Alpine forest, snow-capped peaks and indigenous wildlife are just some of the wonders you'll experience on Whistler's hiking and walking trails.
Along the way, you can stop to inspect wildflowers, find places to picnic, play, swim, camp, bird watch and take in stunning views across glacial lakes.
For high-spirited explorers, try Whistler's heli-hiking. You'll hike across rolling meadows against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain vistas.
A word or two on your excursion:
- In late spring, anticipate lingering snow and often muddy trail conditions
- Please leave the area you visit undisturbed and be sure to carry out your garbage
- If travelling with pets, be aware that restrictions may apply
A word or two on safety:
- Obey posted signs and keep to designated trails
- Cougars, bears and other wildlife inhabit the region
- Be aware - mountain weather changes frequently
Valley Trail
Follow Whistler's Valley Trail as it winds past golf courses, lakes, creeks and parks. Set your own pace and enjoy the fresh air as you get a close-up look at the local life and natural habitats. The trail extends through the entire valley, passing almost every neighbourhood between Alpha and Green Lakes.
Paved for much of its 20-km (12-mi) route, this low-grade trail is perfect for everyone.
You can join the trail at many places throughout the Village and make your way to shops and lakes, or enjoy a picnic by the river. Trace your route by following the signs posted at most intersections.
A word or two on your excursion:
- Rated: easy
- Approximate time required: varies by route
- Best time: May - October
Whistler Mountain Trails
Whistler Mountain boasts some of the most enchanting walking trails in Canada. A day hike can take you over alpine meadows dotted with colourful wildflowers, through stands of western redcedar, or past sparkling lakes. Every step brings you closer to panoramic views as high as 2,182 m (7,160 ft) on glacial peaks.
During the warmer months after the snow melts, take the Whistler Village Gondola to the Roundhouse lookout and from there make your way along one of the mountain's many summer hiking trails.
Paleface Trail leads you on a 1-km (0.6-mi) journey featuring extinct volcano viewpoints and includes an elevation change of 58 m (190 ft). Return time is 20-30 minutes.
Ridge Lookout is a short, steep, 0.8-km (0.5-mi) hike that includes a 68-m (223-ft) elevation change and spectacular views. Return time is 30-35 minutes.
Traverse alpine forest and lakes while taking in expansive views along Harmony Lake Trail and Loop. The walk is 2 km (1.25 mi) to the lake or 3.5 km (2.2 mi) including the loop. The elevation change is 125 m (410 ft). Return time is 60-90 minutes.
From the Roundhouse lookout, you can take the Peak Chair to Whistler's summit. The 1-km (0.6-mi) Peak Interpretive Walk showcases this alpine ecosystem, while providing unparalleled views of Black Tusk’s distinctive peak. Return time is 60 minutes.
A word or two on your excursion:
- Rated: easy to difficult
- Approximate time required: varies by trail
- Best time: July - September
A word or two on safety:
- Before setting off to explore the mountain, please note the time of the last gondola back to the Village
> Whistler Blackcomb website.