Whistler prides itself on its open, welcoming embrace of diversity: orienting its continued development to ensure that the town and trails are not just geared towards the able-bodied, but, rather, all bodies.

The Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) is the first to declare that “Accessibility is an evolving concept that will always have room for improvement. It is a journey and not a destination.” However, it is a journey that the RMOW has actively embarked on, as have Whistler Off Road Cycling Association (WORCA) and Whistler Blackcomb, spearheading the implementation of accessible and/or adaptive infrastructure developments and modifications.

Adopting Accessibility Frameworks

Starting in the 2000s, and especially after the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, “Whistler began applying formal accessibility frameworks,” according to the RMOW. “The municipality now uses Universal Design principles (design usable by all people without adaptation).”

Accessibility is integrated into policies in the Resort Municipality’s Official Community Plan (OCP), and a proactive Whistler Accessibility Action Plan (2022+) guides decision-making. Whistler is modelling some of the most innovative strategies for enlarging the continued scope of access to this mountainous landscape.

The Pre-Planning Preparation

“The best thing that we can do,” Whistler Blackcomb relays, in their attempts to foster a barrier-free experience to guests who have accessible needs, “is provide as much pre-arrival information as possible so people can make informed decisions and plans.”

The Mountains have an ‘Accessibility in Whistler’ webpage, a mountain bike orientation guide, videos and specific signage (both on the mountain, in their related retail outlets and throughout their website). All of these combined resources allow people to plan ahead and ease their arrival and overall experience.

Access Whistler Map

Not all visitors to Whistler wish to go up the mountain to ride, wander the trails or go sightseeing. Many choose to stay in the Village and Valley. And, here too, there are resources and options for exploration. The RMOW has produced an Access Whistler Map which shows the various elements of accessible infrastructure throughout the Village. 

For accessible mountain biking trails (aMTB) throughout the Valley, both WORCA and the RMOW steer people toward online platforms such as Trailforks, where people are guided to select ‘Adaptive MTB’ as the filter for ‘Bike Type’. The list of trails included continues to expand.

Whistler’s Accessible Trails

From gentle sidewalk-cruising to wheelchair-wide and grade-appropriate wooded trails, to daredevil descents: Whistler offers a network of trails to meet a diversity of needs and dreams.

The Whistler Valley Trail

“The Valley Trails are amazing,” exclaims athlete and community accessibility advocate Olivia Rey. A wheelchair user, Rey continues, “You can basically go from like Emerald all the way to Function on the Valley Trail.”

The Whistler Valley Trail was designed as a multi‑use, low‑grade, paved greenway, not a rugged trail, linking all the neighbourhoods from one end of Whistler to the other:

“The RMOW recognizes that the Valley Trail is not uniformly barrier‑free; some segments have steeper grades (e.g., up to 12%) or uneven access points. As a result, the Accessibility Action Plan seeks to have LIDAR data added to the GIS to better inform community members and visitors of what sort of grades they should expect when travelling certain sections of the Valley Trail.”

The Valley Trail system exemplifies multi-modal, shared usage: from strollers to bikes, four-wheelers to trikes, walkers to wagons, the trail winds past a myriad of local sights, from woods to waterways.

The Valley Trail can be accessed at various points throughout Whistler, with maps, information signs and historical interpretative panels dotted along the way. Sporadically painted along the path are friendly invitations and reminders to ‘Share the Trail.’

Fitzsimmons Accessible Nature Trail

Located north of Lorimer Road between Fitzsimmons Creek and Blackcomb Way, the trail is considered a Universal Access Trail. The RMOW relays that:

“The construction of this trail included re-surfacing and compacting, removal of vegetation to improve sight lines and safety, and installation of interpretive signs. Though this trail was purposely designed for universal mobility, we recognized that there is an opportunity for people with vision impairments to experience the trail with some modifications, as well as improvements for the interpretive signage for people with vision loss.

We also ensured that the trail met DeafSpace requirements to allow individuals who use sign language to converse without needing to break visual contact while moving through the wide spaces with clear sightlines and a smooth barrier-free circulation.”

The Trail offers an excellent opportunity to experience some of the biotic diversity of the local ecosystem, offering the chance to glimpse a multitude of the local flora and fauna, from birds to beaver-bitten trees.

Whistler Blackcomb’s Mountain Biking Trails

“Our mandate is to ensure that the trails and the experiences that we have are accessible to as many people as possible,” states Omer Dagan, Whistler Blackcomb spokesperson and Senior Analyst. “Our goal is to ensure that the mountains are open to everyone, that anyone, regardless of their ability, age, or background, can come to Whistler Blackcomb and have a great experience.”

Directing us towards the MTB trail map, Dagan notes that about 50% of the bike park trails have received an adaptive rating. There are adaptive green trails, blue trails and yes, even multiple black diamonds. These are all represented by icons on the Mountains’ Trails Map. Whistler Blackcomb employs the Kootenay Adaptive Mountain Bike Trail Rating System, a leader in the field of accessibility, to assess and rank its trails.

Whistler Blackcomb has offerings that cater to the beginner right up to elite, world-class, competitive adaptive athletes who use the Mountains’ trails as a training ground.

“The absence of a sign [on the map] simply means that we have not rated that trail. It doesn’t mean that it’s not accessible.”

Whistler Blackcomb is at the forefront of accessible initiatives, with an internal accessibility working group with representatives from all departments. The Mountains has also “created an adaptive mountain bike lift loading video so that folks who are here in the resort can understand how we’re going to load their adaptive mountain bike for them on the gondola or the chairlift.” Whistler Blackcomb has predefined training for all of its lift operators.

“Our level of understanding of what is a best practice has really shifted. We recognize that we are not perfect and we have a lot of work to do and a long way to go.”

That being said, the Roundhouse, however, is the first facility at any resort in North America to be certified accessible by the Rick Hansen Foundation. This designation and recognition are an important stepping stone on the trail ahead.

Valley-based, Off-road Mountain Biking Trails: Flashback, FarOut, Farside

WORCA’s visionary mandate is to “deliver a world-class trail experience that meets diverse community needs.” Lead trail builder Dan Raymond excitedly exclaims: “It’s been one of the most fun parts of my job to imagine what the [trail] network could be, and this adaptive lens is just like one other way to look at what’s available [and] actually meet more needs or the needs of more people.”

WORCA’s current strategic plan includes focusing on new trail development that addresses “gaps in the existing trail network (e.g. adaptive trails, climbing trails) with the goal of building cohesive loops.”  And an 11-kilometre cohesive loop, meeting adaptive accessible standards, is exactly what WORCA, in conjunction with the RMOW, is in the process of completing in the Cheakamus Trail network.

Construction began in 2023 on WORCA’s first aMTB trail, the Flashback 1 segment. Construction has continued. WORCA Executive Director, Trevor Ferrao, explains, “This year… will result in a complete 11-kilometre aMTB route using Farside, Far Out and Flashback trails.” The excitement is palpable, as Raymond, Ferrao and the WORCA crew work towards the end of this multi-phased project. The passion is clear, as is WORCA’s dedication to the continued building of more accessible trails.

Raymond expresses how he gets “really excited about growing the mandate” and is quick to point out that “just because the trail is adaptive blue-rated doesn’t mean that blue able-bodied bikers won’t appreciate and want to use that trail as well.”

Next Steps for Accessibility in Whistler

The RMOW “recognizes that much of the early efforts to improve accessibility related to mobility disabilities and that continued efforts are needed for individuals with vision loss, those who are Deaf and hard of hearing, as well as for individuals with cognitive disabilities.” The Municipality is currently looking at some technology interventions that may assist individuals with disabilities through their smartphones.

From Crankworx to the Invictus Games, from Whistler Adaptive Sports programs to roundtables, advocacy committees and policy changes, Whistler continues to model integrating effective accessibility mechanisms not as an afterthought, but as paramount, recognizing, all the while, that collectively we still have much to learn, undo and re-do. Upgrading and addressing more accessible public transportation to/from and within Whistler necessarily needs to be prioritized, along with access to accessible accommodation (both for residents and visitors alike).

The RMOW adds, “We will continue to evaluate our trail system and make improvements to allow everyone to participate and enjoy the beautiful natural environments of Whistler.”

Olivia Rey perhaps best sums up an integral takeaway, with her reminder that…

“Being in a wheelchair doesn’t define who I am as a person. It’s simply the way that allows me to move through the world, similar to how someone rides their bike, skateboard, or car.”

A broadly accessible Whistler is a vision we can all participate in realizing.

The post The Journey of Making Whistler’s Trails Accessible appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

I have a disability, and it’s a core part of who I am and the path my life has taken. That’s not the case for everyone – identity is deeply personal. But I say this to recognize that disability is part of the human experience. We all perceive and are affected by it differently.

Throughout my youth, I wasn’t sure what I wanted, or what path I wanted my life to take, and often only felt loss or grief for each thing I felt like I was no longer able to do. I remember distinctly what it felt like to no longer be able to ski – at the time, it felt very final.

My brother volunteered for an adaptive skiing organization, then called Ski for All, in the Seattle area when I was younger. I can only assume this was a gentle push from my family for me to explore it again. Juggling disability and identity issues, feeling simultaneously “too” and “not enough” disabled, I stubbornly never wanted to try.

When I finally did, I fell in love with adaptive skiing and how it helped me reclaim my early love and appreciation for mountains. Since then, I’ve wanted to be outside constantly and find new ways to achieve that. One of those new ways was getting back on the water.

Creativity in Kayaking

Kayaking has always been such a peaceful thing to me, although to be clear, I’ve never tried whitewater kayaking. It’s quiet, offers some great views you don’t typically get, and you’re the only one in control. One of my favourite memories on the water was on a Boy Scout trip to Lopez Island in the San Juan Islands. I took a kayak out solo in the early evening and saw the colour of the water and sky change as the sun approached the horizon. 

But it would be the last time I kayaked for a while. Even then, it had been tough to paddle as my strength changed. I had the same feeling as I’d had around skiing – that I’d done it for the “last” time, but in reality, I just hadn’t yet discovered the creativity to adapt and do it in the way that worked for me. 

In 2018, I rented a tandem kayak on Lake Union in Seattle, and I tried it again. It wasn’t easy for me to paddle since the weight of the paddle made it difficult for me to hold it and paddle at the same time.  Then, on a holiday to New Zealand in late 2018, I connected with a group called MakingTrax, which specializes in making traditional tourism activities more inclusive through training and creativity. Given the difficulty I had when I last paddled in a kayak, and being in a tandem kayak, I elected to be the passenger, and quickly fell into the role of official photographer and snack distributor. 

Being in that environment showed me that whichever way I adapt an activity, even as a passenger, my experience could be valid and profound. And that life is about actively seeking new adventures and finding things that bring you joy – these things don’t just happen. 

I’ve learned from MakingTrax in New Zealand that adaptive organizations aren’t the only option. Traditional tourism groups can also be incredible to adventure with – it just takes some training, creativity and above all, the want to try. 

Whistler Adaptive Sports

The next life-changing experience I had in a kayak was with Whistler Adaptive Sports (WAS) in August 2023. WAS uses kayaks that are specifically adapted to support people with disabilities. The kayak I tried had an articulating mount that held the paddle – I no longer had to manage the weight of the paddle and could focus instead on the paddling motion. The kayak also had additional pontoons for stability. 

 

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I wasn’t going fast and still got towed quite a bit by the lead instructor, Don, but it was incredible to have agency over my own experience. For the first time in over a decade, I discovered the tools I needed to make kayaking work. 

“Our starting point is always how to…with a focus on ability and what is possible,” explains Lead WAS Coach Adría Flor. “We find ways to move beyond someone’s immediate limitations to support that person in realizing a new experience or progress in their chosen sport and develop movement-based skills.

We work creatively with equipment and our approach to instruction to devise ways to open access to sport. Our group sessions provide a space for shared experiences and making new connections to build community. In addition to our group paddles, we offer one-on-one private coaching, weekly seasonal programs (all available to locals at a reduced rate) and drop-ins for anyone visiting the Sea to Sky.”

WAS has a variety of boats to suit different needs, including kayaks with outriggers for extra stability and an E Z dock for easy launch and recovery of kayaks and canoes. I’ve found staff and volunteers to be so excited about getting more people out on the water, and that mindset, paired with the tools available, means everyone can have a great time out on the water with WAS. 

Find Your Connection to Adaptive Sports

Spending time on the water is always an incredible way to see things from a different perspective and enjoy the stillness and quiet. It helps that WAS group kayaking events are always a good time – everyone gets to share the joy of being on the water in the way that works for them. And, on a hot day, a well-timed splash always helps! 

 

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Each time I try an adaptive sport, I find new tweaks and equipment to try. Even sports where I’ve had a lot more experience, like skiing and now kayaking, evolve with me as my body changes. If you’re planning your next holiday and looking for a community that wants to share its joy and creativity in accessing the outdoors, Whistler is it! 

I hope these glimpses into my adaptive sports adventures and the ways they have enriched my life help show what’s possible. Your experience may look different – we know disability is different for everybody, but I’d encourage everyone to explore their intrinsic curiosity and see what Whistler has to offer. 

The post Reclaiming Water Through Adaptive Sports appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, presented by ATCO and Boeing, are happening February 8 to 16, 2025, bringing together up to 553 competitors from up to 23 nations to compete in adaptive sports. Established by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, in 2014, the Invictus Games support the recovery and rehabilitation of international, wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans through sport.

For the first time, the games will include the new winter sports of Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding, Biathlon, Nordic Skiing, Skeleton and Wheelchair Curling, in addition to the core Invictus Games sports of Indoor Rowing, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Rugby.

Alin is competing in alpine skiing, skeleton, swimming and indoor rowing and we chatted with him about the upcoming games, what it feels like to be part of Invictus and where to get good pizza in Whistler.

Why Did You Choose Alpine Skiing and Skeleton?

Invictus is supportive of your sport choice. You can have done the sport all your life or you might never have had the opportunity and the games give you that chance. Being part of Team Canada is an amazing honour. I’m actually being released from the military on March 28 this year. It’s an emotional time and this is a unique experience that I’m incredibly grateful for.

I’ve skied on the local hills around Montreal and Quebec, but not at a competitive level. I came to Whistler for the first time last February for training camp one. It was a beautiful day, the sun was out, and the drive up the Sea to Sky Highway was just incredible. I was back earlier this month for training camp three. The conditions were great and we got the chance to practice our drills and skills. The instructors are amazing and I’m feeling confident.

 

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What’s Skeleton Like?

It’s fast, furious and unforgettable.

It’s not as scary as it seems and once you’ve done it, you’re all smiles. Our instructor told us to be like a sack of potatoes and it’s true! You have to be relaxed. You don’t have much influence and the more tense you are, the worse it is.

What’s it Like to be on Team Canada?

This is my 27th year in the military and I’ve had a very specific job role throughout. I knew other trades existed, but I wasn’t that exposed to them and the different mentalities they require. Team Canada is very eclectic, it’s made up of people from all kinds of military backgrounds, and everyone has their own stories and advice.

We’re used to wearing a flag on our shoulders. When we go overseas, we represent Canada, we’re doing our jobs. But during Invictus, I will get to represent Canada in a different way. My role is to compete but it’s so much more than that.

What Do You Think the Power of Sport is?

You can’t separate the mental from the physical. Progression isn’t always as we imagine, it has ups and downs versus a straight line.

You have to try something. With sports, you make incremental changes every day and by addressing the physical part, you address the mental part too.

Sports can bring structure. I have a training plan and a specific schedule. More importantly, I have a goal and objective. By representing Team Canada, I aim to help my immediate teammates, along with whoever reads things like this or watches us compete. If just one person is inspired, if they look at what I’m doing and think; if that guy can do it, I can do it too, then I’m happy. 

What Do You Want People to Take Away from Invictus?

Everybody is going through something.

The Invictus Games and Solider On allow us to progress in our journey via the power of sport. If you’re going through some stuff, I hope today is better than yesterday and tomorrow is even better. It’s not always easy, but you have to try something. Focus on doing the next right thing for you.

Is Your Family Travelling With You?

My daughter, Lea (17) and son, Mathias (14) are coming with me; they’re troublemakers, haha! I’m feeling the spectrum of emotions thinking about them being there. I’m overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. My cup is full. My heart is full.

What Else Are You Doing While You’re in Whistler?

I’d like to experience the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. I haven’t had the time to do it even though I’ve been to Whistler twice! I want to walk around Whistler Village, be a tourist and find a good pizza spot.

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Secure the biggest savings on your trip to Whistler for the Invictus Games 2025 when you book now. Read our dedicated blog for more details on what’s happening in Whistler during the Invictus Games. Our landing page has further details and the schedule of events. Let’s cheer on these incredible athletes!!!

The post Competing in the Invictus Games in Whistler appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

It’s also connected me with so many others with a range of different lived experiences with disability. The joy this community has for pushing the limits, developing as athletes, and learning from each other enriches our lives and communities.

 

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Inclusion on a Global Scale

The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 kicks off February 8 to 16, 2025. I’m excited to see so many competitors finding the same purpose, resiliency and healing in their experience with disability that I’ve had through adaptive sports. Focused on supporting wounded, injured, or sick service members and Veterans, the Invictus Games’ mission is to provide a world-class sporting competition, support a shared journey of recovery, and ensure every athlete feels valued and celebrated as a member of the sports community.

While some may have previous competitive sports experience or develop advanced skills through training, they are not professional athletes in the same sense as Olympic athletes, who often dedicate their lives to sports as a career. The focus of the Invictus Games is more on camaraderie, resilience and the celebration of recovery and strength rather than elite competition.

Invictus Games 2025 will see competitors participating in adaptive winter sports for the first time, with Whistler chosen to set a new bar for the Games.

With much to look forward to, here are details on the events, ways to support, and how the Whistler community and visitors can celebrate these competitors on their journeys.

What’s Happening in Whistler During the Invictus Games

The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 are happening in both Vancouver and Whistler. The opening and closing ceremonies are in Vancouver, along with indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball, rugby and curling.

Invictus Games events in Whistler include Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding on Whistler Mountain, Nordic Biathlon and Skiing at Whistler Olympic Park, and Skeleton at the Whistler Sliding Centre. All the events are free to attend with no tickets needed, giving everyone a chance to cheer on competitors!

 

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It’s good to note that Whistler remains fully open for skiing and snowboarding throughout the Games, with minimal terrain impacts on Whistler Blackcomb so you can enjoy Whistler’s world-class slopes while soaking in the Invictus atmosphere.

“One thing that’s unique about the Invictus Games is that, unlike the 2010 Olympics, which significantly impacted skiing and riding logistics, the Invictus Games will integrate seamlessly, ensuring uninterrupted access to the mountains,” says Whistler Mayor, Jack Crompton. “We have a long history of bringing the world together in celebration, and these Games are shaping up to be an extraordinary chapter in that history.”

 

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Whistler Sports Events

Monday, February 10

Noon to 7 PM – Skeleton at Whistler Sliding Centre

Tuesday, February 11

10:30 AM to 3 PM – Novice Apline Skiing and Snowboarding on Whistler Blackcomb

10 AM to Noon – Nordic Cross-Country Skiing, Whistler Olympic Park

12:15 PM to 3:30 PM – Biathlon, Whistler Olympic Park

Noon to 7 PM – Skeleton at Whistler Sliding Centre

Wednesday, February 13

10:30 AM to 3 PM – Intermediate/Advanced Apline Skiing and Snowboarding on Whistler Blackcomb

For the full sports events schedule visit our Invictus page.

The Invictus Village in Whistler

Discover the Invictus Village in four zones including Whistler Olympic Plaza, Maury Young Arts Centre, Village Square and Mountain Square which are located along the Village Stroll in the heart of Whistler. The Invictus Village activations run from 11 AM to 5 PM from Sunday, February 9 to Thursday, February 13 and you can expect hands-on, family-friendly exhibits, live entertainment, concerts, and live-action sports screenings.

The Main Stage is at Village Square (where The Whistler Grocery Store is located) and welcomes some Canadian music legends during the Games. The programming is free and happens daily from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. For the full music lineup, check out Whistler.com’s Invictus page.

 

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Headlined by JUNO Award-winning alt-country rock legend Jim Cuddy (Blue Rodeo) and  JUNO Award-winning singer-songwriter Barney Bentall (Barney Bentall and the Legendary Hearts), the eclectic lineup also includes JUNO Award-nominated Five Alarm Funk, JUNO Award-nominated producer Skratch Bastid, JUNO Award-nominated Hey Ocean!, The Boom Booms, Lazy Syrup Orchestra, The Spiritual Warriors, Ira Pettle, Big Love, Taylor James, The Hairfarmers and a host of Whistler’s beloved DJs.

“I can’t wait to see the incredible energy of the Invictus Games, with its vibrant mix of sport, community, and celebration, come to Whistler,” says Mayor Crompton. “Seeing the music lineup takes the excitement to the next level. Whether visitors and locals are keen to check out the sporting events, bring their families out to soak up the spirit of the free Whistler Invictus Village, or get in some laps on the slopes while it’s all going down, this is going to be one heck of a time.”

Invictus Opening and Closing Ceremonies

The Opening Ceremony at BC Place in Vancouver on February 8 sets the stage for a week of intense competition and personal discovery. If you’re in the city, get ready to celebrate with Multi-Platinum, Global Pop Superstar Katy Perry, who joins GRAMMY-Award Nominated, Multi-Platinum Artist Noah Kahan, BC-born Canadian icon Nelly Furtado and Quebec alt-pop star Roxane Bruneau who are all performing during the Opening Ceremony.

Rogers Arena will also host the concluding Celebration Ceremony to highlight the powerful experience we know the Games will be for competitors, their families, and all of us in the broader community. The Closing Ceremony features GRAMMY-nominated, Award-winning Nashville native singer and songwriter Jelly Roll, legendary Canadian rock band Barenaked Ladies, and the electrifying Americana duo The War And Treaty to wrap up a lifechanging Games live at Rogers Arena on Feb 16, 2025.

These events are ticketed, visit the Invictus website to purchase yours.

Getting Involved in the Invictus Games

The Invictus Games are not just for competitors but offer opportunities for the local community, sports fans, and people from around the world to participate. Show your support for Soldier On’s Team Canada and the rest of the competitors around the world, and check out True Patriot Love Foundation, responsible for the Legacy of the Games beyond 2025.

Held on the traditional territories of the Four Host First Nations of Lilwat7úl (Lílwat), xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam), Sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), one of the core values of the Invictus Games is advancing reconciliation by honouring the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples and recognizing the contributions of Indigenous members of Canada’s Armed Forces and Veterans.

 

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The 2025 Invictus merchandise shows off artwork created by the Four Host First Nations. The designs are rooted in the cultural traditions and strength of nature’s symbolism of the Salish people. The visual identity’s story embodies the spirit of Invictus through an Indigenous lens and evokes the natural beauty of British Columbia, from the waves signifying the Pacific Ocean, to the triangles depicting the Canadian Rockies.

Volunteers for Invictus Games 2025

Volunteers will be the heartbeat of the Games, with 1,600 volunteers recruited to support everything from transportation to athlete services. Registration is now closed and applicant interviews are underway, but I’m excited to have been selected as a volunteer to support the Alpine events.

As a volunteer with a disability who is also a certified adaptive ski instructor, I’m ready to support and mentor competitors of all skill levels by teaching from my own experience as someone who has been on a similar journey with sport and developing as an athlete with a changing body. There is immense value in people with disabilities sharing their experiences and showing the range of roles they can play. I’m excited to see how my role evolves as the Games get closer!

The Invictus Games’ Impact on Whistler 

Whistler and Vancouver were key players in the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Hosting the Invictus Games takes that legacy a step further by centring the stories of disabled Veterans and service members. The Games will once again show that Whistler is an inclusive and welcoming environment. It’s about more than competition – it’s about helping Veterans and service members find community, push their boundaries, and use their shared experiences to support recovery. 

To me, the Games show that each of our experiences with sports is valid and unique. Adaptive sports celebrate creativity – competitors and athletes with a range of lived experiences find the tools to experience sport in the way that works for them. And developing their own relationship and identity with sport, athleticism, and reclaiming their sense of belonging and purpose.  

 

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As hosts, the Whistler community has an opportunity to show the world what’s possible when inclusion is thoughtfully considered from the start. We can show that competitors and athletes with disabilities can focus on personal achievement and truly be part of the fabric of our community. Inclusion and accessibility are a moral imperative, and Whistler can model a culture of inclusion to inspire the world. 

Whistler Welcomes the World 

Whistler will once again become a global stage for competitors who embody an unconquered spirit, and Invictus will show that Whistler is the international hub for adaptive sports – it’s a place where our stories are valued and where anyone can push their boundaries. We can each do something to support, welcome and encourage competitors and their families.

More importantly, we can also learn from this community, challenge our assumptions about disability and adaptive sports, and embed respect for disability and Veterans into the Whistler culture.  

 

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Disability is part of the human experience – we are all athletes with unique journeys who can uplift and empower each other through sport. The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 will allow us to celebrate the transformative power of inclusive sports and show how athletes and communities alike can find strength and connection through sport. 

Beyond the Invictus Games events, Whistler offers countless winter activities. Experience world-renowned skiing and snowboarding, thrilling zipline tours, serene snowshoeing and Nordic trails, scenic ice skating, and more. Winter in Whistler is packed with options for every kind of adventure. 

 

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As an international destination committed to inclusion, Whistler offers a wide range of accessible accommodations and activities for people of all abilities. Explore how Whistler prioritizes accessibility to make your experience memorable and comfortable.

Visit Whistler for three nights or more from February 5 to 19, 2025 and receive a free $50 CND dining voucher.

Whistler.com Travel Consultants are local experts who can help you make the most of your visit. From recommending the best transfers and activities to finding ideal accommodations, they’re here to make planning easy. Call 1.800.944.7853 to speak with one of our knowledgeable consultants or visit Whistler.com for personalized assistance.

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We see more and more athletes with disabilities coming to Whistler to recreate and become members of the community, and we’ll see competitors with disabilities from around the world here for the Invictus Games next winter. As we work together to reduce barriers for the disability community, Whistler has a unique opportunity to show it’s the premier destination for the adaptive sports scene. 

Adaptive mountain biking is a quickly evolving industry and it’s never been a better time to get started. I’m at the very beginning of my adaptive biking journey this summer. Read on for some of the things I’ve learned and some organizations and riders leading the way.  

A Path for Every Rider

Kootenay Adaptive Sport Association (KASA) is leading the way for adaptive trail design and marking. KASA helped review and make recommendations for the Whistler Mountain Bike Park (WMBP) trails. Adaptive riders were able to review and give their feedback directly to Patrol – an important piece that helps ensure authentic disability experiences are included.  

WMBP’s adaptive trail designations range from “aMTB Green Square” – like EZ Does It, suitable for offroad handcycles and adaptive mountain bikes with a minimum trial width of 1.4 metres, to “aMTB Double Black” trails like Miss Fire that are under 0.98 metres with widely-varied terrain, steepness and suitable only for the most advanced adaptive mountain bikes and their riders. 

Jayden Glentworth is an adaptive athlete from New Zealand living in Whistler. I’ve seen Jayden sit ski and he shows an incredible amount of grace and playfulness on snow. As much as he skis, Jayden bikes even more – you can likely spot him in his very muddy Bowhead Reach lapping A-Line. He was featured in the first Phat Wednesday course preview of the 2024 season – not only a great way to highlight the course but to show how extreme adaptive athletes can be. 

 

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As a (very) new adaptive rider myself, I’ve started to get the hang of a few of the Lost Lake trails and my equipment. I had a great time exploring Hooktender and Tommy Moore and climbing through the forest. That is until I ran out of battery! Good thing it was mostly downhill on the way back and only required minimal pushing from friends. There’s room for riders of all abilities to experience the joy of adaptive mountain biking in Whistler.

Whistler Adaptive Sports Program: Empowering Riders

Whistler Adaptive Sports Program (WAS) has played a massive role in helping me understand my capabilities as an athlete and find the right equipment. The first time I tried an adaptive kayak – one I could paddle independently – was on Alta Lake with WAS. 

Every disability is different, and equipment that works for one may not work for another. This is exactly where WAS shines – they have worked with a huge range of people with disabilities for over 20 years. They’ve seen it all and always have recommendations. Most importantly – they bring the creativity needed to try new ideas with you, the athlete, at the core. I’ve been on a bit of a journey to find the right adaptive bike for me, and being able to try equipment in WAS’s fleet helped me figure out what the right setup is.  

WAS has e-assist handcycles available for guided lessons and tours and a network of PMBIA-certified staff and volunteers to help you have a great experience. Visit the Whistler Adaptive website to learn more, book a lesson and kickstart your adaptive mountain biking journey.

Crankworx: Showcasing Adaptive Athletes

Long a staple in the Whistler biking scene, Crankworx Whistler is not just a festival; it’s a way to bring together the whole mountain biking community and show that adaptive riders are welcome at every level.

The Crankworx team wants everybody to be able to participate and spectate in a meaningful way; Carly Fox runs operations for Whistler Blackcomb adaptive in the winter, and in the summer organizes Kidsworx and Adaptive events, also assisting with event and venue accessibility.

The Adaptive Flow Downhill on July 22 and Technical Downhill on July 23 will have some of the best adaptive riders – I’ll be rooting for Jayden, but cheering on all of the gang.  The Adaptive Jam at the Westin Hotel Plaza on July 24 will give you access to demos, coaches, vendors and group rides in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park or Lost Lake.

Some of the particulars – if you’re interested in checking out the timed events at Creekside, Crankworx is allowing parking of vehicles displaying the appropriate accessibility pass/signage in the timing flats itself. Free accessible viewing areas for Joyride are in Skiers Plaza. If you’re interested in the VIP options, the Trackside VIP tier can be accessed by wheelchair users via Mountain Road. Shuttles are also available for guests with disabilities to access the Joyride VIP zone for ticket holders. If you need assistance getting to this zone, you can email moc.xrowknarcobfsctd-42baec@PIV.

The Pump-Track and Kidsworx viewing areas are also up Mountain Road, above the Joyride course.  If you need assistance getting to these areas, please reach out prior to the event day at info @ crankworx.com. To learn more, check out the Crankworx schedule and see some top picks of events you shouldn’t miss. If you want to learn more about accessibility at the event, Carly suggests reaching out directly via email; carly @ crankworx.com. As for me, I can’t wait to join the Adaptive Jam on July 24 to make friends with everyone excited about adaptive mountain biking!

No Time Like the Present

Whistler and the entire Sea to Sky have shown how welcoming they are of all the different ways people ride. Make sure to check out Squamish Adaptive Mountain Biking – a grassroots women-led organization increasing access to even more trails in the SORCA network and events like RideLab.  

Founder Sierra McCann and I both believe that adaptive athletes are “travelling to mountain bike destinations and finding ways to ride some of the gnarliest mountain bike trails out there with their friends. Trail networks are just starting to see the importance of working with aMTBs to ensure their network is accessible and awesome.” 

As I continue my journey, I’m excited to continue learning my own equipment (with fully charged batteries!), and to nerd out on the ins and outs of biking. And maybe some bike packing is in my future – there are a lot of places to see that are out of reach of a standard mobility device like my wheelchair, and I really see my bike as a new tool to get there. 

See you out there! 

For more information on accessibility in Whistler visit the dedicated page.

The post Whistler: A Premier Destination for Adaptive Mountain Biking   appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

Making travel plans is usually an undertaking that involves some research, but for those in a wheelchair, it requires a lot more. After writing this post, I had a new appreciation for how individual and nuanced this information needs to be, and how it requires a lot of dedication and patience on the part of the wheelchair traveller.

In this article, I spoke with the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW), Whistler Blackcomb, Whistler Adaptive Sports Program (WASP) and two local wheelchair users, Olivia Rey and Alex Cairns, to put together some travel tips, highlight some pain points and check in on any wheelchair-related plans for the future.

12 Tips for Exploring Whistler by Wheelchair

1. Take a look at the RMOW’s Accessible Map for how to navigate Whistler Village. This was the number one thing that everyone I spoke to suggested. It’s a comprehensive map of Whistler Village showing accessible parking spaces, barrier-free routes, slopes with gradients, accessible washrooms and more. The accessibility resources on Whistler.ca provide a range of resources to assist with your visit; from fueling your vehicle while in Whistler, to getting medical supplies and finding out the accessibility of a municipal facility, etc.
2. Stay in central accommodation. Although Whistler’s Transit is easy-access and has spaces for wheelchairs (two per bus), not all the bus stops outside of Whistler Village are accessible, meaning that they lack sidewalks for the bus ramps to deploy onto increasing the slope of the ramp. There’s a limited number of accessible taxis that can take a wheelchair, which can make getting around (especially in winter) difficult. Whistler.com has a general knowledge of what each hotel offers in terms of accessibility, so contact them to chat about the best option for you.
3. Bring your accessible parking permit as the RMOW honours these and can issue a temporary one ($31) if you’ve left yours at home. Please note that if your disability is invisible this may require a doctor’s note to confirm the disability. More details can be found on the RMOW website.
4. Book restaurants in advance and tell them you need wheelchair accessibility so they can plan ahead and create a pathway to your table. Note that some of Whistler’s restaurants are located in older buildings that are not necessarily wheelchair accessible.
5. If you’re looking to do some activities while you’re in Whistler, contact Whistler Adaptive Sports (WASP), who offer alpine and Nordic sit-skiing in the winter and hand-cycling, water sports and trail riders for hiking. It’s best to contact them as far in advance as possible and chat through what you’re thinking with their incredibly passionate and knowledgeable team. Whistler Adaptive can also provide a complimentary companion pass to access Whistler Blackcomb. This is for a support companion or family member even if you are not accessing programming through Whistler Adaptive. This should be organized in advance of accessing the mountain.
6. Exploring the apline is one of Whistler’s key features, and Whistler Blackcomb has a dedicated accessibility page with general information on how to access sightseeing, skiing and biking via a wheelchair and with adaptive equipment. If you’re coming in the summer there’s a handy video showing you how to load an adaptive bike into the gondola and onto lifts, and they’re developing more know-before-you-go videos for the winter.
7. If you’re coming to explore and recreate on Whistler Blackcomb, the closest parking to the Whistler Village Gondola (WVG) is in the Sundial area, or if you’re accessing Blackcomb via the Blackcomb Gondola, then there are two accessible parking spaces by the Blackcomb Administration building at the base of the mountain. Whistler Mountain is a more accessible environment as the WVG allows an individual to travel in their wheelchair up the gondola with their sit-ski or adaptive mountain bike and leave their chair at the top of the mountain in a secure location to easily transfer into at lunchtime or to use the washroom facilities in the Roundhouse Lodge if needed.
8. Olivia is a fan of the AccessNow app, which pin-points accessible places around the world by letting users find and rate the accessibility of restaurants, hotels, stores, bars and more.
9. If you’re a skier, ask about the Ruper Rollers (more below).
10. The Valley Trail is a paved, pedestrianized trail which weaves for 46 kilometres around Whistler’s neighbourhoods, parks and lakes is a great way to explore (although it’s good to note there are some steep sections). The lakes are easy to get to, and all have good washrooms and paths to the water. Each park has complimentary, accessible parking spots. For more on what accessible facilities are at each park, visit the RMOW website.
11. The Dubh Linn Gate, Blacks, Tapley’s, GLC (elevator) and Dusty’s come up as some of the most accessible après options.
12. Although some restrictions apply, a lot of Whistler’s activities are available to those in a wheelchair, including water sports, bobsleigh and ATV riding. Take a look at the RMOW website for more details on these.

Innovation in the Accessibility Space

The RMOW has incorporated accessibility and inclusion into the municipality’s guiding policy documents and considers the Accessible Canada Act and the Accessible BC Act as municipal policies and plans are created and updated.

Universal Design (UD) is a key accessibility concept and a UD philosophy is included as a policy objective in the RMOW’s newly proposed OCP, which is currently at third reading and can be viewed on the RMOW website.

“The dynamic wheelchair symbol can now be found on our wayfinding signage,” says Sarah. “It’s an example of a more inclusive and thoughtful approach to icon and sign usage, and discussions about people with disabilities not being passive. Six municipal facilities, including Meadow Park Sports Centre, Whistler Public Library, Maury Young Arts Centre, Myrtle Philip Community Centre, Whistler Olympic Plaza, have received the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification and the washrooms at Whistler Olympic Plaza have received the RHF Accessibility Certified Gold.“

Whistler Blackcomb also utilized the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification program, which performed an audit of a few of their key facilities mid-way through last summer enabling them to put some of the changes into their capital planning for this year.

The RMOW also has an Accessibility and Inclusion Committee (AIC) that works collaboratively to assess and improve community accessibility and inclusion focusing on the experiences of people with disabilities, but encompassing the whole community.​

Rupert Rollers

I spoke with Peter Tongue, Lift Operations Manager at Whistler Blackcomb and he told me about a local invention that’s helping sit skiers access the mountains with more ease.

“I don’t have a background in accessibility,” said Peter. “I know I have to ask those who do or have direct life experience. I was lucky enough to share a workspace with Carly Fox, a WASP supervisor this winter so I could bounce ideas off her. I came from a different ski hill before Whistler Blackcomb, and the bandwidth to do tests and try things in this space is supported here.”

He went on to say that one of the huge winter accessibility wins is the Rupert Rollers, developed by a colleague (called Rupert) who, at the time, worked in lift ops. After the Wizard and Solar Coaster chairs were replaced, sit skiers had a harder time accessing the slopes via the gondola (sit skis glide on snow which reaches the base of the chairlifts unlike the gondolas, which are accessed by foot as the snow doesn’t reach their base). Rupert watched his sit-skier friend struggle. He now needed to bring his wheelchair and sit-ski, making the whole process more complex, time-consuming and tiring.

Along with a member of the snow-making team, Kyle, Rupert came up with a frame on wheels, which sit skiers could slide onto. It can be pushed or used independently. Vail Resorts supported the invention and bought two of them.

It’s not without its issues and Peter mentioned they’re constantly learning.

‘Last year we realized that the Rupert Rollers don’t work with the Excalibur Gondola as there’s a step up,” says Peter. “Last spring we didn’t have the Blackcomb Gondola as it was being serviced, which forced us to find a solution for Excalibur. We put in some really simple ramps, which allow people to use the Rupert Roller. Dopplemyer, who make a lot of our infrastrucutre are thinking about accessibility more and more. Everyone comes together to make these ideas happen, they want to see more people having fun on the mountains.”

I asked Peter what’s the best way to connect with the Whistler Blackcomb team if there’s a question about accessibility and he said to contact Guest Services, who will either have the information or direct the inquiry to the right person on the team.

Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025

Whistler is due to host the first Invictus Games to include both winter and summer sports happening February 6 to 17, 2025. The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 is an international adaptive sporting competition for wounded, injured and sick service personnel and Veterans.

For the first time in Invictus Games history, winter sports events have been introduced to the competition, including Alpine Skiing, Alpine Snowboarding, Biathlon, Nordic Skiing, Skeleton and Wheelchair Curling. This is in addition to the core Invictus Games sports of indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair basketball.

Team managers from participating nations recently participated in an Adaptive Winter Sports Camp, intended to familiarize participants with the winter sports. The CEO of 2025 Invictus Games, Peter Lawless, told the Pique NewsMagazine…

“The beauty of Whistler having hosted the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games is that the venues are there,” said Lawless. “They’re world-class facilities, they’re world-class mountains, and we have the luxury of just sort of dropping in and putting on our own world-class event.”

The Games are a demonstration and celebration of the human spirit and you’re invited to be part of it all next February. Competition locations in Whistler include Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding on Whistler Mountain, Nordic Skiing and Biathlon at Whistler Olympic Park and Skeleton at the Whistler Sliding Centre. Keep an eye out for the schedule by signing up for the Invictus newsletter and consider volunteering for an even deeper experience during these exciting sporting events.

Pain Points to be Aware Of

• Getting to Whistler. At the moment, there are no shuttle companies that can transport power wheelchair users to Whistler (these are private companies and not under the influence of the RMOW). It’s also difficult for people using a manual wheelchair, as although the chair can be stowed, there are often steps to navigate to get into the shuttles. Private transport or a rental car/van are the only options, which the RMOW lists on their website. One that WASP mentioned is the Modo van.
• Both Alex and Olivia mentioned that Whistler Village can be a bit of a maze to navigate, and warn that there are slopes and interlocking pavers. Their tip is to get well acquainted with the accessibility map.
• Marketplace (privately owned land, not RMOW property) is not very accessible from the accessible parking as the ramps are steep and there are curbs to contend with.
• Parking in the Day Lots can be an issue with heavy snowfall. Even though they are cleared, it takes time for that to be done, making it hard to get to the gondolas from this area particularly if you are transporting your adaptive equipment. 
• For some of Whistler’s nightclubs, you have to wheel around to the underground parking to get in, which can mean leaving your friends and wheeling around in the snow and wet.

Useful Websites for Accessible Travel in British Columbia

• Spinal Cord Injury BC – Downloadable travel guide.
• Hello BC has an online list of accessible accommodations. The assessments are done by the property themselves and might not be as accurate as by being assessed by someone with lived experience.  These listings will provide you with details related to accessibility on things like parking, food and beverage, elevators and restrooms.
• AccessNow app

Whistler Insider Stories and How-Tos

• Whistler Adaptive Sports: Making Skiing Happen
• The Return of Joy: An Unexpected Crankworx Story
• Whistler Summer Wish List: Bear Tours & Escape Rooms
• How a Family of Five Does Whistler With a Wheelchair
• Whistler Shredder Alex Cairns heads to PyeongChang

If you’re planning a trip to Whistler, let the locally-based Whistler.com team help you with the planning logistics, call them at  1.800.944.7853.

The post Whistler by Wheelchair: Travel Tips appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

JOY: 1a: the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires : DELIGHT b: the expression or exhibition of such emotion : GAIETY 2: a state of happiness or felicity : BLISS 3: a source or cause of delight.

When our family planned a summer trip to Whistler, I didn’t even think about Crankworx. In fact, it was a legitimate coincidence that we arrived the same day as Red Bull Joyride, arguably the biggest day for mountain biking on the planet.

What we found was more than a crowd of 50,000 mountain maniacs breaking out of a three-year COVID funk; more than Emil Johansson doing double downside whips or Thomas Lemoine launching 80-foot gap jumps. In fact, those wouldn’t even be the most miraculous biking moments that week.

My wife Ineke has always been a joyful person; an elementary school teacher with a smile that spans from high cheekbone to high cheekbone and a laugh that could replace angel song on the way into heaven. When she had a massive stroke at age 42, she suddenly lost her voice and movement on her right side.

However, much more slowly and brutally, through the struggles of recovery and adaptation to life with Aphasia and paralysis, the stroke seemed to be stealing something even more important: her joy.

Finding the Spark

Up until a few weeks before our trip to Whistler, Ineke was really struggling. I’d come to learn that she was physically and emotionally exhausted after a nearly five-year fight. However, after a small act of kindness by a few friends who took notice, she seemed to find a spark. And being part and participant in the crazed festival atmosphere of Joyride, with her teenage son and daughter fully revelling in mountain life with her, I saw that spark go full fire.

Our visit to Whistler confirmed how committed the resort is to providing accessible access to guests. It was part of the mandate for, and legacy of, hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. And do they ever deliver.

We have trouble moving through even small crowds. But one like that, assembling at the bottom of Whistler Blackcomb for Joyride, is basically a no-fly zone. However, we got there early and found an accessibility area expertly assembled by the events team. And because of that commitment, we got to not only watch but fully and completely participate in the party.

It was 30 degrees with people dressed (and undressed) in all sequences of summer glory; a full-on rave developed in broad daylight at the Longhorn Saloon behind us. In front, swarms of cheers spilling from the dusty masses and down the mountain, chasing the riders toward the finish line; kids stacked up, screaming and pressing over the barriers for high fives from their heroes who waved their arms for more.

And after hours of death-defying, full-gasp biking beauty, the party culminated in a celebration of the best of the best on a stage beside us, all framed by rainbows of champagne and the fading mountain sun.

Brain injuries are not easy. I can only imagine the hours and commitment and pain that it’s taken these special athletes to get to this moment in their careers. But I have zero doubt that Ineke has had to work harder just to watch and cheer them on, let alone get out on a bike herself. And even though we managed to land accidentally on the day of Joyride, we had big biking ambitions of our own.

Big Biking Ambitions

One of the reasons we came to Whistler was because of the accessible biking. The Valley Trail system is world-class and winds through the entire municipality, from Green Lake to Function Junction. About two years after Ineke’s stroke, I found a bike that looked like it may offer us the chance to get back out together.

The Caboose, an independent pedalling, attachable trail-a-bike turns heads everywhere we take it. Sure, we’re not likely to drop any crazy lines, or flip any sick tricks, but the joy factor when we set the Caboose loose must be at least as high for us as it is for the athletes at Crankworx.

The Sunday after Joyride we decided that we would try to get out early for a ride of our own. We drove a little closer to Rainbow Lake for our starting point and somehow ended up parked at the Catholic Church. While I got the bike set up, Ineke went in to use the bathroom and came out 15 mins later crying. Apparently, it was mass and she’d entered at a pivotal point, like she was walking through the set of a Cohen Brothers film.

We rode around the trail network with ease, flowing past the golf course, and the silted grey-green lakes, tilting our heads toward the Fitzsimmons Glacier, Diavolo Peak and Overlord Mountain. The warm air, the smell of the wildflowers and pine, the slow flow of endorphins and the sense of freedom a seemingly perfect convergence. At least until I noticed something wrong with Ineke’s pedals.

We’d had a mechanical malfunction. After several failed attempts to fix it, I pedalled for both of us back to the church parking lot, more than a little worried that would be the end of it for the week. Ours is not an everyday bike. I wasn’t confident that we’d find what we needed in one of the many high-volume bike shops.

So, just outside the church, I asked a passerby if by chance he happened to live in Whistler. In a place which sees so many visitors each year, locals are not always easy to find. But bingo! This fella was and pointed us to Coastal Culture Sports in Creekside, just across from the very first Whistler staff accommodation, where I once lived (a story for another time). And sure enough, we found exactly what we were looking for.

It’s a Culture Thing

Coastal Culture Sports is a soulful small-town bike shop in a big mountain resort. When I outlined our issues, the sales staff went right to the owner, who came immediately to our aid. His eyes lit up when he saw our setup. He asked inquisitively about the Caboose, before setting to work. Within minutes he’d had the problem diagnosed and began fastening a quickly engineered solution.

All in all, what I thought might throw off our whole week, was solved in less than an hour. And when I asked him how much he just laughed, saying something about the things that keep owning a bike shop interesting.

From there we rode all week together, our teenagers hot on the trail, hooting and hollering support for their mom as we rolled around Rainbow and Lost Lake parks. We lapped past the Whistler Blackcomb base, stopping for ice cream or pizza, surrounded by armoured bikers walking to and from the gondola, dusty with sweat or reverberating with anticipation.

But it didn’t just feel like we were Crankworx observers. It genuinely felt like we were a part of it, representing as many dreams and ambitions as those carried by the bikers roaring down the mountain; almost everywhere we went, no matter how complex the downhill beasts wheeling around us, we’d hear people commenting on the Caboose. “Cool set up”, “Nice rig”, “Keep pedalling” “Right on!”.

And even if it was just for a short time, it was apparent we’d all got our joy back.

The post The Return of Joy: An Unexpected Crankworx Story appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

“Are we going biking?”

“We’re going to Cows, right?”

“Are we staying near the playground?”

“Can we go to the lake?”

Since Whistler is one of our family’s preferred places to visit, we absolutely have certain go-to activities. Even so, we try to incorporate something new into every trip, ensuring that no two visits are exactly alike. When we were offered the opportunity to try Escape! Whistler and Whistler Photo Safaris last summer, we were excited to check off two more attractions from our Whistler wish list. (Don’t worry, we still ate ice cream and hit the biking trails too).

Whether you are visiting Whistler for the first time or, like us, you’re looking to mix up your standard itinerary, both Escape! Whistler and Whistler Photo Safaris are well worth a visit.

Escape! Whistler

As soon as the door locked behind us, we were transported into a world that screamed nostalgic arcade meets Wreck-it-Ralph. Working together – with a few tips through the walkie-talkies when we were really stuck—we solved puzzle after puzzle, navigating our way through the inner workings of a pinball machine. We escaped back to the real world with just a minute to spare on our timer and zero sibling fights to speak of.

While the outdoors may be the star of the show in Whistler, it can be nice to take a break from the fresh air and put your brains to work. Escape! Whistler offers six different adventures to choose from, and this immersive, 45-minute, puzzle-solving experience will have you working together to solve the clues before time runs out.

I know, I know, convincing your kids to work as a team can be like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, but this was truly the most fun we’ve had indoors up in the mountains. Our children’s ages range from 7 to 12 and this intermediate-level room had something for everyone (including Mom and Dad).

Escape! Whistler is conveniently located at the south end of the Village Stroll, at the base of Whistler Mountain, making it simple to pop over from your hotel, vacation rental, or whichever restaurant you’re enjoying. Reservations are recommended and, from check-in to gameplay, you should plan to spend about an hour at this experience. Lockers are provided free of charge during your attempt to escape.

Accessibility Note:

• Four of the six games offered at Escape! Whistler are wheelchair accessible. While Pinball Machine and Underwater Lair are fully accessible, Yukon Gold and Buried Cabin are playable but include small sections a wheelchair user may not be able to access.
• Escape! Whistler is part of the Easter Seals Access2 program. Be sure to take advantage of this if you are enrolled in the program.

Whistler Photo Safaris: Bear Viewing and 4x4ing in Whistler Olympic Park

In the Callaghan Valley, just south of Whistler Village, sits 2,200 acres of Canadian wilderness. While the bears call the area home, ever since it was developed to host the Nordic events of the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, mammals of the human variety know it as Whistler Olympic Park. When covered in snow, it’s a hub for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing however, it’s another world when the earth and the animals re-emerge from their winter sleep. And in the months from May to October, Whistler Photo Safaris is your exclusive ticket to see all it has to offer.

With four different tour offerings, guests can choose their own adventure. Whether they want to focus on seeking out bears in the wild, spike their adrenaline 4x4ing and sightseeing on the 2010 Legacy Trail, take an in-depth tour of all things Olympics, or combine the best of all three, there is a tour suitable for everyone. I won’t lie, I was drawn to the sightseeing option as the thought of seeing bears in the wild sparked slight trepidation from within.

When we’re out on the bike trails, I know the bears are around, their poop is hard to miss, but knowing it and seeing it seemed very different. But with a little coaxing from my husband, we agreed on the combo tour and, when the safari Jeeps pulled up outside of our hotel, my sense of adventure kicked in. The four-guest maximum in the open-air Jeeps meant our family of five quickly embraced a girls-vs-boys mentality and headed out.

Before we reached the gates of Olympic Park, we made a stop at Alexander Falls. Boasting a 43-metre drop over three sections, this waterfall, which used to only be accessible by an old service road and rugged walking trail, is now easy to visit by car. The wide viewing platform gives a sweeping view of the falls and river below, making it the perfect spot for a photo op.

From there, we entered the park and alternated between playing I Spy for bears, navigating rollercoaster drops, and seeing both the natural and Olympic sights. Even though we were separated into two vehicles, our guides were in contact through radio and spotting the other Jeep was almost as fun as spotting the wildlife. And when the bears were located, it was broadcasted through the radio and we met up to share the views.

As it turned out, seeing the bears in their habitat did the opposite of what I was expecting. Watching them lumber along, munching the entire time, showed me how content they are to be in their element, doing what bears do. I was continually impressed by the guides’ intimate knowledge and obvious respect for the area and the wildlife. And even if we hadn’t found any bears, the experience would have been well worth it.

The Logistics

Tours are 2.5 hours long and run daily from May through October. There are five departure times every day and your safari vehicle will pick you up at your accommodation around Whistler Village. There are washrooms, including wheelchair-accessible washrooms, available once inside Whistler Olympic Park. Bring your camera but also let yourself be in the moment.

Binoculars are provided, but bug spray is not. Plan accordingly.

Accessibility Note

This experience requires all participants to transfer into the safari vehicle. There was room for my manual chair to be stored in the back so that I had access to it during the tour, but space is limited and the ability to bring along your mobility device will vary depending on its size.

With a few more of our Whistler wish list items checked off, we decided to make good on an earlier promise and went for ice cream to round off the stay!

 

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After nearly 30 years skiing in Whistler, Damian Cromwell decided to learn to be an adaptive ski guide.

“I’ve always wanted to do it,” says Cromwell, an ex-professional ski photographer with dozens of ski mag covers to his credit.  “And now that my son is in the racing program and I’m up here by myself, I figured this was the year to follow through. It’s one of the most satisfying things I’ve ever done, on skis or off. ”

The Whistler Adaptive Sports Program is a not-for-profit organization committed to introducing individuals with mobility issues or disabilities to the joys and benefits of sport and recreation in one of the greatest mountain towns on the planet. 

‘It’s incredible,” Cromwell says, “being able to help someone discover skiing, to get the wind in their face and feel the speed and flow of gliding over snow on their own. Especially because some of the people we’re working with thought they’d never have that chance, or never have it again. And then all of a sudden we are, ripping.”

Whistler Adaptive has been in operation for over 20 years and has given over 3000 lessons across 18 different adaptive sports — everything from biking to kayaking to yoga and gymnastics. But this time of year, it’s all about the shred. 

“We partner with the Whistler Blackcomb Ski School,” explains Whistler Adaptive Executive Director Shelley Milstein. “They handle the bookings and reservations, and we have anywhere from three to five coaches up at a time. Over the course of the winter we’re helping hundreds of people get up the hill.”

Many of those are local, Sea to Sky residents, but an increasing number are guests coming to Whistler because they’ve heard about the Whistler Adaptive program.

“Guest or local, the goal is the same,” explains Milstein. “We’re here to provide adaptive sports and recreation for people living with physical or mobility challenges, autism diagnosis, cognitive issues, or even someone who’s elderly and experiencing mobility loss. If someone has the desire to do it, we want to help make it happen.”

Skier Mac Marcoux was already on the Canadian Paralympic Ski Team when he first arrived in Whistler in 2013.

“I already had coaches,” he explains, “but Whistler Adaptive was super welcoming and supportive. I fell in love with these mountains right away but for sure, the community here is my favourite thing.” 

Currently the holder of six Paralympic medals (including two golds) and eight World Cup podiums, Marcoux is Canada’s top visually impaired racer. Diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease at age eight, Mac has no central vision and only six percent peripheral. In competition, he skis behind and is in constant radio communication with a guide. Tristan Rodgers has been Mac’s guide since 2018.

However, Tristan and Mac were not looking to race, or even train when they arrived in Whistler during a break from the World Cup circuit early in 2020. Mac was in town to freeski some of Whistler Blackcomb’s most iconic lines, and change the way people think about adaptive athletes and what they are capable of.

With a short window between races (and unknowingly just a few weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic would close the ski hills), Mac and Tristan teamed up with local filmmaker Graeme Meiklejohn. The result was Blind Faith, one of the best ski films of its generation.

“It was a bit cowboy,” Mac admits, “but we got it done and the whole thing opened my eyes to some different avenues for skiing. I think freeskiing is the direction I am aiming for once I retire from racing. Both in bounds and in the backcountry.”

But even world-class (and ridiculously inspirational) skiers like Mac and Tristan had to start small, on the bunny hill. And for skiers without World Cup careers and Olympic medals, or even people who haven’t skied at all, Whistler Adaptive is ready to rock, with volunteers and on-staff coaches like Damian trained on all the various ways to help someone, anyone, feel the gravity-fed awe of sliding on snow.

“My first guy this year was an absolute beauty,” Damian says. “Fifty-years old, he used to be a windsurfer, snowboarded all over the place, really athletic guy — until he hit a sandbar while surfing in his mid 40s and was paralyzed from the belly button down. We got him in a sit ski and by the end of the day he’s linking turns on his own.”

And the best part is Whistler Adaptive and coaches like Damian are facilitating those kinds of ski days all year long. 

“Just yesterday,” Damian says. “I was with an incredible guy from Europe. He’d skied his whole life — used to come here back in the day, knows all the good spots. But a couple of years ago a brain tumour left him with mobility issues on his right side.

We got him out on the magic carpet — super mellow — helping him figure it out. And now today he’s skiing the Olympic chair all on his own. Just skiing, you know, feeling the wind in his face. He told me he never thought he’d ever feel that again. That is a ski day I will always remember, you know?

I’ve skied all over the world; Argentina, Switzerland, heli trips in Northern BC, and twenty-eight years on these mountains here. Today is a day I will never forget.”

If this article has made you want to participate, volunteer or donate take a look at the Whistler Adaptive Sports website. The mountains are an inspiring place for everyone. For more general accessibility information visit Whistler.com.

The post Whistler Adaptive Sports: Making Skiing Happen appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

Maybe it was just me, but a mountain resort didn’t exactly scream wheelchair friendly. I was envisioning a place where everything is flat and paved. However, with many assurances and a few tips and tricks, we booked a hotel and headed to the mountains.

That was in 2016. Since then, Whistler has become one of our favourite, accessible destinations to visit as a family – especially in the summer. Being on the trails as the sun breaks through the trees, the afternoons spent lakeside and the evenings wandering through Whistler Village to the sounds of people simply enjoying life – none of it ever gets old. And how could it? Whistler is somewhere we can be spoiled by both natural and manmade experiences. It is the best of summer and we’re always grateful to go back.

However, mistakes have been made over the years. Most notably was a poorly researched route from our vacation rental to Whistler Village that had me attempting to wheel down the face of Blackcomb Mountain. Although I’m sure it was most entertaining to the many onlookers sipping their drinks on the patios below, it is not something I suggest repeating. Since then, we’ve refined our tactics. Benefit from what we’ve learned and discover how we do Whistler with a wheelchair.

Whistler Village

Whistler Village is the picturesque town in a Hallmark movie mixed with the shopping and dining experiences of your favourite downtown street. But even when it’s bustling with people, it feels miles away from ordinary, as the overall vibe of this car-free village is that of enjoyment, adventure and relaxation.

Accessibility wise, Whistler Village is great. As a manual wheelchair user, I like to bring my power assist device with me, but I have seen many people muscle it up the hills. Ramps and elevators are always there, even if they’re around a corner. Keep a look out for the standard blue wheelchair signs posted around the village, they often point in the direction of access.

The playground, located at the north end of the Village, is a highlight for families. It is the kind of accessible play space that assures no child or parent feels left out of the action. Beyond that, we love to settle into the various patios, the people-watching, the souvenir shops, and the breathtaking views of mountain peaks that rise up on all sides, holding the village between them.

PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola

We first spotted the cars of the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola as we sat in the Village eating ice cream cones. They appeared to be hanging in mid-air, as if by magic. After assuring the children (and maybe myself) that there were in fact strong cables securing the cars safely in place, we went to check it out for ourselves.

The gondola slowed as it approached the loading area making it simple to maneuver the barrier-free entrance. Inside, we were pleased to see there was plenty of room for our entire family. As we left the station, a blanket of treetops sprawled out far below us, making the giant trees on the valley floor – 436 metres down – seem miniature. The four-and-a-half-kilometre ride between the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains took 11 minutes and managed to accomplish one very surprising thing: silence from my children. So, while the gondola may not run on magic, there was certainly something magical about it.

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre

Enjoying Whistler means taking time to acknowledge that it is located on the traditional and unceded territory of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. As we strive to better understand the roots of our country, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to visit the cultural centre for an inside look at the rich, Indigenous history that surrounded us.

A 45-minute guided tour started with a traditional welcome song. The tour gave us a glimpse into the art and traditions of the two distinct cultures that share the land, as well as how they work to integrate old customs in a new world. It is a beautiful, informative and worthwhile attraction for anyone’s Whistler itinerary.

Whistler Valley Trail

The Whistler Valley Trail is a wheelchair user’s dream in the sense that it is a fully paved, car-free trail that creates an accessible path to all things Whistler. From the village to outer neighbourhoods and golf courses to mountain bike trails, the Valley Trail takes you there.

But, while it is paved, it is not flat. If, like me, you want to preserve a shred of your arm muscles for other activities, you may want a power assist if you’re going to try and explore it in your manual chair. Or you may want to get a bit more adventurous and try out an adapted bike.

Biking

We fell in love with Whistler for many reasons and biking was not one of them. But once I got an inside look at the mountain on an adaptive mountain bike, we had an entirely new reason to keep coming back. Now, you won’t find us driving up to Whistler without five bikes secured to the back of the truck.

The Whistler Valley Trail is a beautiful and easy way to explore Whistler by bike. But if you’re ready for a bit of off-road action, Whistler’s vast trail network has you covered. From beginners to experts, there is an adventure to suit everybody’s comfort level.

Whether you go for a gentle ride around the Lost Lake Loop or want to try a bit of climbing and downhill action on the cross-country trails just above it, or you’re a pro and head to the Whistler Bike Park, getting up close and personal with the forest is possible if you have the right equipment.

If adapted mountain biking is something you’ve never tried, I highly recommend reaching out to Whistler Adaptive Sports and asking about their equipment and programs.

Accommodations

Even though finding good wheelchair-accessible accommodation is never a simple task, we have had many great stays throughout Whistler. However, it was our most recent accommodations, at the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa, where we felt as though we hit the jackpot.

We checked into the Hilton Family Combo which joined a Premier Studio room to a Hilton Superior Double room. Both rooms were accessible, including the kitchen which had a roll-under counter. My only word of warning is that there is no oven. Plan accordingly.

No matter where you find a place to call your temporary home, this wheelchair user suggests you stay in, or very close to, the Village if you’re hoping to spend a lot of time there.

Whistler is Waiting for You

If you take anything away from this article, I hope it is the knowledge that Whistler is ready to accommodate people of all abilities. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, it is all possible. With that, I suppose I just have one question. How will you do Whistler?

For a full list of the Resort Municipality of Whistler’s (RMOW) accessibility initiatives for residents and visitors of different abilities, visit the RMOW website. There is a free, pedal wheelchair available for use for people with balance or mobility, rehabilitating from surgery, stroke or injury through the RMOW. For details call the Meadow Park Trainers Desk on 604-935-8363 (note that this is a specific number and not the front desk number).

The post How a Family of Five Does Whistler With a Wheelchair appeared first on The Whistler Insider.