When you think of Whistler I’m sure you think of the slopes where skiers and boarders spend their day slashing in the powder and the gorgeous lakes, the perfect spot for a cool down. But I always feel like spring can be a little awkward. It’s not too cold, not too hot, but the weather is still good where you want to get outside and do something. Whistler in the spring is like that friend who’s good at everything. I feel like it’s either winter or summer that gets all love in Whistler but spring is just as good. Whether you’re into adrenaline or après, here’s your guide to making the most out of a spring trip to Whistler.
Spring Ski Season
The ski season isn’t over quite yet, you still have some time to squeeze in some days! From March through to late April (and sometimes even May!), Whistler Blackcomb keeps the lifts spinning. You’ll get bluebird days, soft snow, and fewer people vying for the same chairlift. You might even be able to get your tan on too! (beware of a goggle tan….). Start your day early while the snow’s still firm, then switch to t-shirts and beers by noon. Nothing beats a spring bluebird day on the hill!
Apres!
Apres in the winter is a blast, but when the sun goes down at 5 and you want to keep the party going it can be a bummer, but in spring, the sun is up later and the party goes longer! Whistler arguably has some of the best apres spots of all time, you got Merlin’s in the upper village, Longhorns at the base, and of course Dusty’s in Creekside. Whether you spent the day on the slopes or not enjoying an Aperol or a cold beer in the spring sun is an absolute blast.
Biking Begins
By mid-to-late spring, lower elevation trails start to melt out, which means mountain biking season starts to wake up from hibernation. The legendary Whistler Mountain Bike Park typically opens in mid-May, depending on the snowpack. If you’re in town early, check out valley trails like Lost Lake or the Cheakamus area, or even just bike around the village and get your bike legs warmed up for when all the biking trails open up! Even if you aren’t into downhill mountain biking, renting a cruiser or an e-bike for a mellow spin around the Whistler area will lead you to beautiful lakes and viewpoints.
Hiking!
While some alpine trails stay buried under snow till June or July, spring is perfect for exploring low-to-mid elevation hikes. My go to’s for a nice calm hike with friends is the Train Wreck Trail where you cross over a river that leads you to a bunch of old, graffiti-covered train cars scattered in the forest – super cool. Brandywine Falls, about 15 minutes south of Whistler, this 70-meter waterfall is a stunner. Great for a quick stop or a longer walk. And if you’re feeling a little bit on the chiller side of things, walking around Nita Lake is gorgeous on a sunny day.
Spa Days!
Looking to relax, destress, and unwind? Whistler is home to one of the most iconic spas. The first one that comes to mind is the Scandinave Spa. hot pools, cold plunges, cedar saunas, eucalyptus steam rooms, and silence. That’s right. No talking. My tip for you is don’t go with people who make you laugh. I went with a group of friends and the urge to not talk was hard – but so worth it, it was a great relaxing day that was much needed. If you’re more into massage than meditation, there are tons of other wellness spots around town, (especially in the hotels in the village), massage therapy, facials, or yoga classes to stretch out after a day on the mountain.
The Lakes!
By late spring, the lakes start to thaw—and the brave (or the foolish?) start jumping in. Or maybe you’re even down for a cold plunge. Cold plunges are not something that even cross my radar, but I’m still always down for a good day at the lake. Lost Lake, Alpha Lake, and Alta Lake are my top three. There’s nice grassy areas where you can bring some cards and snacks and chill with friends.
Golf!
For all the golf enthusiasts out there – the season is just beginning, and let me tell you, the Whistler golf courses are amazing. The Whistler Golf Club, Nicklaus North, and Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club are all open by late May. Pristine greens, great vibes, and if you’re into spotting wildlife there is a great chance you’ll be able to see a bear – just keep some distance, especially if you see cubs.
Adrenaline Activities
Want some activities? Go full tourist mode and head up the mountain and go on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. This gondola will take you from the Whistler peak to the Blackcomb Peak (or vice versa) and it’s really so gorgeous. There are even some glass bottom gondolas for a better view of below, but if heights aren’t really your thing like me – I’d avoid those ones! I do have to say I’ve done the Ziptrek zipline tour once and it was amazing. It gives you a great view and a chance to get into the mountains if you aren’t a skier. It’s super fun and definitely an adrenaline booster! One thing I will never try but maybe you’re into – bungee jumping. I can’t even think about it without my heart racing, so I’ll leave it at that, but an option if that’s your thing.
If one thing is for sure Whistler is definitely not short of things to do in the spring. Whistler in the spring is the best. The place where you can ski in the morning, bike in the afternoon, soak in a hot tub at night and maybe hit up an apres spot in between. So happy spring! And get out there and enjoy all Whistler has to offer! Even if it’s a day trip from the city or you have the weekend to spend, I know it will be a blast!