The snow is here and Whistler is ready to embrace winter in all its glory. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or downhill – the recent snowfall has once again turned Whistler into the ultimate playground this month. With the resort preparing to open to the public at the end of the month, we are gearing up for the best winter season yet. Here are our favorite ways to enjoy the snow in Whistler this season (outside of the ski resort!).
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing has long been a popular winter method of travel in Canada, their unique design inspired by winter-adapted animals with over-sized paws. They allow a more efficient way to travel in snow and offer a great way to continue your hiking all through winter! Whether you are a snowshoe newbie or have years of experience, there are a multitude of places to go snowshoeing in Whistler. For easiest access, try Lost Lake in Whistler’s Upper Village for one of our favourite ways to enjoy Whistler in the wintertime.
Bobsleigh
Fancy something a little more fast-paced? Try a unique Whistler experience – at the Whistler Sliding Centre, you can slide in a real bobsleigh, steered by a trained pilot. The Whistler Sliding Centre is the only place in Canada where the public can try bobsleigh and slide like an Olympian. The Bobsleigh runs rain, snow or shine, so it’s the perfect activity to add to your roster during your time in Whistler.
Cross Country Skiing
Cross country skiing is another great way to get outside and enjoy the scenery whilst offering a great workout. Did you know, Lost Lake isn’t only for summer mountain biking? This awesome trail network becomes snowshoe and cross-country ski friendly in the winter, opening its trails up year-round. You can rent everything you need on-site at Cross Country Connection, so you don’t have to carry your gear there and back. The Whistler Olympic Park out in the Callaghan also has a plethora of renowned trails, a snowshoe rental centre, and ample parking. There are many trails to choose from, with a broad spectrum of lengths and difficulty.
Skating
We love this time of year – it’s time to dust off our ice skates and head to the Whistler Olympic Plaza in the Village to enjoy some skating under the stars. The skating rink is scheduled to open on November 27th. It is the perfect location to try ice skating for the first time, perfect your skills, teach your kids, or simply absorb the atmosphere. There are ample opportunities to enjoy a hot chocolate nearby or toboggan down the Plaza’s giant snow mound that appears each year. Playing in the Olympic Plaza is one of the best family-friendly ways to enjoy Whistler this winter!
Spa
Had enough outside time? There are countless special spa experiences to choose from in Whistler. From lodges on a serene lake to ancient eastern spa treatments, there is no end to the relaxing opportunities in this town. Choose from baths experiences to spa packages with body wraps, massages, facials, and more. Our favorite spots to relax and unwind are the Scandinave Spa, nestled in Whistler’s beautiful ancient forest, and The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge, which is – you guessed it – lakeside! Cosy up and watch the snowfall gently outside, or jump in the outdoor hot tubs for a refreshing and blissful experience.
Museums
One of Whistler’s main cultural attractions is the Audain Art Museum. Head over there for the opening of their latest temporary exhibit, RESERVOIR by Rebecca Belmore, which will be on display from November 26 to early spring. An internationally renowned artist from the Lac Seul First Nation, Rebecca’s exhibit includes new works that examine the disparity between wealth and poverty in Canada with moving references to Vancouver, Whistler, and the Sea to Sky Corridor. The Audain is also offering private, guided tours on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Whistler Real Estate market continues to be extremely active, and housing inventory has decreased compared to last month whilst sales have dramatically increased. Be sure to have a look at our new listings in Whistler right here.
If you are considering buying or selling a property in the near future, please feel free to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you, and hopefully seeing you in Whistler soon!