Whistler is synonymous with the outdoors – from hikes and biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter – the mountains are calling! Today we thought we’d provide some insight into our favourite hikes in the Whistler area. Pack your camera and your SPF and join us in exploring these incredible trails…
Hannah’s Choice – Joffre Lakes
The top of many a Whistler visitors’ list, Joffre Lakes is nothing short of stunning. Hiking pro Stephen Hui writes: ‘With the all-ages, international crowd and tourist-grade trail — made markedly easier in recent years — Joffre Lakes Provincial Park has the feel of a national park.’ And he’s not wrong. Nita Spa Manager, Hannah describes: “Think lush, emerald forests and vivid turquoise waters – Joffre literally is the Canadian tourists’ dream”. Rated as ‘Moderate’, the trail itself is just short of 8km and takes in both the Lower and Upper Lakes. Being one of the more popular hikes, we recommend arriving early to secure a parking spot and avoid the crowds.
Carly’s Choice – Wedgemount Lake
One of the more difficult hikes in our selection, Wedgemount Lake is certainly worth the slog. To reach this amazing alpine lake, expect elevation gain of more than 1,100 meters in just 7km. ‘Before leaving, make sure you’ve packed plenty of water as well as a jacket’, writes VancouverTrails.com. ‘Temperatures can surprisingly be very cool at the top even on the warmest days in mid-summer.’ If you’re keen to prolong the adventure, the trail features a number of tent pads, which can be reserved in advance. “It’s a great opportunity to watch sunset/sunrise from the alpine!” – Hotel Manager, Carly.
Sam’s Choice – High Note Trail
This incredible hike is accessed from the top of Peak Chair on Whistler Mountain. It’s about 9.5km in total with a couple of moderate hills thrown in for good measure. High note Trail is super accessible and one of many popular family hikes. “I love the High Note Trail for its spectacular views”, explains Samantha – Guest Relations Manager at Nita Lake Lodge. “There’s even an opportunity to spot wildlife and it’s not uncommon to see a bear from the gondola on the way up!” Highlights include views out over turquoise Cheakamus Lake and beautiful alpine flowers in Harmony Meadows.
Jacqui’s choice – Whistler Snow Walls
Experience nature’s air conditioner with a wander among the incredible snow walls on Whistler Mountain. Best viewed in spring, access to the snow walls is included in the PEAK 2 PEAK 360 Experience. From the Roundhouse Lodge, ‘The trail you are looking for is Pika’s Traverse Rd to Matthew’s Traverse Rd, which is a distance of 3.8 km (one way)’, explains The Whistler Insider. “The snow walls can be as high as 8 or 9 meters and the trail offers unlimited photo opportunities”, explains Guest Services Agent, Jacqui. “You definitely won’t want to leave your camera behind!”
Marco’s Choice – Iceberg Lake
With a roundtrip of 17km, The Iceberg Lake trail is not to be taken lightly. However, with proper preparation, you’ll experience lots of what Whistler has to offer! “From old-growth forest and waterfalls, to wide open meadows and mighty glaciers, the Iceberg Lake trail has something for everyone”, says Outlets Manager, Marco. There may be moments where the trail becomes undecipherable – check out AllTrails for when you lose your orange markers. It’s always a handy app to have when planning your routes. We recommend packing plenty of water and also to take your lunch with you – you’ll need the fuel on this one!
For ideas on other great apps to enhance your Whistler hiking experience, check out our Top 3 by clicking here.