Whistler travel Guide

Whistler travel guide

National Airports

Whistler does not have its own airport, but there are several national airports that serve the area:

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) – This is the largest airport in the area and is located approximately 135 km south of Whistler. It offers flights to and from destinations all over the world, with several airlines offering direct flights to Vancouver from major cities in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Victoria International Airport (YYJ) – Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria International Airport is approximately 220 km southwest of Whistler. It offers flights to and from several Canadian and US cities, as well as some international destinations.

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) – Located approximately 280 km south of Whistler, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport offers flights to and from destinations all over the world, with several airlines offering direct flights to Seattle from major cities in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) – Located approximately 260 km east of Whistler, Kelowna International Airport offers flights to and from several Canadian and US cities, as well as some international destinations.

Calgary International Airport (YYC) – Located approximately 950 km east of Whistler, Calgary International Airport offers flights to and from destinations all over the world, with several airlines offering direct flights to Calgary from major cities in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Trains in Whistler

Whistler does not have a train station, but there are several options for traveling by train in the surrounding area:

The Rocky Mountaineer – The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train that travels between Vancouver and Banff, with stops in Whistler and Kamloops. The train offers stunning views of the Canadian Rockies and the surrounding landscape, and passengers can choose from several classes of service, including GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf.

Amtrak Cascades – Amtrak Cascades is a train service that runs between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Eugene, Oregon, with stops in several cities in between. The train stops in downtown Vancouver, which is approximately 135 km south of Whistler.

VIA Rail – VIA Rail is Canada’s national passenger rail service, offering service to several destinations across the country. VIA Rail stops in downtown Vancouver, which is approximately 135 km south of Whistler.

The Whistler Mountaineer – The Whistler Mountaineer was a luxury train that offered service between North Vancouver and Whistler, with stunning views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains. However, the service is currently suspended and it’s unclear if it will resume operations in the future.

Buses in Whistler

Whistler has an extensive bus system, operated by Whistler Transit. The bus system provides convenient and affordable transportation within Whistler, as well as connections to nearby towns and cities. Here are some of the key features of the bus system in Whistler:

Routes – Whistler Transit operates several bus routes within the resort, including routes to residential neighborhoods, the village, and the ski hills. The buses run on a regular schedule, with frequent service during peak periods.

Fares – Fares for the bus system in Whistler are based on a zone system, with the price increasing as you travel further from the village. There are also discounts available for youth, seniors, and people with disabilities. You can purchase tickets or passes at several locations throughout the resort, including the Visitor Centre, grocery stores, and ticket vending machines.

Accessibility – Whistler Transit buses are fully accessible, with features like low floors, wheelchair ramps, and priority seating for people with disabilities. Service animals are also welcome on board.

Connections – Whistler Transit provides connections to nearby towns and cities, including Pemberton, Squamish, and Vancouver. The buses to Vancouver run on a regular schedule throughout the day, making it easy to take a day trip to the city.

How to get to Whistler

There are several ways to get to Whistler, depending on your location and travel preferences. Here are some of the most common options:

By car – Whistler is located approximately 135 km north of Vancouver, and the most popular way to get there is by car. From Vancouver, you can take the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99), which is a scenic drive that takes about 2 hours. You can also rent a car at Vancouver International Airport or in downtown Vancouver.

By bus – Whistler Transit operates several bus routes from Vancouver to Whistler, with regular service throughout the day. The bus ride takes about 2.5 hours and is an affordable option for those who don’t want to drive.

By shuttle – Several companies offer shuttle service between Vancouver and Whistler, with pick-up and drop-off locations at Vancouver International Airport and several downtown locations. This is a good option for those who don’t want to rent a car or take the bus.

By train – The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train that travels between Vancouver and Banff, with stops in Whistler and Kamloops. This is a scenic and comfortable option for those who want to travel in style.

By plane – Whistler does not have its own airport, but you can fly into Vancouver International Airport and then take a shuttle or bus to Whistler. Alternatively, you can fly into one of the regional airports, such as Victoria International Airport or Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and then drive or take a shuttle to Whistler.

What is the best time to travel to Whistler

The best time to travel to Whistler depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. Here are some things to consider:

Winter sports – Whistler is famous for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, and the winter season (December to March) is the best time to hit the slopes. The resort typically receives over 11 meters of snow each season, making it a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Summer activities – In the summer season (June to September), Whistler is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking, mountain biking, golfing, and other activities available. The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C, and the scenery is stunning.

Crowds and prices – Whistler can be crowded and expensive during peak season, which is typically from mid-December to early January and during the months of February and March for skiing and snowboarding. The summer months are also popular and can be busy, especially during weekends and holidays. If you’re looking for a quieter and more affordable time to visit, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons of April to May or October to November.

Events and festivals – Whistler hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the Whistler Film Festival in December, the World Ski and Snowboard Festival in April, and the Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival in August. If you’re interested in attending one of these events, plan your trip accordingly.

How to get around Whistler

Whistler is a pedestrian-friendly resort town, and the village is easily walkable. However, if you need to travel further or have mobility issues, there are several ways to get around:

Public transit – Whistler Transit operates several bus routes within the resort, with regular service throughout the day. The buses are fully accessible, with features like low floors, wheelchair ramps, and priority seating for people with disabilities.

Taxis and ride-sharing services – Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Whistler. You can usually find them at designated pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the village.

Bike rentals – Whistler has an extensive network of bike trails, and renting a bike is a popular way to get around. There are several bike rental shops in the village, and the resort offers free bike rentals during the summer months.

Car rentals – If you need to travel outside of Whistler or have mobility issues, renting a car is an option. There are several car rental companies in the village, and most offer pick-up and drop-off service.

Walking – As mentioned earlier, Whistler is a pedestrian-friendly resort town, and walking is a great way to explore the village and enjoy the scenery.

Accommodations in Whistler

Whistler offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some options to consider:

Hotels – Whistler has several hotels, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. The hotels offer a range of amenities, including pools, hot tubs, spas, and restaurants. Some popular options include the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, the Westin Resort & Spa, and the Four Seasons Resort and Residences.

Condos and Vacation Rentals – There are many condos and vacation rentals available in Whistler, which can be a good option for families or groups. These accommodations typically offer more space and privacy than a hotel room and often come with a kitchen or kitchenette, allowing you to prepare your own meals. Some popular websites to find rentals include Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway.

Hostels – If you’re on a budget or looking for a more social experience, Whistler has several hostels, such as the HI Whistler Hostel and the Pangea Pod Hotel. These accommodations offer shared dorms or private rooms at an affordable price.

Bed and Breakfasts – There are also several bed and breakfasts in Whistler, which offer a more personalized experience than a hotel. Some popular options include the Cedar Springs Bed & Breakfast and the Whistler Luxury Chalets.