The Ultimate Local’s Guide to Off-Slope Adventures in Whistler | Yoga, Pilates, Hiking, BIking, SUP, Dance, Art & More

BEYOND THE SLOPES: THE BEST OFF-SLOPE ACTIVITIES IN WHISTLER

Whistler is world-famous for its ski runs, but there’s so much more to experience beyond the slopes. Whether you're looking for a relaxing spa day, scenic hikes, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Whistler offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a non-skier or just need a break from the mountain, here’s your guide to the best off-slope activities in Whistler.
Pro tip: if you are visiting Whistler with you dog, make sure you check out the Little Pine Pet guide to Whistler's pet-friendly hangouts.

GO CHASING WATERFALLS

Whistler’s stunning natural beauty includes breathtaking waterfalls perfect for exploration year-round. These picturesque falls make for excellent hiking destinations and photo opportunities.

Brandywine Falls – A short and easy walk leads you to a stunning 70-meter waterfall, one of Whistler’s most iconic sights.

Rainbow Falls – Just a short hike from the Rainbow Lake trailhead, these hidden falls are a perfect summer swimming spot.

Nairn Falls – Located en route to Pemberton, this stunning cascade is an easy year-round hike with rewarding views.

Best time to visit: Spring and summer for higher water flow, winter for snow-covered beauty.

COLD PLUNGE AT NITA LAKE

Cold plunging is a beloved local wellness ritual, known for its rejuvenating health benefits. Even in the depths of winter, you’ll find a hole cut into the ice at Nita Lake Dock, offering the perfect spot for an invigorating dip.

Tip: Follow your plunge with a warm drink at Fix Café inside Nita Lake Lodge.

RELAX IN SCANDINAVIAN BATHS

Experience ultimate relaxation at Scandinave Spa Whistler, an outdoor oasis surrounded by alpine scenery. This Scandinavian spa offers hot and cold plunge pools, steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation areas for a full-body reset.

Best time to visit: Early mornings for a quieter experience or evenings under the stars.

Above: BRING THE SPA TO YOU: SOLOMÈ BEAUTY SPA & APRÈS-SKI RELAXATION SET

SNOWSHOEING: A PEACEFUL ALTERNATIVE TO SKIING

Escape into Whistler’s winter wonderland on snowshoes or cross-country skis. Explore Whistler’s winter wonderland on snowshoes. Lost Lake, Whistler Olympic Park, and Callaghan Valley offer scenic trails that range from beginner-friendly to more advanced terrain. It’s a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Whistler at a slower pace.

Where to go:

Whistler Olympic Park – Offers groomed trails, biathlon experiences, and lessons for all skill levels.

Lost Lake Park – A favorite for locals, this accessible trail system is perfect for a peaceful Nordic skiing or snowshoeing adventure.

TUBE PARK: FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN

The Coca-Cola Tube Park at Blackcomb Mountain is an exhilarating activity for all ages. No skill required—just grab a tube and slide down the thrilling lanes.

INDULGE IN WHISTLER’S FOODIE SCENE

Whistler’s vibrant food scene is perfect for après-ski or a full culinary experience. Try the famous fondue at The Chalet, enjoy local flavors at Alta Bistro, or warm up with a craft cocktail at The Raven Room.

TAKE A SCENIC NATURE WALK

Looking for a peaceful escape? Whistler has several beginner-friendly trails and wheelchair-accessible options for leisurely walks through ancient forests.

Whistler Train Wreck – A stunning, easy hike featuring old-growth forest and graffiti-covered rail cars.

Interpretive Forest – Learn about the local ecosystem while enjoying a scenic walk along the Cheakamus River.

Farside Trail & Sea to Sky Trail – Follow the river’s edge and take in the breathtaking mountain scenery.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES: AUDAIN ART MUSEUM & LIL'WAT CULTURAL CENTRE

Audain Art Museum – Showcasing an incredible collection of Indigenous art, contemporary pieces, and works from BC’s most celebrated artists.

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) – A must-visit to learn about the deep history, traditions, and artistry of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations.

ART GALLERY WALKS: EXPLORE WHISTLER'S CREATIVE SIDE

Beyond the Audain Museum, Whistler is home to several art galleries that feature works from local and international artists. Stroll through The Gallery at the Maury Young Arts Centre, visit Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont, or discover unique pieces at Fathom Stone Art Gallery. An art walk is a perfect way to experience Whistler’s creative culture while taking a break from the cold.

DOG SLEDDING: AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Take a guided dog sled tour through Whistler’s backcountry, led by a team of energetic Alaskan or Siberian huskies. Blackcomb Dog Sled and Canadian Wilderness Adventures offer incredible experiences where you can learn about mushing and enjoy a magical ride through snow-covered trails.

AXE THROWING: UNLEASH YOUR INNER LUMBERJACK

Experience this uniquely Canadian activity at Forged Axe Throwing, where instructors teach you how to throw like a pro. Perfect for a fun night out with friends.

ICE SKATING AT OLYMPIC PLAZA

Whistler Olympic Plaza transforms into a magical outdoor skating rink in winter. Whether you’re gliding under the festive lights or enjoying a hot chocolate rinkside, it’s a classic winter experience.

BUNGEE JUMPING: FOR THE THRILL-SEEKERS

If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, try Whistler Bungee—one of the most scenic bungee jumps in the world, with a 160ft plunge over the Cheakamus River

EXPERIENCE VALLEA LUMINA: A NIGHTTIME MULTIMEDIA ADVENTURE

Step into a world of wonder with Vallea Lumina, an immersive, multimedia night walk set in the Whistler forest. Follow cryptic radio transmissions and glowing lights as you explore the magical alpine environment.

Best time to visit: After sunset for the full immersive experience.

YOGA, PILATES & DANCE CLASSES

Take time to stretch, center yourself, and meet like-minded wellness seekers. Whistler has several studios offering yoga, pilates, and dance classes for all levels.

Where to go:

ALGN Dance Studio – Offers dance and movement classes.

YogaCara – A cozy yoga studio offering restorative and power yoga sessions.

STAND-UP PADDLEBOARDING /SUP & BIKE RENTALS

While winter dominates Whistler’s outdoor scene, summer opens up a whole new world of activities. Paddleboarding on Alta Lake and biking through Lost Lake Trails are must-dos when the snow melts.

Find rentals and more details in our full guide: SUP & Bike Rentals in Whistler

PLAN YOUR PERFECT OFF-SLOPE ADVENTURE IN WHISTLER

Whistler is more than just a ski destination—it’s a year-round paradise for adventure, wellness, and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for an active day outdoors or a tranquil retreat, there’s something for everyone beyond the slopes.

For more local recommendations and organic skincare essentials to complement your Whistler retreat, explore Solome Beauty for handcrafted, natural beauty solutions perfect for mountain life.

THE WHISTLER OFF-SLOPES ACTIVITY DIRECTORY

From a day exploring forested trails to soaking up in Nature's baths, there's plenty to do in the mountains of Whistler, whether you don't ski or snowboard or want to take a day off the slopes. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, culture, or excitement, there’s something for everyone to experience in this mountain paradise. Which activity are you adding to your Whistler itinerary?

Yoga Studios, Pilates and Meditation

Whistler is a Yoga mecca. Here are some of the yoga studios in Whistler that are a must for recovering from the Whistler lifestyle.

AL|GN Yoga and Dance
Drop-In YOGA, dance, pilates, and more. Centrally located in Whistler Village.

The Petal Studio at The Velvet Underground

Nourishment for the mind + body - naturally. Movement/meditation/connection. For the wild ones. The Petal Studio offers classes at The Velvet Underground.

Altitude Fitness

As well as their other great classes, Altitude also offer Power Yoga (advanced), Apres Yoga and Flow Yoga (all abilities).

Peak Training Whistler

With a focus on one-on-one, partner and small group training, Peak Training Whistler provides education and empowerment. Further, they are teaming up with like-minded yoga instructors, breathwork pracitioners and movement coaches to further expand the definition of movement wellness and to help clients truly reach their individual peak of well-being.

Luna Whistler

Late & Unique Nighttime Alternatives (LUNA) is a fantastic programme put on by the municipality that provides fun, alcohol-free nighttime events for young adults aged 18-35 in Whistler.

Yogacara Whistler

Traditional and authentic yoga classes that nurture mind, body and soul. Small class sizes, an intention that puts people first.

Yoga with Mia

Private and semi-private classes in the comfort of your own home, where putting on shoes or hopping in your car is no longer needed.

Howe Sound Women's Centre

The Howe Sound Women’s Centre offers a variety of programs and services to support women and children in our community. One of their services is yoga by donation, every Thursday morning from 9.30-10.30am.

Lululemon Athletica

From yoga classes and mindful moments, to high-intensity training sessions, to runs of all distances.

Whistler Core Climbing and Fitness Centre

From mellow yoga to intense metabolic "Mountain Athletic" workouts, this centre has two Studios with impact absorbing floors surrounded by mirrors, Zen colours and a sound system that will get you rocking.

Find Gyms and Fitness Facilities in Whistler

Keep your fitness regime going or stretch your muscles out after a vigorous day of play in the mountains by visiting one of Whistler's well-equipped gyms or fitness facilities.

Altitude Fitness

Full service gym offering a vast selection of state-of-the-art equipment, personal training, fitness classes and tanning.

Meadow Park Sports Centre

Large world-class, award-winning multi-purpose recreational facility. Whether you're a family, senior, athlete, or you simply want to explore on your own, you'll find many ways to play and stay active.

Whistler Core Climbing and Fitness Centre

Provides a full selection of the finest equipment and service to fully meet your various health, fitness, and athletic needs and goals. Whether you want to drop-in and do your own thing, work with others with similar goals and aspirations or by yourself with one of our personal trainers, they have a package that will work for you.

Whistler Creek Athletic Club

Fully equipped gym and tanning facility conveniently located in the Whistler Creek Lodge in Whistler's Creekside.

Whistler Racket Club

From indoor tennis/pickleball dome to axe throwing/snowball fight zones and spacious Courtside Cafe patio & bar, the WRC is the place for all to come and play.