Winter in Whistler Has Arrived — Here’s How to Celebrate!

(Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane)

We can tell you’ve all been practicing your snow dances!

Thanks to an especially snowy November, we’re happy to report that Whistler Mountain will be opening a week ahead of schedule. November 19 officially marks Opening Day, a day where thousands of snow enthusiasts gather to celebrate the start of another epic ski and snowboard season. Technically, we’re still a month or so away from the real start of winter – but unofficially, it’s safe to say that when the ski season begins, winter has arrived.

If the idea of snowflakes mixed with crisp mountain air makes you giddy with excitement, then we’ve got a few ideas of how you can celebrate winter in Whistler.

Hit the Slopes

This one is obvious. The #1 way to officially welcome winter in Whistler is to line up at the gondola on opening day and be among the first to lay fresh tracks into the fantastically snowy runs. Don’t forget to secure your lift tickets, prepare your gear, and sign up for a couple of lessons if it’s been awhile.

Celebrate Après

Sure, you can hit the pubs up year-round, but it’s not officially après unless your hair is matted with snow, your nose is Rudolph red from the cold, and you’re still donning your ski boots. Order a cold drink and raise a glass to the best season of all!

Take to the Trails on XC Skis

Ski season isn’t just about downhill skis. Pop on a pair of cross-country skis and test your kick-and-glide skills on the local trails. You can even ski the same trails that were part of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Even if your technique isn't quite up to par, you’ll still feel like an Olympian!

Check out the Lights

Winter means shorter days and earlier sunsets, and that’s fine by us. When the sun goes down, the lights in Whistler Village and the Upper Village come on. Thousands upon thousands of twinkling Christmas lights adorn buildings and trees around town. Be sure to set aside a night to walk around and take in the magic.

Soak in the Elements

Winter might not conjure up visions of pools and bathing suits – but that’s only because you haven’t been to the Scandinave Spa yet. This outdoor spa is tucked away into the woods of Whistler, and features a series of outdoor Nordic pools and baths that strike the perfect balance between energizing and relaxing. Picture yourself floating in a hot pool, surrounded by snow-covered trees, or lounging in a solarium, taking in panoramic winter views. Winter has never been so relaxing.

Take the Plunge

What better way to welcome winter than to check an item off your bucket list! Layer up and hop into Whistler Bungee’s shuttle, then head south of town into the snowy, mystical forest where you’ll stand on a bridge above a rushing river. You know the rest – 3… 2… 1… jump!

People Watch

Winter generally means that the population of Whistler swells to include seasonal residents and plenty of snow enthusiastic visitors. Grab a mug of hot chocolate – we’re big fans of Blenz by the Olympic Plaza or Portebello’s in the Fairmont Chateau Whistler – and take it all in. Winter – isn’t it wonderful?