The Summer Side of Whistler: 48 Hours of Fun

One of the more chill things to do in Whistler: Enjoy the village at dusk in summer. (Photo: Mike Crane / Alamy Stock Photo)

Call the squad and tell them you’re headed to Whistler! No need to pack ski boots when you visit the beautiful mountain town in the summer. Whether you’ll be zip lining, biking or paddle boarding, hiking boots, sneakers and flip-flops are the only footwear you’ll need. Clear your schedule, because there are a ton of things to do in Whistler — you’ve got a lot to fit in and only a few days to do it.

As always, before any trip check for any travel restrictions or closures before planning your vacation.

Grind Your Gears

Summertime in Whistler is all about kicking up dirt on your mountain bike. Those infamous ski trails transform into a maze of epic downhill mountain biking trails in summer months. Grab some breakfast at Elements.

Tucked away behind Whistler’s Marketplace and known for its ridiculously tasty potato tartlet, fresh smoothie shots and brilliant eggs benny (British Columbia smoked salmon, anyone?), it’s a great place to get fueled up for your ride.

Down in the valley, cross-country biking is where it’s at. Head to the Zappa Trails by Lost Lake and tackle those greens, blues and blacks.

It’s time to quench your thirst. The Whistler Brewing Company whips up some mighty fine après-bike suds — may we suggest the Whiskey Jack Ale?

Zip It Up

Ready for a little action? All of Ziptrek Ecotours‘ Whistler zip lines are insane, but if you really want to take it to the next level, there’s no substitute for The Sasquatch.

No big deal — you’re only soaring across 7,000 feet while you’re dangling 600 feet above the ground and clocking in at more than 60 miles per hour. If seeing is more your thing than doing, check out a bear-viewing tour — there’s a population of more than 60 black bears in the area.

You’ll still get to experience the rainforests and glaciers in the region, but with the added thrill of visiting a bear den! After all the excitement, it’s time for dinner. Whistler may be home to dozens of world-class fine dining restaurants, but your best bet is to follow the locals to La Cantina.

These teeny tacos are dirt cheap, so go ahead — order one of each kind.

Hit the Market, Then the Trail

Sunday is farmers’ market day in Whistler’s Upper Village, by the base of Blackcomb.

Sample your way through Whistler’s finest vendors, and bring enough change to nab a fresh cone of locally made Lucia gelato. Then it’s time to hit the trail — the Valley Trail, that is.

Follow this paved pathway to Lakeside Park, where you can explore Alta Lake by stand-up paddleboard — because that’s what’s SUP. Soak in a few last rays of sun before you pack up and head home after the sweetest trip of the year.

Where to stay for your weekend in Whistler? The Delta Whistler Village Suites is in the middle of everything, so, boom — decision made.

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