Dreaming of a Whistler weekend getaway—before or during the Christmas season?

If you intend to visit in the later part of November, you can take advantage of the early-season snowfall, smaller crowds, and opening specials wherever you go.

Prefer to wait till December, when the festive spirit is in full swing? This is when Whistler transforms into a winter wonderland that will enthrall the entire family. For the best time to ski, visit in mid-to-late December. Yes, there will be crowds, but you can beat them by getting an early start to your day, and making your dining reservations weeks in advance—your hotel concierge can assist with this.

Ready to plan your Whistler weekend trip? Read on to find out where to stay and what to do during your Whistler getaway in November and December! 

In pursuit of personal growth during your skiing getaway? Use your time at Whistler to boost your confidence and push your personal boundaries. Check where you are at, in terms of skiing or snowboarding abilities, and sign up for the appropriate lesson (beginning late November) to get to the next level.

Book a lesson at Whistler Blackcomb Ski & Snowboard School

From late November, you can experience snowmobiling through the winding trails of the Callaghan and Brandywine Valley. This tour is suitable for all ability levels, and it will let you discover the thrills of the backcountry at your own pace, with a chance to capture gorgeous photos along the way. 

Book a Wilderness Adventure Tour with Blackcomb Snowmobile

If you can walk, you can snowshoe! Beginning late November, you can take a snowshoe tour to explore the great Canadian wilderness on foot, as you head to your destination—a remote backcountry teepee—for a hot beverage and snack. This tour is a perfect introduction to snowshoeing.

Visiting Whistler in December? Book a tour that begins high up on Rainbow Mountain, where you will snowshoe through a beautiful coastal rainforest, and enjoy spectacular views over some of the highest peaks in the Whistler backcountry. 

Book the Snowshoe Teepee Tour with Blackcomb Snowmobile

Book the Natural Mystic Tour with The Adventure Group

Experience the exhilarating feeling of soaring through the air while taking in the beauty of Whistler’s backcountry. With Superfly Ziplines, you can even ride side-by-side with a loved one for a shared adventure. Bookings open from late November.

Book a tour with Superfly Ziplines

From November, you can book a rafting tour to see large numbers of bald eagles flying, perching, and feeding on salmon. This is a must-try excursion for anyone interested in photography, wildlife, or bird watching. 

Book a Wilderness Float Tour with Squamish Rafting Company

Enter Vallea Lumina, and you will be spirited away to an “enchanted forest.” During this tour, you will follow cryptic radio transmissions to retrace the steps of two long-ago hikers who uncovered the secret wonder of the woods. Bookings are open from late November.

Book tickets at Vallea Lumina

Sit back and place your trust in a powerful dog team, which will lead you into the magnificent old growth forest of the Callaghan Valley. A dog sledding experience lets you relax with your travel companions while moving through open and winding trails for an unforgettable winter journey, with plenty of photo opportunities. Tours are available from December, but do note that there are limited slots.

Book a dog sledding tour with Canadian Wilderness Adventures

Ice climbing is similar to rock climbing—except that it takes place on an ice surface. Bookings are open from mid-December, and you do not need prior experience to ice climb. You can also rest assured that all equipment will be provided. 

Intermediate skiers or snowboarders can access the ice climbing site on Blackcomb Mountain. Other climbing locations that do not require skiing are also available, subject to ice conditions. 

Book an ice climbing experience with Mountain Skills Academy & Adventures

For a snow experience that is pure fun, visit the bubly Tube Park, which is open from mid-December. Here, you can access over 1,000ft (300m) of snow tubing bliss, with multiple lanes and a conveyor lift to return you to the top for a fresh round. There is no training involved, so this will be a fun activity for everyone. 

If you and your travel companions are up for an extra-special ride, you can also try tubing under the night lights in the evening.

Book tickets at bubly Tube Park

Ready to brave the cold for a big payoff? Book a half-day tour in late December to try ice fishing, where you sit back, relax, and wait to reel in a rainbow trout and more while taking in Whistler’s amazing sights. 

Book a Half-Day Ice Fishing tour with Pemberton Fish Finder