What Are The Top Hikes In Whistler, BC?
Whistler, British Columbia, is famend for its fascinating pure magnificence and is a paradise for out of doors fans. For these looking for a leisurely journey amidst beautiful landscapes, Whistler gives a number of simple hikes that showcase the area’s breathtaking vistas, pristine lakes, and luxurious forests. Whether or not you’re a novice hiker or just want a relaxed and pleasing expertise, these trails cater to all ranges of health and promise an unforgettable journey by way of the Canadian wilderness. From scenic strolls to hidden gems, listed here are three highlights of one of the best simple hikes in Whistler, BC.
On the subject of simple hikes in Whistler, not many individuals know the place to advocate. Whistler is thought largely as a world-class snowboarding vacation spot and so come the summer time in Whistler, persons are stuffed with concepts for lengthy difficult hikes excessive up within the lovely alpine however simple hikes in Whistler? Effectively, they could be a little bit more durable to search out.
Fortunately, I’ve spent years exploring the path round Whistler whereas dwelling in Vancouver and I’ve tried each more durable hikes in Whistler in addition to some simple Whistler hikes.
After a full day of mountain biking or a protracted drive caught in visitors on the Sea to Sky freeway you typically simply must stretch your legs and that’s the place I’ve managed to slot in one among these simple Whistler hikes.
Whether or not you’re searching for a shorter, simple stroll, or a hike with children in Whistler this information to one of the best simple hikes in Whistler BC has you coated.
From simple Whistler waterfall hikes to these going over suspension bridges and even to a ghost city or prepare wreck in the course of the forest, you’ll discover loads of mountaineering inspiration on this Whistler mountaineering information!
What to know earlier than mountaineering in Whistler
- Whistler is bear nation. NEVER go mountaineering with out bear spray. Want bear security suggestions?
- Follow depart no hint ethics and by no means depart something behind on the path.
- All the time inform someplace the place you’re going and if you count on to be again to allow them to get assist in the event that they don’t hear from you.
- Pack bug spray — belief me, you’ll need it! Particularly on hikes close to water.
AllTrails is my go-to mountaineering app for locating, planning and navigating whereas I’m out on the paths. With offline maps on AllTrails+, you could be assured you’re nonetheless heading in the right direction, even with out cell sign
Finest simple hikes in Whistler BC
The Whistler Practice Wreck hike
The Whistler Practice Wreck path was one of many first hikes in Whistler I did and it was such a cool one to do.
The path takes you thru some lovely forest earlier than you come out at a vibrant prepare wreck proper in the course of the bushes.
It’s believed the prepare derailed within the Nineteen Fifties and now it’s turn out to be coated in graffiti and has turn out to be a vacationer attraction in Whistler in its personal proper.
Practice Wreck Whistler path stats:
- Distance: 2.5 km
- Length: 1-2 hours
- Elevation: Minimal
- Trail map
Misplaced Lake Park
Misplaced Lake, Whistler, is tremendous near the centre of Whistler Village and you may get there simply by strolling or biking alongside the Valley Path.
It’s one among my favorite simple hikes close to Whistler in the summertime after I simply wish to stretch my legs.
When you’re on the lake, there’s a path which takes you all the best way round, and you’ll cease partway for a swim or chill out on the docks.
If you wish to add on some extra distance, an enormous community of multi-use trails wind their means across the space. A couple of of them additionally go to viewpoints. Simply be careful for mountain bikes since there are some widespread mountain biking trails on this space too!
In the summertime (late July-ish), the Misplaced Lake path Whistler, is dwelling to a great deal of frogs, and a few of the seashore space is cordoned off to permit them to maneuver round safely. They’re tiny and really simple to step on if you happen to’re not paying consideration!
For hikes close to Whistler Village, I extremely advocate this one!
Misplaced Lake hike stats:
- Distance: 4km (across the lake)
- Length: 1-2 hours
- Elevation: 103 m
- Trail map
Alexander Falls
Taking a hike to Alexander Falls in Whistler was one among my favorite non-skiing Whistler actions we did throughout one among my birthday weekends.
Alexander Falls is within the Callaghan Valley area close to Whistler Village and it’s the place the 2010 Winter Olympic Nordic occasions happened.
The waterfall is simple to entry by automobile and the viewing platform is true subsequent to the parking zone, so no strolling or mountaineering is required however if you happen to do wish to hike you possibly can hike to the underside of the falls.
You’ll must pay for a path move to entry the paths in winter and that is achieved on the huts as you park up by the falls.
It’s among the finest simple hikes round Whistler and is totally beautiful all 12 months spherical however particularly in spring when the waterfall is at peak circulate. I additionally liked this as an possibility for walks in Whistler winter season.
Alexander Falls path stats:
- Distance: 2.4 km
- Length: 1-2 hours
- Elevation: 78 m
- Trail map
Nairn Falls Path Whistler
Nairn Falls is a good simple Whistler hike that may be achieved from mid-spring to fall. In case you’re searching for brief hikes in Whistler, this one is superior.
The Nairn Falls hike begins from the appropriately named Nairn Falls parking zone and it’s simple to comply with. As you stroll alongside the path you’ll be going alongside the gorgeous Inexperienced River that flows into Inexperienced Lake and it’s a pleasant sound that will get louder the nearer you get to the falls.
Keep away from strolling down onto the rocks as they are often deceivingly slippery and also you don’t wish to fall into the river since that may be tremendous harmful.
Nevertheless, there are many viewing decks the place you possibly can admire the falls and, typically really feel the mist from them in your face.
Nairn Falls path stats
- Distance: 3 km
- Length: 0.5 0 1.5 hours
- Elevation: Minimal
- Trail map for Nairn Falls
Brandywine Falls Hike Whistler
Brandywine Falls is among the most well-known and exquisite waterfalls in Whistler.
Standing at a formidable 70 meters tall, you’ll get an superior view from the viewing space which is a brief, simple stroll from the parking zone.
To succeed in the waterfall, you’ll cross some prepare tracks and arrive on the high-view platform. In case you proceed strolling to the left, you’ll discover one other viewing deck with a special perspective.
I’d advocate viewing the falls from each since neither is way or troublesome to get to.
Though there isn’t a official mountaineering path all the way down to Brandywine Falls, it’s attainable to achieve it. The hike, appropriate for many who are bodily in a position, is just not overly troublesome, and there are totally different routes you possibly can take.
To entry the path, go behind the second viewing platform on the left aspect of the primary platform. You’ll discover a gap within the fence, which serves because the path entrance. It’s essential to notice that since this isn’t an official path, you enter at your individual threat.
The path to the underside of Brandywine Falls goes down over some rocks utilizing a rope. You’ll wish to be sure you’re assured in doing this (and getting again up) and are carrying wise mountaineering sneakers.
To assist information you alongside the best way, you’ll discover path markers resembling pink tape tied to bushes and inexperienced spray paint markings on the bushes so preserve an eye fixed out for them.
Brandywine Falls path (to not the underside of the falls)
- Distance: 1.3 km
- Length: 0.5 0 1.5 hours
- Elevation: 56 m
- Trail map
Cheakamus Lake hike
The Cheakamus Lake path in Whistler is one other improbable simple hike and is usually one of many first hikes to turn out to be snow-free making it an important early summer time hike. The lake is, as with many on this space and Garibaldi Provincial Park, is beautiful!
Although there’s a minimal elevation achieve on this path, it’s for much longer than the opposite simple hikes on this record. So, if you happen to’ve been getting out mountaineering lately and wish to go a bit additional however with not a lot elevation, this can be a nice Whistler mountaineering path to strive.
What makes this path totally different from comparable hikes round Whistler, is that you just’re allowed to journey a motorcycle to it. You’ll need a mountain bike or an excellent gravel bike, however having the ability to cycle the largely flat path is a enjoyable option to discover the world.
In case you’re searching for a more durable hike, you possibly can mix this path with a hike out to Garibaldi Lake by way of Helm Creek and even as much as Panorama Ridge and Black Tusk.
- Distance: 14 km spherical journey
- Length: 2-4 hours
- Elevation: Minimal
- BC Parks day pass or tenting reservation wanted
Rainbow Falls Path Whistler
Rainbow Falls Whistler is a fab simple hike away from many of the widespread vacationer spots of Whistler. The path is usually flat and large, following the creek till you attain the falls.
It’s additionally among the finest simple dog-friendly hikes in Whistler, so long as they continue to be on a leash.
Start your hike to Rainbow Falls on the small parking zone on Alta Lake Street. As you hike alongside the path, you’ll come to a junction the place you’ll take the right-hand path for a stupendous stroll alongside the river.
At one other fork within the path, once more take the correct to return out to a viewpoint of the falls.
- Distance: 2.1 km spherical journey
- Length: 1-2 hours
- Elevation: 140 m
- Trail maps on AllTrails
Historical Cedars Path Whistler
If it rains you possibly can nonetheless benefit from the open air by heading to Whistler’s Historical Cedars path which takes you out to a grove of historical cedar bushes which partly shield you from the rain and are tremendous enjoyable to stroll by way of.
The path does have some uphill sections, although nothing too steep, and there’s some rougher terrain that’s much like patches of Vancouver’s north shore mountaineering trails.
You may’t fail to be impressed by the width and peak of those lovely cedar bushes so be sure you add this to your hikes to do in Whistler record.
You may proceed your stroll so long as you need on this space. There are waterfalls, a lake and extra lovely forests to be explored.
- Distance: 4.3 km spherical journey
- Length: 2+ hours
- Elevation: 300 m
- Trail maps on AllTrails
Word: the highway to the trailhead is finest for 4×4 or AWD drive autos with excessive clearance.
Loggers Lake Path Whistler
The Loggers Lake path in Whistler was a path I added to the tip of my bike journey to Cheakamus Lake one summer time whereas exploring Whistler’s Interpretive Forest.
You entry this path system from the Whistler Interpretive Forest space and it’s a brief and straightforward Whistler hike with only one steep part to climb as much as the Lake.
The entry highway is a gravel highway so that you’ll wish to take your drive fairly sluggish, and there’s restricted parking on the aspect of the highway at mini-pullouts.
You’ll additionally cross over the Whistler Suspension Bridge over Cheakamus River which is fairly cool in itself. And, if you happen to don’t wish to climb the hill as much as Loggers Lake then you possibly can simply wander by way of the forest and alongside the river.
The Lake itself is sort of small and there’s a path your complete means round so you possibly can take a stroll round it, discover someplace to chill out and even take a refreshing swim earlier than heading again to your automobile.
It’s a pleasant peaceable spot to get pleasure from and one of many finest hikes in Whistler Canada.
Loggers Lake Path Stats
- Distance: Underneath 3km
- Length: 30 minutes – 1 hour
- Elevation: 108m
- Trail map
Parkhurst Ghost City Path Whistler
In search of an uncommon hike in BC? Parkhurst Ghost City might be the reply!
You may take a brief hike in Whistler out to the ghost city simply behind Inexperienced Lake. The city of Parkhurst was deserted within the Sixties. At its peak, about 70 folks have been working and dwelling on this former logging settlement.
You may nonetheless see a few of the outdated equipment and buildings that have been used on the time.
Parkhurst Ghost City hike stats
- Distance: 7.5 km
- Length: 2 hours
- Elevation: 242 m
- AllTrails map
Alta Lake path
Alta Lake in Whistler is one among my favorite lakes in Whistler.
It’s additionally the primary one I ever visited and we went kayaking on it throughout my first journey to Whistler not lengthy after we’d moved to Vancouver.
That is extra of an city hike than a few of the others on this record, however it’s fairly nonetheless.
Plus, Alta Lake is among the finest swimming lakes in Whistler with so many little seashore areas the place you possibly can blow up your inflatables, have a picnic and chill off within the lake with pals.
The route I’ve given particulars for loops round Alta Lake on a mixture of paved flat strolling paths and a few trails, to views by way of the close by neighbourhood, to Blueberry Path within the woods alongside the lake on the east aspect. It additionally makes an important biking route.
In case you’re searching for mountaineering in Whistler in June, this can be a nice possibility since the entire thing will probably be snow free.
Alta Lake path hike stats
- Distance: 7.5 km
- Length: 2+ hours
- Elevation: 214 m
- AllTrails map
Whistler Alpine Stroll Path
If it’s views you need you possibly can’t get a lot better than the views from the Whistler Alpine Stroll path which you get to by taking the Blackcomb Gondola.
It’s gravelled and pretty large many of the means, with one part that will get fairly slender as you climb over some rock. There are scenic views, wildlife and alpine flowers to see (often in August).
Alpine stroll path Whistler
- Distance: 1.4 km
- Length: 0.5 hours
- Elevation: 78 m
- AllTrails map
- You’ll want a gondola move of this hike.
What to pack for mountaineering in Whistler
What to pack for this hike is dependent upon what season you’re mountaineering in.
- Try my day hike packing record right here.
- In case you’re mountaineering in summer time it is best to pack sunscreen, sun shades, layers, water and bug spray in addition to all the pieces within the 10 necessities for mountaineering record.
- Right here is what to put on mountaineering in scorching climate
- Try this put up on one of the best leggings for mountaineering or what to put on mountaineering in summer time for extra particulars and my gear suggestions.
- In case you’re mountaineering in winter after the snow has began falling you’ll want microspikes on the very least. If there’s loads of snow you’ll in all probability want snowshoes.
- You must also take loads of layers together with a fleece layer, a puffy insulated jacket and a wind and waterproof outer layer. Hats and gloves are additionally obligatory in addition to a good backpack to maintain all the pieces in.
- You must also pack water and a few snacks too to maintain you going as they’re a part of the 10 necessities for mountaineering!
- Planning a mountaineering date? Try what to put on on a mountaineering date however nonetheless look cool.
FAQs about one of the best simple Whistler hikes
What’s the best path at Whistler British Columbia?
One of many best mountaineering trails in Whistler is the Misplaced Lake Path or the path to the Whistler Practice Wreck. Brandywine Falls can be an excellent possibility for a straightforward waterfall hike in Whistler.
What’s the simple hike lake in Whistler?
ost Lake is the best hike to hike round in Whistler. Another choice is Cheakamus Lake however that is considerably longer at 16 km vs 4 km for Misplaced Lake.
Are you able to hike at Whistler totally free?
Sure! All the simple hikes in Whistler on this record are free to hike. You may also hike within the alpine totally free if you happen to’re ready to hike up the Singing Go path.
Do you want a move to hike in Whistler?
That relies upon. In case you’re mountaineering within the Alpine and wish to take the gondola, you’ll want a elevate ticket for the gondola. In case you’re mountaineering in Garibaldi Provincial Park you’ll want a free day use move.
Closing ideas about simple hikes in Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb is a good place for mountaineering close to Vancouver in the summertime months and never all of the hikes are difficult trails with 1000s of metres elevation achieve as you would possibly count on. In truth, a few of my favorite components of Whistler are these I’ve found whereas taking a straightforward stroll.
The straightforward trails are sometimes much less crowded than a few of the busier, more durable ones and imply you possibly can get pleasure from a leisurely stroll whether or not you’ve drained your self out from different adventures or are visiting Whistler with children and pals.
Need extra Whistler hikes? Try this information to the finest hikes in Whistler (together with exhausting Whistler hikes!)
Hannah began That Adventurer after graduating again in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to metropolis breaks in Europe, a 3 month highway journey throughout the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years dwelling in Canada, you’ll discover posts on all of this.
Hannah specialises in lively journey and on That Adventurer you’ll discover mountaineering, strolling, biking, snowboarding and all kinds of lively journey guides to can help you see a vacation spot in an adventurous means.
Now again in Europe, you’ll discover new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the following 12 months ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and locations in between.
Whistler, BC gives quite a lot of simple mountaineering trails that showcase the beautiful pure fantastic thing about the world. From picturesque lakes to panoramic mountain views, these hikes present an ideal alternative to discover the outside. With well-maintained paths, clear signage, and accessible beginning factors, these trails are appropriate for all health ranges. Whether or not you’re a newbie hiker or searching for a leisurely stroll, Whistler’s simple hikes are a must-visit vacation spot for nature fans.