Journey along the Sea to Sky Highway north of Vancouver, and you’ll soon find yourself in the picturesque mountain resort of Whistler. Nestled in the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Whistler is one of the world’s best ski resort destinations. However, with four championship golf courses, award-winning restaurants and bars, an abundance of outdoor activities, and arguably some of the best countryside and outdoor spaces in the world, there’s much more to Whistler than just skiing.

We’ve pulled together some of our favorite Whistler activities (that don’t involve skiing) to help you dive into the magic of Whistler in winter, spring, summer or fall.

Axe Throwing Like Lumber-Jill

Head to Forged Axe Throwing to try your hand at the distinctly Canadian activity of axe throwing. Popular with bachelor and bachelorette parties in particular, this exciting alternative to darts sees participants hurling an axe down an alley in an attempt to hit a bullseye. Even if you’ve never picked up an axe before, the Forged team will have you hitting those bulls-eyes in no time and it really is the perfect group activity. Why not compete against your friends in your very own axe throwing tournament?

Ride The Peak 2 Peak Gondola

A visit to Whistler wouldn’t be complete without taking a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola where you’ll enjoy a stunning, birds-eye view of your British Columbian surroundings. Alpine forest views come as standard from the glass-bottom boats, and you can even choose to dine on the ‘rooftop of the world’ enjoying panoramic views of the towering ski slopes. During the summer months, Mountain Top Summer Feast dinners are available Friday through Sunday. It’s the perfect Instagram opportunity!

 

Go Wedge Rafting

Nothing says summer in Whistler like riding the high-speed white water rapids of the glacier melted waters of the Green, Lower Cheakamus, Elaho, and Squamish Rivers. Hold on tight as you and your crew explore with a top-rated guide who’ll navigate you through the rapids in an unforgettable and exhilarating experience. There’s nothing quite like the rivers of Whistler to get the heart racing and the adrenaline pumping! Rafting starts at around $119 per person with Wedge Rafting.

Paddle The River Of Golden Dreams

On a sun-drenched summer or fall day, rent a kayak or canoe from Backroads Whistler and paddle the River of Golden Dreams. Winding your way from Alta Lake to Green Lake, you’ll take in the breathtaking scenery and get closer to the huge selection of wildlife that calls this place home. Don’t forget to stock up on refreshments, and prepare to truly immerse yourself in nature for a few glorious hours.

Go Dog Sledding

During the winter months, there’s no better way to explore your snowy surroundings than from the comfort of a dog sled while wrapped in a cozy blanket. Head to Blackcomb Dog-Sled and choose whether to take the reins yourself or to sit back and let someone else do the hard work, as a team of exuberant Arctic sled dogs hurtle across the Canadian drifts.

 

Zip Lining

Take a birds-eye view of Whistler and soar like a superhero at Superfly Ziplines. With four side-by-side zip lines located in the heart of the stunning mountain wilderness, you and your friends will reach speeds of up to 100km/hour as you fly 600 feet in the air for over a kilometre. This truly incredible activity comes highly recommended!

 

Dine In Style

With so many great restaurants to choose from, you’ll be well and truly spoilt for choice. Head to Bearfoot Bistro, the resort’s premier fine dining restaurant, to enjoy the very best seasonal produce prepared by award-winning Executive Chef Melissa Craig. Whether for après-ski, dinner, drinks or late-night dancing, a visit to Bearfoot Bistro promises to exceed all expectations!

Visit The Ketel One Ice Room

Why not enjoy an aperitif at Whistler’s very own Ketel One Ice Room (located at Bearfoot Bistro)? With a gourmet vodka tasting menu and some amazing bartenders (oh, and a cozy oversized jacket to keep you warm) you’ll sip from over 50 different varieties of vodka. It’s an unforgettable experience – unless you have a little too much vodka of course!

Enjoy Some R&R

After all that adventure, great food and vodka, a trip to the Scandinave Spa is an indulgent way to wind down and see out your visit to Whistler in style. Grab a glass of the finest Champagne and slip into one of the bubbling hot tubs, all after enjoying a sumptuous treatment or massage. After all, silence is a source of great strength.