Experience the Magic of Spring in Whistler 2024

March 30, 2024

For those looking at a springtime holiday in Whistler, you can almost bank on that perfect combination of snow, sun, and service. The spring shoulder season allows guests to enjoy sunny spring laps on the mountain while taking advantage of the thawing of snow in the village and valley floor. There are few things more Whistler than après-ski enjoying a cold refreshment patio-side with the warm sun on your face.

To help you prepare for the arrival of spring, we have prepared a guide to get the most from Whistler’s springtime activities and offerings.

Spring Weather in Whistler

Spring in Whistler is a delightful time for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without the extreme chill of winter. As the season transitions, visitors are treated to ideal weather conditions that make exploring and adventure truly enjoyable. The average temperatures gently climb from cool mornings to comfortable afternoons, typically ranging between 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F).

This means you can say goodbye to the heavy winter gear and hello to lighter outfits under the expansive blue skies. Whether you’re gliding down the last of the ski slopes, hiking through awakening trails, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll around the village, spring in Whistler offers the perfect backdrop of mild weather and stunning scenery.

Spring Skiing

Whistler Blackcomb offers near-limitless terrain and some of the best spring skiing in North America. A little-known fact is that March tends to be one of Whistler’s best snow months with over 98 inches (almost 250 cm) of average monthly snowfall. Simply put, spring skiing in Whistler is a must-do for anyone looking for the perfect mix of late-season snow days, bluebird laps, longer days, and increasingly comfortable outdoor conditions.

Spring is also a great time to take advantage of our accommodation deals. With fewer crowds, soft snow and excellent weather conditions, spring is the perfect time to take your ski holiday.

On Land Activities

Spring is a popular time to visit Whistler because guests can ski and enjoy the beginning of summer activities on the valley floor. Here are some of our favourite springtime activities.

Early Season Mountain Biking

Spring is often one of the best times to get out the bike for some early-season laps. While the Whistler Mountain Bike Park usually doesn’t open until late May, Whistler’s cross-country bike trails are often clear for riding much earlier. What makes spring such an ideal time to ride is the conditions. Spring provides cooler temperatures creating tacky dirt and comfortable riding weather.

Enjoy the convenience of having your rental bikes delivered to your Whistler Platinum home. Through our partnership with Black Diamon Bike Rentals, bikes can be delivered to your property where the knowledgeable staff will ensure you’re set up correctly and ready to ride.

Need help figuring out where to ride? Our Whistler-based team is happy to provide you with locals’ insight on the best bike trails in the area.

Whistler Bear Tours in Spring — *Photo Credit: Mike Crane*

Whistler Springtime Bear Watching Tour

As soon as the snow starts to disappear, a familiar Whistler resident begins to emerge from their long winter sleep. Guests can safely view Whistler’s bear population during an assisted 4×4 Jeep Bear Viewing Tour. Tours are led by a local expert with up-to-date information on the latest bear sightings in the area.

A Whistler Spa Day

What better way to rest and recover after an active day than a relaxing retreat to one of Canada’s most scenic and photogenic spas? The Scandinave Spa Whistler is a quick drive from the Village and provides guests with an epic backdrop in a remote ancient forest. The Whistler spa is known for its unique hydrotherapy experience which promotes healthy healing by alternating between cold and hot baths, followed by relaxing stays in the sauna or steam room. Guests can also choose from a selection of massage options including Swedish relaxation, deep tissue, therapeutic and duo massage.

Don’t feel like leaving your rental home? Our team can organize in-home treatments so the pampering comes to you!

On the Water

Man Fishing in Whistler in Spring — *Photo Credit: Mike Crane*

Springtime Guided Fishing Near Whistler

If beating all the crowds is your idea of a getaway then spring is the best time of the year to go trout fishing in Whistler. As the lakes begin to clear of snow and ice, fresh food sources are released into the waterways. Spring is an active time to catch healthy Bull Trout, Rainbow Trout, Coastal Cutthroat Trout, Steelhead, and Dolly Varden. If you want to make the most of your fishing adventure, we suggest booking a fishing guide. These local experts will pick you up, provide your equipment, feed you, and drop you off at the end of the day.

White Water Rafting

When the snow melts, the rivers in and around Whistler Resort run white and fast. Catch all the thrills of white water rafting, from mild to wild, as certified guides navigate you safely through haystacks and holes on the Green, Lower Cheakamus, Elaho and Squamish rivers. Whether you want to hold on tight and enjoy the ride or grab a paddle and dig in, there’s a white water rafting trip for everyone in wet and wild Whistler.

Canoeing and Kayaking

If you’re looking for a more relaxing time on the water, how about a peaceful canoe or kayaking adventure? During a trip down the River of Golden Dreams, you’ll paddle through a natural wetlands area, taking in views of waterfowl, birds and wildlife. This activity is great for families and nature lovers alike.

In the Air

A Whistler Zipline Tour

Ziplining is quickly becoming one of Whistler’s can’t-miss attractions. This thrill-seeking activity involves guests flying high above the valley floor from a series of treetop platforms. During your zipline adventure, you’ll cross suspension bridges, platforms, and lookouts with epic views. Spring is a great time to book a ziplining experience when you can enjoy the snow-capped trees and sunny weather.

Whistler Sightseeing Tours

Whistler Luxury Experiences — *Photo Credit: Blackcomb Helicopters*

Helicopter Sightseeing Tour

This spectacular introduction to Whistler is an incredible way to discover your surroundings and take in the breathtaking beauty of the Whistler area. Choose from three different packages, each varying in length and price. The advantage of taking a helicopter sightseeing tour is the quick mobility around the area and the option to land and explore some of Whistler’s most iconic mountain tops, or hidden lakes and valleys.

Float Plane Sightseeing

A float plane sightseeing tour is an excellent alternative for guests travelling in larger groups as the plane can accommodate up to 11 guests. Explore deep into the coastal mountain range and take in views of Whistler’s surrounding peaks, glaciers and hidden lakes.

Spring Events in Whistler

Spring in Whistler is not just about the melting snow and emerging greenery; it’s also a season bursting with vibrant festivals and events that draw visitors from around the globe. Here’s a guide to some must-attend spring happenings that define the spirit and culture of Whistler during this lively time of year:

World Ski & Snowboard Festival (April 8th – 14th, 2024): This iconic event marks the culmination of the winter sports season and the transition to spring with a bang. Featuring ski and snowboarding competitions, free outdoor concerts, art shows, and filmmaking challenges, the WSSF is a celebration of mountain culture at its best.

The Whistler Cup (April 11th – 14th, 2024): The Whistler Cup is a must-watch event taking place during the World Ski & Snowboard Festival. It’s one of the largest and most important junior ski races in the world, attracting participants from across the globe.

Arts Whistler Live! (March 23rd, 2024): Catch the award-winning duo Sechile Sedare, featuring Leela and Jay Gilday, at the Maury Young Arts Centre Theatre at 8 PM for an unforgettable night of contemporary roots, blues, and folk music. Known for their soulful compositions and captivating storytelling that explores family history and connection to the land, the name Sechile Sedare translates to ‘my younger brother, my older sister’ in the Dene language.

Workshops at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre: The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre’s events are a great way to learn about First Nations’ rich culture and heritage. Here they have workshops to participate in, from Indigenous plant medicine workshops, and cedar basket-making classes to drum workshops and Indigenous culinary workshops.

Spring Has Sprung in Whistler

Whistler in Spring is for skiers who like shredding the slopes under clear blue skies, for adventurers who like exploring trails, for guests who like a quieter pace, and for people who like to stretch their dollars further. Although there is never a wrong time of the year to vacation in Whistler, spring really is a season like no other. So, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen alongside your snow gear and get ready for fun in the sun, Whistler style!