Whistler’s Best Kept Secret: Visit in the Fall

Often overshadowed by our epic winters and glorious summers, fall is arguably Whistler’s most underrated season.

No crowds, stunning scenery, and the lowest rates of the year! Fall in Whistler is technically considered to be ‘shoulder season’, but we think there is no better time to enjoy our beautiful mountain town. Whilst the crowds slow down, Whistler doesn’t. The leaves take on their autumn hues, and Whistlerites often enjoy a long, sunny September, when the lakes are calm and trails are quiet. 

Enjoy Outside

Temperatures in September and October are generally warm and pleasant, making your outdoor adventures a little more comfortable as we move out of the scorching heat of summer. A cool breeze is very welcoming after a hot bike park lap. The Whistler Bike Park, the ultimate gravity-fed, downhill biking experience, is open until October 12th, and the late-season Fall Pass is available for anyone who wants to try a new end-of-summer hobby. If you don’t fancy the bike park, just five minutes of pedaling from Whistler Village takes you to the tranquil setting of Lost Lake Park where a beautiful network of cross-country trails awaits.

Not a biker? Whistler’s hiking terrain is perfection in the Fall. The leaves are golden, the lakes are calm, and the unique ambience of fall means you’ll get views of Whistler that most people never get to see. Plus, did we mention, no crowds?

Shop Local

Pick up some seasonal fall vegetables from the Whistler Farmer’s Market, which runs every Sunday in the Upper Village until Thanksgiving in October. Local vendors set up outside the Squamish Lillooet Cultural Centre from 11 am until 4 pm, rain or shine, with a plethora of locally-made treats, organic produce, and beautiful artisan goods. Vendors this year include local favorites: Laughing Crow Organics, Folie Crepes, and Whistler Elixir. 

Grab A Bargain

Whistler Blackcomb’s legendary Turkey Sale arrives each October, rallying excitement in locals and visitor’s alike for the upcoming winter season. The Turkey Sale weekend has become as traditional as the turkey itself, with the main event being hosted in the Blackcomb Day Lodge. This is the best opportunity of the year to shop for high-end ski and snowboard equipment with up to 50% reduced value. The deals continue through the village, with many local retailers hosting their own Turkey Sales with enormous discounts on the previous year's stock.

Eat and Drink

Everyone’s favorite food and drink festival - Cornucopia - is set to go ahead this fall. Made for the food and drink lover, Cornucopia is an 11-day festival providing you with a real taste of British Columbia's finest delicacies and beverages. In 2022, Cornucopia will run a different program but will continue to celebrate Whistler's world-class food and drink scene. Get ready to expand your culinary knowledge at wine seminars, chef's table lunches, and special events hosted by Whistler's restaurants and bars. Modified programming will be in place with guest safety as paramount, with more details to be announced soon.

So, now that we have spilled the beans on Whistler’s best-kept secret, you can hurry and book your holiday. For more information and deals on accommodation as well as activities, visit Whistler Reservations to secure your fall getaway!