View from atop the High Note Trail. Photo by Steve Rogers courtesy Tourism Whistler

Whistler may be best known for skiing and snowboarding, but an abundance of warm-weather activities attract outdoor adventurers even when the perfect powder is long gone

By Sheri Radford

No matter what type of summer adventure you’re after, Whistler has it.

Animal lovers pile into a comfy 4×4 vehicle with researcher Michael Allen to embark on bear watching tours; up to 70 black bears live on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, sometimes even hibernating under ski runs. Equestrians saddle up for an afternoon of horseback riding through the forest.

Fans of tranquil water relax while fishing, canoeing or kayaking on pristine lakes and rivers. Others find peace and serenity on Whistler’s many gorgeous golf courses or by hiking through picturesque meadows and trails.

Those who don’t suffer from acrophobia get their adrenaline flowing while bungee jumping, ziplining through the trees or flightseeing in small planes or helicopters. Climbers get their fix on the Stawamus Chief, the world’s second-largest granite monolith, located in nearby Squamish, or on indoor climbing walls. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola is ideal for sightseers who want a glimpse of the spectacular scenery from on high—but from the safety of an enclosed gondola. For an extra thrill, ask for a spot in one of the two glass-bottomed cabins.

Folks who love to go fast hop on an ATV or bike and go tearing around the countryside. Mountain biking is, by far, the most popular summertime activity here. But if a visit to Whistler just doesn’t seem complete without experiencing some snow, you can go skiing or snowboarding on the Horstman Glacier, which remains open through July.

No matter which activity you choose, be sure to have your camera at the ready, as picture-perfect vistas are the norm.

Check out our listings section for more information on summer tours and activities.