Insider Tips to Whistler

As I write this blog, I can't help but glance outside every now and then to check if it's snowing. Here in Whistler, the countdown to the mountain's opening day begins as November approaches. Every year, avid skiers and snowboarders start lining up at the base of the mountains at the crack of dawn, eager to be among the first to shred Whistler Blackcomb this season. However, early winter conditions on the mountains can be unpredictable. With some careful planning, though, you can always ensure a fun ski day. In this blog, we'll walk you through what to expect on the slopes during the early winter season.

Whistler's colder season brings with it an invitation to explore the town's coziest restaurants and cafes. Amidst the snow-draped landscape, these dining spots offer more than just meals; they provide a comforting refuge with warm, hearty dishes that soothe the soul. Let's journey through some of Whistler's most inviting culinary havens, promising delightful warmth and delicious comfort.

As winter's embrace settles upon Whistler's magnificent landscape, families are drawn to the snowy wonderland that awaits. Early winter in Whistler isn't just about thrilling slopes—it's a playground of family-friendly adventures and magical moments waiting to be discovered. From snowy escapades to indoor delights, here's a guide to ensuring your family's delight in Whistler's early winter wonderland.

While travelling in Whistler, we get to appreciate the beauty of it's landscape - a mesmerizing fusion for lush forests and crystalline lakes. However, it also reminds us of the importance of preserving the environment and making sure that future generations also get to enjoy what mother nature has to offer. In this pursuit, Whistler stands as a beacon for eco-friendly travel, offering a myriad of opportunities to explore, appreciate, and protect the delicate balance between human exploration and nature's bounties.

Whistler is a place that needs no introduction when it comes to world-class skiing and outdoor adventures. But this charming mountain town is not just for thrill-seekers. Whistler's early winter season is a particularly magical time, making it an ideal destination for couples looking to escape the everyday hustle and bustle. The combination of snowy landscapes, cozy lodges, and a host of romantic activities makes it the perfect place for a couple's getaway. Here, we'll explore the best experiences that will make your romantic escape to Whistler truly special.

No matter if you are a tourist in Whistler or if you live here full time, we coexist with the with the wilderness here. Whistler is home to a wide array of fauna, early winter in Whistler presents a unique opportunity to observe the local fauna in their natural habitat, making it an exciting adventure for nature enthusiasts. In this blog, we'll delve into the incredible wildlife you can encounter during your early winter visit to Whistler.
 

Plane ticket ✔, accommodation ✔, lift ticket ✔ and now all that's left to do is the dreadful task of packing. We all have limited luggage space and it's not easy to decide what to bring for your early winter adventure in Whistler. But fear not! With a bit of planning and some essential tips, you can transform the daunting task of packing into an organized and stress-free process. In this blog, we'll guide you through the must-haves, the optional extras, and the special considerations to ensure you're fully prepared for your journey to Whistler during early winter wonderland. So, let's dive in and conquer that packing list like a seasoned pro!

I know, I know, we travel to create memories, for the experiences, and to try new things. However, it is not a crime to capture the best angle of a place, maybe strike a pose or two, post the photo on Instagram & Facebook to show your friends how much fun you are having (maybe make them a bit jealous) and get some likes. In this blog, we'll explore the top photography spots in Whistler during the early winter season, guiding you to those picture-perfect moments.

Have you ever wondered how Whistler ensures perfect ski conditions from the very start to the end of the season? It's all about the science of snow and meticulous preparation. In this blog, we will delve into Whistler's ski season preparation, snowmaking techniques, snow grooming processes, and much more to understand the magic behind the early winter ski conditions in Whistler.

Whether you're visiting Whistler for a winter ski vacation or a summer hiking getaway, one thing remains constant: the need for groceries. To help you make the most of your Whistler experience, we've put together a comprehensive guide on grocery shopping in Whistler, so you can stock up like a local and make the most of your time in this beautiful resort town.

Skiing in Whistler without breaking the bank has always been a challenge. It's essential to be in the know and take advantage of every deal and offer available. Luckily, there are several options available, meaning that there is something for every budget.  

The legendary Whistler Turkey Sale is back this Thanksgiving from October 06 to 15! It’s time to strap on your best walking shoes and set off into the Village, this the best time of year to get great deals on winter gears. Whether you are looking for a pair of new skis, boots, helmets, goggles, base layers, boards, or bindings, you will find steep discounts on them during the Turkey Sale.

RBC GranFondo Whistler and Whistler Village Beer Festival are two of the biggest events happening this fall and they are just around the corner! The GranFondo is taking place on Saturday, September 09 and the Beer Festival will be held from September 11 to 17. Read on to learn more about these two signature events in September.

The anticipation for that first snowflake of the season to fall is high and everyone is counting down the days until the ski season starts. Locals are tuning and waxing their skis and snowboards and checking the mountain live cam everyday to see if snow has fallen on the mountain. As if to calm the nerves of anxious skiers, Whistler is bringing us the comfort of food and films this November.

Welcome to the colorful world of fall in Whistler, where the air is crisp, the leaves are red, yellow and orange and you can hear a crunch every step you take. One of our favorite things to do in October is grabbing a warm beverage and take a stroll down the Village admiring all the colors that come with the season. If you are lucky, you might spot some great deals for winter gears on the sidewalk. Sometimes, Whistler is so peaceful and quiet during the shoulder season that you feel like you have the whole Whistler to yourself. Read on to see what delightful events Whistler has in store for us this October.

As the days grow shorter and the crispness of fall begins to kiss the air, there's a magical window of time when summer's warmth still lingers, and fall's enchantment awaits just around the corner. For the locals, September in Whistler is all about chasing the tail of summer and enjoying the great outdoor without the mid-summer crowd. Also, with Labor Day long weekend coming up soon, it is the best time to seize the opportunity for a getaway to soak up the late-summer sun in the mountains.

Check out what's going on in Whistler this September!

Experience the magic of August in Whistler, where the summer's splendor reaches its peak! This month, Whistler is offering a myriad of events where nature meets culture. From a floating art gallery to theatre performances in the park to a cycling trip visiting local farms, take a vacation in Whistler to connect with the surrounding as well as the local community.

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure at the 2023 Whistler Crankworx Festival. Crankworx is the ultimate celebration of all things mountain biking. Whether you're a seasoned rider or an enthusiastic spectator, Crankworx Whistler offers an unforgettable experience, with heart-pounding races and competitions, vibrant expo, family-friendly events and more. Come and join the festivities from July 21st - 30th!

Summer is in full swing, and so are the good times! This July, Whistler is jam-packed with exciting events and activities from dawn to dusk. Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant calendar of festivities that will ignite your spirit and create lifelong memories. Here is what's happening in Whistler this month and some of our recommendations for summer adventures.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an avid adventurer, or simply seeking tranquility amidst stunning surroundings, Whistler's lakes offer an idyllic escape. In this blog, we'll explore the best ways to reach these serene lakes and delve into the exciting activities and experiences they offer. 

Whistler and it's surrounding area boasts an extensive network of well-maintained trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels. From leisurely strolls through verdant forests to challenging alpine treks, there is a trail for every adventurer. As you venture along the trails, you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring vistas of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush meadows adorned with vibrant wildflowers. Whether you're seeking solitude and serenity or seeking the thrill of conquering lofty summits, hiking in Whistler promises unforgettable moments and a deep connection with nature's wonders. Read on to find out more about some of our locals' favourite hiking trails.

Summer has finally arrived! Lately, Whistler has gotten an abundance of sunny days and the mild early summer weather makes outdoor adventures more enjoyable. Also, if you are not a fan of large crowds, June is the best time of year for summer sightseeing. Popular tourist attractions like Brandywine Falls, Cloudraker Skybridge and Joffre Lake are less busy comparing to July and August. Continue reading to know more about Whistler sightseeing and events in June

Come and celebrate springtime in the mountains with us this June. The Nourish Spring Series by Cornucopia is coming to Whistler, it features a variety of events that focus on health, wellness, and outdoor activities every week. 

Whistler in May is a fantastic destination for families! It is when the annual Whistler Children's Festival is held where kids can immerse themselves in endless dance parties, performances and workshops. Besides, the comfortable temperature and sunny days are constantly tempting us to go outside and explore what nature has to give. Here is what's going on in Whistler this month.

Happy Spring Skiing! Right now, the ski season is still going strong in Whistler, in just one week in April we got 67cm of snow. While it would be nice if both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain are open for spring skiing, Whistler had to close early to get ready for the summer season. Blackcomb Mountain will remain open for skiing until May 22, 2023. We have gathered some tips and tricks on how to ski Blackcomb in spring based on our own experience to help you make the most out of your ski day.

The changing of colors when the season changes never fails to fascinate us. Here in Whistler, it almost seems magical when the snow-capped mountains transform into green terrains overnight in April. A ski run could become a hiking/biking trail in the blink of an eye.

Put away your bulky jackets and put on your sunnies, spring is here in Whistler! Spring brings us an abundance of sunny days, warmer weather and countless activities to engage in. Read on for some guides and events to give you some inspirations for your next spring mountain adventure.

Fall is the season for cozying up with a blanket, a cup of tea, and a good book. It’s the time of year where writers flock to their favourite café, pulling out their laptops and notebooks to make some serious progress on their word count. This October sees the return of the Whistler Writer’s Festival, where the written word takes centre stage.

The excitement surrounding the Turkey Sale can rival the fervor towards Opening Day. It’s October’s keystone event, and many have had the Sale marked on their calendars for months. If you have never come across the Turkey Sale, it’s essentially Whistler’s biggest sale of the year. Stores throughout the Village, notably those owned and run by Whistler Blackcomb, offer incredible prices on gear galore, from skis and snowboards, boots and bindings, poles and helmets, gloves and buffs… you name it, it’s discounted to up to 50% off.

Despite the incredible weather we’ve been having -an extension of those beautiful summer days- the fall season as we remember it is around the corner, bringing along some of our favourite events of the season. Get ready to delve into fine dining, get your creative juices flowing, or to pop your shopping-shoes on because Whistler in Fall has begun and there’s plenty to be doing this October!

Though the last days of summer are fast approaching, Whistler is not letting up on the fun and excitement. The slate card for September is full of events, races, festivals, and more. Starting with the Labour Day Long Weekend, this month promises to be a busy one. So, keep scrolling to discover all there is to do this September!

Whistler is home to five lakes, each with their own quirks and characteristics. Regardless of whether you want to swim, play, boat, or paddle, the perfect lake is out there for you!

It is well known that Whistler is a beautiful place. What better way to take in the pristine views than to go for a hike? Discover all of the easy, moderate, and difficult hikes that Whistler has to offer, including the Ascent Trail in our very own back yard! 

With Summertime in full swing, Whistler has come to life. Patios are filling up, music is playing in the streets, and the Bike Park line is as long as ever. As a multi-season resort, Whistler never takes a break, and July is proving to be as exciting as ever. With several events and things to do on the agenda, this July is not one you want to miss.

This Canada Day Long Weekend is gearing up to be a good one with some long overdue sunshine and events galore in the Village. We've highlighted some of our favourite things to do this coming long weekend to ensure that this Canada Day is the best one!

If you go out into the woods today, you’re in for a big surprise. Or at least, that’s how the nursery rhyme goes. And while you may not run into a teddy-bear picnic while strolling the Valley Trail, you just might encounter one of Whistler’s 50+ resident Black Bears. In today’s blog post, we will cover how to identify Black Bears versus their larger cousins the Grizzly Bear, how to keep safe during encounters, and how to avoid them in the first place.

During the month of June, Blackcomb Springs Suites is joining the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation to raise awareness and show support for Men’s Wellness. For today’s blog post, we are compiling a list of our favourite wellness inspired events happening this month!

There's no better place than Whistler, British Columbia to enjoy the holiday season. With the majestic Whistler Village full of lights, pathways covered in snow, and plenty of holiday events and activities to explore, it's a true winter wonderland sure to please your entire family.

Choose from skiing or snowboarding every day (even Christmas Day and New Year's Day), attending one of the many special events (many of which are free), eating at one of the many restaurants, or maybe you would prefer to stay in the comfort of your own suite. The options to choose from are endless. The holiday season attracts visitors, far and wide, to Whistler with its magnetic appeal. Get caught up in the winter scenery or participate in one of the many activities that are fun for the whole family such as tubing, ice skating, snowmobiling or Vallea Lumina. 

Travellers from all around the world know Whistler as a must-visit winter destination. There’s the charm of the European-style village stroll surrounded by mountains, internationally renowned dining options, and of course, the chance to ski and snowboard at the largest ski resort in North America.

The only thing more satisfying than finally booking your dream winter vacation in Whistler is knowing that you scored the best hotel deal. And now that international and domestic travel restrictions are easing, Whistler accommodation for this winter is already booking up quickly. If you’re already dreaming of your first run down the slopes this winter, now is definitely the time to book. 

If you think the only time to visit Whistler is in the Winter, now is the year to experience Fall in the mountains. From great deals on accommodation to the stunning autumn scenery - it’s the perfect excuse to take that vacation you’ve been craving.

Time to think outside the (lunch) box!
Today's blog looks at options for keeping everyone fuelled up during a day on the mountains. With restaurant, capacities curtailed it may be time to think outside the (lunch)box.

After 25 years working in the resort, I have tried to distill the strategies to get the best value for your lodging dollar.