Whistler Blog - Travel Guide - Lake Placid Lodge

Whistler this Fall: A Season of Adventure and Tranquility

2023-09-22T00:00:00+02:00

Hiking and Biking Amidst Nature's Canvas

Whistler is renowned for its extensive network of hiking and biking trails, and they truly come alive in the fall. The lush forests and alpine meadows are painted in a symphony of colours, creating a visual masterpiece. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a leisurely stroller, there's a trail for every level. Popular trails like the Valley Trail and Cheakamus Lake Trail offer stunning vistas and encounters with wildlife against the backdrop of autumn foliage. If you need to rent a bike, our partners have got you covered, ensuring you have the right equipment to explore these scenic routes at your own pace. So, whether you prefer the serenity of hiking or the thrill of biking, Whistler's natural canvas is waiting for you to explore and create lasting memories amidst the fall beauty.

Whistler Village Stroll | PC: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Whistler Village: A Quaint Autumn Wonderland

Wandering through Whistler Village during the fall season is like stepping into a charming autumn wonderland. The crisp mountain air and the vibrantly coloured leaves create a perfect backdrop for exploring this delightful village. Make sure to start your day with a visit to Moguls Coffee House, located in the heart of the village. This cozy haven offers a variety of comforting beverages, from pumpkin spice lattes to decadent hot chocolates. If you're a coffee connoisseur, don't miss Fix Café, where expertly crafted coffee and artisanal pastries await. And for a touch of culture, the Audain Art Museum is a must-visit. This stunning museum showcases an impressive collection of Indigenous art, contemporary masterpieces, and historical works, providing a fascinating cultural retreat amidst the fall beauty of Whistler. Be sure to check their website for special exhibitions and events happening during your visit, adding an artistic dimension to your autumn getaway.

Adventure Awaits: Explore the Great Outdoors

For those seeking an adrenaline rush and a chance to immerse themselves in Whistler's stunning autumn landscapes, consider embarking on an ATV, Mountain Buggy/RZR, or 4X4 adventure. Both The Adventure Group and Canadian Wilderness offer thrilling excursions that allow you to traverse rugged terrain, ascend to breathtaking viewpoints, and witness the fall foliage in all its glory. These guided adventures cater to all skill levels, making them perfect for both seasoned adventurers and beginners looking to explore the wilderness in a unique and exhilarating way. It's an unforgettable experience that will add an exciting twist to your fall escape in Whistler.

ATV & RZR Adventures | Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Fall Golfing in Whistler: A Golfer's Paradise

As the summer crowds subside, fall emerges as an ideal time for golf enthusiasts to indulge in their passion amidst the stunning backdrop of Whistler's mountainous terrain. Several world-class golf courses remain open during the fall, offering a unique and tranquil golfing experience. Whether you tee off at the Whistler Golf Club with its vibrant fairways, challenge yourself at Nicklaus North Golf Course against the majestic Coast Mountain range, or venture to Big Sky Golf and Country Club for a nature-infused round, fall golfing in Whistler promises fewer crowds and comfortable playing conditions, making it a golfer's paradise that allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region while pursuing your passion for the game.

Fall Dining Specials in Whistler Creekside Village

Whistler's culinary scene takes on a special charm in the fall. Many restaurants and cafes in the Creekside Village area offer delectable fall dining specials that celebrate the season's harvest. Indulge in hearty soups, savoury roasted dishes, and delicious pies made with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner, a family feast, or a casual lunch, Whistler Creekside Village has the perfect dining spot for you. Pair your meal with a locally crafted cider or wine to complete the fall culinary experience. It's a delightful way to savour the flavours of the season while taking in the scenic beauty of Whistler.

Cornucopia Whistler | PC: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Whistler Fall Events: A Calendar of Vibrant Experiences

Whistler comes alive with a calendar of exciting fall events that cater to a variety of interests. Immerse yourself in the local culture and festivities with events and activities like the Whistler Farmers' Market, where you can sample locally grown produce and artisanal products. The Whistler Wine Walk allows you to explore the village while sipping on fine wines from British Columbia's wineries. Literary enthusiasts will find the Whistler Writers Festival a delight, with renowned authors and writing workshops. For foodies, Cornucopia Whistler is a culinary extravaganza featuring wine tastings, food seminars, and chef dinners. And Cinephiles won't want to miss the Whistler Film Festival, showcasing outstanding films and celebrating the art of cinema against the stunning backdrop of Whistler.

Book Your Stay at Lake Placid Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Whistler Creekside, Lake Placid Lodge provides the perfect base for your fall adventure. Offering comfortable accommodations and spectacular mountain views, it's a serene escape just moments away from all the autumn activities in Whistler. Whether you're planning a romantic retreat, a family getaway, or a solo adventure, Lake Placid Lodge ensures your fall stay is nothing short of magical.

Check Rates & Availability

Whistler Lake Placid Lodge | PC: Megan Nolte

Whistler in the fall is an absolute gem waiting to be explored. With its breathtaking natural beauty, exciting activities, and delicious culinary experiences, it's the perfect season to plan your escape. Witness the magic of fall in Whistler, and let the enchanting colours and serene ambiance create lasting memories. Book your stay at Lake Placid Lodge and embark on an unforgettable autumn journey in the heart of this mountain paradise.

Why Everyone Loves Spring in Whistler

2023-03-15T00:00:00+02:00

From summer days on the lake soaking up the vitamin D to exploring the valley trail by bike or foot to sipping cocktails on the sunlit patios in the Village and surprise pow days skiing and riding on the mountain tops. Each month brings something special to maximize your vacation goals. Whistler has everything you need, from peak to patio, to embrace adventure together. Here’s what you have to look forward to.

Spring Highlights

Enjoy longer days skiing and snowboarding. Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains is open from 8:30 AM – 4 PM (February 25 – April 16), with extended access on Blackcomb Mountain from April 17 – May 22, 10 AM – 4 PM. Pack your sunscreen, fewer layers and enjoy bluebird days on and off the powder-packed slopes.

Spring skiing in Whistler. Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Guy Fattal

World Ski & Snowboard Festival - April 10 - 16, 2023. WSSF in Whistler offers a non-stop line-up of events, activities and action on and off the slopes. This annual snow sports, music, arts, and culture celebration features snowboard competitions, filmmaking, entertainment, and the season’s best skiing and après sessions. WSSF Details.

Whistler bear tours.

Spot the bears. As spring starts, our favourite furry locals begin to wake up from a long winter slumber and make their way to the surrounding forests to forage for food and other bear necessities. The best and safest way to spot them in their natural habitat would be through a Bear Viewing Tour, which will take you to the best feeding sites, daybeds and dens.

Lake day adventures. Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Sun-soaked lake days. As the lakes begin to thaw out, Whistler has ample opportunities for you to enjoy days out on the water. Easily rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard and enjoy days paddling around Alta Lake, or go on an adventure with a guided tour down the spectacular River of Golden Dreams.

Exploring the Valley Trail. Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Biking in Whistler. By April, the snow melts, and bikes become the best mode of transport, running and networking throughout the Village and Valley trail, Easily rent a bike and enjoy scenic views as you explore the trails, lakes and parks dotted across the valley.

Ziplining at The Adventure Group. Photo Credit: The Adventure Group

Go on a thrilling adventure. A Whistler tip is only complete with an exhilarating outdoor experience at one of our Adventure Partners. Soar over valley creeks on a Zipline tour, conquer tightropes on an Aerial Obstacle Course, and fly over the mountains in a helicopter; the possibilities are endless. Find the Whistler activity that calls to you and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Family-friendly hiking. Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Hiking in Whistler. One of Whistler’s most loved activities, and for a good reason! Explore the network of trails in our lower valley, featuring over 40km of explorable terrain, boasting beautiful views of Whistler’s lakes, mountains and glacier-fed waterfalls. Our top hiking spots include; Lost Lake Park, Iceberg Lake, Rainbow Falls and Cheakamus Lake —Maps of Whistler Hiking Trails.

Golfing in Whistler. Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Take a swing at golf. By mid-May, Whistler’s four major championship golf courses open their doors and world-class greens to a season of exceptional golf paired with breathtaking mountain scenes and patio apres. The cooler temperatures allow you more time to master those shots without feeling the Summer heat. Whistler Golf Courses: Whistler Golf Club, Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club, Nicklaus North Golf Course and Big Sky Golf Course.

Whistler Children’s Festival. Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Whistler Children’s Festival. May 19 – 21 & 27 – 28, 2023. Spend quality time with your little one as you participate in Whistler’s fun-filled family event that brings arts and crafts activities, theatre, dance, music and magical performances to the Village and the Maury Young Arts Centre. Free your imagination and connect with your kids over two weekends jam-packed with adventure - Event details.

Whistler Farmers Market. Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Whistler Farmers Market. From pizza to popcorn to live music and a delicious display of treats and eats, the Whistler Farmers Market is the perfect activity for the Whole family to enjoy. Starting in May, the market runs every Sunday in the Upper Village and features the work of local artisans, jewellery designers, painters, potters, bakers, and so much more.

Ski après in the Village. Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Between Spring skiing, early-season hiking and biking, thrilling adventures...and all of the above! You’ll need to give yourself plenty of time to play in Whistler’s jam-packed dual-sport season. For a more in-depth look at all Whistler has to offer - check out our Explore Whistler pages.

Spring visits give you more room to roam, more bang for your buck, and quieter trails to explore. Don’t miss out - Book your spring holiday today!

Family Friendly Whistler

2022-11-07T00:00:00+02:00

Find out why many of our visitors return to this magical mountain town year after year - Courtesy of whistler.com.

Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Why Whistler?

Atmosphere

Whistler is a place where people come to have fun and connect with nature. It‘s reflected in the smiles everywhere and the authentic and happy people you meet. What better place is there to make a memorable vacation?

Easy to Get Around

Everything you need is close at hand, which means less planning and more fun time. Stay in the Village or Creekside, and you will find the pedestrian-only strolls go right to the ski lifts at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains passing shops and other amenities. In-resort transit options mean it’s easy to get from point A to point B with all the kids without the need to bring a car – up to three kids ride for free on the BC Transit System with each fare-paying adult.

Plenty of Options

Every family has different needs. There‘s a huge range of accommodations to suit all size groups and budgets – self-cater or don't lift a finger the entire time. Indoor and outdoor activities suit all ages and interests, including accessible options. Eating out is made easy with over 100 restaurants catering to all tastes. Plus, there are camps, childcare and babysitting services if you need some quality time alone.

Entertainment

A busy events calendar means there is always something happening around Whistler, and if you get stuck for ideas, there are helpful people in places like the Whistler Visitor Centre to help you out.

Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Family FAQ

Here are some common questions we get asked – hopefully, these resources will help you kickstart the family vacation planning.

I don’t want to travel with lots of sporting equipment – can I rent kid's ski gear in town? How about bikes?

Yes, you can! There are places to rent skis, snowboards, cross-country skis, snowshoes, golf clubs, bikes, watercraft and more for the whole family. Some places also rent chariots for the Valley Trail and cross-country skiing. That way, you can travel light and still participate in all the fun outdoor activities.

Equipment Rentals

Is it possible to rent childcare equipment like strollers and high chairs?

There are places in town that rent out childcare equipment.

It‘s a hot day – is there anywhere for the kids to swim and cool off?

Take a dip in our pool at Lake Placid Lodge, or enjoy Whistler's various lakes with beaches that are suitable for families to enjoy. Young families might also enjoy the waterpark and the indoor kids pool at Meadow Park Sports Centre.

Are there any camps for kids and teens in Whistler?

There are a variety of camps and workshops for young people available that vary with the season. Examples include Ski School in winter, summer skiing camps, biking camps, golf courses, music and art workshops and indoor climbing evenings.

Learn More

Is there anything for teenagers to do?

Absolutely. Aside from plenty of activities to pick and choose from, there are a number of programs that teens might be interested in joining - Ski School for Teens, Whistler Bike Park, Climbing, The Whistler Youth Centre, Young Adult Program (LUNA), and more.

Are there any family-friendly hiking trails in Whistler?

There are plenty of trails you can enjoy with your family around Whistler. Mixed groups may enjoy exploring the Valley Trail on foot or by bike – this wide, paved trail provides easy access to Whistler‘s lakes, beaches and parks and is a great way to get to know the town.

The PEAK 2 PEAK Alpine experience allows you to access the hiking trails on top of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain – again, there are different levels of trail available, from wide gravel paths to winding alpine singletrack. Ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola between the mountains and have a meal on the mountaintop for an incredible family day out.

Other hiking trails around town range from Interpretive Forest walks to waterfall viewing platforms to longer day hikes.

Whistler Hiking Trails

Are there any family-friendly ski areas on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains?

Both mountains have areas designated as family zones, with learning areas, green and blue runs to explore, and beginner terrain parks. Each hill also has a special kids play area (The Treefort on Whistler and the Magic Castle on Blackcomb) where kids can take a break from skiing to play.

Take a look at the Whistler Blackcomb Trail Map to find the family areas. The Whistler Blackcomb trail map for Kids is a colourful version highlighting family-friendly areas.

Whistler Blackcomb Trail Map

I’m trying to reduce the use of my car. Are there any deals for kids on transit?

BC Transit’s Family Travel Program allows any fare-paying adult customer to travel with up to three children (12 years and under) free of charge. This program applies to cash fares and tickets.

More Ways to Play

2017-10-12T00:00:00+02:00

And that’s just fine – unless you’re planning to head to a well-known ski resort like Whistler for a vacation. What on earth are non-skiers supposed to do in Whistler while skiers and snowboarders have the time of their life on the slopes? Courtesy of Whistler.com

Cornerstone Award

2013-10-30T00:00:00+02:00

Vancouver, BC (October 30, 2013) – – The Canadian Resort Development Association (CRDA), the trade group representing the Canadian vacation ownership industry, announced that Whistler Vacation Club has won the association’s first annual Cornerstone Award.

Last week CRDA held VO-Con, The Vacation Ownership Conference. The conference highlight was the announcement of the winner of the Cornerstone Award. The award was established to recognize those who have laid the foundation for the continued success of the Canadian vacation ownership industry.

Whistler Vacation Club is a homeowners association that overcame financial adversity to accomplish fiscal stability, member engagement, rebranding and property improvements.

Whistler Vacation Club’s president, Marlene Scott, recognized the club’s Board and members by saying she was accepting the award in their behalf. “The support of our members and the dedication of our team got us through the transition. I am thrilled to be recognized by my industry peers.”

The award sponsor, MaestroPMS by Northwind, is a leading hospitality software provider for independent hotels and resorts that delivers revenue generating tools to increase profitability, drive direct bookings, optimize operations and exceed guest expectations. Warren Dehan, Northwind’s President, said, “We value the importance of recognizing industry leaders who have achieved outstanding results through dedication and innovative. I congratulate Whistler Vacation Club as well as the other award nominees on their successes.”

Jon Zwickel, CRDA’s President & CEO, said, “Under the leadership of Marlene Scott, Whistler Vacation Club exemplifies our industry’s ability to survive through innovation and sheer tenacity.”

About the CRDA Cornerstone Award: The 2013 CRDA Cornerstone Award was established to recognize an industry innovator who … seized an opportunity, addressed a need, solved a problem and created a game changing value proposition; communicated in compelling ways, engaged the marketplace and achieved outstanding results and commercial success; and/or, will have a lasting positive impact on vacation ownership, the environment and society and is an inspiration to CRDA stakeholders.

Three finalists were selected by the Awards Committee. Submissions by the finalists were posted on the CRDA Cornerstone Award website and the finalists made presentations to the VO-Con attendees during the conference. Industry stakeholders were invited to vote for the winner on-line. There were five judges: the four members of the Awards Committee plus the on-line voting component which, when tallied up, acted as a 5th judge.