Whistler is best known for its winter season, but in summer, it feels like a completely different place. The snow melts, the trails open up, and it turns into one of the easiest places to spend time outdoors, whether you’re hiking, swimming, or just wandering around the village.
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, there’s no shortage of things to do. From alpine hikes and scenic lakes to slower days by the water, here are some of the best ways to experience Whistler in summer.
1. Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola
One of the most popular things to do in Whistler is riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains high above the valley below.
To get there, you first catch the gondola up from Whistler Village to Whistler Mountain. From there, you can take the Peak Express chairlift to the top of the mountain, where you’ll find the Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s Eye lookout, or continue across to Blackcomb on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola.
Once you’re up there, you’ll get wide views over the surrounding mountains and valleys. There’s also the Roundhouse Lodge, which is a nice spot to stop for a coffee or something to eat while taking in the views. It’s also a really nice spot to watch the sunset.
2. Go hiking in the alpine
Summer is when Whistler’s hiking trails really come to life. There are plenty of options, from shorter walks to longer alpine hikes.
Trails like the High Note Trail are popular for a reason, with views over the lakes and surrounding peaks the whole way. The trail is around 9.5 km long and is one of the most popular hikes accessed from Whistler Mountain during summer.
There are also plenty of other alpine hikes around Whistler and Blackcomb, ranging from shorter walks to more challenging full day hikes. Nearby Garibaldi Park hikes like Garibaldi Lake and Panorama Ridge are also popular options if you’re after something longer, or even an overnight hike.
3. Walk the Train Wreck Trail
Train Wreck Trail is a short and easy 2.3 km walk just outside Whistler, leading to a series of old train carriages scattered through the forest.
The trail follows a fairly flat path through the trees before crossing a suspension bridge over the Cheakamus River. It’s a fairly quick walk and an easy one to add into your day if you don’t feel like doing a bigger hike.
4. Walk or bike the Valley Trail
The Valley Trail is a network of paved paths connecting the lakes, parks, and neighbourhoods around Whistler.
It’s mostly flat and easy to follow, and you can walk shorter sections or rent a bike and ride between the lakes and different parts of the village.
5. Spend a day by the lake
Whistler has a number of lakes that are perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Lost Lake is one of the easiest to access from the village, with a small beach area and calm water that’s good for a swim. You’ll often see people paddle boarding here in summer as well.
Alta Lake and Green Lake are also worth visiting. Green Lake is known for its bright turquoise colour, while Alta Lake is one of the more popular spots for swimming and paddle boarding in summer.
6. Relax at Scandinave Spa
If you’re after something a bit slower, Scandinave Spa is a really nice way to spend a few hours.
Located just outside the village, the spa is surrounded by forest, with hot and cold pools, saunas, and relaxation areas. We visited in winter, but it would also be a really nice spot to spend a morning or evening in summer after a day of hiking.
7. Go Bike Riding
Whistler is a really popular spot for biking during summer, with everything from casual bike paths around the valley to downhill mountain biking trails.
The Whistler Bike Park attracts riders from around the world during summer, with downhill trails ranging from beginner runs to more advanced tracks.
Even if downhill biking isn’t your thing, there are also plenty of easier trails and paths around Whistler if you’re after something a bit more relaxed.
8. Go ziplining
If you’re after something a bit different, ziplining is another popular option in Whistler. There are a few different ziplining courses in the area, taking you through the forest and across the valley.
9. Take a helicopter flight over Whistler
Helicopter flights are another popular summer activity in Whistler, with tours taking you over the mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes surrounding the area. Some tours also include glacier landings.
10. Wander Around Whistler Village
Whistler Village is worth spending some time in while you’re there.
There are plenty of places to eat, grab a coffee, or just wander through the shops. In summer, the village has a more relaxed feel, with patios open and plenty of spots to sit outside for a drink after a day of exploring.
If you’re after something sweet, COWS Ice Cream is one of the most popular spots in the village. You’ll usually see a long line outside, but it’s well worth it.
11. Visit the Whistler Farmers’ Market
If you’re visiting Whistler during summer, the Whistler Farmers’ Market is worth stopping by if it’s running during your trip.
Held in the Upper Village, the market has a mix of local food stalls, baked goods, coffee, handmade products, and small businesses. It’s usually held on Sundays throughout summer.
If you’re looking for a more structured plan, I’ve also shared how to spend a weekend in Whistler, which breaks everything down into a simple itinerary.
How to Get There
If you’re flying in, the closest major airport is Vancouver International Airport. From Vancouver, you can drive to Whistler in around two hours along the Sea to Sky Highway.
If you don’t have a car, there are also several shuttle and bus options running directly between Vancouver and Whistler, with services available from both downtown Vancouver and Vancouver International Airport.
When to Visit
Summer in Whistler usually runs from June to September, with July and August being the warmest months. During this time, the hiking trails are mostly snow free, the lakes are warm enough for swimming, and most summer activities are open for the season.
Where to Stay
For first time visitors, staying in Whistler Village is the easiest option. You’ll be close to restaurants, shops, the gondolas, and most tour meeting points.
If you’re after something a little quieter, Creekside is another good option, with a more relaxed feel and easy access to lakes and trails.
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