I might be a little biased, but in my humble opinion, Whistler is one of the most photogenic places on the planet. From our quaint Village to the endless snow-capped peaks, everywhere you turn you’re surrounded by vistas just begging to be photographed. If you’re like me, and you love sharing your experiences through images, these iconic Whistler locations make for some of the best Instagram spots in winter.
1. PEAK 2 PEAK GONDOLA
Spanning the distance between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola offers a killer, 360-degree view. Snap a panoramic shot down the valley from one of the huge side windows, or wait for one of the two glass-bottomed, silver gondolas to shoot straight down to the valley floor.
To get to the PEAK 2 PEAK you’ll need either a sightseeing or ski pass, then you can head up the mountains in the Whistler Village Gondola or Blackcomb Gondola, located in the Upper Village.
More than just a pretty ride, the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola is a genuinely impressive feat of engineering. You can learn more about Whistler Blackcomb’s on-mountain engineering in Inspiring Mountain Innovations on a World Scale.
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2. WHISTLER PEAK INUKSHUK
With towering views over the surrounding peaks and the world-famous Black Tusk (a jutting, conical volcano located in Garibaldi Provincial Park), Whistler Peak is the ultimate spot to feel above it all.
An iconic photo spot is by the mountain top Inukshuk (a man-made stone landmark that’s used by the Inuit as a marker). Popular for group shots, it’s been the setting for many family Christmas card photos. If you don’t have a tripod, you can always ask a stranger to take the shot for you, and then pay them back by returning the favour.
This spot is ski-access only in the winter at the top of Peak Chair, so take a look at the weather and the trail map before making the decision to head up this way.
3. ROUNDHOUSE INUKSHUK & UMBRELLA BAR
If you really want to see a mountain-top Inukshuk, but you’re sightseeing or a newer skier or snowboarder, I recommend visiting the Roundhouse Inukshuk instead. It can be found on Whistler Mountain outside the front of the Roundhouse Lodge, beside the Umbrella Bar – which is worthy of a few photos itself. The views from there are also stellar, and you can grab lunch or a drink while you’re there.
4. CHRISTINE’S ON BLACKCOMB
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the menu of mountain comfort dishes, use of fresh and local ingredients and diverse wine list at Christine’s. Perched 1,860 metres up Blackcomb Mountain with slopeside tables and panoramic views, both the food and setting make for one of the most stunning Instagram spots in winter. Open for lunch, Christine’s is located inside the Rendezvous Lodge, and it is popular, so a reservation is recommended.
5. TOP OF SYMPHONY CHAIR
Easily one of my go-to spots for killer shots is at the top of Symphony Chair. Steps off the chair and you’re treated to views over Cheakamus Lake. Clouds rolling in and burning off constantly change the perspective. Look for the raven statue to add a little something extra to the shot.
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6. OLYMPIC RINGS and OUTDOOR ICE SKATING RINK
Whistler was home to the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, and there are traces of our Olympic legacies all over town. A local favourite are the Olympic rings next to Olympic Plaza in Whistler Village. They even have a rock podium to serve as a camera stand so you can get everyone in the shot.
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Whistler’s Olympic Plaza becomes a winter playground with an outdoor ice rink and sledding area. Skate under the stars and twinkling lights for some amazing Insta action.
7. COVERED BRIDGE
On the trail connecting Whistler Village and the Upper Village, you’ll find a rustic, covered bridge that’s just begging for a shot. Look out from the bridge down to the icy blue waters of Fitzsimmons Creek, or out to the mountains ahead.
While you’re there, make sure to check out the Jerri sculpture by artist James Stewart in the adjacent park. The imposing capoeira athlete is looking upstream to Whistler Mountain in deep contemplation.
8. TRAIN WRECK
A train derailment in 1956 has now become a public art piece that you can visit in the Cheakamus area. Train cars are scattered throughout the woods (without a scratch on the trees) and local artists have added plenty of graffiti glamour.
To find out the background story and how to access the trail check out our blog about the easy Train Wreck hike. Along the trail pass a raging river and cross a suspension bridge, so it’s a great adventure filled with camera-worthy moments. The graffiti art is constantly evolving, so even if you’ve been there before it’s always worth a visit to see what’s new.
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9. LOST LAKE PARK
Home to recreation in Whistler, Lost Lake Park offers plenty of photo opportunities year-round. In the winter, the park runs as a cross-country and snowshoe paradise (always check conditions before visiting). Stop by the PassivHaus for rentals and an entry ticket, and you can spend the day exploring the deep forest trails, mountain views, and lakeside vistas (and snapping photos at one of the best Instagram spots in winter).
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Having shots to remember your vacation by is amazing, but don’t forget to take some time to really savour the moment. I, too am guilty of getting so caught up in getting the shot just right that I’ve sometimes missed out on really enjoying the experience itself. Even if it’s just a short time, I highly recommend putting all your technology away, being present, and taking some mental images (AKA memories).
Feeling inspired to start shooting? You can find everything you need to plan your next getaway at Whistler.com. Remember to tag your banger shots with #OnlyInWhistler to share with fellow adventurers.
Get some early festive feels and a deal! Book 3+ nights between November 21 and December 20, 2024, to receive a free $100 CAD Whistler Shopping Voucher, with rooms starting from $175 CAD per night, accommodation and lift packages at 25% off and rentals at 35% off.
Come experience Whistler Blackcomb’s extensive terrain and adventure at every turn to see why we're known as one of the best resorts on the planet. Secure your mountain getaway with Whistler.com for personalized service and the local knowledge of our Whistler-based team. If all this has you dreaming of Whistler, enter the Find Your Edge contest to win a six-night trip, including flights, accommodation and adventures.
