The Summer Side of Whistler
Story by Rebecca Wood Barrett | Images By Joern Rohde
Any itinerary should include visits to one or more of Whistler’s excellent parks. Rainbow Park, for more than 30 years one of Whistler’s favourite summertime hangouts, underwent a $4.1 million “rejuvenation” over the past three years. It affords spectacular views of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains from the shore of Alta Lake. The upgrades resulted in a larger beach, a new beach promenade, a wider Valley Trail and increased capacity.
whistler.ca/culture-recreation/parks-beaches
If you’re a golfer, sign up for 18 holes at one of Whistler or Pemberton’s courses, and admire the views of pristine lakes and the towering peaks of Whistler’s “other mountains”: Armchair, Wedge, Rainbow and Sproatt. The four championship courses were designed by Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Arnold Palmer and Robert Cupp, respectively, to challenge your abilities against natural water features and terrain. whistler.com/activities/golf
Whistler has a full calendar of high-energy summertime activities and sporting events to test your physical abilities and jump-start the adrenaline. But don’t forget to balance out the buzz of pushing your limits. Plan to sleep in one morning. Chill out at the end of the day on a patio with a craft beer. Enjoy a massage or watch a sunset. By mixing it up, you’ll be ready to launch yourself into every adventure. whistler.com/summer
Downhill mountain biking on Whistler Mountain is summer’s gravity-fed answer to winter’s need for speed. The latest technology in downhill bikes, protective armour, and starter-level trails make it possible for everyone to try it. In 2024, the Whistler Mountain Bike Park celebrated 25 years. whistlerblackcomb.com
Throughout the summer, Whistler hosts a variety of popular events that embrace its mountainous terrain, such as the rolling Whistler Half Marathon (whistlerhalfmarathon.com), the challenge of varying mountain bike terrain in the XFONDO (xfondo.com) and the uphill climb of the RBC GranFondo Whistler road bike ride (rbcgranfondo.com/whistler).
When planning your visit, consider including dates featuring events that make up the Whistler Summer Concert Series, which showcases local musicians and DJs plus well-known live bands at Whistler Olympic Plaza (whistler.com/events/concerts). Pack a picnic and lounge on the lush lawn of the plaza. For a memorable weekend for the whole family, don’t miss the Whistler Children’s Festival, packed with hands-on art workshops, music, theatre and dance. whistlerchildrensfestival.com
One of the most pleasurable ways to slow down in summer is to linger over a delectable meal. Many of Whistler’s chefs pride themselves on sourcing produce and meat from local farms and seafood from nearby Pacific coastal waters. So, make the most of “patio season” and grab a seat at a local eatery to indulge in the season’s bounty (whistler.com/dining). If you crave artisanal foodie favourites such as gelato, kettle corn, roasted coffee, cordials, craft beer, wine and vodka from local producers, stroll the Whistler Farmers Market in the Upper Village by the base of Blackcomb. Here, you’ll find a cornucopia of fresh fruit, vegetables, baked goods, tasty treats and one-of-a-kind gifts handcrafted by local artisans. whistlerfarmersmarket.org
It’s not too early to start thinking about summer. With some research and organization, you can book all your exciting activities and plan for those quiet moments of rest that are vital to enjoying your stay. It’s only a few months away.
Please visit the respective websites for the latest updates. All events are subject to change.
whistlertraveller.com | whistler.com