Your Ultimate Guide to Skiing, Accommodations, and Dining in the Winter Wonderland of Whistler

With a charming downtown exuding a quaint Little-Switzerland atmosphere, a variety of luxurious hotels and eateries, and the breathtaking snow-covered mountains surrounding you, Whistler stands as one of the premier ski and winter sports destinations globally. Just a picturesque 90-minute drive north of Vancouver, this town is one of British Columbia’s top outdoor havens year-round, but it truly shines in winter.

This is especially true for the winter of 2022–2023, marking the first season since the pandemic that Canada has lifted all COVID-related border restrictions for skiing. As a result, a wave of snow enthusiasts will descend upon Whistler to experience its legendary slopes.

To avoid the crowds, it's essential to plan ahead and secure your bookings early. To assist you, here’s a comprehensive guide on where to ski, where to stay, and where to dine during your Whistler ski getaway.

Skiing Adventures in Whistler

Although there are numerous skiing options throughout the area, the most popular and accessible remains the dual mountain park of Whistler Mountain and Whistler Blackcomb. With lifts positioned on both sides of the village, topped by the Peak-2-Peak gondola—the highest and second-longest free span globally—offering stunning 360-degree views of the landscape, you can easily transition from your hotel to the slopes within minutes.

Once on the mountains, you'll find approximately 200 marked runs and 16 alpine bowls to explore. These runs cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Notable runs include the Blue Line (a warmup route showcasing breathtaking panoramic vistas), Burnt Stew Trail (a beginner-friendly green run with bowls, glades, and scenic views appealing to skiers of every level), and Whistler Bowl with its numerous chutes and drops.

There are numerous dining options available across both mountains for a snack break, featuring casual venues such as Rendezvous Lodge, Roundhouse Lodge, Garbo’s Grill, and Crystal Hut, as well as upscale dining experiences like Christine’s on Blackcomb and Steeps Grill & Wine Bar.

Accommodations in Whistler

For those seeking luxury: Four Seasons Resort Whistler

After a complete renovation in 2019, Four Seasons Resort Whistler envelops every space—from the lobby to the guest rooms—in sleek yet cozy luxury, featuring abundant wood accents and soft lighting. Rooms with balconies provide stunning views of the mountain scenery, complemented by nature-inspired artwork throughout, including a contemporary gallery on the lobby level. Enjoy a meal at the on-site steakhouse, Sidecut, for expertly prepared beef (apologies to vegetarians).

For practical-minded skiers: Pan Pacific Mountainside

For accommodations better suited for longer stays or families, consider Pan Pacific Mountainside. Each of the 121 rooms comes with fully equipped kitchens, ideal for longer visits when you may want to prepare your own meals. The suites vary in size from studios to two-bedroom units, providing ample space for kids or group travel.

Dining, relaxation, and art experiences in Whistler

Savor a meal at Bearfoot Bistro

For an extravagant dining adventure, be sure to reserve a table at Bearfoot Bistro. The menu focuses on seasonal, locally sourced Pacific Northwest dishes (think fresh seafood and prime cuts of meat), with additional global influences. Inquire about sabering a champagne bottle in the wine cellar (the owner holds the Guinness World Record for sabered bottles in one minute—21), enjoy ice cream crafted tableside using fresh ingredients and liquid nitrogen, and if you're up for something unique, book a session in the ice room where you’ll wear hefty Canada Goose parkas while shooting vodka shots.

Relax in tranquility at Scandinave Spa

When you're ready to relax, visit Scandinave Spa, where you can enjoy various Scandinavian baths, saunas, and steam rooms, unwind in solariums and hammock areas, and warm yourself by the fire. Silence is paramount here, and there’s no limit on how long you can stay (well, until closing), making it the ideal place to slow down and escape the stresses of the outside world.

Explore the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and Audain Art Museum

When in Whistler, immerse yourself in local Indigenous culture. Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre to learn about the region's First Peoples and see their art and artifacts. Just a short walk away is the Audain Art Museum, a private collection showcasing a diverse array of Aboriginal art spanning the last 300 years, along with rotating exhibits featuring contemporary Indigenous artists and other visiting works.

Avoid overwhelming your love for Whistler

It’s well known that humanity has struggled with maintaining a healthy relationship with natural environments. Consequently, many landscapes have suffered degradation, and numerous species are at risk due to our presence. A nonprofit organization based in British Columbia, Don’t Love It to Death, is tackling this issue through education. It has teamed up with various local businesses and groups to provide resources (such as sustainable camping and boating guides) aimed at helping visitors minimize their impact on the Sea to Sky region, which stretches along the increasingly busy corridor between the coast and Whistler's mountains.

The popularity of camping and outdoor activities has soared in recent years, leading to an influx of newcomers who may not know how to enjoy natural spaces responsibly. Even experienced outdoor enthusiasts might benefit from a refresher now and then. So, before you head out, remember to embrace a conservationist mindset while taking in the stunning natural wonders that Whistler and the broader region of British Columbia have to offer.