The Best Places To Go Hiking In Whistler Canada

Whistler is all about the outdoors. It is best known as a ski resort, but Whistler Blackcomb has been developed as a year-round destination. Long before the area’s international status emerged, British Columbians have hiked, climbed, canoed and trekked throughout this beautiful region.

The area along the Sea to Sky Highway, from north of Vancouver through Squamish to Whistler and onto Duffy Lake and the province’s interior, offers hiking and climbing for all abilities. It is important to stress the Coast Mountains are an important wildlife region, and bear spray is strongly encouraged when hiking.

1. Blackcomb Mountain

Ski Resort

Hiking on the Harmony Lake Trail, Whistler Mountain, Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. (model released)

Slightly higher than Whistler, but with fewer ski runs, Blackcomb has many alpine trails available. The lift system offers easy access to the high alpine, and with the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, a full day can be made of both mountains. Summer trail maps are available, and trails are clearly marked. On both mountains, be careful not to walk onto mountain bike paths.

2. Whistler Mountain

Natural Feature

There are numerous hikes all over Whistler Mountain. By using the lift system, you can reach those trails at much higher elevations and above the tree line that would otherwise take hours of hard walking to visit. Due to this life system, paths such as the High Note Trail are accessible and child-friendly.

3. Squamish

Resort

South of Whistler, on the way to Vancouver, Squamish is a rock climber’s paradise with a massive granite face. Even if sport climbing is too ambitious, the area has plenty of hiking trails, or you may choose to enjoy the Sea to Sky Gondola. In good weather, there are beautiful views over the fjord.

4. Joffre Lakes Provincial Park

Hiking Trail

Lower Joffre Lakes, British Columbia, Canada

North of Whistler and past the village of Pemberton, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park offers easy access to glacier-fed alpine lakes. The first viewpoint is a short walk, but the park can be explored for hours. During hot summer months, the park’s higher elevation is refreshing, and the lakes reveal their turquoise glacial colors.

5. Black Tusk Trail

Hiking Trail

The Black Tusk Trail is just one example of the many, many challenging hikes in the region. This volcanic peak is located in Garibaldi Park and is one of the most spectacular mountains in the area. The full trek will take 11hr and is 18mi (29km) return. On many of these long hikes, there are sampling options for a more manageable pace.

6. Singing Pass

Natural Feature

Located on Whistler Mountain, this accessible 14mi (22km) loop is ideal for moderate hikers to experience the high-alpine experience. While overnight camping is permitted, all garbage must be packed in and out. Because of the excellent lift system, Whistler offers access to trails that would often be beyond day or weekend hikers.

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