.

Sea to Sky Highway

Shannon Falls and the Sea To Sky Gondola

One notable stop along the way is at Shannon Falls, located just outside Squamish. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning waterfall.

On the other side of the same parking lot, you can spend some time and venture up the Sea to Sky Gondola for some amazing views that can’t be missed!

Shannon Falls

Morning: Hit the Trails

Start your day in Whistler with a rush of adrenaline. While the resort is world-renowned for its winter sports, summer offers equally exciting options. Lace up your hiking boots or rent a bike and embark on one of the many hiking trails in Whistler. Make sure you are prepared with some great hiking safety tips as well as practicing bear safety.

For The Hiker

Cheakamus Trail & Trainwreck Site is a must and was probably my favorite hike we did. This trail offers breathtaking views and is suitable for beginner hikers. To get there, drive towards Jane Lakes Road, where you’ll find the trailhead. The hike is relatively easy and provides stunning views of the river and mountains.

Cheakamus Suspension Bridge

You will cross the suspension bridge, and end at the trainwreck site from the 1950’s. The site is now part of history and a dedication to art.

Train Wreckage

For the Adventurous – Mountain Biking

If you’re up for a challenge, consider mountain biking. Whistler is a biking mecca, with trails suitable for all levels. You can rent a bike in town and explore the areas surrounding the village, or venture onto nearby trails. Don’t miss checking out the lakes close to the village and if it’s a warm day, find a popular spot for a refreshing dip.

whistler biking

For the Relaxed – Peak 2 Peak Gondola

If you prefer a gentler pace, take a scenic gondola ride up Whistler or Blackcomb Mountain. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and explore the alpine meadows.

No trip to Whistler is complete without a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. This Guinness World Record-breaking lift connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountains and offers awe-inspiring views of BC’s mountain ranges and stunning coastal forests. At the top, explore the Cloudraker Skybridge or the Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk for breathtaking views.

peak 2 peak gondola

Afternoon: Whistler Village

After working up an appetite on the trails, it’s time to explore Whistler Village. Start with a stroll through the Olympic Plaza, capturing a photo of the iconic Olympic rings.

Olympic Rings, Whistler

Follow the path over the small bridge and into the heart of the village, where boutique shopping, delicious coffee, and many dining options await.

  • Shopping: Indulge in some retail therapy and browse through the unique boutiques and outdoor gear stores. Whether you’re into action sports gear, trendy fashion, or one-of-a-kind souvenirs, you’ll find it all along the Village Stroll.
  • Lunch: Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants offering everything from casual fare to fine dining. I recommend El Furniture – a great restaurant with a great patio for people watching. They allow dogs on the patio too.
  • Coffee Break: Need a caffeine boost? Whistler has a great coffee culture, thanks to the many Australians who work here. Stop by MogulsCoffee Shop or Mount Currie Coffee Co. for a beverage and sweet treat.
  • Outdoor Activities: Take a walk along the river, relax on a patio, and soak up the atmosphere. If you are looking to keep the adrenaline pumping, then consider ziplining on the longest zipline in North America, or consider a Tour by Seaplane of the mountains and glaciers.
Whistler Village

Evening: Unwind and Recharge

After a day full of exploring, you’ll need a good meal. There are many restaurants and pubs to choose from, to end a day in Whistler. For a fun dining experience, try Bearfoot Bistro, and experience their Grey Goose Ice Room. Taste four vodkas of your choice and discover how the extreme environment enhances the flavor while minimizing the alcohol burn!

Where to Stay in Whistler

If you want to extend your stay in Whistler, so you can full enjoy all the Village has to offer, then there are many options of places to stay. Whistler isn’t necessarily the cheapest place, but if you are looking to splurge and experience the Village to its fullest, then here are my recommendations:

Lost Lake

FAQs About A Day In Whistler

Absolutely! Even a short visit to Whistler can leave a lasting impression. With careful planning, you can fit in a variety of activities and create unforgettable memories.

While one day is enough to get a taste of Whistler, consider extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the mountain lifestyle. There’s always more to explore!

Most of the activities in this post do not require a park pass. However, some activities may require one, especially for winter activities and activities on either mountain or Garibaldi Park. It’s best to check the official Whistler Blackcomb website for the most up-to-date pricing and requirements.

While there’s always more to explore in this mountain paradise, you can pack a serious punch into a single day. In one day we did three hikes, explored the village and had two meals.

Cheakamus River

Conclusion

Cramming an entire mountain town into one day might seem ambitious, but you can do it! We added this day trip onto our road trip from Calgary, ending at Mayne Island, off the coast of Vancouver.

With careful planning, you can experience the best of this incredible destination in just 24 hours. A day in Whistler is an experience you won’t forget. Plan your day trip to Whistler and immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement this destination has to offer. It truly was one of the best experiences I ever had.

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Melanie is the founder of The World Travel Girl. She has been traveling for over 12 years and decided to share her passion with others. She is a travel writer and travel planner who also loves hiking, birdwatching and watching wildlife. Her mission is to help every day people explore the outdoor world and connect with nature.

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