Only a few dozen miles inland from the Pacific Ocean, Whistler British Columbia, proudly sits surrounded by the picturesque Canadian Coast Mountains.
From its humble beginnings of a single lift and a few ski runs, Whistler has become a global leader in winter sports. Spanning two mountains and housing over 200 ski runs and 8000 acres of terrain, it has earned a reputation as a premier destination for skiing enthusiasts worldwide.
Its impressive terrain diversity, heavy snowfall, and seemingly endless ski landscape attract millions to its slopes looking to experience the prominence of this ski industry giant.
However, beyond this bustling ski resort, Whistler has evolved to offer an abundance of unique winter activities to rival the excitement you can find on the ski slopes. Heli-skiing will satisfy the adrenaline junkie in you, while Nordic Cross-Country skiing will have you working every muscle as you glide through the mountain wilderness. Lastly, guided tours like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ziplining will keep the whole family entertained.
Whether you choose to visit Whistler exclusively for ski alternatives or you’re looking to add some additional fun when the lifts shut down, Whistler truly has something exciting for everyone.
Skiing…But Different
Heli-Skiing
Imagine being whisked away by helicopter to remote, pristine slopes and effortlessly dropped off with your crew near the peak of a mountain. As the heli dives away, you are left with an eerie yet peaceful silence and the realization that you and your crew are the only ones out here. Your eyes adjust to the light as you gaze over countless slopes of abundant, natural West Coast powder. You drop into your first untouched run and are immediately met with the sensation of flying. You reach a stark realization that this experience has spoiled you indefinitely. Your previous “best pow day” has been blown out the window.
British Columbia is home to a whopping 90% of the world’s heli-skiing and the area around Whistler is among the best. The combination of massive snow accumulation, hundreds of glaciers, and access to almost a million acres makes the area extremely desirable for heli-skiing. Whistler’s heli-skiing terrain includes steep bowls, narrow channels, long open glacier runs, and even glades.
Heli-skiing is reserved for the adventurous and advanced skier. Your ski stamina needs to be strong enough to endure several vertical drops of 1,300 - 5,000 ft (400 - 1500 m). It’s also very expensive. The average single-day package will cost you $1800 + tip per person but this might be one of the few events in life where money might buy happiness.
Nordic Skiing
Another popular winter pastime for the active individual is Nordic skiing. You propel yourself across groomed trails using narrow skis and long poles. Beginner terrain is flat whereas advanced terrain will have steep climbs and fast, technical descents.
This sport consists of two disciplines, Classic and Skate ski. Classic is excellent for beginners and resembles walking or jogging. Skate skiing is a bit trickier to learn due to the one-legged balance required. This can be picked up quickly for those with skating or rollerblading experience and is the faster of the two disciplines. Both are considered highly aerobic and utilize pretty much every muscle in the body.
Whistler boasts an extensive network of Nordic trails that wind through coastal rainforests, overlook frozen lakes and offer multiple trail difficulties to aid in safe progression.
Whistler Olympic Park, a legacy of the 2010 Winter Olympics, provides nearly 75 mi (120 km) of world-class trails that were developed to host the world's best Nordic and Biathlon athletes. Trails here are pristine, expertly groomed, and offer some of the best Nordic terrain variety in Canada.
Lost Lake Nordic is a stone's throw from the heart of Whistler Village. This conveniently located center offers over 18 mi (30 km) of groomed trails with tracks set. It’s easily accessible from the village and even offers night skiing.
Guided Tours and Family Activities
Whistler is home to several outdoor activities that rival the fun you can have sliding on two planks. These can be enjoyed by all ages and are even family-friendly.
Snowmobile Tours
Still have a hankering to explore the mountains? Snowmobile tours can grant you access into the many mountains surrounding Whistler.
Tours are organized by adrenaline level meaning if you’ve got a little experience under your belt, you can carve around remote backcountry bowls with the locals. Family-friendly tours are also offered at a more relaxed pace with the goal of safe alpine exploration.
Winter Ziplining
Thought Ziplining was only for the summer? Think again. Whistler’s zipline scene is extensive with two tour operators offering enticing courses deep within the snowy rainforest. Fly through frozen old growth, above glacier-fed rivers and feel the cold mountain air awaken your senses.
Snowshoe Tours and Rentals
Enjoy a more peaceful and calming winter activity walking across frozen lakes, dipping in and out of the forest, and learning about Whistler’s unique biodiversity. The aforementioned Lost Lake holds 9.3 mi (15 km) and Whistler Olympic Parks offers 21 mi (35 km) of specific snowshoe trails with guided tours and rentals.
If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, rent a pair of snowshoes and go exploring on your own. Any fire service road, mountain bike trail, or summer hiking trail can be your starting point. Check out Whistler’s Insider Guide to get the deets on some of the area's most popular trails.
Conclusion
The ski slopes might’ve been what put Whistler on the map but with the wide variety of alternative winter activities available, Whistler has become so much more. No longer is Whistler just a ski destination. It’s a town that attracts those looking to reconnect with nature, explore freely, and reignite a childhood curiosity deep within.