Whistler in the winter is basically Disneyland for skiers – a huge world-class resort with seemingly endless terrain. But there is so much more to Whistler in winter than skiing.
I live just up the road from Whistler in Squamish so I’ve been going to Whistler for day trips and weekend getaways for decades… and I’m not a skier!
In this list of the over 40 things to do in Whistler in winter I’ve got something for everyone:
- Skiing and snowboarding: downhill, backcountry, heli-ski, or cross-country ski
- Other ways to have fun in the snow: snowshoeing, dogsledding, snowmobiling, snow tubing, and places to just play in the snow
- Extreme winter sports: ziplining, bungee jumping, ice climbing, or bobsleigh
- Winter sightseeing and tours: Peak 2 Peak Gondola, flightseeing, sleigh rides, ice fishing, snowcat tours, 2010 Olympic-themed tours, and the Vallea Lumina multi-media experience
- Things to do in Whistler Village: Wander along Village Stroll, go shopping, eat at fabulous restaurants, ice skate outdoors, explore the valley trail, or enjoy apres ski culture
- Relaxing things to do: Go to the spa, take a yoga class, soak in a hot tub, or visit a natural hot spring
- Indoor things to do: Visit the Audain Art Museum, Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, or Whistler Museum. Or have fun at an escape room, axe throwing, or the rock climbing gym.
- Local events: Festivals celebrate skiing, food, LGBTQ+ pride, and films. And a free weekly event showcases ski tricks along with fireworks.
I’ve also included a Whistler in Winter FAQ at the end that answers all the questions you might have about planning a trip to Whistler in winter: What is the weather like? When is the ski hill open? What to pack? What month is best to visit Whistler? And lots more.
Read on get the locals low-down on the best things to do in Whistler in winter.
Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website. -Taryn
Table of Contents
Skiing and Snowboarding in Whistler
Ok, let’s get the skiing stuff out of the way first. Yes, Whistler has amazing downhill skiing and snowboarding. But did you know it you can backcountry ski, country country ski, heli-ski, and cat ski in Whistler too?
1. Downhill Ski or Snowboard at Whistler Blackcomb
Skiing and snowboarding is the reason most people come to Whistler in the winter. Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America with the most uphill capacity. It has been named the best ski resort by ski magazines countless times.
With over 200 runs and lots of terrain for both beginners and experienced skiers, there’s something for everyone.
2. Heli-skiing and Cat skiing near Whistler
Riding the lifts isn’t the only way to ski and ride in Whistler. There are several heli-ski and cat ski companies in the area who will transport you deep into the backcountry, then guide you down untracked slopes.
You need to be at least an intermediate skier (and have some $$$) for this splurge experience.
Book a heli-skiing or cat skiing trip
3. Backcountry Skiing
If you want to explore the backcountry, there are tons of places near Whistler to ski and snowboard. You can access “sidecountry” from the lifts, or explore the mountains around town. Duffey Road (part of Highway 99) north of Pemberton is a very popular place for backcountry skiing.
However, you’ll need experience and avalanche training to go backcountry skiing in Whistler. Or you can go with a guide to show you the best spots and take care of your safety.
Beginners should book an Intro to Backcountry Ski Class.
Experienced backcountry skiers can check out the South Coast Touring Facebook group to find trip partners, current conditions, and route advice.
4. Cross Country Skiing
Whistler is also home to lots of excellent cross country skiing. You can explore 30 km of cross country ski trails next to Whistler village at Lost Lake.
Or venture a bit out of town to Whistler Olympic Park in the Callaghan Valley. They have 90 km of trails and you can even take biathlon lessons.
If you have your own skis, you can even ski for free on Whistler’s Valley Trail. It connects neighbourhoods in the town by bike and on foot in the summer. In the winter, a portion of the trail is groomed for cross country skiing and free to use.
Other Ways to Have Fun in the Snow in Whistler
If you don’t ski, you can still have fun in Whistler in the winter. Here are my picks for non-skiing snow adventures. The best part: all of these options are beginner-friendly.
5. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is my go-to snow sport, and the reason I end up in Whistler a few times each winter. There are lots of great snowshoe trails in Whistler, ranging from beginner to expert, and most of them are free. You can even snowshoe to frozen waterfalls! I
n my opinion, snowshoeing is the best thing to do in Whistler for non-skiers since you can get out into the snow and don’t need any skills or experience to try easy trails.
Use my guide to Whistler snowshoe trails to plan your adventure or book a guided snowshoe tour
6. Dogsledding
Let a team of adorable dogs pull you through the snowy landscape. Whistler is home to two different dog sledding companies. Both offer tours through the wilderness outside of town.
Settle into the cozy sled and enjoy the ride, or step on to the runners and learn how to drive. This is definitely one of the most unique winter activities in Whistler.
7. Snowmobiling
Drive yourself through a winter wonderland. If you’ve never driven a snowmobile before, there are scenic tour options for beginners and families. Experienced riders can opt for extreme backcountry tours into the mountains. There are a few different snowmobile tour companies in Whistler.
Book a Wilderness Snowmobile Tour or a Family Snowmobile Tour
8. Sledding and Snow Tubing
Nothing says winter quite like a day of sledding. Head to the bubly Tube Park at Whistler Blackcomb and rent a tube. You’ll slide down the curving lanes, then ride the conveyor belt back to the top.
For some low tech (and free) fun, bring your own sled to the gentle hill at Whistler Olympic Plaza in the village.
9. Play in the Snow
You don’t have to be a little kid to head outside and play in the snow. Build a snowman, make snow angels, or have a snowball fight. Popular places to play in the snow in Whistler are Whistler Olympic Plaza in the village, Rebagliati Park near Blackcomb Base, or anywhere along the Valley Trail.
READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler
Extreme Winter Sports in Whistler
If you like to go fast, feel your heart beat through your chest, and get your adrenaline pumping, these extreme Whistler winter sports are for you. You also don’t need any experience to try these exciting (or scary) activities.
10. Ziplining
In Whistler, you can zipline all year-long. In the winter, you’ll enjoy winter wonderland views and snowflakes falling all around you.
Ziptrek Ecotours lets you soar like an eagle over Fitzsimmons Creek between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.
Superfly Ziplines is located 10 minutes north of the village and has ziplines deep in the wilderness.
Book a Zipline Tour with Superfly Ziplines or Ziptrek Ecotours
11. Bungee Jumping
3… 2… 1… Bungee! Jump off a bridge 50 metres above the Cheakamus River just south of Whistler. In the winter, the river freezes, the surrounding cliffs are covered in ice and snow, and you’ll jump into a postcard-perfect winter landscape.
Book a bungee jump in Whistler
12. Ice Climbing
Have you ever dreamed of climbing a frozen waterfall? Strap on some crampons, pick up an ice axe, and make it happen in Whistler. Several local guiding companies offer ice climbing trips. If you’re a beginner, they’ll show you the ropes (literally… sorry couldn’t resist). But there are also trips for experienced climbers.
13. Bobsleigh, Luge, and Skeleton
As host of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler is home to one the two bobsleigh tracks in Canada. Sign up for a one-day bobsleigh, luge, or skeleton lesson to try out the sport.
If you just want to go for a high-speed ride, they offer passenger bobsleigh rides too. You’ll go up to 125 km/hour!! You can also watch the action for free!
Book a Passenger Bobsleigh Ride
Winter Sightseeing and Tours in Whistler
Sometimes it’s fun to sit back and enjoy the scenery. Whether it’s snowy landscapes, mountain peaks, icy glaciers, frozen lakes, or local history, you’ll see something beautiful on these Whistler winter sightseeing tours.
14. Peak 2 Peak Gondola
Even if you’re not a skier, it’s worth riding the gondola up into the mountains. The views from the top are spectacular. Your lift ticket includes the Peak 2 Peak Experience.
This spectacular gondola connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains with a cable that is 436 meters above the valley floor – a world record. Gaze out the windows at the gorgeous mountain views, or ride a special glass-bottomed gondola for an adrenaline-pumping bird’s-eye view.
Buy Peak 2 Peak Gondola tickets
15. Flightseeing Tours
Fly high above Whistler’s glaciers and peaks on a helicopter or floatplane tour. There are lots of tours to choose from: glide over Whistler Peak, see Whistler village from above, or head into the backcountry to see mountain peaks and tumbling glaciers. Some tours even let you land on a glacier and explore an ice cave!
Book a Scenic Helicopter Flight or a Helicopter Tour with Mountain Landing
16. Sleigh Rides
Go dashing through the snow in a two-horse open sleigh. Jingle bells optional. The nightly sleigh ride tours on Blackcomb Mountain are a magical way to enjoy the snowy forest. They include lots of blankets and a short stop at a cozy cabin to enjoy hot chocolate.
17. Ice Fishing
Walk out onto a frozen lake and fish for trout through a hole in the ice. Definitely a bucket list experience. In cold weather, you’ll sit inside a portable ice hut or beside a heater, but in milder temps, you can enjoy the scenery around you.
18. Snowcat Tours
If you aren’t sure what a snowcat is, you’re aren’t alone. It’s a truck-sized vehicle that uses tank-style tracks to move across the snow. Take a scenic snowcat tour to see the twinkling lights of Whistler Valley at night from above. The tours include warm drinks in a glass-topped igloo or fondue at a charming log cabin.
19. 2010 Olympic Self-Guided Tour
In 2010, Whistler and Vancouver hosted the Winter Olympics and Paralympics. I went to tons of events in Vancouver and managed to get tickets for the Paralympic biathlon in Whistler too. So fun!
You can relive the glory and excitement of the games on a self-guided walking tour. It includes event venues and other legacy buildings from the Olympics like the bobsleigh track and medal ceremony location.
20. Vallea Lumina
This multimedia and light experience is truly unique. It’s a story-based journey where you walk through the snowy forest encountering lights, sound, and lasers that create a sense of magic in the landscape. I haven’t been, but I’ve heard it is the kind of thing you can’t really understand unless you’ve experienced it.
Things to Do in Whistler Village in Winter
You don’t need to leave the village to find lots of things to do in Whistler. You could easily spend a day or two exploring the winding pedestrian friendly streets. Just be sure to wear your winter boots and as it gets pretty snowy!
21. Wander through Whistler Village
Whistler’s core is a purpose-built pedestrian village. Some people say it looks a bit like alpine Disneyland. In the winter it’s covered in snow and charming twinkling lights.
Take a walk on the Village Stroll, a pedestrian-only street that winds past cafes, boutiques, and ski shops. It’s a great place to window-shop, people-watch, or just enjoy a walk. Use this map of Whistler Village to find your way.
22. Shopping
Since it is an international ski destination, Whistler has surprisingly good shopping for such a small town, and most of it is concentrated around the pedestrian-friendly Village Stroll. You can find your favourite chain stores like The Gap and Lululemon alongside fine jewelry and tons of outdoor and ski shops.
But the real gems are boutiques selling local goods. Check out 3 Singing Birds for locally designed and made clothing and home decor. Find local art at several galleries. Or pick up a local book at Armchair Books. (They carry my book, Backpacking in Southwestern British Columbia, so I think they’re pretty awesome!)
23. Eating
Whistler has an amazing restaurant scene. It’s home to upscale fine-dining at places like The Rimrock Cafe and Araxi Restaurant, but there are also lots of amazing casual places where you can show up in your sweaty ski clothes and no one cares.
We often grab beer and burgers at the High Mountain Brewing Co. Brewhouse or Garibaldi Lift Co. I also love the sandwiches and bowls at Gone Eatery – they are perfect for a quick lunch. Don’t miss the amazing Aussie pies at Peaked Pies. Order it with mashed potatoes, mushy peas, and gravy on top!
For coffee, I highly recommend Mount Currie Coffee Co. And for a sweet treat purebread is to die for.
Book a Fine Dining Dinner Tour or a Hidden Gems Dinner Tour
24. Ice Skating
What could be more magical than ice skating outdoors? Each winter Whistler transforms part of the Whistler Olympic Plaza into an outdoor ice rink. It’s especially phenomenal at night when the nearby trees are lit up with twinkly lights. You can rent skates on-site or bring your own.
If you’d rather skate indoors, head to the rink at Meadow Park Sports Centre.
Ice skating is one of my picks for the best cheap things to do in Whistler.
25. Valley Trail
Spend a few hours exploring the Valley Trail. It’s a 43 km-long network of pathways that connects Whistler’s neighbourhoods. In winter, many of the sections are plowed for easy walking. Wander through the snowy landscape and discover the Whistler that locals know.
This map of the Valley Trail has all the info you need.
26. Apres-Ski
The apres-ski culture is strong in Whistler. There are three craft breweries in town (High Mountain Brewing, Whistler Brewing, and Coast Mountain Brewing), each with its own tasting room. There are also tons of pubs around town, perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes. You can’t go wrong with Dusty’s Bar and BBQ. It’s Whistler’s original apres spot, open since the 1970s.
Or visit
For an upscale experience apres experience, try the Ketel One Ice Room at the Bearfoot Bistro, billed as the coldest vodka tasting room in the world at -32C (-25F). (Don’t worry – they’ll give you a parka to wear!)
And if you still have energy for dancing, Whistler has several nightclubs. I remember Garfinkel’s from my early 20s clubbing days, and according to locals, they’re still going strong (even if I’m not!)
Book a Guided Craft Beer Crawl or Club Crawl
Relaxing Things to do in Whistler in Winter
It’s not all go-go-go: Whistler is also a great place to relax. Here are my picks for the most relaxing things to do in Whistler.
27. Go to the Spa
Whistler is home to lots of spas and there’s something for everyone. Choose from high-end hotel experiences like The Spa at Four Seasons Resort, classic Swedish massage at Aviva Wellness, or unique experiences like the Javanese style Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa.
But the one spa all visitors will love is Scandinave Spa Whistler. Their outdoor network of steam rooms, saunas, and hot and cold pools is a great place to relax and enjoy the snow falling. They also offer several types of massage and have a silence-only policy so you can really zen out.
28. Take a Yoga Class
Stretch it out after a day on the slopes. There is one dedicated yoga studio in town: Yogacara.
If you want to do your asanas with locals, head to a budget class at the Meadow Park Sports Centre (the local community centre).
And if you’re fancy and staying at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, complimentary yoga classes are included with your stay.
29. Soak in a Hot Tub
Hot tubbing is a way of life in Whistler. Everyone loves an evening soak after a ski day. And it’s extra magical to be in a hot tub while it’s snowing.
The hot pools at Scandinave Spa are hands down the best place for a soak in Whistler. But there are tons of other hot tub options in town.
Most of the spas in town include access to their hot tubs with entry. The spas at the Four Seasons and Nita Lake Lodge both have gorgeous outdoor tubs with mountain views.
Most hotels in Whistler also have great hot tubs that only guests can access. On a splurge trip, I loved the incredible indoor/outdoor hot tub at The Westin – you can swim through a doorway from inside to outside.
Lots of rental condos also come with hot tubs too. I’ve stayed at Glacier’s Reach a few times – each suite has its own private hot tub!
And lastly, if you’re on a budget, head to the hot tubs at the public swimming pool at Meadow Park Sports Centre.
30. Visit a Natural Hot Spring
For a real mountain relaxation experience, visit a natural hot spring. There are several hot springs in the mountains near Whistler. However, to reach them in winter you’ll need to be comfortable with some serious winter driving on snowy backroads, or have a snowmobile.
Read my guide to hot springs in Canada for more details.
Indoor Things to Do in Whistler in Winter
Sometimes you just want to stay inside, out of the cold. Thankfully, there are lots of great things to do in Whistler like museums, indoor rock climbing, movies, and more. (Axe throwing anyone?)
31. Audain Art Museum
Opened in 2016, the Audain Art Museum houses a huge collection of British Columbia art in a beautiful and award-winning modern building. It includes art from the late 18th century to the present.
The museum is home to a large collection of Coastal First Nations masks as well as works by settler artists like Emily Carr, Jack Shadbolt, and E.J. Hughes. The gift shop is also one of the best places in Whistler to pick up beautiful and unique local souvenirs.
32. Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
The Squamish and Lil’wat Nations have lived in the Whistler valley since time immemorial. Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre to learn about their history, culture, and art. Guides welcome you with drums and song, then take you on a tour of the exhibits including a hand-carved canoe. Visit the Thunderbird Cafe to try indigenous-inspired dishes made with local ingredients. It’s one of the best indigenous museums I have been to.
33. Whistler Museum
Learn about Whistler’s history at the community-run Whistler Museum. It has exhibits detailing Whistler’s history from wilderness to world-class ski resort including vintage ski gondolas, retro photos, the 50-year-long road to the 2010 Olympics, historical furniture and gear from the early days of the Rainbow Lake Lodge, and profiles of local people who shaped the town.
Admission is by donation, so this is a great cheap thing to do in Whistler in winter.
34. Escape! Whistler
Take on challenging puzzles to escape from themed rooms at Escape! Whistler. They have four different scenarios to choose from: Pirate Ship, Buried Cabin, Pinball Machine, or Rabbit Hole. These escape rooms are really fun with groups, but you can also get a private escape room for parties of two. (No sharing with strangers!)
35. Forged Axe Throwing
Let your inner lumber Jack or Jill out at Forged Axe Throwing. If you’ve never thrown an axe before, don’t worry: they’ll give you all the pointers you need to help you hit the bullseye. Most visitors go for a one-hour session, but if you’re super keen (and competitive) they also have a weekly league night.
Book a 1-hour Axe Throwing Session
36. Whistler Core Rock Climbing Gym
With 5,500 square feet of indoor rock climbing space, Whistler Core caters to climbers of all ages and abilities. If it’s your first time, take one of their classes. If dizzying heights aren’t your thing, check out their bouldering zone where you can climb just a few feet above cushy crash mats – no ropes required.
Events in Whistler in Winter
37. Fire and Ice Show
Head to the Whistler Village base between the Whistler and Excalibur gondolas every Sunday night to catch the free Fire and Ice Show. It combines fire spinners and fireworks with insane ski and snowboard flips, jumps, and tricks.
This show is one of my picks for the best free things to do in Whistler.
38. World Ski and Snowboard Festival
Celebrate the end of ski season each April at the World Ski and Snowboard Festival. It includes races, parties, live music, and the famous Slush Cup event.
39. Whistler Cornucopia
Foodies, this one is for you. Held each November, the Whistler Cornucopia festival celebrates everything food and drink with tastings, seminars, and special tasting menus at participating restaurants and bars.
40. Whistler Pride and Ski Festival
Whistler welcomes the rainbow each January for the Whistler Pride and Ski Festival. Book a spot in a ski or ride group. Watch (or take-part) in the Rainbow Ski-Out and Parade. And attend queer-focused events and parties in the evening.
41. Whistler Film Festival
Billed as “Canada’s Coolest Film Festival”, the Whistler Film Festival takes place in late November and early December. It includes film premieres as well as workshops and forums.
Whistler in Winter FAQ
What is the the weather like in Whistler in winter?
You might be wondering how cold it gets in Whistler or which months it snows in Whistler. While Whistler gets a ton of snow (about 10.8 metres/35.5 feet per year), it’s actually not that cold.
In December, January, and February, the average low temperature is about -5°C/24°F and the average high is about 1°C/34°F.
The snowiest months are December and January, with about 40 inches/101 cm of snow per month. It snows about 25 inches/64 cm in February.
What months can you ski in Whistler?
Whistler Blackcomb ski resort typically opens each year on American Thanksgiving (the fourth Thursday in November).
The last of the season on the Whistler side of the mountain is in mid April. But the glacier runs high on Blackcomb Mountain stay open until the Victoria Day holiday (the Monday before May 25).
In the 2022-2023 season Whistler Blackcomb opens on November 24. Whistler closes on April 16. Blackcomb closes on May 22.
The best skiing is typically in January and February.
What to pack for Whistler in winter?
If you plan to ski or do other snow sports, make sure you pack your ski jacket, pants, gloves, goggles, helmet, etc.
Even if you don’t plan to ski, it’s a good idea to have a waterproof jacket for walking around the village or wearing for activities. For extra warmth, layer it over a puffy down or synthetic insulated jacket.
Don’t forget a pair of warm gloves and and a toque. (That’s what Canadians call a beanie.)
Whistler is a pretty casual place so skip the high heels and opt for some insulated winter boots instead. The village can be icy, snowy, and slushy so you will appreciate the protection.
There is no dress code at Whistler restaurants or bars, so you don’t have to worry about packing a jacket and tie. You can turn up pretty much everywhere in casual clothes. However, if you plan to go a fine dining restaurant, you might be more comfortable in a nice pair of pants and a sweater or a simple dress.
Hot tubbing and visiting the spa are an important part of the Whistler experience. Don’t forget your bathing suit.
What is the best month to visit Whistler in winter?
Late January and February are considered the best months for skiing since there is a good snow pack. It is also a little quieter than over Christmas. However, look for crowds to spike around Family Day, a local holiday on the third Monday in February. (February 20 in 2023.)
Late November and December have variable skiing conditions so it can be a bit quieter than other times of the year. However, you might luck into some powder. It’s also a cheap time to visit in winter.
The holiday season around Christmas and New Year’s brings good skiing conditions, and tons of events to Whistler. It’s a popular time to visit, and for good reason.
The late season of March and April can have great snow conditions, but they get more variable as the season goes on. With warmer weather and more daylight, it’s a great time of year for hanging out in the village. It’s also a bit quieter and less expensive than other times of the year. However crowds do pick up around Easter. (April 7-9 in 2023.)
How to get to Whistler in winter?
There are several ways to get to Whistler in winter. The easiest and most economical option is to take one of the shuttle bus services: YVR Skylynx, Whistler Shuttle, or Epic Rides. They offer rides from Vancouver or Vancouver Airport to Whistler.
You can also book a private chauffered charter limo or van service.
If you want, you can also drive your yourself. It’s a gorgeous road trip on the Sea to Sky Highway. However, keep in mind that you will likely face snowy and icy winter driving conditions. Snow tires are required between October 1 and March 31, so make sure your rental car has them.
Where to stay in Whistler?
There are literally hundreds of places to stay in Whistler, so it can be hard to choose. Here are my picks:
Budget – Pangea Pod Hotel: This unique Japanese style pod hotel is in the heart of the village. There on-site bar has a huge selection of board games you can play. Check prices.
Condo – Glacier’s Reach: I’ve stayed at these condos just north of the village on a lot of trips to Whistler. It’s sooo nice to have a kitchen but the best part is the private hot tubs! Check prices.
Boutique Hotel – Summit Lodge: We stayed at this centrally located hotel on our most recent trip to Whistler. It’s a boutique property with funky decor and a fun vibe. When we were there they had a pop-up bubble tea shop! Check prices.
Luxury Hotel – Westin Resort & Spa: My now-husband took me here on our first trip to Whistler together when we were first dating. It was a luxe experience. My favourite part is the huge pool that both indoor and outdoor sections you can swim between. Check prices.
So that’s my big list of winter activities in Whistler. I’m sure you’ll find something to do in the Whistler in the winter that you’ll love. (Actually, I’m sure you’ll find a bunch of things.) What’s your favourite Whistler winter activity? Tell me in the comments.
MORE WHISTLER POSTS:
- 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler
- Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler
- Camping in Whistler, BC: The Best Campgrounds
- Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
- The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails
- Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
MORE AWESOME WINTER DESTINATIONS:
- 15 Best Things to Do in Canmore in Winter
- A Winter Week in Iceland: 35 Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit
- 24 Easy Backpacking Trips In BC For Beginners - January 24, 2023
- Romantic Valentine’s Gifts for Hikers and Campers - January 12, 2023
- 2023 BC Backpacking Reservation Dates You Need to Know - January 6, 2023
Teo
Tuesday 24th of January 2023
Amazing! There are so many things to do in winter! You will never be bored, there is more than sitting on the couch, wrapping up in a blanket, and drinking hot chocolate (though these things are also relaxing to do 😁). Plus one point for you adding eating in the list haha (Things we will never forget😆)
It is really going to be winter bucket list to do all of that 😮
More fantastic blogs to come! Cheers!