10 Things to Do in Whistler if you don’t Ski

Despite being a Colorado Native I am not what I would call a skier. I do own a snowboard, but my skills more than rusty and at this point I am probably a better lodge bunny. When I think of visiting Canada in the winter, my mind is full of snowy slopes and hot cocoa. As I recently learned, from Rachael at Forged Axe Throwing skiing is not a mandatory Whistler activity. I’m excited Rachael was able to share these tips about other things you can do in Canada and I’m looking forward to planning a trip there soon!

Nestled in the mountains of British Columbia, Whistler is Canada’s very own winter wonderland. Famous around the world as a leading ski resort, the dramatic scenery and impressive slopes draw the crowds year after year. But what if you don’t ski?

While there’s no denying Whistler’s snowsport credentials, there’s so much more to this mountain village than simply snowboarding or skiing. Here, we take a look at the non-ski activities waiting to be enjoyed.

LEARN TO AXE THROW

Unleash your inner lumberjack by learning the art of axe throwing. Yes, axe throwing. This distinctly Canadian pastime has grown in popularity across the world in recent months and there’s something truly satisfying about hurling an axe down an alley in an attempt to hit a bullseye.

As Whistler’s only indoor axe throwing venue, Forged Axe Throwing is THE place to head for. Regardless of experience, the Forged team will provide you with all the help and training you need to get you throwing your first bullseye. Axe throwing is the ideal group activity and is particularly popular for those in Whistler for bachelor or bachelorette parties.

GO SNOWMOBILING

Take your adventure to another level by enjoying one of the guided snowmobile tours through the Whistler landscape. Blackcomb Snowmobile offers an impressive selection of tours including family tours (they have cute snowmobiles for kids), scenic tours, and wilderness tours, all generally taking 2-4 hours. For those that have experience of snowmobiles, the extreme tour is well worth checking out. You’ll enjoy a high octane journey through the dramatic Whistler backcountry, learning how to side-hill like a pro all under the eye of senior, experienced guides.

RIDE THE ZIPLINES

While you may not want to ski, you’ll likely still want to enjoy some adrenaline-fuelled fun. Ziptrek Ecotours boasts the longest zipline in North America at over two km long, and their Twilight Tour is particularly popular with those looking for a fun way to watch the winter sun setting in the Whistler sky. Alternatively, choose from a number of other ziplining tour types each taking 2-4.5 hours, and transporting you at altitudes of 7,000 ft – the ultimate eco-exhilaration.

VISIT THE TUBE PARK

Head to Whistler Blackcomb Coca-Cola Tube Park to enjoy the exciting yet affordable fun of sliding down a 1000 feet tube. There’s no need to worry about the climb to the top, as once you reach the bottom, you’ll find a special conveyor lift ready to take you right back! This activity does get particularly busy during the festive season, but that simply adds to the fun.

LEARN TO MUSH

There’s something pretty magical about taking a dog sled tour through the winter landscape. Take in your glorious surroundings wrapped in a blanket, all behind a rather enthusiastic team of gorgeous Arctic snow dogs. Based in the Callaghan Valley, the Canadian Wilderness tour guides will take you through snow frosted forests, providing you with a rest at an abandoned trapper’s camp on Totem Lake. You can take the reins yourself, learning the commands to ‘mush’ your own dog team, or simply kick back and let your tour guide do the hard work.

TAKE THE ULTIMATE WHISTLER SELFIE

While there are Instagrammable selfie backdrops at every turn in Whistler, the Cloudraker Skybridge is arguably one of the best. The breathtaking suspension bridge spans 130m from Whistler Peak to the West Ridge, crossing high above Whistler Bowl and offering breathtaking views over the winter landscape. The Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk includes a viewing platform with 360° views from Whistler’s Peak. Say cheese!

VISIT THE MUSEUMS

For those who love a little culture, the museums and galleries in Whistler are a must-visit. A visit to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre comes highly recommended, celebrating the history and culture of local First Nations. The Whistler Museum has a remarkable variety of exhibits too, telling engaging stories, sharing historical photographs and even showcasing an original gondola cabin! The Whistler Public Library plays host to a number of seminars and movie nights, as well as being home to ‘Whister’s Living Room’. It’s a cultural and community hub for locals, seasonals and visitors alike.

RELAX AT THE SPA

Take time out for yourself at Whistler’s Scandinave Spa, immersing yourself into hot tubs, cold plunge pools, and saunas, or choosing from one of the many massages and treatments. The Vida Spa at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler is also a highly rated spa experience.

RIDE THE PEAK 2 PEAK GONDOLA

The bright red Peak 2 Peak Gondolas are something of a feat of engineering taking riders between the imposing Blackcomb and Whistler mountains. It has the longest unsupported lift span in the world at 3.024 km (or 1.88 miles) and is the highest lift of its kind in the world at 436 meters (or 1,427 feet). You’ll enjoy 360’ views of Whistler and its magnificent surroundings while onboard. Who cares about skiing when you can enjoy a ride like this?!

GO TOBOGGANING

Tobogganing at Whistler’s Olympic Park is another fun, affordable activity to add to your itinerary off the ski slopes. There’s no need to purchase tickets online beforehand, just show up at the Park entry gate and pay the $15 fee for access per vehicle. Entry payment includes rentals (although you can also bring your own) and access to the toboggan hill. Keep in mind that those under the age of 18 must wear CSA approved helmets, although helmets are recommended for all. Head to the on-site Day Lodge to enjoy hot chocolate, delicious hot food and indulgent treats.

It’s pretty clear there’s so much more to Whistler than simply skiing and there are many more great activities that don’t involve a pair of skis! Click here to find out more.

Enjoy Whistler…

Guest post written by Rachael Hopwood Jarvis. Photos provided by Whistler Tourism