Editor’s Note: This blog on Whistler running routes was originally written in 2014, but the advice remains true today, with a few minor updates.
Guest Blogger: Taylor Godber
The Whistler Valley is host to over 46 kilometres (29 miles) of paved trails (the Valley Trail network) plus a multitude of dirt routes, all of which wind you through beautiful neighbourhoods, lakes, rivers and mountains. Combined with our altitude (675 meters / 2,214 feet), Whistler running routes definitely deliver that full-chested exhale and sense of accomplishment (and a little more spice to your city/treadmill routine).
Below are five mapped-out routes for those seeking refuge from the confines of a hotel gym. Whether your training regime is aimed towards a marathon, an open time slot in your busy schedule, a desire to beat your colleagues at your lunchtime run at work, or just a chance to get out and enjoy nature, Whistler has you covered.
1. Whistler Golf Club Loop
Distance: 5 KM
Terrain: Paved with a couple of hills and great mountain views
Start at the Valley Trail entrance at the Whistler Golf Club, right next to Whistler Village. Head right to take on the hill at the beginning, or head left for the loop and tackle the hill at the end. Double it up for a 10-kilometre run, and be prepared to see some bears hanging out on the golf course.
Whistler Golf Course 5 KM Map Link
2. Lost Lake Loop
Distance: 4 KM
Terrain: Unpaved with a couple of very gradual hills
When it comes to Whistler running routes, Lost Lake Loop is an early morning favourite. First light on the lake is beautiful, and stopping for a swim is definitely recommended in the summer months. Start at the Passivhaus and follow the “Lost Lake Loop” signs for an out and back, around the lake.
Lost Lake Loop 4KM Map Link
There are lots of great trails around Lost Lake if you fancy more of a trail run, just take a look at the Lost Lake Map and plot your own course.
3. Whistler Village to Nita Lake Return
Distance: 8 KM
Terrain: Paved with lots of hills
One of the more challenging runs in town. Start at the Whistler Golf Club Valley Trail entrance and head to your left (south). Follow the signs to Whistler Creekside and continue down to Nita Lake Lodge. This route takes you along Alta Lake and offers good opportunities to stop and jump in the water at Lakeside Park and Wayside Park. Grab a coffee or breakfast at Nita Lake Lodge to break up the run and refuel for the return trip.
Whistler Village to Nita Lake Return Map Link
You could make this run longer by returning around the far side of Alta Lake; take a look at the Whistler Valley map to see what that looks like.
4. Whistler Village to Green Lake Return
Distance: 17 KM
Terrain: Paved with a couple of gradual hills
Simple, scenic and great for a sunset run. Start at Whistler Golf Club and head to the right (north) along the Valley Trail.
After you’ve passed a grove of huge cedar trees, there will be a fork in the trail where you can go left for the Golf Course Loop or straight toward Meadow Park: go straight!
From Meadow Park, keep following the Valley Trail north. Cross the highway when you spot Alpine Cafe, towards the Whistler Secondary School, and follow the trail north towards Rainbow and Emerald Estates. This trail follows the edge of Green Lake, and you can enjoy stellar views of Whistler, Blackcomb and Wedge mountains, and the Armchair Glacier.
Once the trail ends (when it reaches Emerald Estates), turn around and head back the way you came, but this time do not cross the road at Alpine Cafe. Instead, go towards Nicklaus North Golf Club for more scenic lakeside running, before you head back to Whistler Village.
Whistler Village to Green Lake Return Map Link
5. Scenic Whistler Lake Loop
Distance: 14 KM
Terrain: Paved and unpaved with hills
This run is good for those who like to be distracted while running, as it passes by three beautiful lakes in Whistler: Lost Lake, Green Lake, and Alta Lake, as well as two golf courses: Nicklaus North and Whistler Golf Course.
Start at the PassiveHaus and follow the Lost Lake Loop path to the left of the lake. Continue past Proposal Point (look for young lovers!) and run along the Lower Panorama trail towards Nicklaus North Golf Course.
Cross the train tracks and you’ll find yourself running along with the golf course on your left and Green Lake on your right. At the end of the boardwalk, head north towards the traffic lights at Alpine Meadows/Alpine Cafe.
Cross the highway, and head back south on the Valley Trail towards Meadow Park and following the trail signs for Alta Lake. The trail runs parallel to the River of Golden Dreams and lush wetlands. At the trail fork, continue right towards Rainbow Park.
Here, you will have to run along the road until you can get back on the Valley Trail, passing Wayside and Lakeside parks, as you head back to Whistler Village. The route ends at the Whistler Golf Course, where cold drinks are available on the clubhouse patio (you earned it).
Scenic Whistler Lake Loop Map Link
These Whistler running routes are just a few of the great options, so don’t be afraid to head out and discover your own. Grab a Whistler map and lots of friendly advice at the Whistler Visitor Centre and keep running!
Bonus Tips:
- Hit up the We Run Whistler Facebook Page for current clinics or a chance to meet local runners.
- If you prefer to get off-road, check out this post for ideas for trail running routes.
- When the rainy days arrive, The Core Whistler has got you covered with indoor fitness options.
- The Whistler Half Marathon happens in June and is the first big running event of summer – but there are running events throughout the year – stay tuned to our running page to see the events as they are added.
