ALPINE SEASONS OF SUMMER
TIME. TRAVEL.
An alpine summer is no one-time wonder -- it's an entire series. Before the sun rides solstice-high, parts of the mountain cling to hibernation, making summer in the mountains a very unique experience. Each week brings something new, making no two visits the same. Discover what makes each season of the Summer Alpine Experience different so that you can plan your day.
EARLY SUMMER: MAY - JUNE
While it may feel like spring in the Village, it's a different story at the top of the mountains. An abundant of snow still remains from the winter past which covers the majority of the hiking trails.
But that doesn't mean fun can't still be had. Giant snow walls are carved out along an alpine road providing a unique perspective of the snow that recently fell.
THINGS TO DO THIS SEASON
- Ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola
- Trek through multi-story Snow Walls
- Dine at 1,800m at the tops of Whistler or Blackcomb mountains
- Hike from the valley towards the sky on the Blackcomb Ascent Trails (trails will open as the snow melts)
MID-SUMMER: JULY - AUGUST
Warmer temperatures have risen from the valley floor, melting the majority of the snow, and making the alpine ready for adventure. Ride our open-air chairlift to the peak of Whistler mountains, and check out the Top of the World Summit, Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven's Eye Lookout. You will experience jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Coast Mountains like the iconic Black Tusk, the Tantalus Range, Castle Towers and more.
The surrounding alpine peaks, ancient glaciers, and tarns are true wonders of the earth.
THINGS TO DO THIS SEASON
- Ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola
- Ride open-air chairlift to the Top of the World Summit
- Walk the Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven's Eye Lookout
- Walk or run the alpine trail network, over 50km long
- Observe black bears and other wildlife in their natural habitat
- Discover the ancient glaciers and volcanic remains that sculpted the Coast Range
- Dine at 1,800m at the tops of Whistler or Blackcomb mountains
- Hike from the valley towards the sky on the Blackcomb Ascent Trails
WILDFLOWERS - IN BLOOM FOR A LIMITED TIME
Whistler and Blackcomb’s wildflower bloom is a fleeting explosion of trail-side colour. Typically seen for only 2-3 weeks in mid-summer, it is a must-do experience worth dropping everything for. Hike select trails in the Summer Alpine Experience network to discover a variety of types, from White Mountain Heather to Indian Paintbrush. Learn More
LATE-SUMMER: SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER
As the days get shorter and the evenings colder, the PEAK 2 PEAK 360 Experience remains very much alive. Hiking in September is arguably one of our best summer experiences.
Make sure to pay attention to lift operating times and dates as summer ramps down.
THINGS TO DO THIS SEASON
- Ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola
- Ride open-air chairlifts to the top of 7th Heaven or Top of the World Summit
- Walk or run the alpine trail network, over 50km long
- Observe black bears and other wildlife in their natural habitat
- Discover the ancient glaciers and volcanic remains that sculpted the Coast Range
- Dine at 1,800m at the tops of Whistler or Blackcomb mountains
- Hike from the valley towards the sky on the Blackcomb Ascent Trails
Important Information
Being prepared is the best way to make the most out of your visit to Whistler Blackcomb. Check out these tips to make sure you're on the right track:
WHAT TO WEAR
- Closed-toe walking or hiking shoes (not high heels or flip flops)
- Depending on the season, a light sweater or jacket at minimum. The temperature at the top of the mountain is usually 10 degrees cooler than in the village, so always remember to pack layers! Check the alpine forecast for daily updates.
WHAT TO BRING
- Water and food for longer hikes
- Layers of clothing
- Sunscreen
- A camera
- Money (and an appetite) if you would like to visit our wonderful on mountain dining locations
HOW MUCH TIME DO I NEED
- If you want to simply upload the Wizard Chair/Solar Express, take the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola across and ride the Whistler Village Gondola down, it will take approximately 1.5 hours to complete.
- If you want to do all of our activities it would take a full summer!
- Check out the Alpine Trails page to find out more about route times.
MAKE YOUR DOLLAR GO FURTHER
- Buy your pass or ticket, and lodging more than 2 days in advance for discounted pricing.
- Upgrade to a 360 Season Pass to take advantage of exclusive deals on dining, retail, and lodging, as well as unlimited access to both mountains all summer long.
HOW TO FIND THE BEST ACTIVITIES
- It is impossible to say what the best activities are, but here is a list of all our summer activities in resort and on the mountain.
TOP PHOTO SPOTS
- A few of our favourite spots are: Top of 7th Heaven Express Chairlift, Top of the World Summit, and the Roundhouse Lodge Terrace.
- Take a look at the Alpine Trail Map for the Inukshuk icon for other breathtaking picture opportunities.
KID-FRIENDLY ACTIVITES
- Visit the Family Adventure Zone at the bottom of the Wizard Express Chair (Blackcomb base)
- Jump around in the Snow Play Zone outside the Roundhouse Lodge
STAY CONNECTED
- Whistler Blackcomb is pleased to offer free Wifi at the following on-mountain locations: Roundhouse Lodge, Rendezvous Lodge, top of Peak Express, and top of Harmony Ridge.
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