Whistler in the Summer: A Hiker's Paradise
Choosing where to hike in British Columbia can be a tough decision. There are thousands of hike-able trails scattered throughout the province and choosing just one area to stay & explore can be a nightmare. Luckily, this article will attempt to ease your nerves and hopefully make your decision much clearer as it will focus specifically on summertime hiking trails in the unmissable Whistler area.
Together, Whistler and nearby Garibaldi Park offer some of the most spectacular hiking trails in all of BC. An added benefit to summertime hikers is that Whistler accommodations and vacation rentals are usually at their cheapest during this time of the year.
Together, Whistler and nearby Garibaldi Park offer some of the most spectacular hiking trails in all of BC. An added benefit to summertime hikers is that Whistler accommodations and vacation rentals are usually at their cheapest during this time of the year.
Whistler's Valley Trail
Whistler's Valley Trail, is a 35 kilometre paved trail spanning between the Spring Creek area to the Emerald Estates. This dynamic multipurpose trail is popular with guests during all months of the year as it supports hikers, bikers, roller-bladers, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers.At 3 meters wide, the Valley Trail offers a comfortable spacious feeling where everyone, regardless of transportation method, can harmoniously commute & enjoy the sounds, smells, and sights together. Popular summer stops along the trail include Rainbow Beach, Alpha Lake Parks, and Lost Lake.
Due to the sheer size of the Valley Trail, roller-bladers and hikers might want to divvy up different sections of the trail for different days. Bikers, if inspired, are able to complete the entire Valley Trail in one day; however, we strongly recommend everyone allocate enough time to finish before nightfall.
Originally envisioned by long time Recreation and Parks Volunteer, Trev Roote, Whistler's Valley Trail eventually became a reality through the hard work and dedication of local architect, Tom Barratt. Since then, the Valley Trail has continuously been improving. Recently, funding has been set aside for a new bridge across 19 Mile Creek. This bridge will provide a new trail access point between Rainbow neighbourhoods and Alpine Meadows.
"The Valley Trail is a core amenity in the community. It's a major draw for people," said Dave Patterson, Manager of Parks Operations for the Resort Municipality of Whistler. "We try to make it as accessible as possible and are working toward our vision to connect all neighbourhoods in Whistler."
Once the snow hits the pavement cross-country skiers and snowshoers flock to the smooth flat trails. Trail access is always free, but if you're visiting in the wintertime and want to add some downhill skiing to your itineray, pick up some discount Whistler lift tickets to keep your vacation costs low.
People planning on exploring the Valley Trail are recommended to follow the trail's basic rules: keep to the right, leash your dogs, and clean up after them using the waste bags and bear-proof bins provided.
Other Popular Trails
Cheakamus Lake - EasyLocated in Garibaldi Park, between Squamish and Whistler, the Cheakamus Lake trail is a great way to take in the beauty of a mountain lake. Although this 16 kilometre trail is long and may take up to 5 hours to complete, the terrain is relatively flat making it quite manageable.
Hikers will traverse much of Cheakamus Lake and pass by two separate Campgrounds. As these campgrounds offer no direct vehicle access, they provide a sense of seclusion from the outside urban environment.
Overlord Trail - Intermediate
The Overlord Trail is located atop Blackcomb Mountain which is now accessible via the new Peak to Peak Gondola. This trail serves as a transfer point to many other nearby trails and at 7.4 kilometres, can take up to 2 to 3 hours to complete.
This trail gets its name from the Overlord Glacier which hikers will get to discover along the way. The Overlord Trail is best suited for the intermediate hiker as there is an elevation change of 203ft.
Ridge Lookout Trail - Intermediate
At 0.8 kilometres, this trail comes in the shortest on our list. Don't let the distance fool you though; the Ridge Lookout Trail has an elevation change of 223ft providing quick access to beautiful views. Its entrance is located atop Whistler Mountain next to the helipad and finishes off at the Ridge Lookout point. Hikers are recommended to follow the signs and stay on the single track trail.
Black Tusk - Difficult
Pushing hikers to their limits, the Black Tusk is the hardest trail on our list as it has an elevation change of 5,708ft! It is 29 kilometres in length and is located inside Garibaldi Park.
For experienced hikers, the Black Tusk is doable in a day; however, hikers that don't wish to camp overnight should ensure they allocate enough time to get to ground zero before nightfall.
Prospective hikers should also note that the final parts of the Black Tusk, beyond the signage, are not maintained by BC Parks. As a result, hikers are to pass the signs at their own risk and with extreme caution. This trail should only be attempted by experienced hikers.
by DevonOMalley
Devon O'Malley is staff writer at AlluraDirect.com the web's funkiest and text heavy vacation rentals website on the net. If you need information on C... (more)
