Whistler’s Hike and Bike Trails: Travel Tips

This guide to Whistler’s hike and bike trails was last updated March 2024.

There’s nothing quite like getting outdoors in Whistler, especially where you can feel the sun on your face and breeze in your hair. Here’s our Insider’s Guide to Whistler’s hike and bike trail options to get you started.

Hike and Bike Trails on the Mild Side

We did a round-up of some of the mellower walks around Whistler that utilized Whistler’s incredible 46-kilometre Whistler Valley Trail, weaving past lakes, beaches and parks. This post has some great suggestions if you’re after a cruisy walk or bike in the sunshine or if you’re visiting in the fall, check out this post on the changing of the seasons, Insider’s Guide: Finding Fall Colours on Whistler’s Trails. Pack some snacks, water, your sunglasses and get out there!

There are a lot more e-bikes about these days and the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) has some guidelines in place for their usage. Class 1 pedal-assisted e-bikes are allowed on the Valley Trail and most off-road trails with some exceptions like Mount Sproatt and Rainbow Mountain alpine trails and Emerald Forest Conservation Area.

Just like when you ride a normal bike, the same trail etiquette is applied, you have to be in control, watch your speed (especially around kids and dogs) and stick to the right-hand side of the trail, alerting other users when you pass on the left. If you haven’t tried an e-bike then you can rent one or take a tour.

Hiking Tips

Some of our favourite hiking routes are around Lost Lake and Cheakamus River, as well as the Train Wreck and Ancient Cedars. If you’re looking for something more challenging, check out the suggestions in this post, although bear in mind the season, Insider’s Guide: Summer Hiking in Whistler. Be aware of the wildlife in higher alpine areas and always pack out what you pack in.

Note that the RMOW and Whistler’s Off-Road Cycling Association (WORCA) work on the trails throughout the season, so some trails might be closed for maintenance. Respect the work they’re doing to make the trails better for everyone, read the signage and give them the space they need.

Not sure what you need to pack in your bag? Insider Penny Buswell put together a handy hiking essentials list. We also have a stunning 360-degree video that takes you through some of these mellower hiking options, great viewing if you’re not able to join us in-person just yet.

Mountain Biking Tips

Make sure your bike is serviced and ready to go before you hit the trails, check Trailforks for which trails are clear and open, and stick to the path. Check this gear post out for what to bring with you, Planning and Packing for a Whistler Bike Trip.

Whistler Mountain Bike Trails for Beginners

This series of posts on cross-country biking in Whistler was put together by local riders Hailey Elise and Ollie Jones, and it features beginner to expert riding options for all over Whistler Valley.

If you’re coming in the spring or fall, make sure you check which trails are open and prepare for “tacky” dirt and muddy pants.

These Trails Don’t Build Themselves – How to Get Involved

Regardless of whether you believe in trail fairies or trail builders, the mountain bike trails around Whistler didn’t magically appear. In fact, hundreds of hours go into building and maintaining the trails each year. Learn more about how you can support the Whistler trails, get the latest trail updates and connect with the biking community over at Whistler Off Road Cycling Association (WORCA).

Whistler Running Routes

Looking for some scenic running loops in Whistler? Check out this post for different route ideas and even some local music suggestions, Going the Distance: Running Events & Races in Whistler.