5 REASONS TO VISIT WHISTLER THIS WINTER

Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova 

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. 

But beyond the accolades, there’s a unique experience you get when you visit Whistler that keeps pulling people back. Maybe it’s something about the 200+ trails that cover Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. Or that first sip of an Apres pint after a long day on the slopes. Or maybe it’s just the memories you make exploring the iconic Olympic village.

With excellent health and safety measures in place, Whistler is gearing up for one of it’s best winter seasons yet. From exciting events, enticing dining experiences, adrenaline pumping outdoor activities and more - it’s not about if there is a reason to visit Whistler, it’s about finding what your reason is. 

Here are some of our top reasons why you should visit Whistler this winter to help you decide.

To experience some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world 

Year after year, skiers and snowboarders flock to Whistler for their chance to experience one of the best ski resorts in the world. Whistler Blackcomb resort spans two mountains, offers over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain and boasts a peak elevation of 1609 metres. There’s five terrain parks to explore, 37 chairlifts to ride and, of course, the longest and highest lift in the world - the Peak 2 Peak gondola. 

Beginners can cruise down well-groomed green runs, while black diamond runs and endless backcountry trails offer experienced riders their adventure fix. If you’re looking to sharpen your skills, you can take a lesson through Whistler Blackcomb. You can also unleash your inner Mark McMorris and hit the jumps, rails and boxes on one of Whistler’s 5 terrain parks. 

Tip: Book your ski-gear rentals in advance through Blackcomb Springs Suites to save up to 20%. Plus, if you’re booking a group ski trip with four or more rooms, you qualify for our special group rates. Learn more here. 

To Unleash Your Inner Foodie

Image via Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane

Whistler may be smaller than other foodie capitals of the world, but with more than 170 establishments to choose from, you’ll have no issues finding your ideal foodie experience. Whether you’re looking for award winning fine-dining or for something to satisfy your sweet tooth, Whistler dining has you covered. 

Here are some of the award-winning restaurants/dining options to choose from. 

• Araxi

• The Rimrock Café

• The Red Door Bistro 

• Bar Oso 

• Ketel One Ice Room 

• Purebread

Want to make sure you get the reservation you’re looking for? One of our concierges would be happy to assist you. Click here to get in touch. 

Tip: if you’re just looking for a quick meal to take on the ski hill, guests of Blackcomb Springs Suites can order breakfast and lunch to-go. 

To take advantage of all the outdoor activities Whistler has to offer 

Image via Tourism Whistler/Claire Lang

Whistler’s winters aren’t just for skiers. You can still experience the thrill of Whistler without heading on a gondola or going up a chairlift, thanks to a long list of winter activities. See the views of the mountains from a snowmobile tour, zoom down a zip line high over the forest, or dare to bungee jump 160ft over a glacial fed river. Looking for more thrills? Head to the Olympic bobsled and luge track right near our hotel. 

For more family friendly activities, choose to explore the trails of Lost Lake via snowshoe or cross-country ski. You can also head over to Blackcomb’s tube park to take your winter toboggan game to the next level. Finish off your day by experiencing the magic of Vallea Lumina at Cougar Mountain - a unique immersive light show in the middle of the forest. 

Check out all the activities Whistler has to offer here. 

To experience legendary events and festivals

Image via World Ski and Snowboard Festival

It only makes sense that North America’s best ski resort is home to some amazing festivals and events. Here are some of the ones to look forward to. 

Whistler Film Festival | December 1-30, 2021 in Whistler and online 

On December 1, 2022 Canada’s Coolest Film Fest is taking place in Whistler village with five days of in-person film premieres, industry summits, talent programs and more. Catch one of the 40 feature films made by filmmakers from around the world, or hit a filmmaker après event to get an inside look at the movie industry. 

Whistler Pride and Ski Festival | January 23 - 30, 2022 

Back for it’s 29th year, Whistler Pride and Ski Festival is one of the biggest gay and lesbioan ski weeks in North America. This week-long festival features daily guided skiing and snowboarding, daily après parties, comedy shows, the annual pride ski parade and more. You won’t want to miss this amazing celebration.

Whistler World Ski & Snowboard Festival | Date to be announced 

With over a week of events on and off the slopes, WSSF is one of Whistler’s signature events. On the hill you can find amazing skiers and snowboarders competing in a variety of competitions. There’s also music, art, photography and filmmaking events so everyone will be able to find something they love. 

Because you deserve some serious R&R

Image via Destination BC/@awejunkie 

The past couple of years have been stressful for all of us. And while Whistler is known for epic adventures to get your heart racing, there’s plenty of opportunities to treat yourself and truly relax. 

One of our picks? Taking part in the age-old Finnish tradition of hydrotherapy at the famous Scandinave Spa in Whistler. Imagine decompressing in one of their legendary outdoor baths, taking in the lush mountain forests from your lounge chair or getting a long-overdue deep tissue massage. And with their no phone, no talking policy, it’s the perfect excuse to shut the world out and completely zone out. 

Ready to book your trip to Whistler for Winter 2021/2022? The earlier you book, the bigger savings you’ll get. Contact one of our expert travel guides today to lock-in your Whistler vacation.