Europe’s mountain escape transforms into a playground when summer rolls around—long days, perfect weather, and endless activities. Whistler isn’t just for skiers; its alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests make it an outdoor utopia from June to September. Here’s a refreshed list of 14 must-do summer adventures in Whistler, each in a single paragraph to inspire your next escape.
Hike Alpine Trails
Whistler’s hiking scene is nothing short of epic, with trails for every skill level. Try the Train Wreck trail for an easy walk to colorful, graffiti-covered boxcars hidden in the forest. For something more challenging, head to Garibaldi Lake, where turquoise water and glacier views reward your effort. Wildflowers, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas are all part of the deal.
Paddle on Whistler’s Lakes
Whistler is surrounded by beautiful lakes perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding. Alta Lake and Green Lake offer calm waters and stunning mountain backdrops. You can paddle out early in the morning for a peaceful start or take a guided tour to learn more about the area. It’s the ideal way to soak in the scenery at a slower pace.
Go Off-Roading on an ATV or Buggy
Adventurers will love the chance to explore Whistler’s backcountry on an ATV or off-road buggy. These guided tours take you up steep mountain paths, through dense forests, and into remote areas that few visitors get to see. Some even include stops for a salmon bake or sunset viewing. Expect to get dusty—and to love every minute of it.
Play a Round of Mountain Golf
Golfing in Whistler is anything but ordinary. Courses like Nicklaus North and the Fairmont Chateau Whistler are set against dramatic alpine scenery, with glacier views and dense forest lining the fairways. The mountain air adds distance to your swing, and you might even spot wildlife while you play. It’s one of the most scenic golf experiences in North America.
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola is a summer must for the views alone. It links Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, soaring high above alpine meadows and deep valleys. The glass-bottom gondola adds an extra thrill, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the forest floor. Once you’re at the top, hiking trails and mountain restaurants await, making it an all-day experience.
World-Class Fishing
If you love fishing or have always wanted to learn, Whistler is a fantastic place to do it. You don’t need to bring your own gear, or even know what you’re doing to go fishing in Whistler. You can book a fully guided fly fishing, Spey or spin fishing trip in Whistler, where you’ll be able to fish for Rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, Bull trout, Coastal Cutthroat trout, Kokanee, Steelhead, and three species of Pacific salmon: Pinks, Cohos, and Chum. The trip can be as serious or as laid back as you want it to be.
The Alpine Village
At the charming center of it all is Whistler Village, about the cutest alpine village you’ve ever seen, nestled in the shadow of the mountain. Packed into the streets and alleys of the village are dozens of shops, restaurants, bars, and activities. Whether it’s packed in a heavy blanket of snow or sparkling in the afternoon sun, Whistler Village is the place to be for an Apres and late-night cocktails by the fireplace. The range of restaurant choices is pretty impressive.
Try a Via Ferrata Climb
If you want a thrill but don’t have rock-climbing experience, via ferrata is the perfect solution. This guided mountain climbing route uses fixed cables, ladders, and bridges to help you ascend a rocky face with amazing views. It’s challenging without being extreme, and the reward at the top is well worth it. No experience is needed, just a head for heights.
Bear Viewing
Whistler is home to a healthy population of black bears, and summer is the best time to see them in the wild. Guided 4×4 bear-viewing tours take you to known feeding spots and berry patches in the early morning or late afternoon. These respectful, safe tours are led by local naturalists who know the area inside and out. Seeing a bear in its natural habitat is something you won’t forget.
Zip Lining
Zip-lining in Whistler takes you high above the treetops for a rush like no other. The Sasquatch® line is the longest zipline in North America, stretching over 2 kilometers across a stunning mountain valley. You’ll feel like you’re flying through the wilderness as you glide between platforms suspended in the canopy. It’s equal parts adrenaline and awe.
White Water Rafting
Imagine how exciting a white water rafting trip must be in Whistler with all those glacial runoffs and pristine mountain rivers. The best part is that no matter how experienced or inexperienced you may be, there’s a river experience to match. The rapids range from pretty mild to all-out. There are a few different rivers you can go out on the Green, Lower Cheakamus, Elaho, and Squamish Rivers.
Glacier Sightseeing by Floatplane
If you want to see Whistler from a different perspective, take to the skies. Floatplane and helicopter tours offer sweeping views of rugged peaks, hidden alpine lakes, and vast forests. You can even land on a glacier for a once-in-a-lifetime photo op. It’s one of the most unforgettable ways to experience British Columbia’s wild beauty.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.