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The Best Hostels to Book in Whistler, British Columbia

In 2010, Whistler, British Columbia, Canada, hosted the Olympic Winter Games
In 2010, Whistler, British Columbia, Canada, hosted the Olympic Winter Games | © Dan Leeth / Alamy Stock Photo

If you love adrenaline highs, you’re likely familiar with the resort town of Whistler. Home to the mountains Whistler and Blackcomb, it’s known as the best ski resort in Canada. If you’re not visiting during winter, rest assured that activities extend year-round. Save your money for experiences, and check out these Whistler hostels – bookable on Culture Trip – putting you in the middle of the action.

Southside Lodge

Hostel, Lodge

A cozy room at Southside Lodge, with a double bed, a set of bunk beds and dark gray-and-white-striped bedding
Courtesy of Southside Lodge / Hostelworld.com

There’s every chance you could be rubbing shoulders with the top skiers and snowboarders in Whistler at Southside Lodge, where five private rooms and two shared dorms overlook Whistler Olympic Park. The world-famous Southside Diner is a favorite pre-ski meeting spot, where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The lodge’s location 1,312ft (400m) from the Creekside Gondola also makes it pretty popular; you’ll be able to access some of the best powder and freeriding terrain in North America.

HI Whistler

Hostel

Lime-green chairs and white tables adorning the dining room at HI Whistler, along with colorful art on the walls
Courtesy of HI Whistler / Booking.com

Spend a bit of time in town, and you’ll likely hear the name “HI Whistler” thrown around. Not only is this the biggest hostel in Whistler, but it was also purpose-built for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Now one of the best budget options in town, it’s favored for its location at the doorstep of multiple hiking and mountain biking trails and its top facilities, including a guest lounge with a pool table, a huge outdoor deck and the on-site Cheaky’s Café.

Whistler Lodge Hostel

Hostel

The Whistler Lodge Hostel with cedar shingle siding set among a green landscape with lots of pines
Courtesy of Whistler Lodge Hostel / Booking.com

This historic lodge was originally built in 1965 by students from UBC’s Varsity Outdoor Club, and it’s been a base for mountain adventures ever since. Now a 42-bed hostel in Whistler, it maintains the feel of a mountain cabin, with bunks in dorm-style rooms and a communal game lounge with a pool table. Private and semi-private rooms are also offered, as well as a terrace and barbecue facilities.

Squamish Adventure Inn

Hostel

A dorm-style ensuite room at Squamish Adventure Inn, with a double bed in one room and a set of bunks in another
Courtesy of Squamish Adventure Inn / Booking.com

Squamish Adventure Inn, opposite Stawamus Chief Mountain, treats its guests like family, organizing regular activities such as pizza and movie nights, potlucks and group hikes. Head out on its bike paths via the outdoor patio, and take advantage of its estuary location, renting kayaks and paddleboards from the hotel. Keep your eyes peeled for bears eating berries when out on your adventures.

Whistler Fireside Lodge

Hostel

A rustic guest room at Whistler Fireside Lodge, with log walls, one bed and pictures of animals
Courtesy of Whistler Fireside Lodge / Hostelworld.com

The majority of visitors to Whistler Creek are those who regularly come up from Vancouver to ski. However, you’ll likely bump into a backpacker or two on your travels if rooms aren’t already filled up. This Whistler hostel is usually in demand for its clean, family-oriented facilities and cozy loft rooms, which are great for groups.

Pangea Pod Hotel

Budget Hotel

A stylish lounge bar at Pangea Pod Hotel, with mirror accents, tables, chairs, banquettes and a purple bar
Courtesy of Pangea Pod Hotel / Booking.com

The quirky artwork in each private pod sets the tone for this fun-loving boutique hostel in Whistler. It’s only a couple of minutes from the gondolas that’ll take you to Whistler Blackcomb, one of the best things to see and do in Whistler. Pangea wins on location, design, privacy and price, and it is a great choice if you’re looking to mingle with like-minded travelers. Chat over an espresso or craft beer in the Living Room, or try a shaken cocktail on the Rooftop Patio.

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