8 Things to Do in Whistler This Spring

While famous for its world-class winter attractions, Whistler is an exciting destination worth visiting any time of the year. As the mountains turn from white to green, the city comes alive with an array of seasonal activities. And to ensure to you, your friends and/or your family have the true Whistler experience from start to finish, be sure book your stay at the award-winning Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa. Not only is it located in close proximity to the chairlifts, amazing boutiques and lots of great dining options, Hilton Whistler offers a special package for B.C. residents including:

• a discounted rate
• guaranteed 1pm late checkout
• parking for one vehicle
• 50% off room upgrades
• 20% off food and non-alcoholic beverages at its Cinnamon Bear Bar & Grille.

So whether you’re craving for an outdoor adventure or simply want to kick back and relax, head up to Whistler now and find exactly what you’re looking for.

Don’t store away your gear just yet — the ski season has been extended until May 30. Enjoy the slopes of Blackcomb Mountain for another month of stellar ski and board conditions. Opt for a T-shirt instead of a toque as you soak up the sun and stunning views cruising down the runs — it is optimal goggle-tan weather after all!

One-day lift passes start at $63 for adults, $57 for seniors, $54 for youth (13 to 18) and $32 for children. Reduced rates are available for multiple day passes.
Lifts run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day.
whistlerblackcomb.com

The frost is lifting and that means the golf season is about to begin. So dust off the clubs and start practicing your swing because on May 6 golf courses are open! There are lots of options for those who have been itching all winter long to get back on to course, including Nicklaus North Golf Club: a beautiful par 71,18-hole course that was designed by the legend himself, Jack Nicklaus. And guests of the Hilton Whistler can take advantage of an exclusive Golf Stay and Play package, which offers one round of golf, green fees and a power cart equipped with GPS.

The daily rate for one round of golf during low season (May 6 to 26; September 26 to October 9) is $115 per person, and during peak season (May 27 to September 25) is $165.
Group and evening rates are available, conditions apply. 604.932.3280
golfbc.com/courses/nicklaus_north

Take a load off this spring at Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa. Located inside the Hilton Whistler, it is the only true Javanese Spa experience in North America. Awarded as one of the top 25 spas in Canada by Spa Inc. magazine, Taman Sari Spa offers treatments that combine traditional Javanese Royal customs with modern convenience. And if you’re looking to do a little spa tour during your trip, let the Hilton’s complimentary guest shuttle whisk you away to Whistler’s Scandinave Spa. Enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy as you move between saunas, steam rooms, hot baths and cold plunges. Looking to up the relax-factor? Booking a deep-tissue massage is definitely the way to go.

Various treatments and packages are available at Taman Sari Spa.
tamansarispa.com

Bath access is $60 per person and massages start at $152 at Scandinave Spa.
Promotions and packages are available.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. 604.935.2424
scandinave.com/en/whistler

As the spring season starts to bloom, Whistler’s ski and board trails are transformed into gritty dirt terrain beloved by mountain bikers. On May 20 the Whistler Mountain Bike Park opens for adrenaline junkies of all levels to enjoy. Considered the best lift-serviced bike park in the world, Whistler boasts 4,900 vertical feet of trails complete with rollers, single tracks and mountain top views. Visit Summit Sport located in the Hilton Whistler’s retail area to rent the latest downhill bike and equipment.

One-day tickets from May 20 to June 10 are $59 per person for adults, $52 for youth (13 to 18) and $35 for children.
Pre-purchase rates and season passes are available. Guided tours can be arranged for new riders.
Hours (May 20 to June 10): 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., open until 8 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday & Saturday
bike.whistlerblackcomb.com

If downhill mountain biking isn’t your style, don’t worry. Whistler offers a number of scenic bike routes for the everyday cyclist. Cruise along the Valley Trail for an easy ride from one end of Whistler to the other, enjoying lakeside views along the way. Bring the kids, pack a picnic and make a day of it! Summit Sport has you covered for this as well – choose your favourite cruiser bike!

The Valley Trail is 40 km of paved trail from Function Junction to Emerald neighbourhood and is accessible to all.
whistler.com/activities/valley-trail

Get out of the city and into the trees — literally — with a zip line tour through Whistler’s breathtaking forest canopy. Take in the majesty of old-growth trees, crystalline creeks and natural wildlife as you glide through the alpine landscape from above. Choose from seven different zip line tours and adventure packages for a unique wilderness experience. 

Prices vary depending on tour.
604.935.0001
ziptrek.com/whistler-canada

Savour the changing flavours of the season at many of Whistler’s restaurants. Throughout May eateries are offering special multi-course menus, and others like Cinnamon Bear Grille — specializing in Pacific Northwest cuisine and offering B.C. residents 20% off food and non-alcoholic beverages — are debuting fresh spring dishes.

hiltonwhistler.com/dining/cinnamon-bear-grille.php
whistler.com/events/indulge

To celebrate all things spring, Whistler is throwing its third annual Great Outdoor Festival, or GO Fest, from May 20 to 23. This family-friendly festival, which offers lots of free events for all to enjoy, gets going with a pancake breakfast on the Friday and continues over Victoria long weekend. Try your hand at fly fishing, sail in the regatta, catch the car show and so much more!

Prices and times vary depending on the activity.
greatoutdoorsfest.com