For those of you who have been lucky enough to spend time in Whistler between September-December you will know that Whistler’s ‘off-season’ has heaps to offer without the crowds. After Labour Day long weekend and until the winter season begins at the end of November a mellow atmosphere overcomes Whistler which is a nice change of pace to the regular hustle and bustle. One of the best reasons to visit Whistler during this time is the amount you will save on accommodation and travel due to off-peak rates. Despite the quieter nature of the shoulder season there are still ample activities and events to enjoy. Here are Five Awesome Whistler Activities to try this Fall:
1. Foodie Festivals
There is no better time to be a foodie in Whistler then the autumn months. September marks the annual Whistler Village Beer Festival. This 5 day event features 80 breweries and over 200 beers. With over 6000 attendants expected each year this is definitely a social event not to miss. Cornucopia, which takes place over 10 days in November, is Whistler’s premier food and wine event of the year. This celebration of food and drink is jammed packed with tasting events, seminars, gala tastings and more. This year Nourish: Health and Wellness will be taking place- a signature event of the festival. Choose between a 4 day retreat-style program or a workshop a-la-carte style program. Both Nourish Programs feature yoga, cooking, breath-work and farm to table dinners. Many restaurants around Whistler offer great deals on a-la-carte dining. Ask your favorite restaurant or check the local newspaper for shoulder season dining specials.
2. Hiking
Fall is a spectacular time of the year to hike in Whistler. With the landscape a myriad of changing colors, the wildlife actively preparing for winters arrival and the crowds nowhere to be seen you will experience Whistler in a way not possible throughout the rest of the year. The Alpine remains a great place to hike until mid October with last year’s snow far behind and generally the new season’s snow still a month or so away. Walks and hikes around the valley trails and lakes are also ideal this time of year, enjoy the cooler temperatures and the changing colours of the landscape; if you’re lucky you may even spot a bear preparing for winter hibernation!
3. Zip-trekking
What better way to check out the kaleidoscope of fall colours than via a Zipline? Cruise through the tree-top canopies and get a birds-eye view of the forests, rivers and wildlife below. Zip-lining is a year-round activity in Whistler however autumn has to be one of the most beautiful times to enjoy this thrilling experience. Get discounts on your zip-lining experience by purchasing a Whistler Adventure Passport which has over $1000 on savings of tours, attractions, retail and dining in Whistler. The book only costs $20!
4. Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking really peaks during the summer months however in fall you can have the trails nearly all to yourself. The Whistler Mountain Bike Park which is open for fall riding until October 12th is a great place to tackle some downhill. With four zones to choose from- The Fitzsimmons Zone, Garbanzo Zone, Peak Zone and Creek Zone- you will find something for all styles and experience levels. The bike park is now accessible from Whistler Creekside making it easier than ever to experience mountain biking on Whistler Mountain. Other Village rides to check out for cross-country riders include the Lost Lake trail network, the Danimal tracks, the Cheakamus Lake Trail and the No Flow Zone. These trails are open all fall and are great until the snow starts.
5. Catch a Fish
Autumn is the best month in Whistler for fishing as salmon enter the rivers and trout start to get hungry in the lakes. Fly fishing is popular in the rivers around Whistler and fall is the best time to catch the coveted Chinook Salmon as they fight their way up stream. Other salmon species biting include coho, pink, and chum. Bring your own line to cast or join a guided fishing tour and let the pros help you catch your dinner.
Come take advantage of some of the best Whistler deals available this autumn as you soak up the relaxed pace and atmosphere.The Whistler Adventure Passport is your ideal travel companion for your time in Whistler. Save over $1000 on tours, attractions, dining and retail- get it now!