Exploring Whistler valleys, slopes, forests, creeks and rivers, there's one thing visitors have come to expect - wildlife will make an appearance.
Families of black bear can be found amid coastal hemlock-cedar forests. Wildlife sightings of deer, marmot, pika and other fascinating animals are also common.
If you enjoy marine life, Whistler creeks teem with rainbow trout and kokanee salmon in season.
While you can enjoy Whistler's abundant wildlife on your own, you can also join hiking or bear-watching tours. Expert guides help you interpret the natural habitats and curious habits of Whistler's remarkable natural world.
A word or two on your excursion:
- Do not disturb the wildlife
- Do not feed any wildlife, especially bears
- Please leave the area you visit undisturbed and be sure to carry out your garbage or place them in a bear-proof garbage can.
A word or two on safety:
- Obey posted signs and keep to designated trails
Mountain critters
A hike in Whistler means sharing the mountain trail with the local alpine residents. Keep an eye out for these timid and tenacious creatures:
Pika: You have to be quick to spot the shy pika. This small mammal with short, wide-rounded ears is related to the rabbit and can be found grazing on rocky slopes.
Coastal Mountain Black-Tailed Deer: Swift of hoof, these graceful creatures feed on mountain vegetation through the summer and fall. With the snowfall, they retreat to nearby valleys, taking cover in old-growth forest away from snow predators.
Marmot: These small, stocky creatures like to bask in the sun all day, so look for their brown, bushy tails and whitish bellies as they stretch out on rocks. They live in burrows that can run up to 12 m (39 ft) underground.
Bear watching
Whistler's coastal hemlock-cedar forests are a haven to some 50 black bears seeking food and shelter. You may be fortunate to spot one of these magnificent creatures on a mountain slope or ambling along the valley trails looking for berries.
To get an informative, close-up view of black bears, consider a bear-watching tour. You'll travel into the outback in a 4x4 vehicle, with experienced guides leading you to active bear dens, daybeds and feeding sites. Additional tour information is available at the Whistler Activity Centre.
A word or two on your excursion:
- Approximate time required: 3 hours
- Bears are most active mid-March through November
Millar Creek
Millar Creek, located in the southwestern area of Whistler, is home to spawning rainbow trout in May and June.