Whistler is so much more than skiing, mountain trekking and snow activities! We found some of the best things to do and see during our Summer trip.
Whistler is definitely one of the most beautiful places we have been to. Despite our preconception that Whistler is better for winter activities than summer leisure, we found out that we were totally wrong. In addition to an amazing selection of restaurants and bars, Whistler has plenty to do and see, even without the snow….and don’t worry, you don't have to be incredibly active or fit do these!
We visited Whistler in early August and the weather was perfect. Some days it was cool and visibility was low in the mountains, but the sun always came out and managed to make an appearance.
Below are five of our favorite activities to do in Whistler during the summer. However you enjoy Whistler in the summer, you’re sure get amazing photos and memories to bring back with you.
Take a Gondola Ride
Take a gondola ride from Peak2 Peak on the world's longest and highest lift! The gondola isn’t just for skiers and snowboarders—although they ride as well. It’s also perfect for sightseers because it joins both Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain for stunning views of the largest mountains in the area. Being on top of the gondola offers complete views of the town below and each month of the summer brings new things to see and do from the top—including wildflowers in bloom. Prices for the gondola range from $40 to $69, depending on the pass that you buy and how far in advance you make your purchase. Towards the end of the season, the gondola may only be open on weekends, so check ahead to plan accordingly.
Relax at Scandinave Spa
Scandinave Spa is a true Scandinavian bath experience, sometimes known as hydrotherapy. Use of a phone and talking isn't allowed...your time at the spa is meant to truly relax and revitalize you and they take it very seriously. The full experience takes a few hours to complete in which you will go through a typical Scandinavian bathing ritual.
The process includes three different stages of exposing the body to hot and cold waters to stimulate, invigorate and promote healing, and then a stage to relax. You can get a day pass, which allows you the time to go through the bath process and you can also book massages and other treatments as well. $60 will get you access to the baths or a $179 Serenity package will get you access, bathrobe and sandal rental and a 60 minute Swedish massage... make sure to keep a look out for their other special promotions, which change regularly according to availability.
Zipline down a mountian with SuperFly
Zipling with SuperFly means having the opportunity to soar down the longest tandem ziplines in Canada, with the most magical views of the mountains. It was raining the day we went so at first we thought we would be disappointed because the visibility was so low. As we were soaring down, we couldn't see a thing BUT then all of a sudden the clouds broke and we saw exactly how high we were! Talk about exhilarating! It was definitely worth the $149 fee and three hours to get to soar around the sky. The trips are available every 30 minutes and totally smooth and swift and even include extra gear for wet weather—but dress comfortably.
Ride a Bike
Most of the hotels and resorts around Whistler offer a bike rental program, which you should definitely take advantage of. Hop on and then head toward the lakes to get incredible scenic photos that will wow your friends and family back home. It can be more exercise than the average body is used to, but you won’t even notice until the next day because the surroundings around you are so intense and create a sense of awe. Whistler is a perfect destination for bikers of any level as the area offers a variety of unsurpassed biking experiences, from paved paths, single-track and heli-biking to alpine tours and thrilling mountain descents.
Walk Around Whistler Village
Whistler is one of the most scenic towns we’ve come across. Whether you're ziplining from above or just walking the street, you'll see plenty of picture perfect moments, everywhere you turn!
Whistler Village is full of shops, restaurants and plenty of bars to keep you lingering. Make sure to spend a few hours wandering through the streets and stop at a cafe or bar for some local beers or even sample a gin and tonic tasting. Don't be afraid sure to stop in one of the many restaurants lining the town, as you won't be disappointed. Check out a few of our favorites here!