Editor’s Note: This blog on cross-country biking in Whistler was originally written in 2019 but has been updated with new trail additions and suggestions in February 2025. And to be clear, the bike trails are usually good to go in April, although early-season conditions apply at that time.

Skiers chase powder, golfers crave the greens, but bikers? Oh, the bikers, they’ll take the gritty, brown goodness of Mother Earth. Biking in Whistler is all about “tacky” dirt and mud-splashed faces, untouched, empty trails and a spirit of exploration — it’s a time when dirt reigns supreme.

Trails start to show themselves as the snow melts, typically at the beginning of April, but remember that it is early season. To get an idea of what to expect, check the weather forecast and trail conditions and chat with the folks in local bike shops. TrailForks is your best friend—some trails stay snow-covered late into spring, while others cross sensitive wildlife habitats where extra care is needed.

Local riders Hailey Elise and Ollie Jones created a five-part series, taking us through some of Whistler’s best cross-country bike terrain. Add in the opening of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park at the end of May, and you’ve got yourself a whole load of bike trail fodder to work through.

Here’s the five-part rundown, each with trail suggestions for beginners through to experts — happy riding.

Part 1: Whistler North

What to Expect

The area north of Whistler Village and around Green Lake is informally known as Whistler North. It is one of the smaller sub-networks but it boasts some classic favourites and notable newer additions. Chunder, roots, slabs, and a feeling of being “out there” are some of the areas defining characteristics. “Flow” is not in this zone’s vocabulary and yet, the fall lines and rock rolls that cascade ever-so-perfectly down the mountain make it easy to see what inspired the local builders to cut new trails here.

If you are a beginner or intermediate rider, Whistler North might be pushing your skill level as many of the trails are rated expert and above. That being said, there are a few gems that allow all levels of rider to experience the terrain that lies north of the Village.

Insider’s Guide to Whistler Mountain Bike Trails: Whistler North

Part 2: Lost Lake Park

What to Expect

Nestled just steps from the Village, Lost Lake is the perfect playground for beginner and intermediate riders. Gentle climbs, well-marked trails and smooth singletrack make it an ideal spot to get your wheels spinning.

For locals, it’s often where their mountain biking journey begins, and the area’s charm is undeniable. Feeling ambitious? Link up trails to create heart-pumping loops that even seasoned riders will appreciate. With the trails being multi-directional, it’s not hard to navigate and create your own route. Just get out and explore the smooth single track and woodwork the area is best known for.

Insider’s Guide to Whistler Mountain Bike Trails: Lost Lake

Part 3: Blackcomb

What to Expect

The trails on Blackcomb Mountain have a checkered past; many of them came into existence as rogue builds in a stunning forest that also acts as a controlled recreation area. Over the years, Whistler Blackcomb has adopted several of the trails and provided the annual maintenance required for continued enjoyment. As a result, the Blackcomb area boasts some incredible descents that possess qualities that cannot be found anywhere else in the valley.

This zone features long fall line trails with plenty of roots and interesting features sprinkled here and there. It might be rooty, but flow and speed are easy to acquire, making many of the trails local favourites. Starting at the lower part of the mountain, in the Upper Village, beginner or intermediate riders can climb up the ski hill and dart into the trees for some singletrack fun. As you climb higher, single and double blacks become available for riders looking to challenge a variety of skills.

Whether you’re chasing speed or technical challenges, Blackcomb’s mix of rooty flow and steep fall lines promises a ride you won’t forget.

Insider’s Guide to Whistler Mountain Bike Trails: Blackcomb

Part 4: Cheakamus

What to Expect

The Cheakamus area is south of Whistler Village and across from Function Junction. It sits snugly against the base of Whistler Mountain and bears the namesake of the nearby Cheakamus Lake and Cheakamus River, an alarmingly blue, glacier-fed waterway. Defining attributes include easy accessibility, interesting terrain and a trail for every level of rider.

You can either drive to the Cheakamus River parking lot or ride your bike along the Valley Trail to access the trails. The dog-friendly trails add to its charm, but remember that some routes border Garibaldi Provincial Park, where pups aren’t allowed. A friendly reminder to practice proper dog etiquette no matter what trail you’re on.

Insider’s Guide to Whistler Mountain Bike Trails: Cheakamus

Part 5: Westside

What to Expect

The Westside trails cascade down Sproatt Mountain. Many, but not all, of the trails sit in the middle to lower region. They can be accessed from the infamous Flank Trail, a rigorous climb in every direction, what you find at the top is well worth the ascent. In addition to wicked descents, the area arguably boasts the best views of both Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains as well as Alta Lake. The higher you go, the better the scenery and the longer the ride down!

The Westside trails cascade down Sproatt Mountain. They can be accessed from the infamous Flank Trail, a rigorous climb in every direction, but what you find at the top is well worth the ascent. In addition to wicked descents, the area arguably boasts the best views of both Blackcomb and Whistler mountains and Alta Lake.

Insider’s Guide to Whistler Mountain Bike Trails: Westside

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).

From road to ripping downhill, we love bikes. Learn more about biking in Whistler, and get a great deal on your stay over at Whistler.com.