Winter was easily one of my favourite times to visit Whistler. Between skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, frozen lakes and plenty of places to warm up afterwards, there’s a lot to do here even if you don’t plan on spending every day on the mountain.
We visited Whistler a number of times while living in Vancouver, including during the winter months. This guide covers seven of my favourite things to do in Whistler in winter, along with where to stay, eat and hire gear for your trip.
1. Hit the Slopes
An obvious choice, but it has to be said. Spending a day on the mountain is an essential Whistler experience.
Whistler Blackcomb has more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain across Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, with runs for a range of ability levels.
We snowboarded here a number of times while living in Vancouver, and if you’re visiting Whistler during ski season, I’d definitely allow at least one full day on the mountain.
2. Wander Through Whistler Village
Spend some time wandering through Whistler Village, particularly in the evening when everything is lit up. Covered in snow and twinkling lights, it feels a bit like a scene from a Christmas movie. There are plenty of shops, restaurants and places to stop for a drink along the way.
3. Pamper Yourself at Scandinave Spa
If you want a break from skiing and snowboarding, spend a few hours at Scandinave Spa. The outdoor thermal spa is surrounded by forest just outside Whistler Village and was one of my favourite places to visit during winter.
The thermal journey takes you between hot pools, cold plunges and relaxation areas, and it’s particularly nice when everything around you is covered in snow. You can also book a massage if you want to make an afternoon of it.
4. Visit a Frozen Lake
Winter in Whistler brings frozen lakes that look straight out of a postcard. Nita Lake was one of my favourites and especially pretty after fresh snow. It’s a great spot for a winter walk or cold plunge if you’re brave enough.
5. Try a Tipsy Snowman Cocktail at Braidwood Tavern
Warm up with a signature Tipsy Snowman cocktail at Braidwood Tavern. It’s essentially a boozy hot chocolate topped with a marshmallow snowman and makes a good stop after a cold day on the mountain.
6. Go Snowshoeing at Lost Lake
Try snowshoeing one of Whistler’s many trails. Lost Lake is a great option, with peaceful paths winding through snow covered forests; this is a quieter way to explore the winter landscape. To visit this lake in winter, you’ll need a Nordic trail pass, which can be purchased at the office next to the trail. Snowshoes are also required in winter, and can be hired from the office where you get your pass. We visited early in the season and were able to wear our own crampons.
7. Sip Cocktails at the Christmas Themed Bar
Raven Room is a great choice year round; however, if you are visiting during the festive season, you will find a Christmas themed pop up cocktail bar, with floor to ceiling festive decorations and a list of creative themed Christmas cocktails.
How to Get There
If you’re flying in, the closest major airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). From Vancouver, you can easily rent a car and drive the two hours to Whistler along the Sea to Sky Highway.
If you don’t want to drive in winter conditions, you can also take a bus from Downtown Vancouver. We used Epic Rides several times while living in Vancouver and found it an easy way to get to Whistler without needing a car.
If you’re starting your trip in the city, I’ve also shared a 3 day Vancouver itinerary and a guide to winter activities in Vancouver before heading up to Whistler.
When to Visit
Whistler’s winter season generally runs from late November through to April, with Whistler Blackcomb currently targeting 20 November for the start of the 2026/27 season.
December is a great time to visit if you want to see Whistler around Christmas, with the village decorated for the festive season. Early December can also be a little quieter than the Christmas and New Year period, although snow conditions can vary early in the season.
January and February are right in the middle of ski season and a good time to visit if skiing or snowboarding is the main reason for your trip. This is also when you can expect proper winter conditions around the village and surrounding trails.
March is a good option if you still want to ski but prefer slightly longer days and generally milder temperatures. The ski season usually continues into April, depending on conditions.
If you’re flexible with dates, I’d avoid the Christmas and New Year period if you want fewer crowds and better value on accommodation.
Where to Stay
Whistler offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious hotels and slopeside resFor your first trip to Whistler, I’d recommend staying in Whistler Village. You’ll be within walking distance of the gondolas, restaurants, shops and most of the places you’ll want to visit, so you can easily get around without a car.
If you’d prefer somewhere a little quieter, Creekside is another good option. It’s around 4 km south of Whistler Village and has its own restaurants, shops and accommodation, as well as direct access to Whistler Mountain via the Creekside Gondola.
Where to Hire Gear
If you’re planning on spending a day on the slopes and don’t have your own gear, there are plenty of places around Whistler where you can hire ski and snowboard equipment.
We’ve hired our snowboard gear from Showcase Snowboards in Whistler Village several times and have always had a good experience with them. They’re located on Sundial Crescent and offer snowboard and boot rentals, so it’s an easy option if you’re staying in the village.
There are also several Whistler Blackcomb rental locations around Whistler, including the Village, Blackcomb and Creekside, as well as an equipment delivery service if you’d prefer to have your gear brought directly to your accommodation.
Where to Eat and Drink
Where to Eat and Drink
There are plenty of places to eat and drink around Whistler Village, whether you’re looking for somewhere for après, an easy dinner or something a little nicer.
The Bearfoot Bistro: One of Whistler’s better-known fine dining restaurants and a good option for a nicer dinner. They also have a vodka ice room, which is a bit of a Whistler experience in itself.
Peaked Pies: An Australian style pie shop and one of our favourites for something quick and easy. The pies are hearty, reasonably priced and particularly good after a cold day on the mountain.
El Furniture Warehouse: A casual option in the village for burgers, tacos and other comfort food. It’s usually lively and works well for an inexpensive dinner or drinks.
The Wildflower: Located inside the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, this is another good option if you’re looking for a nicer dinner while you’re in Whistler.
The Longhorn Saloon: Right at the base of Whistler Mountain and one of the most popular après spots in the village. Go here if you’re after drinks, music and a much livelier atmosphere after skiing.
Merlin’s Bar & Grill: At the base of Blackcomb Mountain in the Upper Village. It’s a relaxed pub-style spot for food and drinks after a day on the mountain.
Whistler Brewing Company: A little outside Whistler Village in Function Junction, but worth a stop if you like craft beer. You can try a few of their locally brewed beers in the taproom.
Dusty’s Bar & Grill: At the base of Whistler Mountain in Creekside, Dusty’s is another classic après option with pub-style food, drinks and a more relaxed atmosphere than some of the village bars.
Packing List for Whistler
Whistler gets properly cold and snowy in winter, so you’ll want plenty of warm layers — especially if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outside.
- Thermal base layers: Tops and bottoms that you can layer underneath your ski gear.
- Waterproof jacket and pants: Essential if you’re skiing or snowboarding.
- Gloves and a beanie: You’ll want these both on and off the mountain.
- Warm socks: Pack a few pairs, particularly if you’ll be skiing.
- Waterproof boots: Something comfortable with decent grip for walking around the village when it’s snowy or icy.
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