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We know that this kind of work is an ongoing journey as we all learn how we can contribute to a more sustainable future. Join our Changemaker host, Mike Douglas, a member-at-large of Protect Our Winters Canada, pro skier, enviro nerd and Whistler local, as he shines a light on what’s happening in Whistler to move the dial.

In video #8, we touch base with Kirsty Smyth, Zero Waste Program Manager at AWARE Whistler. She chats with Mike about composting, local recycling and shifting our buying thought process.

What is AWARE and the Zero Waste Heroes Program?

AWARE is Whistler’s environmental charity.  Since 1989, we have led climate action, conservation and circular economy initiatives for the local community. Zero Waste Heroes is AWARE’s social enterprise, helping events to achieve their zero waste goals. Last year, over 23,000 people engaged with AWARE’s Zero Waste Heroes program in Whistler, at events, in the parks, and at the Farmers’ Market.

Events bring people together, but they can also generate significant amounts of waste and put pressure on our natural environment. Through the Zero Waste Heroes service, AWARE helps visitors and residents enjoy the events that make Whistler special, while encouraging everyone to leave as little behind as possible. We work with event organizers to provide waste reduction and diversion support, including event planning, on-site waste sorting, and post-event reporting and analysis. 

Zero Waste Heroes is a social enterprise, so when events use us, the money generated goes back into environmental initiatives in Whistler, like our youth engagement programs and our local advocacy work. We have leading waste diversion rates, and our team is highly trained to provide guidance and education to businesses and guests.

Do events have a big waste footprint?

Yes, but we can work with them before, during and after their event to reduce it. Last year, we helped GranFondo and Arc’teryx Academy become Zero Waste Events, which means that over 90% of their waste was diverted from landfill.

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We work on waste prevention first by influencing what can and cannot come into the event area. Reusables are our go-to, but if that’s not possible, we can help source compostable options. That way, we have more control over the waste diversion outcomes. 

We also gather lots of data from each event so that we can report back to organizers on what is going well and where there is room for improvement. This means that many of the events that we work with reduce their waste footprint year over year.

How do you get people to trash-talk with you?

It’s mostly easy! People want to do the right thing, but recycling can be confusing. We guide people to the right place when we’re at an event, but we’re also talking to them about better choices for the future.

A lot of people ask us, “Doesn’t it all end up in the same place?” and the answer is, not here! British Columbia has amazing recycling systems; we just need to use them. For example, 99% of the plastics sent to Recycle BC in 2025 went to manufacturers that give recycled materials another life. 

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Why is composting so important?

One of our top goals is to keep compostables and food waste out of the landfill, because it gets trapped and causes methane, which is significantly more harmful to the environment than carbon dioxide. But if food waste is placed in the organics stream, it can be repurposed locally as soil, adding to a circular economy.

Whistler’s landfill waste is transported to Cache Creek (about 450 kilometres, routed via Vancouver), and so if organic waste is separated and composted within our community, emissions associated with hauling are also reduced. Last year, 39% of Whistler’s landfill waste could have been composted; so we’ve got some work to do!

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What can people do?

If Whistler is going to hit its Zero Waste target by 2030, we need an informed and engaged public. We want people to think about the end of its life at the start. If you pick up something and know it will end up in a landfill, ideally, you reconsider your decision and pick something that can be reused or composted. 

If you are not sure whether an item can be recycled, or which stream it belongs in, Recycle BC’s Waste Wizard is an excellent resource to help you understand what goes where. You can also come and say hello to one of our Zero Waste Heroes when you see us out and about in the community – we are always happy to help!

How does the Zero Waste Heroes program contribute to the Big Moves Strategy?

Whistler’s Big Move 6 focuses on closing the loop and shifting towards low-carbon consumption. Through the Zero Waste Heroes program, AWARE helps residents, visitors, event organizers and vendors make better choices about waste and resource use. We help identify simple opportunities to reduce waste, improve diversion and minimize the environmental footprint of events in our community.

This AWARE Whistler video is the eighth in the Whistler Changemaker series. To view more, visit our sustainability page.

The post Whistler Changemaker Series: AWARE – Zero Waste Heroes appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

The Valley of Dreams Walking Tour, presented by the Whistler Museum, brings these stories to life during an approximately one-hour walk through Whistler Village. Led by local guides, the tour explores the people, places, and ideas behind Whistler’s transformation from a remote summer destination into an internationally recognized mountain destination.

When: From June through September

Time: 11 AM – 60-minute tour

Cost: By donation

Meeting Place: Whistler Visitor Centre (no need to book, just turn up)

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Along the way, new, or familiar places take on deeper meaning.

• Why does the Village Stroll wind instead of following a straight line?
• What brought the first tourists to Alta Lake?
• Why was Whistler Mountain developed in the first place?
• Why is the town named Whistler?
• And just how long did Whistler pursue its Olympic dream before finally welcoming the world in 2010?

The answers can be found in the landscape, and in the stories of the people who helped shape it. We’re giving you a sneak preview of some of the stories covered on the tour; however, nothing beats a tour in-person.

A Valley with a Much Longer History

Whistler’s story did not begin with tourism or skiing.

The Valley of Dreams Walking Tour begins by acknowledging that Whistler is located within the shared, unceded territory of the Líl̓wat7úl Nation and the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation, whose peoples have travelled through and used the region for thousands of years.

The valley served as a trade and transportation corridor and supported fishing, hunting, and other activities long before the development of the modern resort and the arrival of tourism. This history extends far beyond the scope of a walking tour focused primarily on the development of tourism in Whistler.

Visitors wishing to learn more about the histories, cultures, and contemporary communities of the Líl̓wat7úl Nation and the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation are strongly encouraged to visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) in Whistler’s Upper Village.

A Dream on the Shores of Alta Lake

Long before chairlifts carried skiers up Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, visitors were drawn to the valley for a very different kind of vacation.

In 1911, Myrtle and Alex Philip travelled from Vancouver to visit the area after hearing stories of its lakes, mountains, and fishing. The journey took three days, but what they found inspired them to return. In 1913, they purchased land on the shores of Alta Lake and began building Rainbow Lodge.

Their timing proved fortunate. The Pacific Great Eastern Railway reached Alta Lake in 1914, reducing the journey from Vancouver from several days to about nine hours. The railway and Rainbow Lodge soon offered a $6 “Fishermen’s Excursion,” including train travel and a weekend at the lodge.

The first excursion brought 24 fishermen and helped launch a new era of tourism in the valley. By the 1930s, Rainbow Lodge had expanded to include dozens of buildings and offered fishing, hiking, boating, horseback riding and other activities. Whistler, then known as Alta Lake, had become a popular summer destination.

Dreaming of a Mountain Resort

The next big dream would transform the valley from a quaint summer destination into a popular international winter ski destination. Following the 1960 Winter Olympic Games in California, a group of Vancouver businessmen began considering whether British Columbia could host the Games.

The Garibaldi Olympic Development Association was formed in 1962, led by Franz Wilhelmsen, and eventually selected London Mountain, today’s Whistler Mountain, as the location for a proposed ski area.

Their first bid – to host the 1968 Olympic Winter Games – was unsuccessful. At the time, the valley had no proper road access, power, running water or ski lifts. But the larger idea survived. Garibaldi Lifts Ltd. was formed to develop the mountain, and on January 15, 1966, Whistler Mountain officially opened with a gondola, chairlift and two T-bars.

The Olympic dream would have to wait, but the dream of creating a major mountain resort was underway.

Building a Village from the Ground Up

Whistler Mountain’s success brought rapid growth, and in 1975 the Resort Municipality of Whistler was established as Canada’s first resort municipality. One of the new municipality’s greatest challenges was creating a town centre for the growing community and resort.

The Whistler Village visitor experience today owes much to landscape architect Eldon Beck. With direction from the newly formed council to create a pedestrian-focused village, Beck envisioned a village that flowed through the landscape.

The Village Stroll was designed to meander, encouraging people to slow down, wander, and discover new spaces. Plazas created gathering places, while delivery areas, parking entrances, and much of the infrastructure needed to operate the resort were tucked behind the buildings.

The design also created a strong sense of place, with carefully considered viewpoints connecting the Village Stroll to the surrounding mountains. Construction began in 1978, with the first phase completed in 1980, the same year Blackcomb Mountain opened for skiing.

As you walk through the Village today, the tour reveals how many features that now seem natural were the result of deliberate, and sometimes unconventional, ideas for the time in North America.

The Olympic Dream Becomes Reality

Through the 1980s and 1990s, Whistler continued its transformation from a regional ski destination into an international one. During this period, Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain operated as competitors, and their rivalry helped push both mountains to greater heights as they added new lifts, terrain and better amenities.

By 1992, Whistler’s growing international reputation was recognized when Snow Country Magazine named Whistler Resort the Number One Ski Resort in North America, the first of many similar accolades. The two mountains’ operations eventually merged in 1997.

All the while, Whistler’s Olympic ambitions remained.

There were multiple attempts over the decades, but it was not until July 2, 2003, that Vancouver and Whistler were awarded the opportunity to host the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Seven years of preparation followed.

Then, in February and March 2010, Whistler welcomed athletes and visitors from around the world as an Olympic and Paralympic host community. The Games themselves were held on the territories of four Host First Nations: Líl̓wat7úl Nation, xʷməθkʷəy̓əm Nation, Sk̲wx̲wú7mesh Nation, and səlilwətaɬ Nation.

The Valley of Dreams Walking Tour concludes around Olympic Plaza, connecting one of Whistler’s earliest ambitions with the international mountain destination it had become.

Nearly 40 Years of Sharing Whistler’s Stories

The Valley of Dreams Walking Tour is presented by the Whistler Museum & Archives Society, which has spent nearly 40 years collecting, preserving, and sharing the history of Whistler. Through photographs, artefacts, documents, oral histories, exhibitions, and community programs, the Museum preserves the stories of the people and events that have shaped the valley.

The walking tours take those stories beyond the Museum walls and into the places where much of that history happened.

Tours are led by local guides, each bringing their own knowledge and experiences to Whistler’s story. Whether you are visiting Whistler for the first time, working here for a season, or have been coming for years, the tour offers a chance to look at familiar places from a different perspective.

After all, Whistler as we know it today began with people looking at this valley and dreaming of what might be possible. The Valley of Dreams Walking Tour departs from the Whistler Visitor Centre at 11 AM daily from June through the end of September. Tours take approximately one hour and are offered by donation (private tours are available upon request).

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We know that this kind of work is an ongoing journey as we all learn how we can contribute to a more sustainable future. Join our Changemaker host, Mike Douglas, a member-at-large of Protect Our Winters Canada, pro skier, enviro nerd and Whistler local, as he shines a light on what’s happening in Whistler to move the dial.

In video #7, we touch base with Claire Ruddy, Program Manager at Reuse Whistler. She chatted with Mike about how we can save energy and water, reduce waste and avoid microplastics by swapping single-use coffee cups with reusable ones.

What is Reuse Whistler?

Reuse Whistler is a circular economy initiative replacing single-use cups with reusable ones. It saves energy and water, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and avoids the release of microplastics from single-use containers

To-go food and drink containers are a major waste stream for Whistler, so we decided to focus on eliminating one-use coffee cups.

How does the program work?

It’s simple.

1. When you order your drink, ask for a reusable cup.
2. You tap your credit card.
3. Enjoy your drink.
4. And return the cup within five days.
5. A charge is only applied if the cup isn’t returned, and it’s refunded as soon as it is (up to 30 days).

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Do I have to take the cup back to the same place?

No! Users can return to any participating location or to Smart Return Bins located around the village and at the top of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. 

We are continually expanding locations, and the up-to-date list of participating cafés and return stations is available at reusewhistler.ca.

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How do the cups get cleaned, and does this use a lot of water?

The Whistler Conference Centre and Tourism Whistler have donated the use of their commercial kitchen to us. It’s a testament to how lots of local businesses see the value of what we’re doing.

Washing in bulk uses less water and energy than it takes to manufacture a brand-new single-use cup and lid every single time. So, even with the washing, reuse quickly becomes the more eco-friendly option.

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What’s the uptake been like?

It’s been great! Once people realize it’s just as easy as grabbing a disposable cup, they’re on board.

We’ve already kept thousands of single-use cups out of circulation, and that number keeps growing every month.

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What do the businesses think of the program?

Everyone we’ve been working with has been fantastic.

A few were a little nervous at first — new equipment, logistics, a new habit for their staff to learn — but once they saw how smooth it was for their customers and team, everyone has been fully on board.

Which Whistler businesses are on board?

Participating and Return Locations:

• Naked Sprout Cafe and Eatery
• Alpha Cafe
• Blenz Coffee
• Mt Currie Coffee Company
• Garbo’s Capo Bar

Smart Bin Return Bins:

• Whistler Public Library
• Blackcomb Day Lodge
• Carleton Lodge (Garbo’s capo bar)
• Roundhouse Lodge (in the entrance – between the double doors)
• Rendezvous (downstairs opposite the washroom)

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Are there any pain points and things you’ve had to overcome?

For sure.

As with any new program, there are new logistics to work through. The big one is logistics; making sure cups get collected, washed and back in circulation fast enough that no cafe ever runs short. But the big one for us is growing awareness of the program and making sure people know it is available for both residents and visitors.

Are you sticking with coffee cups, or are other reusables on the horizon?

Over time, we are hoping to add new components. We’d like to add to-go food containers, work with restaurants, hotels, and community programs. Next, we are focusing on events, where there is a huge opportunity to easily switch from throw-away to reusable.

How does Reuse Whistler align with the RMOW’s Zero Waste Action Plan?

Creating a community reusables program has been in Whistler’s Zero Waste strategies for over a decade, and so Reuse Whistler is the result of a lot of resort partner collaborations. That said, it’s more than just a waste reduction effort; it’s a circular economy solution, climate action, smart tourism, human health protection and an over-consumption system shift – all in one program.

How can interested businesses and events contact you if they’re interested in the project? Does it cost them anything?

Anyone looking to find out more info on getting involved can reach us at ac.reltsihwesuerobfsctd-88e589@tcennoc or head to the website reusewhistler.ca.

This Reuse Whistler video is the seventh in the Whistler Changemaker series. To view more, visit our sustainability page.

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It’s also the best way I know to spend a summer day in Whistler. The Whistler Valley Trail runs over 50 kilometres of car-free paved pathway through the valley, linking the Village to lake beaches, playgrounds, swimming docks and food trucks. You need a bike, a trailer, some good snacks, and a willingness to stop a lot along the way.

I spent 16 years living in Whistler before moving down the road to Horseshoe Bay and starting a family. In those years, the Valley Trail was an artery to whatever adventure I was chasing. Now it’s the adventure itself, and along for the ride are my partner and our two kids as I show them why I fell in love with the valley.

Where to Get Your Bike and Chariot

We started at Whistler Eco Tours (WET) in the Village, within the Delta Hotel Whistler Village Suites (opposite the library and El Furniture Warehouse). The friendly staff had our excited crew out the door in under 15 minutes. Being an avid biker who doesn’t get out as much as he used to, I opted for a cruiser bike because I knew we’d be sticking to the Valley Trail, and it’s a lot more comfortable for that kind of riding. 

WET is one of many rental outlets that can get families situated. Arbutus Routes, Black Diamond, and Whistler Bike Rentals all rent trailers, too. Arbutus and Whistler Bike Rentals offer chariot hitches to some of their e-bike models, but I chose to go via pedal power. Depending on what you choose, you might need to adjust the route to your fitness level.

What to Bring

The cargo hold behind the kids does the heavy lifting, so pack more than you think you need.

• Water and snacks. Roadside snacks are a lifesaver in our family.
• Swimsuits, towels, sun hats and sunscreen. Every stop on this route is a beach.
• A light layer each. Mountain weather turns fast, even in the summer.
• A bike lock, so you can leave the rig and walk down to the water.
• A full change of clothes per kid. Trust me on that one.

Route 1: Whistler Village to Lost Lake

Directions: From Whistler Eco Tours, walk your bike (you can’t ride on the Village Stroll) toward Whistler Olympic Plaza. Before the Sightlines Bridge, take a right and pass the Maury Young Arts Centre.

Cross over Blackcomb Way toward the Audain Art Museum. Go to the right, around the Audain, where you’ll find the Valley Trail and signposts toward Lost Lake Park (heading left down the trail).

You will go under Lormier Road, and when the trail forks, go right and over the bridge.

This sets you up for a washroom break at the PassivHaus, which served as the Austria House during the 2010 Winter Olympic & Paralympic Games.

Directions: From there, stay on pavement to the right, up a small hill and past the curves of the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Course, towards Lost Lake.

This is a perfect spot to spread out a blanket and get the kids ready for the first of many potential swimming spots. The shallow beach here is perfect for little legs, providing a warm entry to the water on a relatively safe, gentle slope.

Route 2: Whistler Village to Rainbow Park

Whistler’s original homestead sat at the northwest corner of Alta Lake, where Alex and Myrtle Philip founded Rainbow Lodge in 1915. The site is now Rainbow Park, and it’s the best half-day on this route: sandy beach, long dock, washrooms, picnic tables, and a shade structure that buys us respite from the midday sun without the impossible task of lugging a shade tent behind the bike.

Directions: Getting to Rainbow Park takes about 15 minutes from the Village. Start on the Valley Trail, along the right side of Whistler Golf Course. This takes you around the greens, then along the River of Golden Dreams until it opens onto Alta Lake.

Take this route if your family are early risers. There is no better feeling than having the whole trail to yourself, moving from the big trees along the golf course to the birds sounding off along the river. Of all the major parks, Rainbow loses the sun earliest, so aim for morning to mid-afternoon.

If you’re continuing on from Lost Lake, go back to the main entrance where the PassivHaus is, cross the Fitzsimmons Creek and follow the Valley Trail along Lorimer Road (up and down a hill), following the signs to Rainbow Park.

Route 3: Exploring all of Alta Lake

Directions: For a full-day adventure around Alta Lake, turn left at the Whistler Golf Course Clubhouse, following along Highway 99 heading south.

When you get to the end of the Whistler Golf Course, follow the signs through the Alta Vista neighbourhood, and you’ll make it to Lakeside Park. Note that you’re going downhill quite a bit, so this isn’t our preferred return route.

Lakeside Park

Lakeside Park has a big grassy area, beach, a play area, washrooms and a concession selling ice cream. Backroads Whistler runs a watersports centre right on the beach where you can rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and pedal boats. It’s first-come, first-served unless you book ahead. FYI, the lake is at its calmest in the morning.

Wayside Park

Continuing just a few hundred meters more brings you to Wayside Park. Wayside offers a shady, relaxed vibe. It’s also the last place on Alta Lake to see the sun before it dips behind Sproatt Mountain in the evening.

There isn’t much space to spread out, nor is there much flat space. However, it’s often not as busy as other parks, so snagging some good green space or a picnic table might be easier than at other spots.

Alta Lake Park

Directions: After Wayside, turn right at the fork and look out for Alta Lake Park on your right. It’s a peaceful area with a nice, large swimming dock that is popular for locals. It’s best to park the bikes here and walk past the oversized Adirondack chairs for one of the family’s favourite snack spots. 

Rainbow Park

Directions: Keep biking along in the same direction, and you’ll come to a fork. Go right. You cross the train tracks and up a small hill to Alta Lake Road, the only part of the Valley Trail we share with cars on this journey. It’s only a few hundred metres past a row of houses before a quick descent down to Rainbow Park.

Extension: At the fork after Wayside Park, if you go left, you head southward to Creekside, where you can continue past Nita Lake toward Alpha Lake Park, another kid’s favourite with a natural wood playground adjacent to an old-growth grove of spruce trees. Factor in at least an hour round-trip if you choose to take this route.

The Route Back

From Rainbow Park, it’s a 15 to 20-minute ride back to Whistler Village. If the lake is behind you, the Valley Trail will be on the right. Look out for some birdwatching lookout spots along the way.

When the Valley Trail hits the bottom of Lorimer Road (you’ll pass a church), turn right at the fork. Follow the signs to Whistler Village, which takes you alongside the Whistler Golf Course (there is one punchy hill this way, but it’s a lot flatter than going the other way around).

Two Important Considerations When Biking the Valley Whistler Trail

1. Be bear aware. Whistler is bear country, and our furry forest friends use the Valley Trail to get around, too. Make noise in blind corners. If you see one, stop, stay calm, and back away. Most of the time, they trundle off. Read more in the Be Bear Aware blog.
2. Bike Etiquette: Whistler attracts visitors from all over the world, where road rules may be different. Here we ride on the right side of the path and pass on the left, making sure not to cross double lines. If you need to pass, please let out a friendly warning in advance so as not to startle anyone. The Valley Trail does get busy, so please be courteous of your speed, especially with children in the back.

The journey beats the destination. If your toddlers are anything like ours, the mood can change in an instant. The dreaded meltdown is more likely than unlikely for most kids out of their comfort zone, unless you’re raising a unicorn. We plan for it, knowing that throwing a rock into the creek may well be the highlight of their day.

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Whether your goal is to plug into the local community or completely disconnect to focus on yourself, Whistler delivers. 

On paper, solo travel can feel daunting, logistically overwhelming and at times, lonely. In reality, the experience is usually the opposite. Once you land, the barriers drop. You become more observant, more approachable and soon, you’ll find yourself surrounded by people destined to elevate your trip. In Whistler, everyone’s here for a good time, and that makes it impossible to be an outsider.  

Getting to Whistler

Whistler is a scenic 90-minute drive (127 kilometres) north of Vancouver. You don’t need a car in Whistler, as most things are walkable.  Hop on a shuttle from Vancouver, kick back and enjoy the ride while you take in the stunning vistas as you travel the Sea to Sky Highway. If you want to make the journey part of the adventure, you could also consider a float plane. 

Where to Stay 

Whistler Village – Be surrounded by the energy of Whistler Village. You’re steps away from the lifts, bars, restaurants and iconic nightlife. It’s the best location if your aim is to be social. Pangea Pod Hotel offers a modern, pod-style experience right in the heart of Whistler Village and is a hub for solo travellers. 

Upper Village – A quieter location about a 5 to 10-minute walk from the main village. If your visit feels more like a retreat filled with restful recharge and a calmer vibe, this is your location. 

Creekside Village – Another option for those searching for a quieter, more restorative time. Nita Lake Lodge is Whistler’s only lakeside accommodation, also offering great dining and spa treatments.

Cheakamus – For backpackers, the HI Whistler hostel is the official HQ. It’s about 20 minutes away from the Village, with a transit stop located right outside. The Whistler Athletes Centre is another affordable option in Cheakamus.

Explore Whistler Your Way 

My favourite thing about solo travel is freedom. It’s the autonomy to do what you want, when you want, without needing to consult a group. With so much to see, that flexibility is valuable. My advice? Start with a local tour.

Whistler’s Historical Walking Tour, a Whistler Sightseeing Tour, Valley Trail Bike Tours and self-guided walks are all fantastic options that help you get a feel for the area before you even step on the trails.  

Adventure With Company

Solo travel in Whistler creates a magnetic opportunity to meet like-minded people. There’s nothing like adrenaline-filled activities to bring everyone together. 

Free Mountain Tours – During ski season, join complimentary mountain tours led by volunteer Mountain Hosts. It’s a great way to learn the ski terrain and meet similar-skilled skiers that just might become your ski buddies. You can also ask the local hosts for their Whistler tips! 

Lessons – Whether you ski, snowboard or mountain bike, group lessons aren’t just for beginners. They’re a great way to sharpen your skills alongside people who are just as eager as you are to improve. Golf clinics, yoga retreats, sailing sessions and even adult improv classes are all available, and a great way to meet people interested in the same things as you. 

Best Whistler Activities for Solo Travellers 

Whitewater Rafting– Nothing forces connection and teamwork quite like rafting down a raging glacier-fed river. Navigate Whistler’s whitewater rafting scene through a collection of class two, three and four rapids located within the Sea to Sky corridor. These guided tours will test your wits, communication and rhythm. It’s a shared adventure sure to bring people together 

Monday Night Rides (MNR) – This is the community event of the summer. For a toonie, you can join one of five difficulty levels. Groups are led by seasoned guides through Whistler’s world-class trail network, and the post-ride apres rewards you with a free beer, prizes and meal deals courtesy of RMU. It’s the easiest place in town to connect with the local riding community.   

As founder Larry Falcon puts it:

“What makes the MNRs perfect for the solo traveller is the chance to enjoy a fun social ride with locals, explore new trails and wrap it up with an ice-cold beer.” 

Hiking – When rolling solo, I’d suggest exploring the alpine trails on Whistler Blackcomb, or, for more laid-back options, try Lost Lake (close to Whistler Village) and the Train Wreck hike.

Slow Down With Purpose: Relaxing Solo Activities in Whistler

If your idea of a solo trip to Whistler includes taking life at a slower pace, here’s how Whistler shines. 

Scandinave Spa Whistler 

Tucked into the old-growth forest, the spa invites you to unplug from technology and enter a silent thermal journey. With no time limit, you can cycle between hot zones, cold plunges and relaxation areas at your own pace. 

“People travelling alone often settle into the experience more naturally,” says Marketing Manager, Bridey Payne. “There’s no expectation to talk or entertain anyone else—it’s simply time to slow down, be present, and enjoy the experience at your own pace.”

Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre

Experience the history of the Sk̲wxwú7mesh and Líl̓wat7ul Nations. Cultural Ambassadors guide visitors through the museum, sharing stories and bringing the exhibits to life. It’s a profoundly powerful experience presented from a culture that shares a deep and meaningful connection to these ancient lands.    

Nordic Skiing at Whistler Olympic Park 

Silently glide through the Callaghan Valley as the crisp mountain air elevates your senses. Settle in, find your rhythm and let your body and mind breathe. Cross-country skiing can be one of the most peaceful winter activities in town. If you’re new to it, opt for a lesson or clinic to get going.

Artistic Outings 

For those with a taste for the arts, Arts Whistler hosts everything from pottery and painting classes to music jams, local concerts and international shows, all at the Muary Young Arts Centre. Additionally, the Audain Art Museum is another must-visit venue, and if you’re looking to connect with a local art buff, check out their free docent tours.

Solo Whistler Dining in Style

The culinary scene here is massive, with over 200 restaurants, bars and cafes to choose from. Bar seating is king. Spark up a conversation with neighbours, get the insider scoop from your bartender or bring a book and enjoy the ambience. If the sun’s out, hit up a patio for the best people watching.

Bar Oso – warm, rustic and modern with great tapas. It’s the perfect spot to watch the world go by.

Braidwood Tavern – upscale, refined and earthy. Ideal for the premium cocktail and luxurious cuisine. 

Sushi-To-Go – Whistler’s best take-out sushi spot run by a lovely local family. 

Portobello – Excellent coffee, unique pastries, snacks and sandwiches. Cozy and welcoming.  

Dubh Linn Gate – Whistler’s iconic Irish pub that comes alive with live music, local flair, and of course, an encouraging dance floor. 

Mix Work With Pleasure: Working Remotely From Whistler

Whistler is a town built by people who have mastered the art of balancing a career with a mountain lifestyle, and you don’t have to choose one or the other. 

In winter, get in some ski laps before you hunker down to your desk duties. In summer, lock into your work day early, sign off by lunch and enjoy hiking, biking, sailing, or relaxing beside one of Whistler’s best lakes. It’s a great reminder that work-life balance isn’t just a buzzword here; it’s the way of life.

Check out Coworking Whistler, in the Village, for a dedicated workspace, set up in the Whistler Public Library or check out one of the many great cafes along the Village Stroll. 

“The world we live in now is no longer a Monday to Friday and nine-to-five. At Coworking Whistler, we regularly have members working European, local, and Asian-Pacific hours. They prioritize their time on the mountain and don’t actually work during “Mountain Time” hours. Work ultimately fits around the rest of their life.” – Will Stewart – Founder of Coworking Whistler.

Final Thoughts 

Visiting Whistler solo doesn’t mean packing every minute with activity; it’s about having the freedom to choose your own adventure. Some days, that’s a fast-paced morning in the mountains with new friends. Other days, it’s simply enjoying a coffee or morning stretch in one of the most beautiful places in the world.   

Surrounded by the sounds of nature and the spirit of the mountains, you’re never alone here in the valley; you’re exactly where you need to be. 

The post Solo Travel in Whistler appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

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 should be outside.

I should be doing more.

I should be going harder.

I shouldn’t be on the couch.

I definitely shouldn’t be enjoying it in here, inside.

The Weight of Expectation

Mountain towns like Whistler come with their unique brand of pressure. Being outdoors is the reason a lot of us moved here, so it’s no surprise that it’s in our blood and deeply entwined in the fabric of our culture. People here LIVE the outdoors, in every sense of it.

Along with that, mountain towns also attract the best of the best – the athletes, the elite adventurers, the ones who bag a summit before breakfast. These people are on a mission to do incredible things in the outdoors, and there’s something about watching them chase the edge of what’s possible that makes you want to step a little further outside your own comfort zone. Being surrounded by that kind of drive and ability has nudged me to stretch my limits in ways I might not have if I hadn’t seen it up close.

But that kind of excellence can be a double-edged sword. It quietly raises the bar, even when no one’s asking you to reach it, and can stir up some sneaky self-doubt.

The Comparison Trap

It’s easy to look around and feel like everyone else is doing more. That they’re out every weekend (or day!) getting after it. I’ve absolutely looked at friends (and strangers) and thought, “It just seems so effortless for them.” The early mornings, the big objectives, the endless energy.

And then I think: If I really loved the outdoors as much as I say I do, wouldn’t it always be easy? Wouldn’t I always want to go?  Shouldn’t I hate staying inside? Surely they don’t feel this way?

But here’s the thing. You don’t have to love being outside all the time to be outdoorsy. There is no official benchmark you have to keep up with or a correct way to do it that qualifies you as outdoorsy.

Realizing That Outdoorsy Doesn’t Have to Mean Extreme

I am in the process of learning to appreciate being outside for the outdoors’ sake. Living in Whistler, the outdoors suddenly became tied to so many things: adrenaline sports, objectives, how many days I’ve skied this year and if I’m going hard enough. In all of that, I forgot how to be outside just to be.

Letting go of the pressure has given me space to enjoy nature without a mission or objective. I bought a paddleboard just to enjoy floating around, without turning it into another sport (although paddleboard touring does sound fun – multi-day trip anyone?!).

So, if you ever feel like you’re “not outdoorsy enough,” remember: you don’t have to fit anyone else’s version of what it means to love the outdoors. It’s okay if getting outside doesn’t always come easily.

Your slow days, your rest days, your I-dont-feel-like-being-outside days – they all count. You don’t have to be the most hardcore. You don’t have to be consistent. And if today that means staying in and watching Netflix with the curtains wide open so you can still see the trees? That counts too.

Ways to Let Go of the Pressure and Enjoy the Outdoors on Your Own Terms

So, how do you let go of the expectations and just enjoy getting outside? Here are a few things that have helped me:

1. Redefine What Counts as “Outdoorsy”: It doesn’t have to be extreme. You don’t even need to break a sweat. You can just be outside.
2. Stop Comparing Your Adventures to Others: Social media makes it easy to feel like everyone else is doing more. All. The. Time. But remember, those highlight reels don’t show the in-between moments.
3. Listen to What Your Body and Mind Need: Some days, adventure means a big mission. Other days, it means resting so you don’t burn out. Being inside doesn’t make you not outdoorsy (as contradictory as that may sound).
4. Remind Yourself Why You Love the Outdoors in the First Place: Is it the fresh air? The peace? The movement? Focus on your reasons, not what anyone else is doing.

And here’s the part I hope you take with you – you belong in the outdoors.

Whether you’re going big or keeping it chill. Whether you’re summiting or sitting still. Whether it’s a breeze or more of a battle.

Let’s all take the pressure off of being outdoorsy.

The post The Pressure of Being Outdoorsy appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

The discussion about Whistler’s best mountain bike trails is a topic that sparks considerable debate. However, we decided to ask someone who has travelled the trails for more than the thrill of guiding two wheels down some of the most epic biking terrain in the world. You’re more likely to find this person dangling off a rocky outcrop or crouched in the shrubbery, all to get the perfect shot.

Whistler-based, award-winning photographer, Justa Jeskova, has spent years on these trails, both in the saddle and behind the lens. We asked her for her top Whistler mountain bike trails, the must-do list for bikers looking to make the most of their summer trip to Whistler.

Meet Photographer and Rider Justa Jeskova

Justa was born and raised in Czechoslovakia. When she was 11, she watched an ice hockey game and was hooked on the fast-paced action. From then on, she dreamt of coming to North America to see a live NHL game, and in 1998, she made that a reality and moved to British Columbia.

The call of the mountains drew her to Whistler, where she discovered mountain biking. 20 years on, she no longer chases a puck across the ice but hunts down the perfect lighting for a bike-based beauty shot.

She might still struggle to change a bike tire, but what she lacks in mechanical skills is made up for by her passion behind the lens. Today, she is the owner of Justa Jeskova Photography, and you’ll find her incredible shots in this blog.

Mountain Biking in Whistler

Summer in Whistler is something special. You can fill your days with the outdoor adventure options that lie before you, but you’d still need months to accomplish them all. But out of all the choices, there’s one in particular that stands out above them all. For me, and many others, that is mountain biking.

One thing I truly love about mountain biking is how social it can be. From random trailside chats to chairlift conversations or get-togethers at the weekly WORCA Toonie Rides, I’ve met lots of interesting locals and visitors through mountain biking, and one common question seems to inevitably pop up.

What’s your favourite trail?

As simple as the question may seem, that’s actually tough to answer. With hundreds of trails to choose from, there’s really not one simple answer. Instead, I have a list of go-to trails that could all be my favourite depending on the current weather, how much time I have, or even who I’ll be riding with.

The List: Whistler’s Best Mountain Bike Trails

For early-season rides when the snow line is still low, or I’m short on time, I usually go for a quick loop around Cheakamus for some flow time.

1. Cheakamus

High Side–HiHi–After Hours–AMPM are easily accessed from Cheakamus, offering a perfect after-work option. After a short pedal up a dirt road, the fun starts immediately with twisting, rolling singletrack and a few small doubles for those who enjoy getting their tires off the ground.

It all ends with the action-packed AMPM, which features a few rock rolls before spitting you out within pedalling distance of Function Junction.

When the snow starts to recede higher and more options open up, it becomes more difficult to choose a favourite. There are, however, a few trails that I tend to ride more than others.

2. LESS / Lower Elevation Shorter Squirrels

LESS – When I’m craving a longer day in the forest, this is my first choice. Lower Elevation Shorter Squirrels is halfway up to the famous Lord of the Squirrels trail and descends through beautiful, old-growth forest. I find myself riding here when the weather is moody.

The green hues of the trees and ferns burst forth with an unreal vibrance in the fog. There’s no place I’d rather be riding my bike in Whistler on days like these. It also doesn’t hurt that the descent back to the valley is over 800 metres of vertical on some of the West Side’s best trails.

3. Howler

HOWLER. Right in my backyard and perfect in most weather. One of the better trails to ride when Whistler’s been seeing its fair share of liquid sunshine. The dirt here sheds water well and stays grippy even when other trails tend to be saturated.

This trail’s got a bit of everything. Lots of tech, a couple of small drops, fast flow and some of Whistler Valley’s best late-evening views. Pure magic!

4. Micro Climate

Micro Climate. Some say Blackcomb Mountain is home to the best dirt in the valley. I would agree with them. It has an amazing network of trails, many of which have been featured in the Enduro World Series. Even if world-class enduro racing isn’t your cup of tea, everyone will have their own favourite lap here.

My Blackcomb classic is Micro Climate. The roots, rock rolls and twisting turns over its 375-metre vertical drop keep me on my toes every time. I love it just as much today as the first time I rode it back when it first opened in 2014.

5. Top of the World

Now we get to my personal favourite time of year. Alpine season! When the snow has almost fully disappeared, we can finally access our highest trails. Full-day adventures, mountain-top swims, high mountain sunsets and big descents rule the day.

Top Of The World. This purpose-built mountain bike, alpine trail offers breathtaking views while you enjoy advanced singletrack at full speed. It is accessed through the Whistler Mountain Bike Park and requires an additional ticket to access it.

It’s well worth the upgrade as this gem has stunning views of the surrounding Coast Mountains, including the iconic Black Tusk. Once you leave the alpine, you have more than a handful of world-class trails to choose from to get you all the way to the bottom.

6. Lord of the Squirrels

Lord of the Squirrels – Whistler’s second purpose-built, mountain bike, alpine trail is actually only part of the attraction on Sproatt Mountain. There are now eight trails in total that make up the network, excluding the climb up Into The Mystic. The beauty of it all is that they’re all above the treeline with some of the most stunning views you’ll find in Whistler.

Other than the creative trail routing and good times up there, you may just happen to find your new favourite lunch spot or swimming hole. If you’ve got the energy and experience, you can tick off every trail in one massive 46-kilometre loop with over 1,800 metres of vertical. There are not many better ways to spend a day in Whistler than this.

7. Whistler Mountain Bike Park

Now I’d be remiss if I did not mention the world-famous Whistler Bike Park. Again, it’s hard to pick a favourite, but there’s one set of trails that I think goes under the radar quite often. B-Line, Funshine Rolly Drops, Smoke and Mirrors, Blueseum, Wednesday Night Delight, Afternoon Delight, Lower Whistler DH to Heart Of Darkness.

Yes, that’s a lot of different trails, but it’s one of the best link-ups in the park, encompassing a bit of everything. Berms, drops, jumps, tech, rock rolls, speed and even a bit of jank. Well worth venturing away from A-Line or Dirt Merchant for a lap or two.

8. Epic Ride: Rainbow’s End

The pinnacle of my summer and probably my favourite time to ride is August. By then, the snow has finally melted out of the high alpine, and the mosquitoes are starting to disappear. It’s the perfect window to head up high. There are plenty of trails you can ride up and down in a day, but I’ve always been drawn to going a bit deeper, staying out for sunsets, slowing things down and disconnecting from the busy season.

One of those missions that stands out is Rainbow’s End trail, a hike-a-bike all the way up, but absolutely worth it. It’s not easy, but that’s kind of the point. Somewhere along the climb, the noise quiets down. By the time we reach the top, I feel completely present again. The views are unreal, and once you’re up there, it feels like a completely different world. These days, recharge everything – my creativity, my energy, and my love for both riding and photography.

We’re glad Justa followed her dreams to Whistler. Maybe after reading this, you might be considering following yours? See you on the trails! Find out more about biking in Whistler at Whistler.com/bike.

The post 8 of the Best Mountain Bike Trails in Whistler appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

“Nature is more than a backdrop for our adventures. It’s a home for all life, large and small. We can’t keep loving it to death. Let’s care for nature together and leave something to pass on.” Don’t Love It To Death.

But what does “Love It. Better.” mean?

DLITD asked four BC residents who are connected to their communities, wildlife and nature, how they move through the land with intention, and give back as much as they take. The series features Kate Zessel, a graphic designer and illustrator, and Kelkelokik (Sandy Ward), a Lil̓wat7úl athlete, guide, and advocate, who both live in the Sea to Sky Corridor. We caught up with Zessel to discuss the campaign and how we can all love the land better.

“Awareness comes with just spending more time out there. Picking up things if you see them. Having an awareness of where you’re putting your feet, understanding how to use your equipment, and knowing the places you’re going.” Kate Zessel.

Meet Kate Zessel | Graphic Designer & Illustrator

Zessel grew up in Vancouver. Almost every Friday after school, her dad would shove her and her siblings in the car and bring them to Whistler. She used to have FOMO about leaving the city, but now she’s thankful.

Zessel went to business school in Victoria, but managed to sit and draw every day. When she called home, she’d tell her dad – I miss the mountains. She would remember how her body would relax when they got to Squamish, and she could see the Tantalus Range. And she started to wonder why she only let herself feel this way on weekends.

So, when she finished her Graphic Design degree at the Art Institute in Vancouver, she moved to Whistler. A budding designer, she quickly realized that creating relationships was key in this tight-knit mountain town. Networking was how she could stay relevant, top of mind, and get her art in places industry professionals were going. It wasn’t easy; Kate suffered from imposter syndrome, but she credits her dedication as what helped her break through. That, and a friendship blind date with local photographer and adventurer, Abby Cooper.

“I mixed work and play in a way I’d never done before, and began translating that into art pieces,” explains Zessel. “I started going on sponsored trips where I’d be creating art for stickers, t-shirts and yoga mats, and Abby would be taking photos. It took constant networking to do this, but I ended up doing work for brands like Lululemon, Smartwool and Arc’teryx.”

When you look at Zessel’s work, you can see her reverence for the mountains. Her pieces feature landscapes, peaks, and animals, designed to evoke a connection between the viewer and nature. For Zessel, her art is designed to make people put themselves inside of it, to remember an experience or inspire the next one. That’s what makes her the perfect person to comment on how we can all love the spaces and places we journey to, better.

Q&A with Kate Zessel

Why is it important to respect and protect natural spaces?

Because they’re not going to be here forever.

You might not feel like you can fix some of the huge problems we’re facing, but you can play a part. The small things matter, and what we do as individuals matters. The first person who took me to a hut in the backcountry drilled into me about how I was part of respecting and protecting the area. We need to pass on teachings like these.

I’m alarmed at the state of some local spaces, like Joffre Lake. I’m all for people having access to nature, but they need to be educated and respectful. I found a tree with beer cans all over it while I was out snowmobiling in a different area, which was unbelievable. We have to maintain these areas together, so we can all enjoy them for years to come.

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What can we do to love places better?

Awareness comes with spending more time outside. We need to see ourselves, not as visitors passing through, but as part of the landscape itself. The more time you spend outside, the more you notice. And the more you notice, the more you care.

Then we can lead by example. None of my friends is chucking garbage out of their cars or dropping it on the trail. And if we see it, we pick it up. We’re aware of where we’re putting our feet, we’ve researched where we’re going and the equipment we need to protect it and ourselves.

Ultimately, we need to have hope.

We have to believe we can do better. There’s so much science, and there are companies that are doing the right thing; we need to support them. In some instances, we have to force people to change, like changing the materials outerwear is made from or getting rid of plastic bags. Then others follow suit, and then it becomes the norm.

For me, partnering with Protect Our Winters and DLITD means I can help change policy that affects larger change. Working for companies like Arc’teryx, which are changing the way they work for the better, is another way I can be impactful.

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What do you want future generations to know or feel about this place?

I hope the world we have now is similar to what they have, that we haven’t ruined it.

I want them to experience the beauty of these things that we get to experience. I don’t hope for a future that looks like The Jetsons, with flying cars and cities, but one where they still have access to the mountains. Let’s shut down Joffree and let it recoup. Throw some dirt, play outside.

Technology and AI are a big part of our future, and many positive things will come of them, but I hope we don’t lose sight of this place, in the mountains, in nature. 

Find more of Kate Zessel’s artwork on her website.

Top 6 Things to Do, So You Don’t Love It to Death:

1. Practice fire safety. A single spark can change everything in the mountains. Obey campfire prohibitions, follow campfire best practices, and download the BC Wildfire app before you head out. Whistler Alert is the official emergency notification system used by the Resort Municipality of Whistler to communicate with residents and visitors during emergencies via text message, phone and email. We encourage you to sign up for it while you’re here (just in case). When you register, you will be asked to provide your contact number and the date you plan to leave Whistler so that you don’t receive alerts when you’re back home.
2. Go prepared. Follow the BC AdventureSmart Three Ts: Training, Trip Planning, and Taking the Essentials. Take a look at our hiking and backcountry safety blog for more adventure safety tips.
3. Pack it in, pack it out. Familiarise yourself with the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace, including how to properly dispose of human waste.
4. Keep wildlife wild. Give animals space, keep pets on leash and never feed or approach wildlife. Whistler is bear country. Take a read of our Bear Aware blog post so you can act responsibly on behalf of these beautiful, wild creatures.
5. Spread the love. Visit popular trails and parks at off-peak times and explore lesser-known spots. There’s a lot to do and see in Whistler, research your options and consider having a Plan B, for those busier days.
6. Reduce the spread of invasive species. Follow the Play, Clean, Go principles and stay on marked trails. Before and after every outing, clean your gear, footwear, pets and vehicles of plant fragments, seeds and mud.

If you were inspired by Kate’s video, take a look at the rest of the series on the DLITD YouTube channel. Here’s the video featuring Lil̓wat7úl athlete, guide, and advocate Kelkelokik (Sandy Ward).

The people who call these places home are counting on you. DLITD challenges each of us to think of something we can do differently that helps with the above. What will you do or change?

Learn more about each of these impacts on the DLITD website.

If you’re visiting Whistler, please take a look at our responsible travel page for information on how you can leave a lighter footprint when you’re here, as well as our sustainability page, which documents Whistler’s commitments to the environment.

The post The Places We Love Are Being Loved To Death appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

So, if you’re feeling strong in the saddle and your bike is dialled, there’s no shortage of opportunities to put that early-season riding to the test. From community-centred race nights to world-class competitions, here are some of the mountain bike events rolling through Whistler this season.

WB Phat Wednesdays

The rowdiest evening in the Whistler Bike Park happens to be on Wednesdays. From May 20 to July 15, 2026, Phat Wednesdays combine DH racing with après, prizes and the antics expected with this breed of biker. Competition can be fierce with pro riders and local hotshots, but the atmosphere is welcoming, exciting and open to all. 

Dates: Every Wednesday from May 20 to July 15, 2026 (except June 17 and July 1)

Cost: $8.57 per race (Whistler Mountain Bike Park Pass needed)

Trail Difficulty: Varies from Intermediate to Advanced (blue and black trails)

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WORCA Toonie Rides

WORCA’s Toonie Rides bring the community together through a shared love of bikes, free food and friendly competition. With familiar faces each week, this is one of Whistler’s most community-focused bike events. 

Courses change weekly to offer different trail networks, difficulty and riding disciplines. Expect a mix of XC and enduro style riding across trails ranging from Green to Black.  

Local businesses sponsor each ride with a delicious, complimentary meal, drinks and prizes. Registering online is recommended, especially if you want a spot at the very popular après.

Dates: Every Thursday from May 28 to August 13, 2026 (except July 30)

Cost: $7.5 adults, $2 kids

Trail Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced

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Back Forty

The OneUp Back Forty returns for its sixth year as Whistler’s toughest endurance race. Inspired by the legacy of the NIMBY Fifty, this Marathon XC event features three timed stages connected by untimed transfers. Riders can expect gruelling climbs, technical descents and a well-earned après.

The course stretches from Cheakamus, over to Westside and finally into Alpine. The course links a mix of blue and black singletrack trails and clocks over 1,400 metres of climbing. Registration is capped at 200 riders, and it’s known to sell out.

Date: June 13, 2026

Cost: $100 (WORCA membership required)

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced

Event Difficulty: Intense!

Distance: 40+ KM (28 KM of trail, 10+ KM road)

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Crankworx Whistler

The world’s largest mountain bike festival, Crankworx, hits Whistler from July 24 to August 2, 2026. While spectators pack Whistler Village for downhill, pump track and slopestyle events, there’s a handful of open races riders can register for. 

Crankworx Whistler Air DH (Amateur): Race down the famous A-Line trail

Canadian Open Enduro: A brutal multi-stage race testing endurance and bike handling. Expect a mix of Whistler Bike Park trails and spicy local valley trails.

OG Canadian Open DH: Held on the classic Canadian Open trail, this race tests riders on technical, rocky and rooty lines.

Canadian Open DH: Whistler’s most demanding DH race set on the purpose-built proline of 1199. Expect an aggressive, high-speed and high-consequence course featuring massive drops, big roots, steep chutes and technical wooden features.  

Registration closes July 19, 2026.

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RBC GranFondo

While much of Whistler’s bike culture revolves around dirt, the RBC GranFondo has become the region’s biggest road cycling event. The ride takes cyclists from Vancouver to Whistler along the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway, covering more than 120 kilometres and over 2,000 metres of climbing. 

As the largest GranFondo in North America, the event attracts riders from around the world.    

Dates: September 12, 2026

Cost: $300 – $1000 (Tier Dependent)

Event Difficulty: An Uphill Epic

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The Witsend

This one’s ferda girls. Crafted to celebrate the huge development of women’s riding in the Sea to Sky corridor, The Witsend mixes enduro racing with a supportive atmosphere. A Short and Long course exists for intermediate and advanced riders, with the end goal of creating a welcoming event bringing female riders together. Read about its origin here.  

Dates: September 19, 2026

Cost: $100 – adults, $80 U – 20 (WORCA membership required)

Distance: Short –19 KM, Long – 23 KM

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced

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The Hillman

Held the day after The Witsend on the same course, The Hillman is open to everyone. There are short and long courses suitable for intermediate to advanced riders, and as the last local race of the season, it’s a great way to round out a summer of riding.   

Dates: September 20, 2026

Cost: $100 – adults, $80 U – 20 (WORCA membership required)

Distance: Short –19 KM, Long – 23 KM

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced 

Whistler X Tri

Adding to the already packed September race weekend, Whistler X Tri is an off-road triathlon centred around Lost Lake. There are two distances, a sprint and a championship, that take you from swimming to blue-level XC biking and trail running. Another option is to enter a team, and there are kids’ triathlon options too!

Date: September 19 & 20, 2026

Cost: $70 – $300+ (format dependant)

Trail Difficulty: Intermediate

Event Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced

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Ride, Race or Spectate 

From community race nights to the international stage of Crankworx, Whistler’s summer bike calendar offers something to satisfy nearly every type of rider.  And even if racing isn’t your thing, they’re fun to watch, and the energy is contagious.

At the end of the day, though, it’s about more than who sets the fastest time. It’s about a pastime that fosters friendships, thrills and support. Whether your kids are figuring out their first push bike or you’re spending your golden years cruising the Sea to Sky Trail, there is no better way to spend a day than pedalling through the mountains. How lucky we are.

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