Activities & Fun Things To Do in Whistler

Nestled in the heart of one of North America's most celebrated mountain destinations, Whistler offers an incredible array of activities throughout all four seasons. When staying at Ace Cascade Lodge, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to experience the very best that Whistler has to offer, from world-class skiing and snowboarding to summer hiking, mountain biking, and cultural experiences that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Winter Activities: World-Class Alpine Adventures

Whistler comes alive during winter months with a spectacular array of snow-based activities that attract visitors from around the globe. Here are the must-try experiences during your winter stay:

1. Skiing & Snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb

The crown jewel of Whistler's winter offerings is undoubtedly the world-renowned Whistler Blackcomb ski resort. With over 8,100 acres of skiable terrain, 200+ marked runs, 16 alpine bowls, and three glaciers, it's North America's largest ski resort. The statistics are impressive, but it's the experience that truly sets it apart:

• A massive 5,020 ft (1,530 m) vertical drop – among the largest in North America
• Terrain suitable for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert runs
• State-of-the-art lift system minimizing wait times
• The iconic PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola connecting Whistler and Blackcomb mountains
• Average annual snowfall of 38 feet (11.6 m)

From Ace Cascade Lodge, you're just a short 5-minute walk to the gondolas, allowing you to maximize your time on the slopes.

2. Beyond Downhill: Alternative Winter Activities

While skiing and snowboarding might dominate the winter scene, Whistler offers numerous other ways to enjoy the snowy landscape:

• Cross-country skiing: Explore over 30 km of groomed trails at Whistler Olympic Park or Lost Lake Park.
• Snowshoeing: Experience the serene beauty of Whistler's forests on dedicated snowshoe trails.
• Ice skating: Glide across the outdoor rink at Whistler Olympic Plaza, surrounded by mountain views and twinkling lights.
• Snow tubing: The Tube Park at Blackcomb's Base II area offers family-friendly sliding fun without requiring any special skills.
• Snowmobiling: For adrenaline seekers, guided snowmobile tours offer access to spectacular backcountry terrain.

3. Unique Winter Experiences

Some of Whistler's most memorable winter activities go beyond traditional snow sports:

• Scandinave Spa: After a day on the slopes, rejuvenate at this outdoor spa featuring hot and cold plunge pools, steam rooms, and relaxation areas.
• Ziplining: Experience Whistler's forests from above on a zipline tour. Winter ziplining offers a completely different perspective with snow-covered trees and mountains.
• Vallea Lumina: This enchanting night walk through an old-growth forest features multimedia light installations telling the story of two hikers on a journey to find a hidden valley.
• Helicopter tours: Witness Whistler's spectacular alpine landscape from the air with a helicopter sightseeing trip.
• Dining experiences: Try the Whistler Tasting Tours for a progressive dinner at some of the village's best restaurants, or book a snowmobile-accessed fondue dinner at the Crystal Hut.

Spring Activities: The Best of Both Worlds

Spring in Whistler offers a unique blend of winter and summer activities, often with smaller crowds and special seasonal events:

1. Spring Skiing & Riding

Whistler typically enjoys one of the longest ski seasons in North America, often extending into May:

• Warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours create ideal skiing conditions
• The famous "corn snow" of spring provides a smooth, enjoyable surface
• Iconic "slush cups" and pond skimming events
• World Ski & Snowboard Festival in April featuring competitions, music, and art

2. Early Season Valley Activities

As the valley warms up while the mountains retain snow, you can potentially enjoy both winter and summer activities on the same day:

• Early season golfing on world-class courses
• Valley trail cycling and hiking
• Patio dining with mountain views
• Whitewater rafting as the rivers swell with snowmelt

Summer Activities: Alpine Adventure Paradise

When the snow melts, Whistler transforms into a summer playground with an incredible variety of outdoor activities:

1. Mountain Biking

Whistler is renowned as one of the world's premier mountain biking destinations:

• Whistler Mountain Bike Park features over 80 km of lift-serviced trails for all skill levels
• The surrounding area offers 300+ km of cross-country single-track trails
• Regular events and competitions including Crankworx, one of the world's biggest mountain bike festivals
• Professional instruction and guided rides available for beginners
• High-quality bike rentals available throughout the village

2. Hiking & Alpine Sightseeing

Access spectacular alpine terrain without the strenuous climb:

• Peak 2 Peak Gondola: Ride the record-breaking gondola between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains for 360° views.
• Alpine hiking trails: Network of trails at higher elevations with breathtaking viewpoints, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes.
• Valley trails: Over 40 km of paved, accessible trails connecting Whistler's neighborhoods, parks, and lakes.
• Guided nature walks: Learn about local flora, fauna, and ecosystem with expert guides.
• Nearby provincial parks: Garibaldi Provincial Park, Brandywine Falls, and Nairn Falls offer spectacular day hikes.

3. Water Activities

Whistler's lakes and rivers provide refreshing summer recreation:

• Swimming and sunbathing at Lost Lake, Alpha Lake, Alta Lake, and Nita Lake
• Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking on the calm waters of Alta Lake
• Fishing for trout in the region's lakes and rivers
• Whitewater rafting adventures on the Green, Elaho, and Cheakamus Rivers
• River of Golden Dreams canoe or kayak tour, a gentle 3-hour float between Alta and Green Lakes

4. Aerial Adventures

Experience Whistler from above:

• Ziplining across valleys and through old-growth forests
• Tandem paragliding flights launching from Blackcomb Mountain
• Whistler Sky Walk, a guided cliffside journey along specially designed walkways
• Helicopter sightseeing tours over glaciers and alpine terrain
• Superfly Ziplines, featuring some of Canada's longest and highest ziplines

Fall Activities: The Colorful Season

Fall in Whistler might be the region's best-kept secret, offering spectacular foliage, fewer crowds, and a special tranquility before the winter season begins:

1. Mountain Biking & Hiking

Fall offers some of the year's best conditions for these activities:

• Comfortable temperatures for outdoor exertion
• Spectacular fall colors transforming the landscape
• Less crowded trails than during peak summer months
• Extended Mountain Bike Park season usually running through mid-October

2. Wildlife Viewing

Fall is prime time for wildlife activity:

• Bear viewing tours as bears increase feeding before hibernation
• Eagle viewing along the Cheakamus and Squamish Rivers
• Guided ecology tours focusing on fall animal behavior

3. Arts & Culture

Fall brings a focus on Whistler's cultural side:

• Whistler Village Art Walk featuring local galleries
• Audain Art Museum, showcasing British Columbia art from traditional First Nations works to contemporary pieces
• Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, celebrating the shared territory of the Squamish and Lil'wat Nations
• Fall festivals including Whistler Writers Festival and Cornucopia food and wine celebration

Whistler Village: Entertainment & Dining

Beyond outdoor adventures, Whistler Village itself offers a vibrant scene year-round, and Ace Cascade Lodge puts you right in the middle of it all:

1. Dining Experiences

Whistler's culinary scene rivals its outdoor offerings:

• Over 100 restaurants ranging from casual pubs to fine dining establishments
• Diverse international cuisine including Japanese, Italian, Mexican, Indian, and Pacific Northwest
• Award-winning chefs creating locally-inspired menus
• Vibrant après-ski scene with lively patios and mountain views
• Local craft breweries including Whistler Brewing Company and Coast Mountain Brewing

2. Shopping

The pedestrian-only village offers excellent shopping:

• Outdoor gear and apparel from leading brands
• Canadian souvenirs and locally made crafts
• Art galleries featuring local and Indigenous artists
• Whistler Farmers' Market (summer and fall) for local produce and artisan goods

3. Relaxation & Wellness

After active days, unwind with Whistler's wellness offerings:

• Scandinave Spa's outdoor baths and massage treatments
• Yoga studios offering drop-in classes
• Full-service spas in major hotels
• Fitness centers with day passes

Family-Friendly Activities

Whistler is an ideal destination for families, with activities suitable for all ages:

• Adventure Zone: Located at the base of Blackcomb, featuring mini-golf, batting cages, bouncy castle, and more.
• Whistler Children's Festival: Annual summer event with crafts, performing arts, and workshops.
• Magic Castle and Tree Fort: Free play areas on Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains.
• Fire and Ice Show: Free weekly display of skiing, fire, and gymnastics (winter season).
• Meadow Park Sports Centre: Indoor swimming pool with water features, ice rink, and fitness facilities.

Tips for Planning Your Activities

To make the most of your Whistler adventure while staying at Ace Cascade Lodge:

• Book in advance: Popular activities like heli-skiing, certain dining experiences, and spa treatments often sell out, especially during peak seasons.
• Consider multi-day passes: For skiing or bike park access, multi-day passes offer better value than single-day tickets.
• Ask our concierge: Our knowledgeable staff can provide recommendations, booking assistance, and insider tips to enhance your experience.
• Check seasonal timing: Some activities have specific seasonal openings, so verify availability during your planned visit.
• Bundle experiences: Some activity providers offer discounted packages when booking multiple adventures.

Staying at Ace Cascade Lodge: The Perfect Home Base

Our prime location in Whistler Village makes Ace Cascade Lodge the ideal base for your adventures:

• 5-minute walk to the main gondolas for skiing and mountain biking
• Steps away from dining, shopping, and nightlife
• Easy access to valley trails and shuttle services to further attractions
• Comfortable accommodations to rest between adventures
• Heated outdoor pool and hot tub to relax after active days
• In-suite kitchenettes for preparing meals and snacks