Whistler Spring Adventures: 10 Ways to Play in May

Editor’s Note: This post featuring 10 of Whistler’s spring adventures was originally written in 2017. It’s a good one, so we’ve refreshed it with some updated information, images and links. Adventure on. 

All work, no play makes us dull, ill and sad.

Ever noticed how young people in mountain towns look? It’s because they spend a ton of time on the slopes and trails. Catch an octogenarian on the slopes and you’ll see a sparkle in their eye that definitely doesn’t come from staring at spreadsheets.

Play gets us moving, trying new things, breaking out of routines. It helps us get moving and fit, sure, but play also helps us create new neural connections and strengthen problem-solving skills, which benefits our work, creativity and relationships. And while taking time out to do something playful may not help you cross off the things on your to-do list, it might help you gain a little perspective on what’s really important in life.

With that in mind, here are 10 ways you can play this spring in Whistler, in our very own natural playground.

1. Splash About

The ice is melting from the lakes and there’s plenty of water in the River of Golden Dreams, so let’s get paddling. Canoe, kayak, SUP – whatever floats your boat. If you’re not too sure about those water temperatures (always cooler this side of summer), then get your water therapy with a spa day or hot tub session.

2. Slide on Snow

With one of the longest seasons in North America, there’s typically coverage for skiing and snowboarding well into the spring with Whistler Blackcomb open until late May. Cruise the groomers, slash some slush or go for a couple of park’n’patio sessions – just don’t get too serious. Onesies and neon are recommended.

3. Hit Up a Sunny Patio

The spring après scene in Whistler is incredible. Sunny patios beckon, some with DJs pumping out the tunes, while others go for a more mellow vibe, allowing you to while away the hours people watching. You can have a craft beer or cocktail, go for a charcuterie board or a bucket of wings, dance ’til dawn or go for early doors.

4. Whack Things Really Hard

What better way to shed adult-life-related stress than sending a golf ball into orbit? With the driving ranges opening first and the golf courses following around mid-May, spring is when you can get your swing on. Other options include the Whistler Racquet Club, hotel tennis courts and the Meadow Park Sports Centre squash courts.

5. Throw Things

Axe throwing. Enough said. Also, the disc golf course in Lost Lake Park will be clear of snow soon. An afternoon wandering in the forest trying to hit things with a plastic disc, chatting as you go? Why not.

6. Go Really, Really Fast

Kids know that speed is your friend. You can get your thrills this spring by zipping or rallying an ATV/RZR to your heart’s content. The snowmelt means the rivers are running, so white water rafting and jet boating will also be top-notch – check out the spring activity specials here.

7. Explore a New Trail

The snow melts from the valley up, so it’s time for early-season hiking, trail running and dog walking. Rain or shine it matters not – with the right gear you can skip through the forest like a fairy tale character and find out how quickly hanging out with trees, running water and vivid green moss can lift your spirits. Check out the free, Go Whistler Tours App for some strolls with added nature and historical info.

8. Spin Your Wheels

Remember back in the day when you used to spend hours on your bike just exploring? We’ve got a winding network of paved, car-free bikeways called the Valley Trail which is PERFECT for meandering.

Don’t plan, just go and rediscover the freedom a bike can give you. For those who aren’t afraid to get a little dirt under their tires, Whistler’s extensive cross-country trail network comes out in spring and the Whistler Mountain Bike Park also opens in May.

9. Get Creative

Sometimes, somewhere along the path from childhood, we can lose the connection with our creative side – but it’s waiting there patiently for us to rekindle the fire. You’d be amazed at the number of things to do here that get your brain firing in different ways.

Rock up for an art class or social art night, check out the Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, (SLCC) and challenge yourself to creative problem-solving at Whistler’s original Escape Rooms.

10. Go from Sun Up to Sun Down

Why stop playing after one activity? Call up the energy of your inner child and try a ‘Whistler triathlon’ or multisport day to see just how awesome life can be. Ski-bike-golf or walk-paddle-spa? This is choose your own adventure land. Go crazy kids!

So what are you waiting for?

Here in Whistler play isn’t just for kids, it’s for everyone – it’s for life. The most important thing to remember? Don’t be afraid to get messy, enjoy the process and above all – do it your way. Here’s to more time in nature this spring and healthier, happier days!