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.

The post Whistler Bike Races & Competitions appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

There are moments in mountain culture that feel like a homecoming, even if they’ve never happened here before. That’s the vibe in Whistler right now as the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup announced its debut in the resort, happening September 25 to 27, 2026.

This isn’t just another race weekend; it’s the culmination of decades of dirt, dreamers and determination.

The Dreamers Behind the Dirt

Whistler has long been a proving ground for mountain biking, but a World Cup stop required something special: a trail built to test the world’s best while staying true to Whistler’s raw, technical roots. Years of vision, advocacy, and tireless trail-building went into creating the purpose-built downhill course that now threads through Whistler’s forests. Its name is 1199.

The 2.4-kilometre trail, with 489 metres of descent, balances speed and precision, gnarly rock gardens and big-air moments: exactly the kind of terrain that puts riders and bikes to the ultimate test.

“The fastest athletes are completing it in just over three minutes,” explains Omer Dagan, a senior analyst in business development at Whistler Blackcomb. “The 1199’s signature features include two drops, the Stevie Smith and Fallaway Drop. The Sea to Sky is famous for its rock slabs, and the trail features two really big ones as well as a steep rock garden.”

Dagan went on to explain that the trail is distinctly British Columbian. The old-growth forests with their towering pines, stunningly green moss, dominating rock slabs and huge berms are markers that make this trail memorable for riders and spectators alike.

But it took vision and patience to build this trail. Rob McSkimming, the former VP of Business Development at Whistler Blackcomb and co-founder of the Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival, and Brian Finestone, the former Whistler Bike Park Manager, both played pivotal roles in developing the Creekside Zone, where the 1199 trail is located.

“The international World Cup was a bit of an enigma,” explains Brian Finestone, who was the Bike Park Manager from 2008 to 2019. “They didn’t tell you what they wanted, it was a bit cryptic, but we had this vision that if we built something big, bad-ass and gnarly, and made it long enough, then they’d come knocking on our door one day.”

So, they started the groundwork for a trail that they wanted to become the most notorious course on the World Cup circuit. And now, McSkimming and Finestone get to see their dream become reality.

“I’m super excited,” says Finestone. “That it’s actually happening proves our vision, and the trail, was worthy. It’s been like a torch relay. We started the race, but others on the team have got it across the finish line.”

Wendy Robinson, senior manager of planning and business development at Whistler Blackcomb, is one of those finishers.

“The trail had to be built by local builders,” says Robinson. “They have the passion, not to mention the expertise, but it’s the passion that’s the driving force. They’re solid bikers themselves and follow the pros, so they were told – go look for a place to put this track.”

Pat Labrosse, the trail crew supervisor at the time, started wandering the forest. He found a line he thought could work, flagged it and did some brush cutting so the wider team could walk it. After the trail crew gave it their nod of approval, they asked the pro riders to take a look.

Bring in the Riders

Bernard Kerr, Claire Buchar, and Mick Hannah (all decorated World Cup racers) walked the line during Crankworx 2018 and added their rider-based expertise to the mix. Over the next couple of years, more riders like the UK’s Danny Hart and Switzerland’s Camille Balanche and Emilie Siegenthaler all had their say.

The 1199 trail was conceived by builders AND riders, which has made it, arguably, the best downhill track in the world.

“I might be biased,” laughs Dagan. “But the track has been utilized for three years for racing, training and product development, and the feedback from athletes and teams has been universally positive.”

The trail starts near the top of the Creekside Gondola and finishes on the timing flats just above Creekside Village. Notably and auspiciously, that’s the same finishing line as the Olympic Dave Murray Downhill ski run.  The dream became a reality, the World Cup came knocking, and Whistler was ready to open the door.

Why It’s Such a Big Deal

Downhill World Cups are the pinnacle of the sport. They’re fast, fierce, and globally followed. The world’s eyes will be on Whistler, not just for the festival vibe, but for the sheer calibre of the terrain. With the Sea to Sky corridor serving as a breeding ground for world-class downhill talent, it cements Whistler’s place as more than just a freeride mecca; it’s now on the official racing stage.

55,000 spectators are expected at Mont-Sainte-Anne for the World Cup this year, so the team at Whistler Blackcomb are gearing up to expect the same, if not more. Spectators will be able to watch all the action as it happens, with free access to walking paths along the whole stretch of the course. The favourite spots will likely be the rock garden and the drops, but the atmosphere at the finish will also be electric. 

For local kids growing up in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, seeing their heroes racing the same dirt they ride daily is nothing short of transformative.

“We’re at a unique moment in time, where kids that have come through the bike programs at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, like DFX, are now racing on the tour,” exclaims Robinson. “They would have watched the 1199 trail being built. Sea to Sky athletes will be able to sleep in their own beds before racing where they grew up. Our hopes are to see Canadian’s and local athletes on the top step next year, that would be really something special.”

Local Whistler Heroes: Jackson Goldstone & Gracey Hemstreet

Speaking of local kids, how about one who grew up to be the reigning UCI Mountain Bike World Champion? Whistler’s very own Jackson Goldstone holds the current title and is currently in second place for the Overall title.

From grom edits that went viral to standing on the sport’s biggest podiums, Jackson embodies Whistler’s progression on two wheels. His runs are electric, his style unmistakable, and his story pure hometown pride.

Gracey Hemstreet is from Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast. She makes high-risk, technical terrain look fluid, leaning into steep drops or muddy, root-laced runs with a calm, precise style. Her background riding Coast Gravity Park shaped her aerial awareness and control, letting her toss whips, command jumps, and handle tight lines with finesse.

Both Jackson and Hemstreet hold the second-place positions in the UCI DHI World Cup Elite Overall Standings, with only two more events to go in the series.

Riders to Watch

Beyond Jackson, expect the heavy hitters: world champions, World Cup veterans, and the sport’s rising stars. From Europe’s speed demons like Loïc Bruni, Valentia Höll and Andreas Kolb to North America’s technical specialists, the field will be stacked.

Whistler will be cheering on all the athletes, but local rider Finn Iles, one of Canada’s top elite downhill athletes, will definitely stir the crowd, as will Johnathan Helly, just coming off his 2025 Canadian Elite Men’s Downhill Championship win at Sun Peaks. Also at Sun Peaks, Adréane Lanthier Nadeau claimed the national title at the 2025 Canadian Downhill (DH) Mountain Bike Championships, with Emmy Lan taking the bronze.

The UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup in Whistler in 2026 will be where reputations are made, points are earned, and the sport’s legends are written.

A Trail with a Heartbeat

This course isn’t just dirt and tape; it’s a dedication. The trail is named in honour of Stevie Smith, Canada’s greatest downhill racer, whose life and career were tragically cut short. Known as the “Canadian Chainsaw,” Stevie brought grit, humour, and heart to the sport.

“One of our long-standing trail crew members, Matt Hoskin, went to school with Stevie,” says Robinson. “Matt is a wood specialist, so the little details you might see on the course, like the chainsaw blade carvings, that’s something that he and the trail crew put in to celebrate the legacy of their friend and fellow rider.”

The number 1199 refers to the 1199 World Cup points Smith earned when he won the 2013 UCI World Cup overall title, making him the first Canadian to achieve this feat. The trail itself was designed as a tribute to his legacy and to bring a World Cup-level technical challenge to the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, featuring significant drops and challenging terrain.  

His spirit is felt in the roar of chainsaws in the crowd, a tradition carried forward at races worldwide. Now, with Whistler’s World Cup track carrying his name, every run is a tribute to his legacy.

More Than a Race

Whistler doesn’t just host events; it celebrates them. Expect a festival atmosphere: crowds ringing cowbells (and chainsaws), kids with wide eyes pressed to the tape, and the kind of electric energy that only a mountain town can generate.

“There isn’t a mountain biker in the region that hasn’t thought, wouldn’t it be great if Whistler hosted a World Cup?” explains Dagan. “The groundswell of support from the community as a whole has been huge and shows us it was the right decision. It’s going to be a busy weekend in Creekside next September, that’s for sure.”

This is more than a weekend of racing. It’s a cultural milestone, a recognition of where Whistler’s been, and a vision of where Whistler’s going. And we don’t know their names yet, but the future of mountain biking will be watching.

All-Out Racing. All-In Comfort.

From mountainside chalets to full-service hotels, Whistler.com serves up lodging options for every kind of traveller. Book early for the best selection, great rates and flexible cancellation. For the widest array of accommodation options, speak to one of our Whistler-based team members, who are here to provide personalized service and help plan your trip.

Athletes can contact our Groups Specialists for assistance planning their stay at 1.866.299.6971 or by email.

Spectators can reach out to our Travel Consultants by phone or chat.

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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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Although Whistler Mountain Bike Park might seem daunting at first glance, in reality, it’s very beginner-friendly. This handy guide for beginners covers all the questions a first-time rider might have.

What is a Bike Park?

A bike park is an area of land that has a designated network of interlinked mountain bike trails. Whistler Mountain Bike Park is accessible by chairlift and gondola and is “gravity-fed”. Gravity-fed means that there is little to no pedalling involved; gravity does all the work for you.

Where is Whistler Mountain Bike Park?

Whistler Mountain Bike Park is on Whistler Mountain. It can be accessed from Whistler Village via the high-speed, eight-person Fitzsimmons Chair, or from Creekside via the Creekside Gondola.

When is Whistler Mountain Bike Park Open?

Whistler Mountain Bike Park typically opens in May and closes in October. The bike park opens at 10 AM, but its closing time varies depending on the time of year, as it’s determined by daylight hours. From May to mid-August, it’s usually open until 8 PM. Check their opening hours before you make your biking plan.

How Big is Whistler Mountain Bike Park?

Whistler Mountain Bike Park is made up of 120 bike trails that span 80 kilometres and 4,900 vertical feet.

What Level of Ability Do I Need to Ride the Park?

If you can comfortably ride a bike on pavement or a wide gravel trail while keeping balance and using disc brakes, you can try the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. You don’t need to have experience riding mountain bike trails or bike parks.

Which Whistler Bike Park Trails are Good for Beginners?

Whistler Blackcomb’s orientation guide is a must-read before your first day in the park. It has a great know-before-you-go section, as well as an ability level guide and all the lingo to make you sound like you know what you’re doing.

Orientation and Skills Centres

The first stop for first-timers and beginners should be the Orientation Centre at the top of Fitzsimmons Express. Guides will make sure you’re comfortable on your bike and suggest the best trails for you to start with. There’s also the Fitzsimmons Skills Centre, where you can practice on small berms, wooden features and obstacles that you might find on the trails.

Start on the Green Trails

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park trails are classified by how difficult they are. Green trails are for beginners, blue trails are for intermediate riders, black trails are for advanced riders, double black for experts and red for professionals. 

Beginners should look out for the easiest trails to start with. There are two types of trail: Freeride and Technical.

Freeride green trails are the easiest and are marked with a green circle with an orange background. They offer smooth, wide surfaces with gentle corners and are designed for new riders. The progression to blue will mean steeper terrain, with larger corners, rollers and small jumps. You need some speed for some of these things, so make sure you feel comfortable on all the green freeride trails before you go to blue.

This is the trail route that Whistler Blackcomb suggests for beginner riders:

• EZ DOES IT
• CRABAPPLE TURNS
• DEL BOCCA VISTA
• EZ DOES IT

Technical green trails have a green circle on a white background. These trails embrace the ruggedness of the terrain and will have small rocks and tree roots. Master the green freeride trails first. The Intermediate Skills Centre is a great place to hone your skills before you shift to the blues, with B-Line being the suggested next trail in your bike park progression.

What are the Zones of the Whistler Bike Park?

There are four zones to the Whistler Mountain Bike Park; take a look at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park trail map as we go through them.

Fitzsimmons Zone

The “Fitz” zone is the original bike park zone. It has a mix of trail types and is the best place for beginners to learn, as it has the most amount of green trails and some easy blue trails. The Fitzsimmons Zone is accessed by uploading on the Fitzsimmons Chair at the base of Whistler Mountain. On your first trip to Whistler Mountain Bike Park, this is where you’ll spend most of your time. It’s the best zone to build confidence and learn how to ride a mountain bike.

Garbanzo Zone

In this zone, you’ll find some more challenging trails. The trails generally have more difficult features, such as drops and jumps, and are much longer than the trails in the Fitzsimmons Zone.

Peak Zone

This is where our Top of The World Trail is. This is a challenging and very long trail. The views are stunning, but this trail is not for first-timers.

Creek Zone

The newest zone in Whistler Mountain Bike Park. These trails are for intermediate and advanced riders only. It’s best to spend time honing your skills in Fitzsimmons Zone before riding this zone.

What Do I Need to Ride Whistler Mountain Bike Park?

What Kind of Bike do I Need for the Bike Park?

Having an appropriate bike is essential for riding in the bike park. For most riders, it is recommended that you use a downhill mountain bike.

A modern downhill bike has both front and rear suspension. This suspension soaks up all the bumps on the bike trails and makes them easier to ride. These bikes also have wide, tough tires that increase grip and traction when riding. The bike frame is generally made from durable aluminum or carbon fibre. These bikes are designed to be incredibly sturdy while maximizing the rider’s safety.

Can I rent a Downhill Mountain Bike for the Park?

Downhill mountain bikes can be rented from any of the bike stores in Whistler. Each bike is maintained after it’s ridden, and the bike mechanic can talk you through the features of the bike when you rent it.

You can secure your rental online, ahead of time, which sometimes gets you a deal. You can also combine your bike rental with armour rental, more on that below.

What Safety Equipment Do I Need for the Whistler Bike Park?

As well as renting a downhill mountain bike, you can also rent safety equipment from bike shops in Whistler.

• Helmets are mandatory. You will not be allowed on the chairlift or gondola without a helmet. A full-face helmet is highly recommended as it covers your head as well as your lower face and jaw.
• A pair of wrap-around goggles will keep dirt, dust and branches out of your eyes on the trails.
• Knee pads are another piece of essential gear. Unfortunately, from time to time, falls can happen in the bike park. Knee pads are the first line of defence against grazed knees and cuts. Make sure you get the correct size and that the pads fit you properly.
• Full-finger gloves are suggested when riding in the bike park. Summer days in Whistler can get hot, so a pair of gloves will help to keep your hands dry and make holding on to the handlebars easier.
• Elbow pads are another good idea. Working in the same way as knee pads, these pads help save your elbow skin in the case of a fall.

You can get this gear with your bike rental, although you need to bring your own goggles and gloves.

What Should I Wear in the Bike Park?

What to wear depends on the weather and conditions, but generally, you’ll see mountain bikers in long shorts and a jersey made for mountain biking.

It’s important to wear shorts that you can move well in and that won’t rip easily. You might consider finding a pair with padding or wearing a padded liner underneath. If you don’t want to buy a jersey straight away, or it’s a warm day, any shirt you’d be comfortable hiking in (and don’t mind getting dirty) will do.

There are mountain biking-specific shoes, but to start, you can wear skate or running shoes (always closed-toe). If it’s a wet day, a light, waterproof or water-resistant jacket is a good idea too.

Can I bring my own bike to the Whistler Mountian Bike Park?

Yes, but it should be a downhill bike, or an enduro/all mountain/downhill bike in good condition (we don’t suggest an e-bike).

However, the benefits of choosing a rental are:

• Convenience – travelling with a bike can incur extra charges and be a hassle
• Repairs – if something breaks on a rental, you take it back to the shop, and they repair it
• Impact – the bike park can wear out equipment a lot quicker

What Bike Park Ticket Do I Need?

There are a number of options available to ride the bike park. Day Passes allow you to ride the park for the entirety of that particular day. Season Passes allow you to ride the bike park anytime during opening hours throughout the season.

There are 5-Day and 10-Day Park Passes available (which have unrestricted date usage), and there’s also a Twilight Pass, which is unlimited riding after 4:30 PM all season long (note that those last three options exclude Top of the World access). Always check the bike park’s hours of operation when you’re planning.

How Much Does the Whistler Bike Park Cost?

We are still waiting for the 2026 prices, but last year, a 1-Day Bike Park Ticket, pre-booked in the early season or fall season, was $90, and a 10-time pass was $699. During the regular season (June 7 to September 1, 2025), a 1-Day Pass was $100 and a 10-Day $699. View more of these rates on our Bike Park Ticket page.

Online tickets are available up to 72 hours before the day of use; within that time, you can get a ticket from the guest services window at the base of Whistler Mountain.

Does the Weather Impact the Trails?

The Bike Park is open rain or shine, but will potentially close during storms for safety reasons. There are a few things beginners should consider about riding in different weather conditions.

Wet trails = can make things slippery

Dry trails = can make things dusty, which can impact visibility

For a beginner, this might mean not trying a technical trail for the first time after rain, or going a bit slower. You can’t let the weather put you off; you just have to work with it.

How Do I Get My Bike on a Chair Lift?

Good question. It’s a potentially daunting part of the process, but one you can practice. Spend some time on the bike loading simulator, The Monolith, located at the bottom of Fitzsimmons Chair. Follow the instructions, practice a few times and feel your confidence grow. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask a Liftie for help!

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Should I Take a Bike Park Lesson?

Yes. A bike park lesson will give you skills and confidence more quickly, which is never a bad thing. The Intro to Bike Park session is perfect for beginners. It’s three hours long, includes your bike park ticket and rentals, and you can choose whether you do it in the morning or afternoon.

Another option is a Custom Clinic, with your own private bike coach. They cater to all experience levels and will coach you through any trail or feature on the mountain, ensuring you ride better and with more confidence. You can go solo or bring up to four people of similar ability for the same price. There are full and half-day options, and it includes lift priority, which is great if you’re coming on peak summer dates.

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Can I Take My Adaptive Bike to the Whistler Bike Park?

Yes. You can load most adaptive bikes onto the park’s gondolas and chairlifts. Whistler Mountain Bike Park uses an adaptive mountain bike trail rating system created by the Kootenay Adaptive Sports Association (which is different from a traditional rating system).

They suggest new adaptive mountain bike riders try the trail EZ Does It, and from there, B-Line and Del Bocca Vista. For more on bike park accessibility, visit the Whistler Bike Park website.

How Do I Stay Safe in the Bike Park?

Following the Mountain Biker’s Responsibility Code keeps you and others safe in the bike park. You should read the full code in the orientation guide, but here are the main points:

• Ride in control and within your ability level
• Protect yourself with a helmet and the right gear
• Do not ride impaired
• Inspect and maintain your bike
• Obey signs and warnings
• Inspect trails and features
• Be lift smart
• Look out for others
• Be visible
• Cooperate

If you need first aid assistance in the Bike Park, call patrol for help and let them know your location. If possible, move to the side of the trail and out of the way: 604.935.5555

Your First Day at Whistler Bike Park

Let’s roll through what your first day at Whistler Mountain Bike Park will look like. Note that if you took a morning lesson, you’d have a coach with you who can help orient you with everything.

• Enjoy a good breakfast! Although the park is gravity-fed, you’re still going to be working
• Pick up your rental bike and armour
• Practice loading your bike on the Monolith
• Head up the Fitzsimmons Express or Whistler Gondola and go to the Orientation and Skills Centre
• Warm up on EZ DOES IT
• Loop the green freeride trails in the Fitzsimmons Zone
• Expect lineups midday (if you’re with a coach, you skip the lines)
• End on a high. Even though it’s tempting to bike until you drop, riding when you’re tired can lead to accidents
• Celebrate the day at apres!

Quick Fire Whistler Bike Park F&Q

Is Whistler Bike Park good for beginners?

Yes. There are trails for every level of rider.

Do I need my own bike?

No, you can rent one.

How hard is Whistler Bike Park?

Anyone who can ride a bike and stay balanced using disc brakes can try the bike park.

What is the easiest trail in Whistler Bike Park?

EZ DOES IT

Can kids ride the bike park?

Yes, with a supervising adult. They need to be able to ride a bike confidently on their own and fit properly on the equipment. There are some great kids’ lesson options, starting at age five.

More Blogs on the Bike Park

Ready for more? Here’s Whistler Mountain Bike Park 102: A Beginner to Intermediate Guide. We also have a blog on Getting Over the Intimidation of the Bike Park, and one on how Whistler is a Premier Destination for Adaptive Mountain Biking.

Now you have all the info you need to get started in Whistler Mountain Bike Park! However, the best way to learn is by getting on a bike and riding. Let the team here at Whistler.com help with organizing the rest of your trip, so you can focus on mountain biking.

The post A First-Timer & Beginner Guide for the Whistler Mountain Bike Park appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

This 10-day festival is back with a full slate of disciplines, the full roster of elite athletes, and a brand-new event closing things out. The world’s best riders are coming home to where it all began, and there’s never been a better time to be in Whistler Village.

A New Era – Higher Stakes at Rhapsody Slopestyle

The format fans love and know is intact: the men’s and women’s pinnacle of the sport, the world’s most progressive riders, and the legendary Whistler Boneyard as the stage. What’s new is the energy and what’s on the line for athletes.

2026 marks the inaugural season of Rhapsody Slopestyle, the Super Bowl of the mountain biking world. The biggest and most storied Slopestyle course on the World Tour circuit, and a pivotal event as the discipline’s best battle for points in the Slopestyle Super League and the Triple Crown Slopestyle.

And Crankworx Whistler isn’t just on the schedule, it’s the final event of the Regular Season, the make-or-break moment that decides which riders punch their ticket straight to the winner-takes-all Finals at Crankworx Mont-Sainte-Anne, who still have to fight for their spot at Crankworx SilverStar, and who will see their 2026 season end right here in the Whistler Boneyard.

What that means: every run in Whistler counts. Every trick matters. Every score reshuffles the leaderboard. For the audience, that means a level of tension and progression you won’t see anywhere else on the circuit.

A Legacy Reborn: Crabapple Hits World Championships

To close out the festival on August 2, Crankworx is bringing back one of Whistler’s most iconic stages with an all-new event.

The Crabapple Hits World Championships is a two-hour, rider-driven freeride jam at the legendary Crabapple Hits jump line. No brackets, no judging panel, no fuss. The riders themselves decide who wins. It’s a return to the heart of what makes Crabapple, well, Crabapple: creativity, progression, and the kind of moments that define a festival.

For more than a decade, this site was home to the iconic Whip-Off World Championships. Now it gets a fresh chapter – one written by the athletes, for the athletes, in front of a crowd that knows exactly what they’re watching.

Ten Days. The Full Festival. No Stone Unturned.

Beyond Slopestyle and Crabapple, the 2026 line-up delivers on every front:

• Downhill: get ready for another big DH line-up with the Canadian Open DH at the legendary 1199 track in Creekside, the OG CDN OPN finishing in the village, and the Air DH on A-Line – arguably the most well-known trail globally
• Enduro: the Canadian Open Enduro takes riders deep into the mountain, opening the festival on July 25-26
• Dual Slalom: head-to-head racing in the heart of the Whistler Boneyard – that’s as fun to watch as it is fierce to ride.
• Bosch eMTB Challenge: register to ride some of your favourite Whistler trails uphill (!) with your friends and have a good time
• Adaptive Mountain Biking (aMTB) is back at Crankworx Whistler with three days of competition and riding built into the festival: aMTB Flow (Saturday, July 25), aMTB Tech (Sunday, July 26), and aMTB First Tracks (Friday, July 31)
• Kidsworx, CWNEXT, and adaptive categories: the full progression pathway, from the next generation to riders of every ability.
• Deep Summer Photo Challenge and Dirt Diaries: mountain bike culture under the summer sky at Whistler Olympic Plaza, with the sport’s best photographers and filmmakers showing you the soul of the scene.
  • Deep Summer: Tuesday, July 28 at 8 PM
  • Dirt Diaries: Thursday, July 30 at 8 PM

Find the full Crankworx Whistler schedule online.

More Ways to Ride, Watch, and Be Part of It

Crankworx 2026 isn’t just for the athletes on the start gate. It’s an invitation to every rider and fan who comes to Whistler, and the participatory side of the festival is leaning in harder than ever:

• LIV A-Line returns as the signature women’s community ride – one of the most-loved experiences in the festival calendar.
• Expanded group rides led by brand ambassadors, pro athletes, and partners – your chance to ride alongside the names you usually watch from the sidelines.
• Demos, workshops, and brand activations spread across the festival site.
• A locally designed merchandise line created in collaboration with local artists, bringing Whistler’s creative community into the heart of the festival’s visual identity.

Best Seats in the House: VIP Tickets On Sale

Want to feel the action at arm’s length? Crankworx VIP tickets are on sale.

Available for both the Slopestyle and the Canadian Open Downhill events, VIP is the ultimate vantage point: unobstructed sightlines positioned right beside the course, a refreshed and more open VIP zone with space and flexibility to elevate your festival experience, plus refreshments and snacks to keep you fuelled through the day.

Plan Your Trip to Whistler

Whistler in Crankworx season is unlike anywhere else: the bike park humming from first chair to last, the village buzzing with athletes, fans, and brands from across the globe, and a festival that’s woven into the fabric of the resort itself. Whether you’re coming to ride, to spectate, or just to soak up the atmosphere, this is a week to be in town. A true celebration of mountain bike culture.

Book your stay, lock in your VIP tickets and get ready for ten days of the world’s best mountain biking, coming home to where it all began.

Don’t miss a thing! Subscribe to the Crankworx newsletter and follow @crankworx on social media.

Stay 3+ Nights and Receive a Free Activity Voucher

Stay longer than a weekend this August and enjoy all Crankworx has to offer. Stay 3+ nights and receive a free $100 Activity Voucher when you enter promo code SUMMER2026 at check-out or call 1.800.944.7853 and mention the offer to one of our Travel Consultants when booking.

Book by June 30. Available only at Whistler.com while quantities last.

This post was written by Teresa Fasch, Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications for Crankworx.

The post Crankworx Whistler 2026: The Mountain Bike World Comes Home appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

Summertime means mountain biking in Whistler. The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is due to open in the middle of May and will soon be filled with riders blasting down trails. Now that you’ve read our first-timer guide and are comfortable riding green and easier blue trails, you’re ready to progress on to the next level – intermediate.

What Trails To Ride Next?

There’s a big world of bike trails out there beyond green trails like E-Z Does It. Not all blue trails are made equal, though. They can vary in length by a lot, and some have features that are not found on other blue trails. Follow our intermediate guide to progress your way through the Whistler Mountain Bike Park.

Intermediate Flow Trails in Whistler Bike Park

Flow trails are trails that feature manmade jumps and berms. They’re generally quite wide and are often machine-made. They’re called flow trails because riders can “flow” over the jumps and around the corners on mostly smooth, hard-packed dirt without many rocks or roots.

Current Ability:

The blue trail, B-Line, is your current home! You’re clearing all the jumps (most of the time), railing berms and in full control of your bike. Now it’s time to move on to longer trails with bigger jumps.

Next Step:

Up next – Blue Velvet. This is a long jump trail. The jumps are more frequent than those found on B-Line, and there’s a whole lot more of them as well. You’ll really build up your fitness and improve your focus riding Blue Velvet. This trail has step-ups, step-downs and some big jumps.

Along with Blue Velvet, explore a variety of blue flow trails on the mountain to get comfortable with jumps and other features before progressing to more difficult trails. A similar trail to Blue Velvet is Una Moss.

Beyond:

Has Blue Velvet left you wanting more? For riders looking to ride the world-famous A-Line trail, Crank It Up is the best preparation. Get confident clearing every jump, then you might be ready to try it.

A-Line is a black trail and a big step up in difficulty from blue trails like Blue Velvet and Crank It Up. There are mandatory drops, much larger jumps, and it even has a fast, technical section.

Recommended Intermediate Blue Flow Whistler Bike Park Lap

Follow this route to ride the best blue flow trails in one lap:

Blue Velvet/Una Moss – Crank It Up – C-More – Heart of Darkness

Intermediate Technical Trails in Whistler Bike Park

Technical bike trails differ from flow trails as they are “singletrack”. This means that they are much narrower and tend to pick their way through trees and rock gardens. They generally require more technical ability to ride than flow trails and most feature rocks, roots and other features.

Current Ability:

Having a blast riding green trails like Del Boca Vista and Shady Acres? Finding yourself riding with more speed and confidence? Now is a great time to move on to more difficult, technical trails.

Next Step:

It’s time to seek out the technical features in the park. There’s no shortage of technical blue trail options in the Fitzsimmons Zone. From rock rolls on Blueseum to tight corners on Karate Monkey and wooden bridges on Devil’s Club, this zone has so much to offer.

Beyond:

Have you mastered the blue technical trails in the Fitzsimmons Zone? And feel comfortable on some single black technical trails in the park? You could be ready for the Top Of The World trail.

This is a very long, iconic, black technical trail that starts at the peak of Whistler Mountain. The trails up there are rocky, loose and a step up in difficulty too due to the endurance needed and potential alpine weather conditions. Riders should be prepared for low to zero visibility and a temperature drop (snow is not out of the question).

Recommended Intermediate Blue Technical Whistler Bike Park Lap

Follow this route to ride the best blue technical trails in one lap:

Ninja Cougar – Karate Monkey – Samurai Pizza Cat – Devils Club

Must Ride Features

Whistler Mountain Bike Park is a blast; you’ll find fun and adrenaline around every corner. But if you ask us, there are some features that every rider should hit. These features are all on blue trails, so they’re all well within the skillset of an intermediate rider.

Flow Trail Features

Feature: Drops | Trail: Wednesday Night Delight

Here you’ll find a series of drops alongside each other. A “drop” is when you ride off of an edge and land on the trail below. You can choose to ride whatever size drop that suits your current ability. These drops are a great place to improve your technique and build confidence.

Feature: Wooden Wallride | Trail: Blue Velvet

One of the most photogenic features in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park is the oversized wooden wallride. A wallride is a wooden feature made of boards that wrap around a berm, and it is often quite tall. Riders sweep around the corner, riding as high as they like on the wallride.

Feature: Clear Every Tabletop Jump | Trail: C-More

While technically not a single feature, riders should aim to clear every tabletop jump on C-More. Tabletop jumps consist of a takeoff and a landing that are connected by a flat “tabletop” section. Once you’re comfortable doing this, you’re ready to make the step up to larger and different types of jumps.

Feature: High-Speed Berms | Trail: B-Line

Most flow trails have berms, but most aren’t as fun as the ones on B-Line. Berms are banked turns that feature on most flow trails. These berms have been expertly designed and crafted by the trail builders to flow together perfectly. Even though it’s a blue trail, you’ll spot lots of advanced riders enjoying these berms. Can you ride all of B-Line without pedalling?

Feature: Jumps and Drops | Joyride Jump Park

You will find some intermediate jumps and multiple drop sizes to progress on. If you’ve already tried out Wednesday Night Delight, this will be a good next step with some slightly bigger drops and jumps.

Technical Trail Features

Feature: Rock Roll | Trail: Blueseum

The rock roll on Blueseum is the first one that most riders encounter in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. A rock roll is when you ride down a rock face. You’ll ride through the relatively flat tech trail and come to the rock roll at the end. Approach slowly and point yourself down the rock. There’s a berm at the end that catches you.

Feature: Wooden Bridges | Trail: Devil’s Club

Wooden skinny bridges have been around since the conception of mountain biking, and this area is known for pioneering them. Wooden bridges are often elevated above the trail, and most vary in width. They’re one of the “old-school” mountain biking features and a great test for holding your nerve and improving your bike control. Remember the basics – look where you want to go!

Feature: Rock Garden | Trail: Angry Pirate

Rock gardens are important parts of technical trails, especially here in Whistler. A rock garden is a section of the trail littered with large rocks, many built by the trail crew and are very fun and actually ride very smoothly. For more chunky and difficult rock gardens, they can be daunting at first glance, but keep practicing them, and you’ll be able to spot the best lines. A perfect place to practice is on Upper and Lower Angry Pirate.

Best Ways To Improve

Practice, Practice, Practice

Mountain biking is quite simple – the best way to improve is by riding, and riding lots! Take advantage of the chairlifts and gondolas here and ride as much as you can. Extended opening hours during the summer, from 10 AM to 8 PM, make Whistler Mountain Bike Park even more accessible. Experienced riders in the park know their favourite trails like the back of their hands. They ride the trails so often they know which slippy root to avoid, what lines to pick through the rock gardens and where to take off on every jump.

Ride With Friends

Whistler Mountain Bike Park riding is very sociable. Everything from riding the chairlift to picking trails and going to après is better with friends. Riding with friends also makes you a better rider; you can follow more experienced friends into features, and you can pass your knowledge on to newer riders. Once you hear your friends hooting and hollering through the trails, you’ll be hooked!

Take A Lesson

Just like there’s a wide choice of trails to suit everyone’s needs, there’s also a wide choice of lessons.

Women’s Nights

Easily the most popular Whistler Mountain Bike Park lesson, Women’s Night is a group-based coaching session where groups are divided by ability. Coaches bring your group through the park and teach as you go. Afterward, there’s food, beer and a raffle! It’s a fantastic way to meet new riders, learn new skills and win some amazing prizes.

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Private Lessons

Private lessons are another popular choice. You can progress so much in a short period of time with the right guidance. Pick a trail that you want to ride faster, and you’ll receive expert coaching that steers you in the right direction.

Test Your Speed at the Phat Wednesday Race Series

On select Wednesday evenings during the bike park season, Phat Wednesdays are held in a fun, not too serious race format that gives you time on the clock to test your riding speed. End the night with apres, awards and a podium at the Garibaldi Lift Co.

Find everything from bike-friendly accommodation to bike rentals on Whistler.com and start planning your dream mountain biking vacation today!

The post A Guide to Whistler Mountain Bike Park for Intermediate Riders appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

There are a lot of bikes, people and unknowns. This feeling is shared by many but with these helpful steps, you can experience the famous trails that the bike park is known for. 

 

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Step One: Get The Right Gear

Before you hit the trails, it’s crucial to have the right gear. You can find everything, from your bike to your goggles at rental shops all over Whistler Village. Your bike should be a downhill or enduro bike, designed to handle the rough terrain and steep descents of the park. 

1. Protective Gear: Safety should be your top priority. A full-face helmet is a must, as it offers maximum protection. Body armour, including knee and elbow pads, as well as gloves, can help prevent injuries. Goggles or sunglasses will protect your eyes from dust and debris. 
2. Clothing: Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Mountain biking jerseys and shorts are designed specifically for this purpose. Don’t forget sturdy, flat-soled shoes for better pedal grip and control.

Step Two: Get to Know the Lift

Before you even think about those trails, let’s start with the basics: the lift. The Whistler Bike Park is accessed via gondolas and chairlifts, which might seem daunting if you’ve never loaded a bike onto one. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Familiarize Yourself: Spend a few minutes on the bike loading simulator or The Monolith as it is affectionately known, which is located at the bottom of Fitzsimmons Chair. Here, you can load your bike onto the chairlift, stress-free! It’s a simple process with easy-to-follow instructions, but practicing a couple of times can boost your confidence. 
2. Ask a Lifty: Don’t hesitate to ask the lift operators for help. These guys and gals are pros at loading bikes and are super friendly. They’re there to make your experience smooth, so ask them to walk you through the process. 

 

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Step Three: Progression is Key

Whistler isn’t just about huge drops and jumps; the trails are designed with progression in mind. This means there are trails for all skill levels, allowing you to gradually build your confidence and abilities before tackling the next level.

1. Start Small: Begin with the green and blue trails or a visit to one of the many skill-building zones. These are designed for beginners and will help you get a feel for the terrain and your bike as well as practice skills. Don’t rush to the black diamonds, they’ll be waiting for you when you’re ready.
2. Follow Progression Trails: The park is laid out in a way that encourages skill development. Follow the progression matrix designed to help you gradually take on more challenges. These signs are found in various places within the park and online. Trails like “B-Line” and “Crank It Up” are fantastic for getting the flow and feel of the park without the high-stakes pressure of “A-Line” and “Dirt Merchant”. Don’t forget to pre-ride, re-ride and then free ride. This means doing a lap first at a slow pace, looking at the features, then re-riding it once through, and finally, putting it all together at a safe pace!
3. Book a lesson: The park offers bike park lessons in both private and group settings. These are a great way to learn, meet other riders and get a structured approach to tackling the park. What’s more, lessons get lift line priority which is perfect for a busy weekend! Whether it’s a beginner’s class or an advanced session, there’s an opportunity to grow your mountain bike skills. Plus, learning in a group can ease the nerves as you share the experience with others.

Step Four: Join the Whistler Bike Park Community

Whistler is known for its vibrant biking community. Tapping into this can be one of the best ways to overcome intimidation and make your experience more enjoyable.

1. Women’s Nights, Men’s Nights and Events: Whistler hosts regular Women’s Nights and Men’s Nights where the trails are filled with similarly skilled people shredding together. These nights are all about camaraderie, support and fun. They are designed to help people get into the park in a non-intimidating way. These group sessions can be incredibly empowering and it’s a fantastic way to make new friends or riding partners. 

Step Five: Embrace the Stoke and Keep Learning

One of the most addictive parts of mountain biking is that it’s a journey of continuous learning. Every ride teaches you something new and every trail offers a unique challenge.

1. Set Personal Goals: Set small, achievable goals for each ride. It could be as simple as trying a new trail, working on a specific skill, or just feeling more comfortable on the lift. 
2. Stay Curious: Watch videos, read articles and talk to other riders. There’s a wealth of knowledge out there and the more you learn, the more confident you’ll become. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek advice from those with more experience.
3. Keep It Fun: Remember why you’re here – to have fun! Don’t get too caught up in the pressure to progress quickly or compare yourself to others. Everyone’s journey is different and the most important thing is that you’re safely enjoying the ride.

Whistler Mountain Bike Park can be intimidating, but it’s also one of the most rewarding places to ride in the world. By taking it step by step, embracing the community and focusing on progression, you’ll find yourself not just navigating the park, but thriving in it.

So, gear up, ask those questions, join those groups and most importantly, have a blast. See you on the mountain!

The post Getting Over the Intimidation of the Whistler Bike Park appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

Hailey divulges her top four must-do exercises for bikers that can be done in the gym or at home before you hit the trails this bike season.

 

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PHOTO OLLIE JONES

Must-Do Exercises for Mountain Bikers with Hailey Elise

For years, I would try to ride my bike throughout the winter, travelling to find dirt in an effort to keep my fitness level up. What I’ve learned is that time off doing other sports (skiing in my case) and a dedicated fitness program can really help me go into the season strong, healthy and fired up to ride. As they say, the real work is done off the bike. 

In addition to logging some serious hours on a trainer, a gym program that supports strength, mobility and balance can really set you up for a season of progression and good ol’ healthy fun. Here are a few exercises to help you start your best bike season yet so you can spend more time in the saddle and on the trails.

An athletic stance is referenced a number of times. The athletic stance is with your knees slightly bent, hips hinged forward around 45 degrees, and hands on your hips. To start out, try two sets of 10 of each exercise (except for the Plank and Monster Walk), and build up to three. 

Note that Hailey is not a doctor or certified training professional, so if you have any doubts about whether these exercises are for you, please check in with yours before giving them a go. 

Bike Exercise #1: Plank

I wish it had sunk in sooner about how important core strength is to the sport of mountain biking. This simple exercise helps to stabilize, balance and power the body as it’s navigating the trail. 

1. Start in a push-up position, except put your elbows on the mat under your shoulders and your feet hip-width apart. 
2. Rest your weight on your forearms and on your toes. Try to keep your body in a straight line, this includes your neck. 
3. Remember to breathe!
4. Hold this position for 20 to 30 seconds, working up to more. 

Bike Exercise #2: Chest Press on Ball

Mountain biking is basically doing push-ups over and over due to the position of your body above the bike, so it makes a lot of sense to train in the same movement pattern in the gym. This exercise targets some key players including the pectorals, deltoids and triceps. This exercise targets some key players including the pectorals, deltoids and triceps. Pick a weight that enables you to keep good form but makes you push hard to get through the final few reps.

1. Rest your upper back on an exercise ball, engage your core, and bend your knees so that your body and thighs are parallel to the floor.
2. With dumbbells in hand, position your upper arms so that they are parallel to the floor and your elbows are at right angles.
3. As you exhale, push the dumbbells up toward the ceiling until your arms are almost straight.
4. Lower the dumbbells slowly until your elbows are at right angles again. 
5. Repeat!

Bike Exercise #3: Reverse Lunge

Similar to skiing, the quadriceps play a very active role in mountain biking. They help us pedal up and support us on the way down. Although the quads are center stage, it is important that we strengthen the supporting actors, the hamstrings and glutes, to remain balanced.

1. Start in an athletic stance with feet shoulder-width apart and hands on your hips 
2. Step back onto one leg and bend the back knee until it almost touches the floor.
3. Push through the heel of the leg that did not extend backward and contract your glutes and hamstrings, and move back up to standing.
4. Repeat on the same side. 

Bike Exercise #4: Monster Walks

If you’ve taken a mountain bike lesson before, you may have heard your instructor reference a hip hinge. Not only do your hips help with technique, but they also work hard when pedalling. To help prevent injury to this area and a wealth of other benefits, it’s good to include an exercise that targets the hip abductor muscle group.

1. Wrap a looped band under the balls of your feet. In an athletic stance, step your feet out to shoulder width apart, creating tension in the band. 
2. With your body facing forward, take a step to the right with your right foot, stretching the band, then slowly step your left foot to the right so that your feet return to your original stance.
3. Repeat each step 10 times and then the same on the left side.

Throw in some time on a spin bike and you’ll be climbing and descending more comfortably this bike season. See you in the mountains and on the trails!

The post How To: Exercises for Mountain Bike Season 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.

“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and mind alike.” John Muir.

Art is synonymous with the mountains, a place that provides an abundance of natural beauty for inspiration, but also a calmness and peace that help the mind wander.

Whistler is home to several art galleries, displaying work from local talent to the wider Canadian art pool and international artists whose work resonates with curators. One way to explore these galleries is to join the Whistler Wine Walk, which is happening on Friday, October 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 2026. Not only do you get to connect with gallery owners, curators and artists, but you also get to do so with a glass of wine in hand.

Whistler Wine Walk Details

Included in the ticket price is access to the galleries, three four-ounce glasses of wine, interactive art experiences and a curatorial tour of the Special Exhibitions at Audain Art Museum (more on that below), along with live music and canapés. There’s a choice of British Columbian white and red wine at each stop, with one wine pour per guest, per location.

The experience lasts around two hours (6 to 8:15 PM), with walking time considered. It’s the perfect evening activity after an early dinner, or perhaps before a late one, depending on how you like to dine. There are four tour options, each starting at a different gallery but all culminating at the Audain.

Date: Every Friday in October, 2026

Time: 6 to 8:15 PM

Where: Art galleries around Whistler Village – four walking routes to choose from

What: Visit to three art galleries with a glass of BC wine at each one

NEW: Chocolate pairings and non-alcoholic wine options

Six galleries are taking part this year, with four different tour options taking you to three stops, all culminating at the Audain Art Museum. The distances range from 900 metres to 2.2 kilometres, depending on your starting point.

Guests receive an email after purchasing tickets with detailed instructions, including their schedule, map and walking directions for each location (a Wine Walk Group Leader will be on-site to make sure the tour is flowing on time).

British Columbia Wines

Featured wineries are all BC-based and include Fort Berens Estate Winery, Kismet Estate Winery, 8th Generation Vineyard and Lightning Rock Winery, with Nk’Mip Cellars featured exclusively at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre on October 9.

The Galleries

• Adele Campbell Fine Art
• Audain Art Museum
• Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont
• The Plaza Galleries
• Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (October 9 only)
• Whistler Contemporary Gallery at the Hilton

Adele Campbell Fine Art

Adele Campbell Fine Art, located in the Westin Resort & Spa, proudly represents a broad spectrum of Canadian artists in an array of original paintings and sculptures. The pieces reflect the artists’ passion for their beautiful surroundings and contemporary influences, and you’ll be struck by the variety, power and boldness of the art when you visit.

For over a century, Canadian landscape art has been inspired by the Group of Seven, who bucked the trends of the time and painted with a bold palette and style they felt represented the mass scale of Canada. This has evolved and morphed into the contemporary art of today, which revels in the wildness and freedom of the country they’re depicting.

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Featuring over 50 established and emerging Canadian artists, you’ll find an ever-revolving comprehensive collection of uniquely Canadian art at Adele Campbell Fine Art Gallery. During the Whistler Wine Walk, the gallery will have live painting with some of its featured artists, and a canvas for you to leave your own mark on.

Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont

The focus at Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler is on post-war Canadian landscape art. Mountain vistas, lush forests and winding rivers pepper the walls. The gallery is also home to some incredible pieces of sculpture with serpentine stone bears, bronze eagles and intriguing wood and resin furniture.

It’s really a treasure trove of Canadian art that takes time to explore. During Wine Walk, the gallery will have some of its featured artists doing some live painting.

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The Plaza Galleries

The Plaza Galleries brings a bold, contemporary take on mountain art to Whistler Village. Its colourful collection features work by established and emerging artists, with everything from paintings and mixed-media pieces to sculpture, often inspired by wildlife, mountain landscapes, skiing and the energy of the outdoors.

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Expect vibrant, playful and sometimes unexpected interpretations of mountain culture, alongside work influenced by pop culture and urban life.

Whistler Contemporary Gallery at the Hilton

The white walls of the Whistler Contemporary Gallery are adorned with a diverse range of styles, including figurative, abstract and landscape. Featuring Canadian and international contemporary fine art, the gallery is home to some unique pieces, including paintings, multimedia, glass and sculpture. Some of the art is inspired by the mountain scenes and wildlife Whistler is known for, whereas others evoke a sense of pop culture and urbanity.

It’s also good to note that they have a second location at the Four Seasons Resort Whistler if you want to connect with more of their artists.

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Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (October 9 only)

New to the Wine Walk for 2026, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is a celebration of culture, history, traditions and art. Located in Whistler’s Upper Village, the centre sits on the shared territory of two First Nation communities, the Sk̲wx̲wú7mesh (Squamish) and Li̓l̓wat7ul (Lil’wat), who have coexisted respectfully as neighbours in this area since time immemorial.

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Visiting them on the Wine Walk gives you the opportunity to understand and connect with the original stewards of the land. Indigenous wine producers, Nk’Mip, will be featured at this stop on the Wine Walk.

Audain Art Museum

For the final stop at the Audain Art Museum, guests will be treated to something special in addition to the delicious canapés and live music. They’ll head into the museum to explore one of their special exhibit, Solstice: Through Storm & Stillness.

This exhibit brings together works from the Audain Art Museum’s Permanent Collection that reflect on endurance, resilience, and the quiet momentum of moving through difficult seasons. The featured artists, Andrew Dadson, Gathie Falk, Gordon Smith, Karin Bubaš, Kim Dorland and Landon Mackenzie explore weather as both a literal and metaphorical force. Through painting, sculpture, and photography, the exhibition invites viewers to consider winter not only as a time of hardship, but as a necessary season of pause, persistence and eventual transformation.

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If you’ve not visited the Audain before, this will definitely make you want to come back and explore. Its permanent collection is a visual journey through the history of art from coastal British Columbia. It spans the late 18th century to the present day, and features one of the world’s finest collections of Northwest Coast First Nations masks; a large collection of works by Emily Carr, and art by important post-war modernists such as E.J. Hughes, Gordon Smith and Jack Shadbolt.

In addition to these historical works, it showcases art by internationally renowned, contemporary British Columbia artists, including Jeff Wall, Dana Claxton, Marianne Nicolson, Rodney Graham and Stan Douglas, among others.

For more information on what a trip to this museum is like, read Culture Up: How to Get the Most From a Visit to the Audain Art Museum in Whistler.

Whistler Wine Walk Tickets

Wine Walk tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Ticket holders will receive an email preceding the walk with detailed instructions for their route, including a schedule, map and walking directions for each location (there’s also a Wine Walk Guide on-site to help guide guests between galleries).

The Whistler Wine Walk is a chance to engage with gallery curators and artists, learn more about Canadian art and perhaps find something for above the fireplace back home.

There are other events happening in October, including yoga at the Audain Art Museum, Fairmont Fridays, the Whistler Farmers’ Market and the Whistler Writers Festival, to name a few. Check out the events calendar for a full list of what’s happening in Whistler this October.

For more ideas about what to do in the mountains in the fall, take a look at 21 Things to Do in Whistler in the Fall.

The post Whistler Wine Walk: Whistler’s Art Gallery Scene by the Glass appeared first on The Whistler Insider.