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When is the Best Time to Visit Whistler

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Posted on February 23, 2023

Whistler has a reputation for being Canada's most popular and well-known ski destination. This reputation is richly deserved, but it doesn't mean that winter is the only time to visit.

In fact, you'll find plenty of things to do in Whistler regardless of when you vacation there. Book a stay at a beautiful Whistler timeshare so that you can take full advantage of this destination and all that it has to offer.

The Basics About Whistler

Although the area is known as Whistler, there are actually two major mountain peaks: Whistler and Blackcomb. When you combine the two, they make up North America's largest region for winter sports. Many visitors stay in Whistler Village, which provides accommodations, restaurants, shops, entertainment and immediate access to skiing.

Whistler Village Centre

An approximate 90-minute drive from the international metropolis of Vancouver, BC, Whistler can feel like it's a world away from the big-city bustle. In 2010, Whistler hosted the ski events of the Winter Olympic Games, so you may see some familiar landmarks if you watched the Games on television.

The main road, which is officially called Highway 99 but also is known as the Sea-to-Sky Highway, will become familiar as well as most attractions and activities are located somewhere along the highway.

The Incredible Winter Sports

snowboarder on Whistler Mountain

It should come as no surprise that the top things to do in Whistler involve skiing the peaks known as Whistler and Blackcomb. At 2,182 meters (7,158 ft) and 2,284 meters (7,493 ft), respectively, these mountains absolutely tower over Whistler Village below. More than 3,300 hectares of skiable terrain are waiting to be explored, and you'll find nearly 40 lifts available along with in excess of 200 runs.

Skiing and snowboarding are virtually year-round activities in Whistler thanks mainly to Horstman Glacier on Blackcomb. Accordingly, Whistler boasts Canada's longest ski season.

Be on the lookout for opportunities for heli-skiing, tubing, snowmobiling and more throughout the winter. Whatever your appetite for adventure, you'll find something to satisfy you among the things to do in Whistler.

Of course, the mountains remain popular even when the snow all-but disappears. Summertime brings excellent opportunities for hiking and riding the trails in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. If you ride the chairlifts in the summer, be sure to look below to see bears ambling among the vegetation.

Soak Up History and Culture

You'll spend your nights in a luxurious Whistler timeshare, but the days are perfect for learning more about the people and history of the region. One of the best places to do this is at the Squamish-Lil'wat Cultural Centre.

This First Nations museum is relatively new and contains stunning collections of artifacts, weavings, carvings and other unique exhibits. On Tuesday and Sunday evenings, the museum hosts First Nations Feast and Performance experiences that are not to be missed.

The Audain Art Museum was established in 2016, making it another fairly recent addition to Whistler's attractions. It's housed in a gorgeous building and showcases the work of British Columbia artists. With pieces dating from the late 18th century to the present, it is a fascinating place to spend an afternoon. Traveling exhibits, lectures, cultural events and more are regularly hosted at the museum.

Visit the Whistler Museum if you are interested in the community's early days. You'll be introduced to some colorful local characters and have enriching experiences with the interactive exhibits. A special emphasis is placed on the Olympics, so this is a great stop for anyone who enjoys the Games.

Climb and Hike to Your Heart's Content

person climbing to top of Blackcomb mountain

Whistler's magnificent hiking trails are renowned across the globe. The relatively easy nature hike around Lost Lake is a perennial favorite with families. Of course, there are many options featuring intense elevation gain, so even seasoned trekkers will find something to delight them.

If you're lucky enough to visit during alpine wildflower season, be sure to take a gondola to the top of the peaks. Many trails radiate from lookouts at the top, and you'll get some once-in-a-lifetime photographs.

Garibaldi Provincial Park is not as famous, but if you love to hike, then it's a can't-miss destination. In total, it boasts five trailhead areas with the most popular day hikes being Wedgemount Lake, Cheakamus Lake and Garibaldi Lake.

The park further is well-known among climbers thanks to Black Tusk. This 2,319-meter pinnacle is a challenging invitation to those who aren't bothered by a little elevation.

Garibaldi Lake in Garibaldi Park

Find Other Ways to Get Your Heart Pumping

Whistler is a paradise for mountain bikers in the summer, but it's not the only thrilling activity. Many ziplining experiences are available in the area as is the Whistler Sliding Center. Featuring a bobsleigh and skeleton track, the Center offers a fun and informative tour. Other adrenaline-pumping options include bungee jumping, riding off-road vehicles and whitewater rafting.

If you're looking for something that moves at a pedestrian's pace but remains thrilling, take a trip to the Cloudraker Skybridge. It's found at Whistler Mountain's highest point, and the breathtaking views are second-to-none. This attraction is only open during the summer and lets visitors walk on a suspension bridge from Whistler to West Ridge.

Cloudraker Skybridge Whistler

Another stimulating experience can be had on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Traveling 4.4 kilometers in eleven minutes, the gondola lets riders view alpine lakes, mountain peaks, Fitzsimmons Creek and more. If the weather is clear, there's no better way to get spectacular views.

Fabulous Golf Courses

If you do happen to visit outside of the winter season, then you may want to bring your golf clubs. Several celebrity-designed courses are waiting to be discovered. Surrounded by towering trees and featuring lush landscaping and gorgeous mountain backdrops, these courses offer unforgettable experiences. Choose from the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club, the Nicklaus North Golf Club and the Whistler Golf Club among others.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Whistler?

The simple truth is that Whistler is an outstanding destination in any season. Visit in the winter if you love skiing, snowboarding, tubing and other snow sports. However, you'll be no less entertained in the summer if you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, climbing and other activities.

Plenty of attractions and activities are available on a year-round basis, and there are annual festivals too. Check the calendar before you arrive so that you'll know what's going on in Whistler Village or on the mountains during your stay.

Choosing a Whistler Timeshare

living room in a WorldMark Whistler timeshare

Whistler is a popular place for couples and families to vacation. Accordingly, it is always a good idea to plan your stay well in advance. This will give you the broadest possible choices when you are selecting a Whistler timeshare.

While you are looking for things to do in Whistler, don't forget to consider your accommodations. Timeshares provide enhanced convenience and attention to detail to elevate your vacation to something that's truly special.

A Whistler timeshare may feature immediate access to chairlifts so that you can go from your room to the slopes in mere minutes. Don't forget to take full advantage of the resort's amenities throughout your stay. These typically include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, spas, restaurants, game rooms and more.

The accommodations feature private bedrooms, kitchens and generous square footage. Let these resorts help you discover all of the wonderful things to do in Whistler.

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Whistler

Hilton Whistler timeshare resort

Formerly known as Embarc Whistler, Hilton Grand Vacations Club Whistler is conveniently located in the Upper Village section of Whistler Village near the Blackcomb Mountain Gondola.

Your choice of studio, one-, two- or three-bedroom suites give you wonderful access to the slopes, shopping and dining of this sought-after destination. After a day of skiing or exploring, come back to relax in the heated pool, hot tubs or steam room.

WorldMark Cascade Lodge

WorldMark Cascade Lodge timeshare

Just on the edge of Village North, WorldMark Cascade Lodge is within walking distance to Main Street, Town Plaza and Olympic Plaza. One-bedroom suites offer queen-sized bed in the master bedroom, living room, full kitchen, fireplace for those cozy evenings and washer/dryer. Head out to the slopes or a day of hiking, golfing or fishing, then come back to the heated pool, sauna or hot tub.

Mountainside Lodge Whistler

Whistler timeshare resort

Right in the Village Centre, Mountainside Lodge Whistler is just steps from Village Square, the Blackcomb Excalibur Gondola and Fitzsimmons Express Chairlift to Whistler Mountain.

Part of the Shell Vacations Club, all of the cafes, shopping and dining is close by, as are the winter sports, hiking, biking, canoeing and more that this legendary location is known for. Choose from Studio Suite, the larger Loft Suite and One-bedroom Deluxe Suite for all the comfort and convenience you need.  

WorldMark Sundance

WorldMark Sundance timeshare resort

Located in the Whistler Creek area near the Creekside Gondola and access to Whistler Mountain, WorldMark Sundance is the second of the WorldMark timeshares in Whistler with more of a residential feel away from the crowds.

One- and two-bedroom suites provide all of the comfort, with balcony or patio to soak in the surroundings with an outdoor BBQ grill, living room, dining area, full kitchen, fireplace and washer/dryer. Skiing, hiking, watersports and more are all within reach.

Whistler Vacation Club at Lake Placid Lodge

Whistler timeshare resort

With a Whistler Creekside location, Whistler Vacation Club at Lake Placid Lodge is just around the corner from the Creekside Gondola and the epic slopes of Whistler Mountain. It’s a great location for those looking for the best of Whistler without the crowds of the main Village area.

One-bedroom, one-bedroom plus loft and two-bedroom units provide all the space and comfort you need after an energetic day out. Heated swimming pool, sauna, hot tub and BBQ facilities are great for your down time.

These Whistler timeshare resorts may be popular, but they are by no means the only ones in the area. If you have a different resort in mind, need more information or are thinking of selling your timeshare, let us help by giving us a call at 877-624-6889 or sending us your questions by clicking onto our Contact Us page.

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Author

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Steve Luba
Chief Communications Officer

Steve manages the public relations and content creation efforts of the company. Previously the Chief Operating Officer for Perspective Magazine, he provided oversight and contributed articles for the five regional vacation ownership trade magazines under the Perspective Magazine banner. 

A contributor for industry publications such as Resort Trades and Developments Magazine, Steve Luba has 36 years of experience in various roles in radio and television, sales and marketing, public relations, media and government liaison initiatives. 

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