Is Whistler worth visiting during summer? What are the top summer activities you can do in Whistler? 

Contrary to popular belief, Whistler is more than just a snow-covered skiing destination. In fact, there are plenty of summer activities to enjoy in Whistler!

Unfamiliar with the weather conditions in Whistler? Here is what you can expect:

From December to February, visitors flock to Whistler for the peak skiing conditions. These are the chilliest months in Whistler, where temperatures can be as low as 18°F (-7.8°C). 

Those who dread the freezing cold—yet relish the thought of skiing—might prefer to visit in March. Temperatures are slightly warmer then, but there is still enough quality snow for alpine sports.

The early summer in Whistler officially begins in May. Summer visitors can appreciate a different side to this beloved ski town—one that beckons you with warm sunshine, where you can finally ditch the parka. (Click here for a guide to what to wear in Whistler in summer.)

Seasoned hikers will typically schedule their Whistler trips in June, before the summer crowds descend upon Whistler in July and August—when the wildflowers are in bloom! To experience walking across a glacier with light summer clothing, August is the best time to visit. (Click here for a summary of hiking highlights by month in Whistler.)

Summer in Whistler officially draws to a close in October, with shorter days and colder evenings heralding the arrival of autumn. This is the best time to see the golden-hued fall leaves in Whistler!

Need more help to plan your Whistler summer holiday? Read on to find out about:

1. The Best Summer Activities in Whistler
2. Where to Stay in Whistler During the Summer

What are the best things to do in Whistler during the summer? Here are our top recommendations:

Ask any Whistler local and they will tell you that there are five must-visit lakes for swimming, picnicking, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), canoeing, or simply soaking in the incredible mountain views. They are:

• Alpha Lake

• Alta Lake (Whistler Eco Tours at the nearby Wayside Park offers canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boat rentals, as well as guided tours)

• Green Lake

• Lost Lake

• Nita Lake

These lakes are accessible through the Whistler Valley Trail, and you can choose to go on foot, or via bike or car. At each location, you will find docks, picnic tables, and designated swim areas for settling in and having a good time. 

Travelling with children? We recommend taking the easy 6km trail around Lost Lake, where you can relax on the family-friendly beach or treat yourself to a refreshing swim in mountain-fed waters!

Ready to indulge in Whistler’s favourite summer pastime—biking? Located in Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside, Salomon is the best place to arrange a convenient bike rental, allowing  you to set off on your own to explore Whistler’s network of paved valley trails. 

You can also consider e-biking, which has become increasingly popular in Whistler. E-bikes are battery-powered bicycles that provide a boost known as a “pedal assist,” so that you can travel faster and navigate challenging terrains with less physical effort. 

If this is your first time trying an e-bike, do book a tour, where a guide will teach you the basics of riding a full-suspension electric mountain bike, before leading you through a magnificent old-growth forest alongside Callaghan Creek.

Two notable Whistler trails for intermediate hikers are the High Note Trail and the Decker Loop. The High Note trail is an oft-recommended hiking experience on Whistler Mountain, offering an unbeatable view of Cheakamus Lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park. On Blackcomb Mountain, Decker Loop (connecting with the Overlord Trail) is considered the best hike, with rewarding views of the Overlord Glacier and the Decker Tarn, a glacial alpine lake.

Whistler is home to about 50 black bears, who lead life undisturbed in the forests and mountains around Whistler Village. Although black bears are less aggressive than other bear species, chancing upon them in the wild would likely be an unnerving experience! 

To plan a safe and peaceful black bear encounter, book a tour with Whistler Photo Safaris, where you can watch bears foraging for their meals in the backcountry. Do bring along a good camera—you can view examples of shots that can be captured during the tour here.

Be enchanted by the Vallea Lumina in summer; this outdoor immersive experience takes you through a ‘secret’ valley to unravel its mysteries. 

On your evening excursion, you will follow cryptic radio transmissions and the lingering traces of two long-ago hikers to search for a trailhead where the real journey begins. This pathway leads towards a great discovery—proof that the legends of Whistler are true!

Keen to try whitewater rafting for the first time? North of Whistler Village is the Green River, where you can experience rollicking rapids and spectacular scenery on your maiden voyage. Suitable for newbies as well as families with children aged 10 and up, this is a great activity for bonding over an adrenaline boost. Tours are available with The Adventure Group. 

Experience Whistler from the treetops on Ziptrek Ecotour’s The Sasquatch, the longest zipline in North America. Available only in summer, The Sasquatch spans over 2km, and at certain points during the zip, you will be 600+ft (180m) above ground, going at max speeds past 100km/h. 

Slightly wary of heights? The scariest part of ziplining is taking the initial leap of faith—after that, you can look forward to pure exhilaration and freedom. Who knows, you may hanker for more after the ride ends!

Wondering what to splurge on in Whistler? Book a tour with Blackcomb Helicopters for the epic adventure of a lifetime. A heli-tour is the best possible way to see Whistler’s expansive glaciers and mighty peaks. Depending on the tour that you choose, you might even get to experience a 15-minute complimentary mountain landing!

Need to recharge your soul with a quiet activity? Sign up for a forest bathing tour by Canadian Wilderness and let nature be your healer. In this gentle walk, your guide will lead you through the forest with a series of activities to help you open your senses, hone your intuition, and connect with nature. You will also get a chance to interact with other participants to share your thoughts and learning experiences.

Please note that Whistler activities tend to be booked up quickly! For smooth planning, it is best to arrange your reservations through your hotel ahead of arrival. If you intend to book your stay at Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside or Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre, please contact our Guest Services team, and they will be happy to assist with bookings!

Voted one of the Top 5 Resorts in Canada in Condé Nast's Readers' Choice Awards 2021 and nine-time winner of Canada's Best Ski Hotel in the World Ski Awards, Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside is Whistler’s best address! 

You will enjoy the legendary Village buzz, front door access to shops and dining, relaxing mountain views, and a comfortably heated outdoor pool (and two hot tubs) on Whistler's most scenic deck.