Think Whistler has just skiing and snowboarding? Think again

By Sheri Radford

Making tracks in the fresh powder with snowmobiles. Photo courtesy Tourism Whistler

Snow bunnies already know about the incomparable snowboarding and skiing—everything from downhill and cross-country to para- and heli-skiing—on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, but those not addicted to schussing also find plenty of outdoor fun.

Tubing is ideal for klutzes of all ages, since no skill whatsoever is required. As long as you can sit in an inner tube and obey the law of gravity, you’re good to go.

Ziplining requires a bit more ability, since you have to walk (or roll along in an all-terrain wheelchair) between launching platforms. But guides take care of the difficult parts, such as getting participants into full-body climbing harnesses and helmets before clipping them onto the ziplines.

Adrenaline junkies choose the thrill of bungee jumping or snowmobiling, while those looking for an old-fashioned winter experience opt for outdoor ice hockey, horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowshoeing or dogsledding. (Whistler may not have the Iditarod, but it does have lots of eager huskies ready to recreate the experience.) And, of course, a simple snowball fight is always appealing.

What’s the best part about a long day spent outside in the cold? Warming up inside, with a hot chocolate and a crackling fire, afterwards.

For activities listings, click here.