11 Bucket List Things to Do in Winter in Whistler
Forget hibernating – Whistler’s where the real winter action happens. Ski runs that’ll make your heart race, cozy fireside chats with hot cocoa, and enough outdoor activities to keep you busy until spring.
We’ve rounded up the top must-do experiences that’ll have you falling head over heels for this snowy hotspot. Time to swap your summer wardrobe for some stylish snow gear!
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1. Ice Climbing in Brandywine Falls
The 70-meter Brandywine Falls transforms into massive ice columns during winter, creating perfect conditions for both beginners and advanced climbers.
Insider Tip: The afternoon sun hits the falls directly, making the ice more brittle – schedule your climb for morning hours when the ice is most stable.
2. Ride The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola
Soaring between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains in a bright red gondola cabin, you’ll witness some of the most jaw-dropping panoramas imaginable.
This engineering marvel holds records for both the longest unsupported span (3.024 km) and highest lift of its kind globally, dangling you 436 meters above the valley floor.
The 11-minute journey offers unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks, ancient glaciers, and endless evergreen forests stretching to the horizon.
Insider Tip: Opt for one of the silver gondolas with glass bottoms for an extra thrill – they come by every 15 minutes and are worth the short additional wait.
3. Twilight Ziplining
Soar through the valley on a zipline! The winter twilight tours offer a unique perspective as you zip between mountains while the sun sets, casting golden light across the snow-covered landscape.
Insider Tip: Request to go last in your group – you’ll get extra time on the platforms to soak in the views without feeling rushed.
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4. Axe Throwing at Forged
Perfect your lumberjack skills at Forged Axe Throwing, where certified coaches teach proper throwing techniques in a modern, industrial-chic setting. The heated indoor venue makes this an ideal activity for stormy days.
5. Dog Sledding in Callaghan Valley
Channel your inner Arctic explorer as a team of enthusiastic sled dogs guides you through Whistler’s pristine backcountry. These incredible Arctic dogs can pull sleds up to 130 kilometers per day, reaching speeds of 32 km/h.
You’ll learn mushing commands, help harness the dogs, and glide through snow-covered old-growth forests while your four-legged guides do what they love most.
Insider Tip: Sit in the sled for the first half to observe the musher’s techniques, then try driving yourself on the return journey – the dogs are incredibly responsive to voice commands.
6. Thermal Therapy at Scandinave Spa
Nestled in three acres of forested hillside, this Nordic-inspired sanctuary offers the ultimate winter wellness ritual.
With 20,000 square feet of outdoor space featuring hot pools, eucalyptus steam rooms, wood-burning saunas, and thermal waterfalls, you can cycle through hot-cold-rest sequences while gazing at snow-draped mountain vistas.
Insider Tip: Book the last massage slot of the day (around 8 PM) to enjoy the pools during sunset when most day visitors have departed.
7. First Nations Winter Feast
Join the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre for their traditional winter feast. Learn about indigenous winter celebrations while enjoying modern interpretations of traditional dishes like cedar-planked salmon and game meats.
The evening includes storytelling, drum ceremonies, and craft demonstrations.
Insider Tip: Visit the gift shop before dinner for unique souvenirs.
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8. Snowmobile to Crystal Hut Fondue
Rev up your sled for a twilight ascent to Crystal Hut, perched at 6,000 feet on Blackcomb Mountain. Canadian Wilderness Adventures leads this gourmet adventure combining thrilling snowmobile rides with a candlelit three-course fondue dinner.
The wooden cabin’s massive windows offer spectacular views of the twinkling lights of Whistler Village below.
Insider Tip: Ask your guide about the “secret viewpoint” just past the hut – it’s a perfect spot for northern lights viewing on clear nights.
9. Polar Bear Plunge at Lost Lake
Join locals for this invigorating New Year’s tradition. Plunge into the icy waters of Lost Lake while surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The rush of cold water followed by hot chocolate and sauna access creates an unforgettable start to the year.
Insider Tip: Wear water shoes – the beach can be slippery, and they make the quick exit much more graceful.
10. Vallea Lumina Night Walk
As darkness falls, Cougar Mountain transforms into an enchanted forest where multimedia effects bring local legends to life.
This 0.75-kilometer winter trail weaves through snow-covered woods illuminated by state-of-the-art light installations and immersive soundscapes.
The winter version offers a more intimate journey than its summer counterpart, with snow amplifying the magical atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Visit on a snowy evening – the falling snow creates stunning light refractions through the installations, adding an extra layer of magic to the show.
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11. Bobsleigh at the Olympic Track
Channel your Olympic dreams at the Whistler Sliding Centre, where you’ll rocket down the same track used in the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Reaching speeds up to 125 km/h while experiencing up to 4G forces, this heart-pumping ride gives you a true athlete’s perspective.
Insider Tip: Opt for the skeleton experience if available – it’s actually less intimidating than the bobsleigh and offers a more intimate connection with the track.
