Top Reasons to Visit Whistler in the Summer

Whistler may bring to mind skiing and snow-dusted peaks, but after the snow melts, this mountain paradise turns into a vibrant summer playground. Some locals even say that summer is their favorite time of year in Whistler! From an exciting array of outdoor activities to lively festivals and events, Whistler offers a little something for everyone. Here are 7 reasons Whistler should be at the top of your summer vacation destination list.

1. Great Weather and Fewer Crowds

One of the most underrated perks of visiting Whistler in the summer is the fantastic weather  – warm days, cool evenings, and very little humidity. Average daytime highs hover around 75°F (24°C), making it ideal for outdoor adventures. And while winter draws ski crowds from around the world, summer tends to be a little more relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the village, trails, restaurants, and attractions without the long lines you'll find in winter. It’s the sweet spot if you’re looking for adventure with a little more elbow room!

2. Alpine Hiking

Whistler’s vast network of hiking trails ranges from family-friendly valley strolls to technical alpine ascents. Iconic hikes like the High Note Trail on Whistler Mountain offer panoramic views of surrounding peaks, while easy paved trails like Lost Lake are perfect for kids and dogs. No matter where you choose to walk, you’ll find alpine wildflowers in full bloom by July, beautiful glacial lakes, and stunning mountain vistas.

3. Scenic Gondola Rides

The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola (the world’s longest and highest) connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, floating above the Fitzsimmons Valley. This unique ride offers panoramic views and easy access to Whistler's high-altitude trails. You may even spot some bears from the gondola. Once at the top, you can walk across the Cloudraker Skybridge, grab a bite to eat, or simply soak in the breathtaking scenery from the lodge decks.

4. World-Class Mountain Biking

Whistler is a hotspot for mountain biking, drawing riders to the legendary Whistler Mountain Bike Park from across the globe. The lift-accessible Whistler Bike Park features over 80 kilometers of trails, from moderate beginner cruisers to intense black diamond descents loaded with technical features. If you’re new to the sport, local outfitters offer bike and gear rentals, lessons, and guided experiences to get you started safely. Outside the park, there are a ton of great singletrack mountain bike trails that don't require a lift pass or leaving the ground. There's also the paved Valley Trail, which is perfect for a more family-friendly bike experience.

5. Arts & Culture Scene

Whistler isn’t just about outdoor activities – the area also offers a thriving arts and culture scene during the summer. The Audain Art Museum features an impressive collection of Indigenous and contemporary British Columbian art in a striking modern space. The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre offers a look at the rich heritage of the area’s First Nations communities through storytelling, workshops, and performances. Throughout the summer, visitors can also enjoy outdoor art markets, live music in the Village, and rotating public art installations.

6. Lakes and Beaches Galore

The Whistler area offers several scenic lakes with beaches and swimming docks, perfect for enjoying a hot summer day. Some of the more popular lakes include Alta Lake, Lost Lake, and Alpha Lake. Paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking are popular activities, with rentals readily available. Families especially love Rainbow Park at Alta Lake, known for its picnic spots, food trucks, volleyball courts, and spectacular views of the mountains. The paved Valley Trail will take you right to Rainbow Park. The warm summer days and cool, clear water make for a perfectly refreshing afternoon in Whistler!

7. Lively Festivals & Events

Summer in Whistler means festival season, and there’s something happening nearly every weekend. The Whistler Children’s Festival in May is a hit for families, with hands-on art activities, music and entertainment for the little ones. One of the standout summer events in Whistler is Crankworx, a world-famous mountain biking festival that draws elite athletes and massive crowds in August. The laidback Whistler Summer Concert Series offers free outdoor performances at Olympic Plaza throughout the summer. And the weekly farmers market at the base of Blackcomb is a wonderful way to connect with locals, sample incredible food, and shop for unique gifts to bring back home. Check out the full Whistler events schedule here. 

Plan Your Whistler Summer Visit!