Need a pre-season workout? Enjoy the elevation gains and explore one of the many long hikes around Whistler. From the old-growth coastal rainforest to the stunning mountain views, September is the perfect hiking season with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. We had our staff compile their favourite fall hikes to explore on your next mountain getaway:
#1: Garibaldi Lake & Beyond
Garibaldi Provincial Park
Duration: Day hike
Elevation gain: 900m
Distance: 18km (return)
Dog Friendly: No
Not for the faint of heart (over 6km of switchbacks!) but worth every step! This classic hike provides stunning mountain views, and the infamous breathtaking turquoise colours found in Garibaldi Lake. For the birds-eye view and added distance, continue to the Black Tusk or Panorama Ridge. Be prepared for colder temperatures due to the elevation.
Starting June 23, free Day-Use Passes are required for this park at Diamond Head (Elfin Lakes), Rubble Creek (Garibaldi Lake), and Cheakamus Trailheads. See BC Parks Day-Use Pass Reservation System page for more information.
#2: Blackcomb Ascent Trail
Whistler Blackcomb
Duration: Half-day hike
Elevation gain: 1200m
Distance: 6.2km (one way with gondola download) 12.4km (return)
Dog Friendly: No – Guide and Service dogs only
The original leg burn! The Blackcomb Ascent Trails are three interconnected uphill hiking trails – little burn, big burn, and heartburn! The trails meander through beautiful old-growth coastal rain forest terrain from Whistler’s valley bottom to the Rendezvous Lodge on Blackcomb Mountain. Make sure to check Whistler Blackcomb’s hours of operation to access the gondola download back to the Blackcomb base.
Source: Whistler Blackcomb
#3: Crater Rim & Farside Loop Trail
Whistler Interpretive Forest
Duration: Half-day hike
Elevation gain: 397m
Distance: 8.7km
Dog Friendly: Yes – must be kept on a leash.
Hike around Whistler’s own 10,000-year old extinct volcano crater! Starting along the Cheakamus River, this moderate trail climbs to Loggers Lake and the crater rim. As sometimes the trial is not clearly marked, download an offline map to guide you through your hike (we suggest Trailforks). On the return, you will get to cross the Cheakamus River Suspension Bridge.
#4: Lumpy’s Epic
One Mile Lake, Pemberton
Duration: half-day hike
Elevation gain: 278m
Distance: 7.6km
Dog Friendly: Yes – must be kept on a leash.
A short 25-min drive from Whistler, Lumpy’s Epic is a moderate hike with stunning views over Pemberton. Starting out at One Mile Lake, you climb uphill to the scenic viewpoint overlooking the valley. We suggest returning the same way once you hit the viewpoint, as the second half of the loop can be wet in the cooler months. After your hike, check out The Beer Farmers or North Arm Farm for some local flair.
#5: Lost Lake to Parkhurst Ghost Town
Green Lake
Duration: half-day hike
Elevation gain: 220m
Distance: 15 km (return)
Dog Friendly: Yes – must be kept on a leash.
Starting on the local Lost Lake trails, this moderate hike follows along the Sea to Sky / Green Lake Loop trail to finish at the abandoned Parkhurst Ghost Town. Perfect for the rainy days as this hike offers more coverage and plenty of panoramic vantage points over Green Lake.
Tips for Hiking in Whistler
- Make yourself aware of the current conditions. Weather can change drastically in the Alpine, so wear or bring the appropriate clothing & footwear
- Bring enough food & water for your day
- Don’t rely on your cell service, “dead zones” do exist. Download maps offline – Trailforks or AllTrails
- Let someone know your plan
- Bring bear spray and stay bear smart.