Water Activities
Whistler offers a variety of water sports in its beautiful, fresh mountain lakes.
Whistler has five lakes, all have parks, sandy beaches and picnic facilities. Try swimming, canoeing, windsurfing, kayaking, sailing and other water sports in safe fresh water lakes.
The Whistler area also has many big rivers, driven by the tons of melting snow. The rivers are used for fishing, canoeing, jetboating, kayaking and white water . The past several years has seen White Water Rafting develop into one of the most popular summer activities.
With all of the exciting summer adventures now available, Whistler is fast becoming as popular in the summer as it is in the winter.
Jet Boating
An alternate to white water rafting that leaves you slightly less wet, but no less thrilling. These 12 passenger, propellerless aluminum crafts can get you into spots normally seen by only moose and deer. The Green River trip whisks guests through dense forest and sheer granite walls to the base of thundering Nairn Falls. The Lillooet River tour passes through the remote home of the In-shuckch Indian Nation, past ancient petroglyphs and fishing camps. Osprey, seals and spawning salmon can be seen along the way. Clear water rivers through old growth forest, are beautiful to behold. Some operators offer dinner cruises.
Kayaking
With all the running water in the Whistler area, there had to be kayaking. Whistler has 9 rivers to chose from within the area. Learn to Kayak on the flat waters of Alta Lake and then try your new skills through some moving water. Courses offered are 1 - 2 day intros to 6 day camps or specialized technique clinics.
Join a white water Kayaking tour, from 2 - day to 16 days.
Canoeing
Not all our rivers are white water. Whistler has five beautiful lakes available for swimming, canoeing and other water sports. In addition, the river of Golden Dreams is a very popular calm river allowing canoeists to paddle to Green Lake from Alta Lake.
Nature, wildlife and majestic scenery can be enjoyed on a canoeing trip that the family can enjoy. Full days or part days are available for your convenience. Tours are available with local experienced operators who know the safe routes.
White Water Rafting
The Whistler area has many big rivers, driven by the tons of melting snow. The past several years has seen White Water Rafting develop into one of the most popular summer activities. Operators provide transportation and a selection of rafting adventures. Photos of the action are part of the package. The Green River provides a great introduction to whitewater rafting: Small rapids and views of snow-capped mountains make this a favorite tour for beginners. The classic rapids of the Birkenhead River at the base of Mount Currie provide more of a thrill. And the day-long trip on the powerful Elaho and Squamish Rivers is highlighted by ice-blue glaciers and cascading waterfalls. All rafting companies in B.C. are government-registered and must meet strict safety standards.
The Elaho-Squamish river is rated as class 4 river with class 2 and 3 rapids. Depending on the river flow, the Elaho has drops, mini-boulders, holes, boulder garden rapids, a few eddies, high volume and the Big Wave. A smoother and technically easier run describes the Squamish River, but is has Steamroller Rapid, holes, swift flowing water and standing waves.
Wind Surfing
Windsurfing is located at Rainbow Beach Park on beautiful Alta Lake. 6 years and up will enjoy this easy learning program. All you need to bring is a swim suit, towel, aqua socks or old running shoes, sunscreen and a T-shirt. Telephone: 1-604.932.3898
Bear Viewing Tours
Rising above Whistler Village are the vast coastal hemlock-cedar forests of the Whistler Blackcomb ski area. These forests interspersed with ski trails provide diverse food and shelter for some 50 black bears. Experience the pristine views of wildlife, glacial peaks and memorable sunsets in a 4x4 vehicle. Travel through deep old growth coastal hemlock-cedar forests, visit active bear dens, daybeds and feeding sites. Witness evening play between a mother and her cubs.
Ziptrek EcoTours
Experience an incredible three hour hour journey as you ride on a series of cables and suspension bridges, and explore the hidden beauty of Fitzsimmons Creek and the picturesque forest valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.
Ziptrek tours run regularly throughout the day, all year round, and in almost all weather conditions. Reservations are highly recommended.