Now for the
really kool part, Whistler may be even more fun in the summer!
This mountain resort has wicked mountain biking and is only an
hour or two from every mountain biker's dream (or nightmare) the
world famous "north shore extreme" area. The mountain
has a phenomenal bike park, which just keeps getting better. Off
mountain, you'll find more trails in the immediate area and dozens
and dozens more within an hour or two south or north of the resort.
A wide variety
of trail systems for hikers and backpackers can be found on the
mountain and in the surrounding region. HIkers can take the Gondola
to the top of Whistler and hike to the mountains glacier. Backpackers
can keep going and pack into Garibaldi Provincial Park, which
provides the spectacular backdrop to the ski resort. Campsites
and a hut are available just beyond Singing Pass. There are several
other backcountry camping areas in the park as well. There are
over 3000km of other trails to explore in the surrounding Sea
to Sky corridor.
World class
big wall climbing is only a stone's throw away from Whistler at
Squamish. There are well over a thousand routes in the area. You'll
also find some bouldering at the base of the cliffs and some sport
climbing areas along the highway corridor. Ice climbers will find
a number of places to try their skill in the Lillooet area above
the resort during the winter.
Rafters and
whitewater enthusiasts haven't been forgotten, with lots of nearby
rapids to be run and plenty of holes to play in. Several companies
will take you rafting on many of the areas rivers. You can even
book a float trip in season to view the world famous gathering
of the Brackendale Eagles.
Whistler has
a hostel available for the backpacking traveler and once again
has a campground. There are also excellent provincial park campsites
nearby. The closest is Brandywine Falls just 11km south of the
resort. Alice Lake is another popular option just above Squamish,
while Nairn Falls north of the resort is another option. Be sure
to make reservations during high season. As previously mentioned
backcountry campsite are available to backpackers in the Garibaldi
Provincial Park, which provides the spectacular back drop for
the resort.
Within the
resort village and in the surroundings you'll find every type
of accommodation imaginable, from simple condos to elaborate suites
at the Fairmont Whistler. Finally don't forget the mountain festivals,
the races, the concerts, the restaurants and of course the oh
so incredible nightlife. Put this all together and what have you
got? A world class destination any time of year!