Ever since the 2010 Winter Olympics put Whistler on the map, hardcore skiers and boarders from all over the world have been flocking to this alpine village for the world class slopes. But Whistler in the so-called “off season” is also skyrocketing in popularity.
When the slopes close for skiers, it’s not long until they’re wide open for some of the most exciting mountain-biking on the planet.
Now , I consider myself an avid cycler, but heading down these adrenaline-fuelled trails is something else. As I whipped down the tight and twisty, descending trails, I was glad to be wearing a plethora of padding. Unlike some daredevils I witnessed, I tended to ride the brakes a bit, partly due to my cowardice, and mostly to enjoy the spectacular scenery,
You’d be hard pressed to find a more visually beautiful ride. I even spotted a couple of black bears wandering the hills as I sped downward. There’s more than 4,900 feet of gravity-fed, lift-serviced trails, and one -day lift tickets for you and your bike start around $50. Well worth the money for this thrill ride.
If wheels aren’t your thing, spring and summer hiking in Whistler is nothing short of spectacular. Eighteen different mountaintop trails offer challenges to the experienced hiker or the beginner. The “peak to peak” gondola experience offers some beautiful alpine routes, including the Highnote Trail on Whistler mountain and the Overlord Trail on Blackcomb mountain.
You can even pick up a picnic lunch at a mountaintop restaurant before setting out on your journey. What a great way to spend a spring day. Who needs all those icy moguls?
Other Cool Things to Do in Whistler.
- Dine in the Alpine. Chow down in the open air at 6,000 feet on mouth-watering chicken and corn on the cob. There are BBQ’s every weekend in spring and summer.
- Take a bear-watching tour. Experience glaciers, wildlife, and catch a glimpse of one of the black bears living in the area, all from a 4×4 mountain truck. You can even visit special bear feeding sites.
