The Fall season is a special time in Whistler. From September through November, the temperatures cool down and the leaves turn a spectacular array of colors. The weather is mild this time of year, making it wonderful for taking in the alpine vistas in all their glory. The cooler temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (7-18°C), create the perfect setting for outdoor activities like hiking and biking on the many trails that weave through the mountains and valleys. As the summer crowds thin out, Whistler takes on a more relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for visitors who prefer a quieter getaway. Some Whistler locals even consider the Fall shoulder season to be one of their favorite times of the year. If you're considering planning a Whistler vacation this fall, here are some ideas for what to do on your visit!
Hit the Trail
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Fall is a great time of year to go mountain biking at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, which is open through Oct. 14 for the 2024 season. This world-renowned bike park offers a myriad of trails for the avid bicyclist, and fall is quieter at the bike park, so you will have the trails to yourself much of the time. And beyond the bike park, Whistler is an incredibly bike-friendly area that offers plenty of paved recreational and mountain bike bike trails. Rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops. Fanatyk Co., Garbanzo Bike & Bean, and Summit Sport are the most popular shops.
See Bears
Don’t forget the camera when you take a Bear Viewing Tour, a wild ride aboard 4x4 vehicles. Catch a look at some of the resident black bears and their cubs on this tour of their natural habitat. The season runs through October.
Make a Splash
Get the heart racing with a whitewater rafting trip. Ride the lively Green, Lower Cheakamus, Elaho and Squamish rivers on one of the tours offered on some of the most sensational white water on the West Coast. Enjoy a spectacular view of the wilderness as guides will help you navigate the rapids.
Reel in a Big One
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Whistler offers easy access to an array of fishing opportunities, from its five lakes to a myriad of streams and rivers. Book an excursion through the area’s Trout Country Fishing Guides.These experienced anglers will get you on the fish, including trout, salmon and steelhead. Trout Country, for example, offers year-round trips that are all-inclusive, so all the fishing gear, transportation and instruction is included.
Get a Little Culture
The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is a wonderful place to visit and learn more about Whistler's indigenous history. This beautiful museum (the building alone is a work of art!), located in Whistler, is a stunning showcase of the rich heritage and traditions of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. The center offers visitors an immersive experience through exhibits featuring Indigenous art, cultural artifacts, traditional performances, and interactive workshops. Surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes, it's the perfect place to learn about the history, crafts, and stories of these two First Nations. Whether exploring the museum or participating in cultural demonstrations, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre provides a meaningful connection to the region's Indigenous roots. Make sure the check out the museum's gift shop and cafe for a truly authentic experience. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Fall Events in Whistler
Turkey Trot
The Turkey Trot Lost on Oct. 13, 2024 is a new tradition taking place in Lost Lake Park, the crown jewel of Whistler's park system. The family-friendly event offers both 5 km and 10 km runs along some of the best trails Whistler has to offer. After you work up an appetite, chow down at the Thanksgiving Harvest Brunch or Dinner at Fairmont Chateau Whistler. With dining options offered Oct. 11-15, celebrate the tastes and the bounty of the season in The Wildflower Restaurant. Brunch is served for those enjoying a late morning breakfast or casual noon meal.
Fungus Among Us Festival
The Whistler Fungus Among Us Festival is an annual event celebrating the fascinating world of fungi through guided foraging tours, educational workshops, and mushroom-themed activities. Held in the heart of Whistler, this unique festival offers nature lovers and mushroom enthusiasts a chance to explore local forests and learn about the important role fungi play in the ecosystem. 2024's dates run from October 19 to 20.
A Flavorful Feast
The Cornucopia Food and Drink Festival is held at various venues throughout Whistler Village on Nov. 7-Nov. 17 Cornucopia is the fall festival that celebrates the best of food and drink from Whistler and beyond. The festival offers something for everybody with winemaker dinners, themed food and drink events, interactive seminars, health and wellness events and electric after-parties. Sip and sample your way through food of all kinds, beer, wine and spirits and enjoy a fantastic social atmosphere.
Whistler Opening Day
And just around the corner is the main event on the mountain, as the 2024 Whistler ski season is set to kick off on Nov. 22. We hope to see you there for another exciting winter season on the mountain!
Make sure to book one of our professionally managed Whistler vacation rentals so that you have a perfect home base for your Fall Whistler adventure!