Winter in Whistler if you don’t ski or snowboard

Amanda Bloomquist
Apr 1
5 min read

Updated: May 5

Where to Stay

Listel Whistler

This hotel is one street down from the main village walk in Whistler and has amazing views. This is a prime location because you are a short walk to all the restaurants, the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, and ZipTrek amongst many other places. Also, it isn’t on the main drag so it is a nice quiet spot to rest. It is also home to BearFoot, an amazing restaurant that has the Vodka Ice Room. They have rooms that sleep up to 4 people and they are pet friendly.

Things to note: parking cost extra and there are no microwaves for guest use.

Whistler Lodge Hostel

If you are traveling solo or looking for a more lively atmosphere then this hostel is for you. This budget option is just a short bus ride to Whistler Village and has free parking. They also have a shared kitchen if you plan to make your own meals while visiting.

What to Wear

With temperatures below freezing it is important to dress correctly for the weather. Listed below are my top clothing items for staying warm during Winter adventures. Each item is linked (I earn commission if you purchase). I personally own and love all of these pieces.

My favorite red puffy Jacket.
I wore my Fleece Lined Leggings everyday.
My Fleece Lined Tights are perfect for dressing up to go out or to layer with my fleece lined leggings on extra cold days.
My Baclava is best for cold and windy days. I recommend this for zip lining.
Leg Warmers for extra warmth and a pop of color.

Whistler is known for its epic skiing but it has so much more to offer. Below I will list my top 10 things to do in Whistler if you don't ski or snowboard.

1. ZipTrek Zip Lining

Year-round zip lining is for the thrill seekers that wanna fly down a mountain but not on skis!

ZipTreks most popular tour is the Eagle Tour which has 5 ziplines, 4 treetop bridges, and lasts about 3 hours. I did this tour during peak Winter so I got bundled up head to toe, and went on the mid day tour. My favorite part was the 2,400ft long zipline with a 30 story descent. This one had the most epic views of the mountains and gave me an adrenaline rush!

This tour starts with a gondola ride halfway up the mountain to reach the starting point. During the whole tour the guides talk about sustainability and the ecosystems in the area.

This was my favorite activity that I did in Whistler.

Flying through the snowy trees in the middle of the mountain is an experience.

Whistler Bungee

If you want more adrenaline than zip lining, Whistler Bungee is for you. They are open year round but I will argue that Winter is the best time to go!

Jumping above the river, surrounded by the mountains is an unforgettable experience. My only regret is not booking two jumps in a row! At first I was nervous and thought the bounce at the end would hurt but it was so smooth and honestly so dang fun.

After jumping I immediately wanted to go again but unfortunately they were fully booked this day. I can honestly say that the next time I go to Whistler I will do this again.

3. Peak2Peak Gondola

If you want the best views in Whistler as well as a ski lodge experience, the PEAK2PEAK Gondola is for you. We went up the gondola starting in Whistler village, then waited for the special glass bottom gondola for the peak 2 peak.

Once at the other side we got a hot drink at RENDEZVOUS, then went back down the Blackcomb side. You can take your time at the top of the mountains to refuel with some food and drink while enjoying the entertainment of all the skiers and snowboarders heading down the mountain.

The views were unlike anything I have ever seen. It felt like I was in Europe.

This experience might have convinced me to finally learn how to ski!

Things to Note: The sightseeing gondola passes have specific hours of use so make sure you check online before you go.

4. Scandinave Spa

Time to slow down at the Scandinave Spa. Enjoy the complete silence and digital detox as you journey through cycles of hot, cold, and relaxation installations. You can easily spend hours and hours here. You can come for the thermal journey or add on a massage to enhance your experience. The lobby also has a small cafe if you get hungry or want to enjoy a hot cup of tea.

Things to note: Bring a book for the relaxation rooms, I didn't do this and regretted it.

5. Eat and Drink

Whistler is full of amazing food and drinks. You can walk on the village stroll yourself or book a guided tour.

We went to the BearFoot Bistro located in the Listel Hotel. They had so many unique dining experiences. Our favorite was the Grey Goose Ice Room, this -25F bar made of ice is the prime spot for a flight of sub-zero vodka. Another fun experience we had was Champagne Sabering down in their wine cellar. There is just something about drinking champagne that you just sabered the top off of that makes it that much more special. On top of those experiences, the food and drinks were absolutely amazing. This is just a glimpse of the food and drink that Whistler has to offer.

6. Hike or Snowshoe

Whether you are experienced in snowshoeing and have your own gear or you want to go on a guided trip, Whistler has a trail for you. Make sure to research trails before you go, as well as check the weather and avalanche danger. If you want to rent snowshoes and have a beautiful area to hike around the Whistler Olympic Park is a good spot to go.

7. Bobsledding

Ride as a passenger with a bobsled pilot as you and your team race through ten twists and turns at speeds of 125+ km/hr all while feeling the acceleration of up to 4 g-forces.

8. Dog Sledding

Explore Whistler’s backcountry by dog sled and finish your ride with hot cider and cookies in a yurt on the mountain.

9. Fishing

Year round fishing guides available for all skill levels. I highly recommend trying ice fishing, it is such a cool experience. They also have a heated shelter so you can stay nice and warm while you fish!