Whistler in Spring has Endless Opportunities
Whistler in spring is truly alive.
The days are longer and the temperature warms up. This means there are so many things to do in Whistler in spring. Sunny days skiing on the mountain with friends, nature hikes through the forest to discover lakes and taking advantage of the sunny patios throughout the village.
On The Mountain
Spring Skiing
After a long winter of bottomless powder turns, the sun welcomed back with open arms in spring. More often than not the sun is beaming down onto the groomers from early April right through to the end of the season. This makes skiing one of the best things to do in Whistler in spring. The views at this time of year stretch across the entire Coast Mountain range.
If you’re in town for the last day of the season, you have to join in on the celebration of “Gaper Day”. Skiers and snowboarders come together to celebrate the season and savour every last moment on the slopes.
Spring Skiing Events
Spring is a great time to be on the mountain and watching the pros compete in some of the biggest competitions in Canada. Ski & Snowboard Big Air takes place in early April as part of WSSF (World Ski and Snowboard Festival). You’ll see the worlds best skiers and snowboarders hitting a massive jump and pulling off jaw-dropping tricks and spins.
Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler / Mike Crane
On the same weekend is the Monster Energy Boarderstyle World Championships. In this event, four snowboarders race down a track made up of berms, jumps, rollers and more, all at the same time. Get yourself a good view of the track and see the madness with your own eyes.
Or maybe you’re more of a doer that watcher? In that case, you’ll need to sign up for The Slush Cup. Point yourself down from the start gate and see if you can ski or board your way through the slush and across the icy water to the finish line. Style is everything here, so make sure you’re wearing that retro onesie!
Snow Walls
Alpine hiking is one of the best things to do in Whistler in spring. As the mountain staff begin to clear the hiking trails, they create stunning snow walls for hikers to walk through. In some sections, the walls can be over 20 foot high. Make sure you go see them as early as you can, as they don't last too long! Getting a cool photo here with your friends is one of Whistler’s best spring activities.
In The Valley
Forest & Lakes
Whistler in spring has the best of both worlds. While the mountains peaks are still full of snow and skiers, the valley is warm and snow-free. This allows for lots of exploration through Whistler’s forests and discovering some of our many beautiful lakes. Make sure you explore the trails around Lost Lake and the beautiful lake-side park. The water doesn’t warm up until summer, but the views are stunning!
Take advantage of the Valley Trail system and visit Rainbow Park, Blueberry Docks and Alta Lake Park too.
Golf
Golfing is one of the most popular things to do in Whistler in spring. From early May, the snow will be gone, and you can expect to find all three of Whistler’s golf courses open for action. The Fairmont Chateau Golf Club has been voted one of the top ten golf resorts in the world by Conde Nest Traveller, due to its incredible setting and views. Whistler Golf Club, which is just minutes away from the village by foot, was the first course in Canada designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer.
Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler / Mike Crane
After your round, you can relax on the patio and soak in more of that spring sunshine. Nicklaus North Golf Club is a challenging course designed by one of the greatest golfers to ever play, Jack Nicklaus. This famous course has been home to competitive matches between some of golf’s biggest stars.
In The Village
Aprés
A long day of skiing in the sun and working on our goggle tan is best complimented by a cold beer on one of Whistler’s many patios. For the biggest party in town, ski right up to the door of The Longhorn Saloon and party late into the night. For a quieter chat with friends, stop by The Beacon Pub for a tasty pint of craft beer. If you’re looking for something a bit more romantic and intimate, then The Mallard Lounge in The Fairmont Hotel is for you. They’ve got great cocktails, finger food and gorgeous views of Blackcomb mountain.
Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler / Justa Jeskova
Events
With so many action-packed activities on offer in Whistler in spring, it can be nice to kick back, relax and let somebody else entertain you once in a while. WSSF brings exciting live music acts to the village in early April as part of their Outdoor Concert Series. With previous acts such as Nas, Chromeo, Busta Rhymes, and The Wailers headlining, you can be sure of someone special turning up.
The Pro Photographer Showdown and the 72-hour Film Showmaker Showdown are two of Whistler’s most popular events. Entrants come together to produce amazing photographs and videos. There are cash prizes on offer as well as the admiration of some of the industries best photographers and videographers. Make sure you get your ticket well in advance, as these events are guaranteed to sell out.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Whistler in spring; the only difficulty might be squeezing them all in!
