Insider’s Guide to Spring in Whistler

Editor’s Note: Our Insider’s Guide to Spring in Whistler was originally published in 2019, we’ve just done a little spring cleaning (well, updating). 

Ahhh spring, a season of blooms, showers, sunshine and rainbows and in Whistler – unlimited adventure.

We don’t mean adventure in only the outdoor sense either, spring is the time to embrace the new and revive your senses. Order something off the menu you haven’t tried before, connect with culture at the Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, try a new restaurant, ski, hike or bike that route you’ve been wanting to check off – or, better yet, do it all. That’s the spirit of spring.

Talking of new things, there’s also the Nourish Spring Series by Cornucopia, which brings together farm-to-table dinners, forest walks, art picnics and farm trips all in June. A true celebration of spring with fresh menus, fresh cocktails, and a fresh perspective. 

Here are a few of our favourite ways to celebrate the season and for more insight from Whistler’s locals take a read of Whistler Spring Rituals.

Whistler Multisport Days: On Snow and Dirt

Spring Skiing Whistler Blackcomb

The two reigning elements of Whistler outdoor sports exist together in this one, magical, crossover season. Spring skiing / riding on Whistler Blackcomb is usually available until late May (they alternate which of the two mountains stays open). Sightseeing is also open until late May but switches to weekends only in April so keep that in mind when you’re planning your mountain adventure and make sure to look at the hours of operation page before you book.

Take a read of our spring skiing articles to get a feel for this hidden gem of a ski season.

• Insider’s Guide to Whistler Spring Skiing
• 6 Pro Tips for Spring Skiing on Whistler Blackcomb
• Sunseeking on Skis: Spring Skiing on Whistler Blackcomb

Spring Mountain Biking in Whistler

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park typically opens mid-May and more and more of Whistler’s cross-country trails become ready to ride as spring continues. Start your day swishing on soft spring snow and then go get that tacky, spring hero-dirt in the afternoon. Or, if what you really want is to rev through the mud, an ATV or Side x Side UTV tour will hit the spot.

• Sustaining Singletrack: Spring Riding Tips with WORCA
• Insider’s Guide: Cross-Country Biking in Whistler
• Insider’s Guide to Whistler Multisport Adventures
• Insider’s Guide to Rainy Day Activities in Whistler

Spring Paddle and Tree-Based Adventures in Whistler

There’s no better way to start your day than with a paddle across a lake, watching the mountain reflections ripple with each stroke. You can admire the tree line as you plot which hike to take on later in the day.

In the spring, many of the shorter walks and hikes in Whistler are clear of snow and ready for exploring. Check out the free Go Whistler Tours App for some self-guided strolls like the Weird and Wonderful Trees tour, which adds some fun, nature nerdiness to your stroll. Top it all off by spending time with the trees on another level, ziplining through the forest canopy. There’s a day full of Pacific Northwest fun for ya.

• On the Water in Whistler
• How to Explore Lost Lake Park
• The Ultimate Whistler Hiking Guide
• Whistler’s Iconic Train Wreck Hike

Spring Golfing and Spring Adrenaline Pumps

Have you been dreaming of golf all winter long? Don’t worry, the four award-winning golf courses in Whistler each have opening dates between the end of April and early May. Take a peaceful, early morning tee time and amp up your afternoon with an activity of a different kind.

Get the heart pumping with a 160-foot bungee jump over the aqua blues of the Cheakamus River. Or, if you’d rather get up close and personal with the river, whitewater rafting should do the trick.

• 10 Reasons Golfers Choose Whistler
• 360 Video Series: Adrenaline Adventures
• The Need for Speed: Whistler’s Adrenaline Adventures

Spring Freshness on Your Plate

From world-class seafood to locally-loved poutine, fine dining restaurants to places your kids can colour, the Whistler culinary scene has a lot to offer. We take our food seriously and know there’s an art to brunch, après, dessert and everything in between.

With local chefs excited about the season, keep an eye out for new creations and special dining events like the Nourish Spring Series. Spring also means dining specials are abundant, so you can try more – for less! Don’t miss these incredible deals being offered by some of Whistler’s top restaurants. 

• Insider’s Guide: Vegetarian and Vegan Eats in Whistler
• Nourish Spring Series by Cornucopia: Insider’s Guide
• A Chef’s Favourite Thing About Spring

Relax and Revive

Spring in Whistler has that quieter more contemplative atmosphere you may be craving for a little rest and relaxation. Let any tension melt away in the sauna or hot tub while you watch the clouds weave through the trees, it’s guaranteed to put your mind on vacation mode.

Take a yoga class or try the Japanese art of forest bathing and your mind and body will thank you. We all know how busy summer gets, spring is the season to make time for you.

• What Spending Time in Nature Does for Our Brains
• Insider’s Guide: Forest Bathing in Whistler
• Rejuvenation & Invigoration: Whistler Spa Pairings

Stay Longer for Less

To take advantage of all the spring activities and offers, you’re going to want more than a weekend. This is a great time of year to extend your stay with good value on everything from accommodation to dining!