The best-kept secrets of Whistler, and explore the must-do activities all locals know about.
Visiting the picture-perfect town of Whistler is always a special experience, and often many people just go and do the usual things everyone knows about. But if you want to make your trip truly unforgettable, then there are several activities that all locals love and keep close to their hearts.
From adventure sports such as mountain biking, whitewater rafting and dog sledding to luxury experiences like spa visits, these are some of the top ten best activities in Whistler that will turn any vacation into an amazing experience!
Begin your exploration by sampling the delicious local cuisine. From fine dining establishments to cozy cafes, there is something for every taste. Enjoy mushroom risotto from Araxi Restaurant + Bar and smoked salmon from Eagle Eye Restaurant or sample unique dishes from Quattro on Blackcomb Mountain’s Il Caminetto Restaurant or the Sushi Village restaurant in Whistler Village.
Then head outdoors to enjoy the natural beauty with the enjoyment of countless outdoor activities like outdoor skydiving at The Flight Co, heli-hiking through Glacier Boom Lake or kayaking on one of its many lakes or rivers. Check out one of the camping sites in Lost Lake Park or Howe Sound which is considered one of Canada's most beautiful areas. If you are feeling daring try zip-lining over Fitzsimmons Creek or even bungee jumping in the old townsite!
For an extra dose of adventure try paragliding off Whistler Mountain with views of Blackcomb Peak! Of course, no trip to British Columbia would be complete without a visit to one (or two) of the acclaimed ski resorts – Whistler/Blackcomb Ski Resort has skiing for all levels from beginners to expert hill climbers. After active days outdoors soak up the culture in style with a stop at The Great Hall where visitors can find galleries galore filled with unique works from emerging creative talent like paintings from Bill Reid Gallery just across Green Lake.
For relaxing experiences make sure you hit up Scandinave Spa for its cedar sauna, eucalyptus steam bath, Finnish saunas and relaxation areas plus yoga studios and massage therapists able to cure any stress away! Take a short drive down Sea to Sky highway towards Squamish where you can explore Shannon Falls Provincial Park or get an aerial view while riding Peak 2 Peak Gondola stretching between both the ski resort mountains! And Relax after days filled with discovery by catching some tunes performed by some talented local bands at pubs like Garibaldi Lift Company Pub & Grill -Whiskey Jack's Pub & Grille- Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub and Longhorn Saloon & Grill which offer live music near mountainside every night until late!
So there you have it: ten memorable must-do activities in Whistler guaranteed to turn any journey into an unforgettable adventure - Explore local snow-capped peaks hidden gems valleys towering forests crystal clear rivers vast ice fields lavish spas incredible gourmet restaurants entertaining pubs exciting attractions world-renowned skiing reachable via public transport – don't forget come winter time snowshoeing hiking snowmobiling dog sledding sleigh rides and countess other outdoor treats await your arrival!
Bicycling
Bicycling in Whistler is a great way to see the area and explore the surrounding landscape. This mountain resort offers a diverse range of cycling trails for everyone, from beginners to avid cyclists. The trails around Whistler include the Whistler Valley Trail, which connects the village and Rainbow Park. This scenic route features a fish ladder and wildlife viewing platforms.
For a long ride, you can choose from a selection of paved and crushed gravel trails. The Valley Trail is 40km long and easily accessible from most parts of town. You can also ride through Lost Lake Park, which is just minutes from the village and offers 35km of double-track and singletrack trails.
Dog sledding
Dog sledding in Whistler is one of the most thrilling experiences you can take in the region. This winter sport is the perfect way to explore the pristine wilderness and admire the spectacular mountain scenery. Huskies, specifically Alaskan Racing Huskies, power the sleds and provide a thrilling ride. Although these dogs weigh around 50 pounds, they are fast, agile, and easy to handle.
Sled dogs are natural pack animals and exhibit pack-like behaviours. Usually, there are six or eight dogs on a team. The first dogs, known as leaders, are point dogs, while the rest are called wheel dogs and switch dogs. The switch dogs are responsible for keeping the team on the trail.
Hiking
One of the best ways to explore Whistler's natural beauty is to go hiking. The mountains offer some spectacular scenery, and the region's varied terrain makes for great hiking opportunities. The most popular hikes in the area include the Cheakamus Lake trail, which is a 14-kilometre hike with 400 meters of elevation gain. It winds its way through ancient forest and follows the Cheakamus river to the lake. At the end of the hike, you'll find a spectacular, aquamarine lake surrounded by mountains and forests.
If you're hiking in Whistler, be aware of the presence of black bears and grizzly bears. It's important to always carry bear spray. You should also make noise to alert the animals that you're there. Also, remember to practice "leave no trace" - leaving the area as you found it. Similarly, stick to the trails if possible.
Sliding
When you're in Whistler, you'll want to check out the Sliding Centre, a Canadian bobsleigh, luge, or skeleton track. It's part of the Whistler Blackcomb resort, which consists of two ski mountains separated by Fitzsimmons Creek.
The track at Whistler's Olympic Park is also used for high-performance training. However, this does not affect the competition here. There are supplemental training programs for two and four-man sliding, as well as modifications to the track. In addition, a 20-page report was published to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on 12 April 2010 and to the public on 19 April 2010. The report stated that the changes made to the track were based on the safety concerns that were raised at Whistler. These changes included mapping and simulation, and reduced top speeds by 6 to 9 km/h.
Treetop adventure
For the whole family, Treetop Adventure in Whistler offers an incredible adventure. The course has over 70 elements, from rope swings to balance beams. It is also a great team-building activity. It is possible to build an adventure tour for a group of up to 10 people. In addition, the company offers a beginner's course with introductory obstacles.
Whether you're looking for a thrilling activity or want to take your employees out of their comfort zones, you'll be awestruck by the Treetop Adventure in Whistler. Featuring 70 elements and a natural team-building experience, this course offers a fun and unique way to bond with your colleagues.
Ice skating
If you love to skate, there are many great places to try it in Whistler. The Whistler Olympic Plaza has an outdoor rink, and the Meadow Park Sports Centre has a nice indoor rink. Both offer different types of ice skating. At the Olympic Plaza, the outdoor rink is decorated with twinkling lights, Olympic rings, and music.
If you're looking for a cheaper ice skating option, you can visit the Olympic Plaza. This rink features the iconic Olympic Rings and stunning views of the mountains. The entrance is free, and skate rentals are only $7. Nearby, you can also skate in the Coca-Cola Tube Park. This is another great option for families who want to have a fun day out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much cash should you bring with you to Vancouver?
The length of your stay will determine how much money you need. You can bring $500 if you are going on an overnight vacation. But, if you plan on staying longer, you may need more cash.
You'll likely spend the majority of your time shopping, sightseeing, dining out, relaxing, and eating out. So make sure you pack plenty of extra clothing and toiletries.
In addition, you may spend a lot of time exploring the city, so bring your camera. Since you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, make sure to bring sunscreen.
Vancouver: Are three days enough?
In the past I would have answered yes. After three years living here, I would now say no. There's so much more to do. And I don't know where else I'd rather be.
This city feels alive because of its energy. The city is alive with possibility, which makes life more exciting. This is where I am inspired to keep going. To push me beyond my limits. To reach beyond my limits and make connections that will matter.
This city reminds my why I love to make and inspires me to continue to seek out ways to help others succeed. Positive people are the best kind of people to surround yourself. Success feels natural.
I am so grateful to have found such a supportive network. There have been so many people and businesses that I have met along the journey. People are my inspiration and have taught me so much about myself and how to change.
Vancouver is a beautiful and welcoming city. It is not only a city to call home, but also a place where you can work.
What are some other things you can do in Vancouver?
There are many activities to enjoy in Vancouver apart from sightseeing. You can participate in sports like hockey or basketball, visit art galleries, learn about history, or relax at a spa. There are many bars and restaurants that you can go to. Vancouver is a great place to explore and experience new things.
Statistics
- British Columbia has moved from approximately 10 percent of Canada's population in 1971 to approximately 13 percent in 2006. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The CCF's popular vote was high enough in the 1945 election that they were likely to have won three-way contests and could have formed government; however, the coalition prevented that by uniting the anti-socialist vote. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Trends of urbanization mean the Greater Vancouver area now includes 51 percent of the province's population, followed by Greater Victoria with 8 percent. (en.wikipedia.org)
- Over 40 percent of Vancouver's residents were born outside of Canada, and the city is home to robust Chinese, Indian, and Filipino communities, to name a few. (eater.com)
- During the 1770s, smallpox killed at least 30 percent of the Pacific Northwest First Nations. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
dailyhive.com
vancouversun.com
www2.gov.bc.ca
- Population estimates - Province of British Columbia
- Ministry of Agriculture and Food-Province of British Columbia
cbc.ca
How To
THE 10 BEST Museums You'll Want to Visit in Vancouver
Vancouver is a beautiful city in Canada, and a top tourist destination worldwide. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, fantastic food, world-class art galleries, vibrant nightlife, outdoor activities, and many more. It is home to many fascinating museums. In this post, we look at some of the best museums you should visit when visiting Vancouver!
- Museum of Anthropology, (MOA) is located in Downtown Vancouver. It's right across from Stanley Park. The museum has many collections including Chinese Art and Oceanic Art as well as Canadian Aboriginal Art, Prehistoric Art, Ancient Egyptian Art, Prehistoric Art, and more. A special exhibition is dedicated to Ansel Adams, a well-known photographer.
- BC Sports Hall of Fame: Located in downtown Vancouver, right beside the Olympic Village, this museum was established in 1976 to honour British Columbia's sports stars. There are many exhibits in the building, including a bronze statue of Gordie Howe, a hockey legend.
- Dr. Sun Yat Sen Classical Chinese Garden & Bonsai Collection - One of the largest bonsai collections in North America and one of the most beautiful in the world. Visitors will find thousands of bonsai tree varieties alongside ponds.
- Vancouver Lookout: Also known under the name Grouse Mountain. This lookout affords spectacular views of Vancouver, its surrounding areas and the Gulf Islands. A small visitor center at the mountain's top houses several exhibitions as well gift shops and restaurants.
- UBC Museum of Archaeology and Culture - If you are a history lover, this museum has many historical items like totem poles and pottery. It also houses jewelry and tools.
- Museum of Vancouver - If you love modern art, this is the place to go. You will find original works from many famous artists, including Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and Robert Rauschenberg.
- Vancouver Public Library has a vast collection of books and magazines. There are DVDs, CDs, computers, and even an interactive hologram exhibit. There are great events during the summer, and programs are held on the second floor.
- Museum of Contemporary Glass: Located in Vancouver's West End, this museum houses over 5,000 objects made from glass. The museum lets you explore the fascinating process of making glass art.
- Chinatown Cultural Centre: This cultural center is home to two museums. The first is the China Through Time Museum, which explores the history of Chinese immigrants in Canada. The second is the Chinese Canadian National Historic Site which tells the story of the early days of Chinese people arriving in British Columbia.
- Vancouver Art Gallery: This is Canada's largest art museum and features many internationally-respected artists like Rembrandt, Van Gogh and Picasso. Vancouver Maritime Museum is a museum that focuses on maritime history. It houses a vast collection of ship models and paintings as well as photographs. This is just a small list of the fantastic museums you can find in Vancouver. You should definitely visit some of these museums if you're ever visiting the area. You won't regret it.