By Susan H. Green
Things to Do in Whistler, BC
Whistler, British Columbia, is one of
Canada's most popular tourist destinations and one of the premier ski
resorts in the world. Whistler is located 2 hours north of Vancouver, and the drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway is, itself, a thing to do. Skiing is the number one attraction for many of Whistler's visitors, but there are plenty of activities for everyone year-round. The alpine events of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will be held in Whistler, which will add to this already popular location.
Lunch in Squamish
Driving north on the Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler, you will find the town of Squamish about an hour outside of Vancouver. It is a good place (really, the only place) to stop along the way to stretch your legs, get gas, buy some groceries at slightly lower-than-resort prices and eat lunch.
Wind your way through Squamish to the Howe Sound Inn and Brewing Company. In addition to a hotel and restaurant, Howe Sound has a brew pub with a seasonally fresh menu and locally brewed beers.
Howe Sound Inn and Brewing Company
37801 Cleveland Avenue
Squamish
(800) 919-ALES
Nesters Market
710 1200 Hunter Place SS 3
Squamish
(604) 815-0733
Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler Blackcomb refers to two mountains that both offer world-class skiing. Together, the mountains have over 8,000 acres, 200 trails, three glaciers, 38 lifts and 12 alpine bowls. In the summer, the trails become a mountain biker's paradise, with some hearty hiking, too. The highest elevation accessible by lift is nearly 7,500 feet (2,284 meters), making for breathtaking scenery no matter your activity or skill level.
Whistler Blackcomb
4545 Blackcomb Way
Whistler
(866) 218-9690
Peak-2-Peak Gondola
The Peak-2-Peak Gondola opened in December 2008 and connects the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains in an 11-minute trip. Skiers, snowboarders, hikers and sightseers can now go from one mountain to the other with ease year-round. The gondola starts at Whistler's Roundhouse Lodge and the Rendezvous Lodge on Blackcomb Mountain; those interested in riding the gondola must ride up to the lodges on either Whistler's Gondola or Blackcomb's Gondola.
Peak-2-Peak Gondola
Between Whistler's Roundhouse Lodge and the Rendezvous Lodge on Blackcomb Mountain
(866) 218-9690
Lost Lake Park
Lost Lake Park is a short drive or Village Shuttle ride from the heart of Whistler Village. Trails circle the lake that are ideal for family-friendly biking or walking, and paths beyond the lake are slightly more challenging. There is a small beach, picnic tables and facilities to make Lost Lake a perfect place for a picnic on a nice day. In winter, the area has cross-country ski trails and lessons.
Lost Lake Park
Blackcomb Way through Village and past the Four Seasons, Lost Lake Road will be ahead on the left
Pemberton
If you tire of the resort life, head north from Whistler to Pemberton. It is a small but growing town that, unlike Whistler, does not revolve entirely around tourism. Stop at the Wild Wood Bistro for brunch, lunch or dinner. It features locally inspired and seasonal specialties.
Wild Wood Bistro and Bar
101 1436 Portage Road
Portage Station, Pemberton
(604) 894-0114
Sushi Village
Sushi Village is one of the dining destinations for the local Whistler population (a good rule of thumb when visiting Whistler, or anywhere: eat where the locals eat). Sushi Village is located in Whistler Village. It can get crowded, but there is a seating area, and reservations are accepted for parties of six or more.
Sushi Village
Mountain Square, second level of the Westbrook Hotel, above Showcase Snowboards
(604) 932-3330
Resources
About the Author:
Susan Green has ten years of business writing and proofreading experience and three years of web content writing experience. Areas of expertise include personal finance, small businesses, travel, and pet care. Susan has a bachelor's degree from Tufts University.
Photo Credits:
Morguefile.com
