A Local’s Guide to the Best Hiking in Whistler 2025
April 25, 2025
Tucked away among the majestic Coast Mountains, Whistler is a world-renowned outdoor paradise that attracts adventure-seekers from all around the globe.
While the region is best known for its superb skiing and snowboarding, its vast wilderness offers a diverse array of hiking experiences, too! From scenic strolls to heart-pounding ascents, there’s no shortage of trails to explore when you head out on a Whistler, BC hiking adventure.
Here, we’ve compiled a list of the best local hikes around Whistler, British Columbia, to help you discover the natural beauty this region has to offer.
Hit The Whistler Canada Hiking Trails
Here are some of the best hikes in Whistler:
1. Cheakamus Lake Trail
For a serene hike through the old-growth forest, the Cheakamus Lake Trail is hard to beat. The relatively flat trail takes you on a 14 km round trip along the picturesque Cheakamus River, leading to the stunning Cheakamus Lake, where you can take in the breathtaking views of glacier-fed turquoise waters. With minimal elevation gain, this easy hike is perfect for families and casual hikers.
Cheakamus Lake Trail Stats:
- Distance: 14 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time to Complete: 3–4 hours
- Closest Whistler Rental: Kadenwood Bellevue – 25 min away
2. Brandywine Falls Trail
Located just a short drive south of Whistler, within the Brandywine Falls Park, there is a must-see natural wonder. This short, 2 km round-trip hike is easy and leads to a spectacular 70-meter waterfall, cascading into a deep, basalt-lined pool below. The well-maintained trail offers several viewpoints to appreciate the falls and the surrounding valley. Dogs are welcome on this trail but must be leashed.
Brandywine Falls Park has a few scenic hikes of all lengths and skill levels that are definitely worth checking out. We recommend the Brandywine Mountain trail, the Brandywine Meadow trail, and the Brandywine Falls Via Suspension Bridge.
Brandywine Falls Trail Stats:
- Distance: 2 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time to Complete: 30–45 minutes
- Closest Whistler Rental: Kadenwood Winterfell – 16 min away
Categories
- Bears (2)
- Fall, (1)
- Family-friendly (18)
- Feature Properties (4)
- Golf (3)
- Restaurants (5)
- Summer in Whistler (5)
- Travelling to Canada (10)
- Uncategorized (3)
- Whistler Activities (29)
- Whistler Bike Park (4)
- Whistler Events (14)
- Winter in Whistler (4)
- Wonder (4)
3. Black Tusk
If you’re seeking a more challenging adventure, the iconic Black Tusk hike is an unforgettable experience. This steep trail is a 25.9 km round trip and takes you through alpine meadows, past the stunning Garibaldi Lake, and finally up the volcanic rock spire known as the Black Tusk. This trail is quite challenging, so expect to scramble and climb as you reach the summit, but the panoramic views of the Garibaldi Provincial Park make the effort worthwhile.
Black Tusk Trail Stats:
- Distance: 25.9 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: Significant
- Difficulty: Hard
- Time to Complete: 8–10 hours
- Closest Whistler Rental: Taluswood Lookout 5 – 25 min away
4. Joffre Lakes Trail
Joffre Lakes is an immensely popular Whistler trail that features three striking turquoise lakes, each more beautiful than the last. The trail is a 10 km round trip and winds through dense forest and rocky terrain, with a moderate elevation gain. The manificent Matier Glacer frames the final destination, Upper Joffre Lake, making it a perfect spot for a well-deserved rest and a photo session. You will work up a sweat on the moderate trail with great scenic rewards at the end.
Joffre Lakes Trail Stats:
- Distance: 10 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: Moderate
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time to Complete: 3–4 hours
- Closest Whistler Rental: Goldenwood 8336 – 1 hour away
5. Panorama Ridge
For a truly epic hike, Panorama Ridge is an outstanding choice. This challenging, 28.3 km there-and-back trail offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region, showcasing Garibaldi Lake, Black Tusk, and the surrounding mountains. Be prepared for a full-day adventure, and don’t forget to pack plenty of water and snacks as you take on this rewarding hike.
Panorama Ridge Trail Stats:
- Distance: 28.3 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: High
- Difficulty: Hard
- Time to Complete: 10–12 hours
- Closest Rental: Kadenwood 2927 – 30 min away
6. Lost Lake Extended Loop
A favorite among the locals and tourists, the Lost Lake Loop Trail is a 6.6 km round-trip trail that takes you around the picturesque lake. The trail is easy and the path is well-maintained. This fun hike is not only beautiful, but offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and wildlife spotting. The trail is also popular for mountain biking and trail running. A perk about this trail is when you’re around 3 km in, you’ll come across some public washrooms – handy for when nature calls!
Lost Lake Extended Loop Trail Stats:
- Distance: 6.6 km loop
- Elevation Gain: Minor
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time to Complete: 1 hour
- Closest Whistler Rental: Woods Chalet – 3 min away
7. Rainbow Lake Trail
This 16.1-km out-and-back trail near Whistler is generally considered a challenging route, and takes an average of 5 h 48 min to complete. You will likely encounter other people in this popular area for camping, hiking, and snowshoeing. The best times to visit this trail are July through October. You’ll need to leave your pups at home — dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.
Rainbow Lake Trail Stats:
- Distance: 16.1 km out and back
- Elevation Gain: Moderate
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard
- Time to Complete: 5.5–6 hours
- Closest Whistler Rental: Alpine View Chalet – 15 min away
8. Whistler Trainwreck and Miller Creek Trail
Enjoy this easy 5.8 km out-and-back trail near Whistler. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 1 h 24 min to complete. This unique hike features the remnants of a derailed train from the 1950’s, with old boxcars still remaining scattered along the trail. Now covered in graffiti, the train wreck trail has become a popular hike for locals and tourists.
The trail also offers spectacular views of the Cheakamus River and some short but very powerful waterfalls of the pristine glacial runoff waters. If that wasn’t enough, the trail also includes includes a fantastic suspension bridge connected to the Sea to Sky trail on the other side of the Cheakamus River.
This is a very popular area for hiking, mountain biking, and running, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but they must be on a leash.
Whistler Trainwreck and Miller Creek Trail Stats:
- Distance: 5.8 km out and back
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time to Complete: 1.5 hours
- Closest Whistler Rental: Taluswood The Bluffs 13 – 12 min away
9. High Note Trail + Harmony Meadows Connector
High Note Trail – Whistler Mountain is one of the area’s most celebrated alpine hikes, offering panoramic views and traversing wildflower meadows. The trail begins at the Cloudraker Skybridge and loops back toward the Roundhouse Lodge, making it a great way to experience alpine terrain in Whistler, Canada, hiking territory. The Harmony Meadows Trail offers a steeper but more direct connector for those looking to shorten the loop.
High Note Trail + Harmony Meadows Connector Trail Stats:
- High Note Trail: 9.4–9.6 km loop
- Elevation Gain: 425 m
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time to Complete: 3.5–4.5 hours
- Harmony Meadows Trail: 1.6 km connector | Elevation Gain: 81 m | Steep grade
- Closest Whistler Rental: Taluswood The Heights 17 – 30 min away
What to Pack for Hiking in Whistler?
Packing for a Whistler hike? Remember, it’s like preparing for a date with Mother Nature—dress to impress, but stay practical. Pack your sense of adventure alongside a waterproof jacket. Don’t forget sturdy boots fit for the terrain, a map, and plenty of snacks. Oh, and a camera – because did the trip really happen if it was not caught on camera?
Happy Hiking!!
Whistler, British Columbia, is a hiker’s paradise, boasting an array of trails that cater to all experience levels. Whether you’re searching for hiking trails for beginners or experts, Whistler has something for you. From tranquil lakeside strolls to awe-inspiring mountain vistas, the region’s natural beauty is sure to captivate your heart. When planning your trip, check out some of our luxury vacation rentals in Whistler. So, lace up your hiking boots and venture out into the wilderness for an unforgettable adventure in Whistler’s great outdoors.
Commonly Asked Questions about Whistler Canada Hiking
The best time to hike in Whistler is typically from June through September. During these months, most Whistler hiking trails are free of snow, and the weather is generally mild and pleasant. However, high-elevation areas may still have snow, so it’s essential to check conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
Most Whistler hiking trails and those in surrounding areas are free to access. However, some trails within provincial parks may require a day-use fee or a camping permit if you plan on staying overnight. Always check the regulations and requirements for the specific trail or park you plan to visit.
Whistler is home to various wildlife, including bears, cougars, deer, and smaller animals such as squirrels and chipmunks. While encounters with large predators are rare, it’s important to know how to react if you come across one. Make noise to alert animals of your presence, carry bear spray, and never feed or approach wildlife.
Hiking to the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain summits is possible but can be challenging and requires proper preparation. The High Note Trail on Whistler Mountain and the Blackcomb Ascent Trails on Blackcomb Mountain are popular options. Both require a gondola ride to access the trailheads, and tickets can be purchased from Whistler Blackcomb.
There are 166 marked trails in Whistler, BC, offering everything from easy loops to backcountry treks that can last multiple days.
The High Note Trail from the Cloudraker Skybridge to the Roundhouse is 11 KM and takes most hikers 4-5 hours to complete.
Many trails are dog-friendly (on a leash), but some, like Rainbow Lake, prohibit pets. If you are considering bringing your pup, be sure to look out for wildlife, come prepared with water, and know your pet’s limitations so everyone can have a good time.
Keep the vacation planning going with these related articles: Top Summer Activities in Whistler | Best Things to do This Spring | Best Summer Chalets | Insider’s Guide to Summer in Whistler
