Summer, that glorious time of year when we become lake-worshippers, alpine hikers and at one with our bikes. No two months of summer are the same, the outdoor offerings are ruled by the rate of the snowmelt and the rotating roster of events changes the Village vibe from one week to the next. Whatever your dream summer vacation entails you can find it in Whistler, the key is knowing when. Here’s your ultimate planning guide to summer in Whistler:

JUNE

If May is when we squeeze out the last drops of winter fun while welcoming spring, then June is when we fully embrace summer. You might find some of the Insiders taking a dip year-round but for most of us, June is when we start visiting the lakes daily. The lakes aren’t only for swimming, they’re the summer social hubs of Whistler with picnic tables, beach volleyball courts, slackline posts, dog parks, SUP rentals and more. It’s also where you can get rid of your ski season goggle tan. With school still in session, early-June is on the quiet side and the perfect time to plan a DIY retreat.

INSIDER TIP: This is a great month for early-season deals and accommodation options.   

JULY

Peaks, picnics and patios are all top of mind in July. The month kicks-off with Canada Day celebrations including a free outdoor concert by The Tenors. The alpine hiking and biking trails are clearing and just about every outdoor activity from glacier glissading to whitewater rafting is open for booking. With the Whistler Children’s Festival in town, this is the perfect time for a family getaway.

INSIDER TIP: If you have Whistler waterfalls on your must-see list, this is when they’re pumping from the snowmelt coming out of the alpine.

AUGUST

The warmest month of the summer is also the liveliest. Summer is at its peak and so are the activities and events. The Village starts out as a zen-zone during Wanderlust at the beginning of the month and revs up into an all-things-mountain-biking craze for Crankworx mid-month. Get blissed out or pumped up, your call.

INSIDER TIP: Being the liveliest month of the summer, it’s best to visit mid-week if you like to keep things on the quiet side.

SEPTEMBER

As summer winds down things get a little more intimate, making this the perfect time to relish in the tranquility of the outdoors or plan a couples getaway. Hiking trails are clear and the temperatures are lower which for the heat-averse, can mean a more pleasant hiking experience. The already robust craft beer scene expands as the Whistler Village Beer Festival and breweries from all over BC (and beyond) roll into town. A trip to Whistler is the ultimate way to cap off your summer.

INSIDER TIP: Whistler can experience a “second summer” right before fall begins in earnest, check out mid to late  September for late-season deals on accommodation.

Whistler truly has something for everyone in summer. If you still have questions about when you should visit or how to plan your ultimate vacation, Whistler.com travel agents are ready to chat when you are. See you at the lake!