9 Things to do in Whistler in the Summer
Many people think that Whistler, British Columbia, Canada, is just a winter destination. And, yes, Whistler has world class skiing and snowboarding. But, there are also so many fun things to do in Whistler in the summer!
Note: This post was written in partnership with Nita Lake Lodge, Tourism Whistler and Destination BC. As always, all opinions are my own.
Whistler is an ideal destination for anyone looking for the best of what Canada has to offer during the summer: beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, world class hotels and a foodie scene. And couple all of that with the relaxed and laid back Canadian attitude that – as a Canadian now living in NYC – I know and love.
Whistler is an easy 1.5 hour drive from Vancouver, making it a popular escape for Vancouver locals as well as other national and also international tourists. If you’re planning a trip to Whistler or dreaming of going, keep reading for my guide to visiting Whistler, BC, in the summer!
1. Drive the Sea to Sky Highway
The Sea to Sky Highway is the road that connects Vancouver with Whistler. It’s one of Canada’s most scenic drives and an absolute must see. There are many stunning scenic places to explore just off the Sea to Sky Highway, including Joffre Lakes (pictured below), which are about an hour north of Whistler.
2. Stay Lakeside at Nita Lake Lodge
Nita Lake Lodge is the only lakefront hotel in Whistler, making it an easy decision to stay there! This luxury hotel has a full-service organic spa with two rooftop hot tubs (swoon!), lakefront views and fireplaces in many of the rooms. It’s also just steps from local hiking trails and bike paths.
We loved staying here because it’s much more relaxing than staying directly in Whistler Village. But, you’re only a few minutes drive away from the village and the hotel offers free shuttle service to town for guests.
Travel Tip: If you’re planning to come to Whistler during shoulder season, ask your hotel if there will be construction during your stay. The window between Whistler’s ski season and the summer season is pretty tight. Hotels in the area tend to pack in all of their annual renovations within a short window in either April or May.
3. Unwind at Scandinave Spa
An outdoor spa with mountain views? Count. Me. In.
Scandinave Spa is a must-do in Whistler regardless of what time of year you visit. During the winter, you can enjoy the outdoor hot pools surrounded by twinkly snow. In the summer, you can jump from hot pool to cold plunge over and over again. You’re asked to remain silent (I *may* have whispered to my friend a few times though, and no one said anything), making it a peaceful experience year round.
4. Ride Peak 2 Peak or Whistler Gondola
Peak 2 Peak is a gondola that runs between 2 mountain peaks, so you get panoramic views of Whistler. It’s usually open from late May until mid October (exact dates can be found here). If you book your tickets online at least 3 days before your visit, adult admission is $64, seniors and youth 13-18 are $57, children 7-12 are $32 and children 6 and under are free. You can also buy last minute tickets at a slightly higher rate in person or by phone (800-944-7853).
During our trip to Whistler, Peak 2 Peak was undergoing maintenance in anticipation of the summer season, so we rode the Whistler Gondola instead. But next time, I’m planning on riding Peak 2 Peak!
5. Explore Whistler from Above with Ziptrek Ecotours
Ziptrek Ecotours has the longest zipline in Canada and the USA! If you want to see Whistler from waaaaaaaay up, ride their Sasquatch zipine if you dare. The Sasquatch zipline is 7000 feet above ground and runs for 2 kilometers! They also offer tamer ziplining options, if that’s more your style.
We chose to take Ziptrek’s Treektrek Tour instead. During this tour, you’ll explore Whistler from the tree canopy on suspension bridges, boardwalks and trails. It’s a beautiful and more peaceful alternative to ziplining, and we learned a lot about Ziptrek’s, and the rest of the Whistler community’s, sustainability efforts in the area.
The canopy tour is $59 for adults, $39 for seniors and youth 6-14, and free for children 5 and under.
6. Go Canoeing
Is it really a Canadian vacation if you didn’t go canoeing? Guests of Nita Lake Lodge can borrow canoes, kayaks and paddle boards for free during the summer months.
7. Visit Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is a 70 meter waterfall that can easily be accessed from a nearby viewing platform. The viewing platform is only about a 10 minute walk from the parking lot. The falls are part of a large provincial park, so you can also spend the day enjoying the hiking trails.
8. Eat, Eat, Eat
It’s easy to work up an appetite exploring everything Whistler has to offer so, unsurprisingly, there are plenty of great places to eat! There are many dining options to choose from, but here are a few of my favorites from our trip.
Since we were staying at Nita Lake Lodge, we enjoyed breakfast twice at their onsite coffee shop, Fix Cafe. The Green Monster smoothie was my favorite!
We also had a great brunch at Stonesedge Kitchen, which is open until 1 AM if you are craving late night food. Definitely order the breakfast poutine!
If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience, Aura Restaurant at Nita Lake Lodge is a great choice. We loved their Canadian wine selection and their innovative dinner menu that combines French cuisine with local west coast ingredients.
9. Go Hiking
There are a ton of hiking trails in the area, for hikers of all ages and levels. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get outside!
As you can see, there are so many incredible things to do in Whistler in the summer. Whether you’re a luxury traveler looking for a mountainside spa or lakeside luxury hotel – or, you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to explore the outdoors from 7000 kilometers above- Whistler has something for everyone. And not just during the winter ski season!
So, have you been to Whistler yet?
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