Some journeys begin long before you reach your destination — and the drive to Whistler is a visual love letter to British Columbia. Whether you’re chasing alpine air or a summer paddle on a still lake, the road from Vancouver to Whistler via the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) is as unforgettable as the village itself. Rugged coastline, soaring peaks, whispering forests — it’s a journey that stirs the senses before you even arrive.

Just minutes after leaving West Vancouver, travelers hug the coast and pass Horseshoe Bay, where ferries depart to both Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast. From there, the highway clings to the edge of Howe Sound, where cliffs drop into the ocean and the horizon dances with snow-draped mountains.

Before reaching Squamish, stop at the historic Britannia Mine Museum, once the largest copper mine in the British Empire. This National Historic Site offers underground tours, interactive exhibits, and a spectacular Boom! show — where sound, light, and storytelling bring the early 20th century mining era vividly to life. The museum also includes a scenic boardwalk, a massive haul truck, and a chance to pan for gold — all with an epic mountain backdrop. It’s one of many immersive things to do in Whistler en route.

Next, feel the mist on your face as you admire the Shannon Falls — they thunder down 335 metres of sheer granite, roaring through the forest just five minutes from the parking lot. It’s a visceral experience, where the cool spray mixes with pine scent and the echoes of nature seem to linger long after you leave.

Pull over at the Tantalus Lookout — and don’t miss your chance, as it’s only accessible when heading north. From here, the jagged silhouette of the Tantalus Range (peaks reaching up to 2,600 metres) cuts against the sky like a frozen wave. On the way back, stop at the southbound Tantalus Viewpoint for a second helping — the view is just as spectacular from the other direction. And don’t miss the sharp, toothlike spire of Black Tusk, a volcanic plug and one of the most iconic geological features in the Garibaldi range.

Nearby, just before entering Squamish, the Sea to Sky Gondola sweeps visitors above the treetops and into a world of hanging bridges, alpine trails, and panoramic lookouts.

During salmon season, make time for Brackendale, a neighbourhood just north of Squamish. Home to one of the largest concentrations of bald eagles anywhere in the world, Brackendale can host over 1,000 eagles at its peak. These majestic birds gather along the rivers to feed on spawning salmon — a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. Designated viewing areas provide safe and respectful access to this natural wonder.

Further north, the forest opens again at Brandywine Falls, where a short walk through mossy woodland leads to a dramatic 70-metre cascade plunging into a basalt canyon — the mist catching sunlight in suspended rainbows.

For travelers coming from or continuing toward Pemberton and Lillooet, don’t miss a visit to Nairn Falls. Located north of Whistler, this short, scenic hike brings you to the rushing 60-metre falls, which slice through a rocky canyon and offer a quieter, less-traveled nature moment.

Legacy in the morning light — Whistler’s Olympic Rings stand quietly at sunrise, a reminder of the 2010 Winter Games. Image: Peter Wolf

And then Whistler emerges — crisp mountain air, alpine peaks in every direction, and a village that blends rustic elegance with high-energy adventure. Framed by the twin giants of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the pedestrian-friendly Whistler Village offers a blend of stylish shops, inviting patios, open plazas and quiet trails that start just steps from the centre.

Start the day with a quiet early morning stroll, when the village is still wrapped in a gentle stillness. The smell of freshly roasted coffee and buttery croissants floats through the air, shopkeepers begin setting up their displays, and sunlight glimmers on the surrounding peaks. This is the Whistler few get to see — serene, welcoming, and effortlessly beautiful.

At the entrance to town, a massive Inukshuk — the stone landmark of Inuit heritage — stands as a symbol of guidance and welcome. Nearby, the Olympic Rings, left as a legacy of the 2010 Winter Games, offer a picture-perfect spot to mark your visit.

Whistler played a starring role during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, hosting the alpine skiing, Nordic events, bobsleigh and more at the Whistler Olympic Park and Whistler Sliding Centre. Over 2,600 athletes from 82 nations competed across British Columbia, with Whistler at the centre of some of the most thrilling moments. Today, Olympic signage, commemorative art, and repurposed venues can still be found throughout the town, giving visitors a lasting connection to the Games’ spirit.

Whistler at its most peaceful — an early spring morning along the Village Stroll, before the world arrives.

Did you know?: Whistler is consistently ranked among the top ski resorts in the world. With over 2 million annual visitors, it’s not only Canada’s most visited four-season resort but also an international icon in the outdoor adventure scene. The town has around 14,000 permanent residents, but its numbers swell dramatically in both summer and winter. The resort’s origins date back to the 1960s, with development accelerating in the 1970s and 80s as it gained global renown for both skiing and summer activities. Today, it stands as a benchmark for resort excellence worldwide.

In summer, Whistler sightseeing becomes a feast for the senses as it trades skis for sunshine and welcomes guests into a world of alpine exploration, lazy lakeside afternoons, and relaxed mountain village vibes. A short, easy 15-minute hike brings you to Lost Lake, a peaceful spot perfect for a swim, picnic, or nap under the pines. Shaded trails weave through the forest, opening up to a small sandy beach and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks reflected in its still waters.

Step into a gondola cabin at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and ascend toward alpine meadows and panoramic vistas. The ride offers ever-expanding views of ancient glaciers and dramatic ridgelines. From the top, you can dine at Rendezvous Lodge or simply wander through the wildflower-dotted trails.

For the ultimate view, take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, a world-record-holding lift that spans 4.4 km between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Suspended high above the valley floor, it offers breathtaking views in every direction and lets you explore both peaks in a single day.

Want more? Hike into the alpine backcountry, where marmots whistle from sun-warmed rock ledges and the snow lingers well into July. Or rent an e-bike and cruise the Valley Trail, which weaves through lakes, forests, and quiet neighbourhoods where locals garden under the watchful eye of the peaks.

Golden leaves and alpine air — Whistler Village Stroll in full autumn colour beneath a crisp blue sky.

For culture lovers, Whistler offers a rich canvas:

• The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is a must for anyone interested in First Nations history and artistry. It honours the Indigenous heritage of the region with live storytelling, carving demonstrations, traditional cuisine, and immersive exhibits — all curated by members of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations.
• The Audain Art Museum, with its dramatic architecture and softly lit galleries, houses one of the finest collections of British Columbian art — from Indigenous masks to Emily Carr and modern masters. It’s a meditative and deeply enriching experience in the heart of nature.
• Scattered throughout the village, Inukshuks, carvings, and interpretive signs quietly remind visitors that this place has always been a meeting ground, long before the ski lifts arrived.

And yes, bears do wander through town. It’s part of Whistler’s rhythm — untamed and welcoming, thrilling yet tranquil.

Whistler lies roughly 120 km (75 miles) north of Vancouver, accessible via the unforgettable Sea-to-Sky Highway. While most arrive from the south, some epic multi-day Rockies tours descend from the north via Pemberton and Lillooet — a twisting, cliff-hugging route that unveils yet another face of British Columbia’s wild beauty.

• By car: For maximum flexibility and spontaneous scenic stops (trust us, you’ll want to pull over more than once!)
• By shuttle: Multiple companies offer direct transfers from downtown Vancouver or YVR
• By private tour: For those who prefer a custom itinerary with local insight and flexible pacing

Whistler is more than just a destination — it’s a full-body experience. One that begins the moment you leave the city and lingers in memory long after the peaks disappear behind you.