According to forum posts, Whistler offers a variety of outdoor activities. Some travelers mentioned hiking and snowboarding as popular options. Specific hiking trails like Lost Lake, Green Lake, Train Wreck Trail, and Brandywine Falls are recommended for their ease and scenic views. For snow sport enthusiasts, Whistler provides ample opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, with conditions suitable even for beginners.

Travelers have called out additional outdoor activities such as kayaking at Lost Lake and swimming in the various lakes around Whistler, such as Alta Lake. Moreover, the Scandinave Spa is highlighted as a recommended destination for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors in a different setting.

For a unique experience, some users suggested the Peak to Peak gondola ride for its stunning panoramic views of the area. Cycling along the Valley Trail and visiting local beaches like Rainbow Lake and Lost Lake Beach are also popular activities mentioned by visitors.

According to forum posts, a typical day trip to Whistler from Vancouver includes about a 2-hour drive each way. Some travelers suggested stopping at attractions like the Britannia Mine Museum, Shannon Falls, and the Sea to Sky Gondola along the route for a more enriching journey.

For many users, exploring Whistler Village is a highlight, described as an open-air mall with shops, restaurants, and galleries. The Audain Art Museum and the Squamish Lilwat Cultural Centre are recommended spots within the village. Active travelers have recommended renting bicycles to explore the area more freely.

Some travelers said that local eateries like Pasta Lupino are popular for grabbing a meal during the visit, offering a good mix of convenience and local flavor.

Travelers have called out the importance of planning the visit according to the weather, especially when considering activities like gondola rides, which are best enjoyed on clear days. For transportation, options like an escorted coach tour can simplify travel and include stops at key sights along the way, as per user recommendations.

According to forum posts, Evolution and First Tracks located in Creekside are recommended for their nice rooms and proximity to the Creekside gondola. Legends at Whistler Creekside is also suggested for families with beginner skiers due to its ski-in/ski-out convenience and close amenities like supermarkets.

Some travelers have mentioned Horstman House for its quiet location and proximity to Lost Lake and Fairmont Golf, making it ideal for a peaceful stay. Travelers have called out Whistler Village as the best area for first-time visitors due to the pedestrian-friendly environment and accessibility to lifts, restaurants, and shops.

For those seeking quieter parts of Whistler, Creekside is frequently mentioned as a restful area. The Upper Village is also suggested as a good option for ski-in, ski-out access but with fewer crowds compared to Whistler Village.

According to forum posts, Whistler Blackcomb operates the only official ski school on the mountain. This school offers group and private lessons, which are highly regarded for their professionalism.

Some travelers mentioned that while independent ski instructors are available, they do not have special privileges such as line priority on lifts. Websites like mountainskillsacademy.com and whistlerskipros.com were suggested for private guiding and instruction.

For many users, it was recommended to opt for lessons, especially for beginners, to ensure safety and a more enjoyable experience. It was noted that private lessons, although more costly, are beneficial for tailored instruction and faster learning.

Travelers have pointed out that private lessons are preferable for those looking to focus on specific skills or who want more personalized guidance, whereas group lessons can be a more economical choice and provide a social experience with other learners.

According to forum posts, YVRSkylynx and Epic Rides are popular shuttle services providing transport from Vancouver to Whistler. YVRSkylynx operates several departures daily and offers a door-to-door hotel shuttle for express passengers. Epic Rides is noted for its competitive pricing with round trips from downtown Vancouver.

Some travelers mentioned the possibility of taking the Amtrak train from Seattle to Vancouver, followed by a shuttle bus to Whistler. This option requires a transfer but is viable for those starting from Seattle.

For many users, renting a car remains a straightforward option, allowing direct travel from Vancouver to Whistler without the need for transfers. This option provides flexibility in travel times and stops.

Prices vary with the choice of transport; Epic Rides offers economical round-trip fares, while YVRSkylynx is a bit pricier but provides more extensive services including airport pickups.

According to forum posts, Whistler offers several gondola options, including the Whistler Village Gondola, Blackcomb Gondola, and the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The Whistler Village Gondola transports passengers from the base to the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain, while the Blackcomb Gondola moves passengers from the base to Blackcomb Mountain. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola connects the two mountains, offering an 11-minute ride across a 4 km valley.

For many users, accessing these gondolas requires a single ticket that covers all lifts, including the Peak Chair. Some travelers mentioned that during certain seasons, specific gondolas like the Whistler Village Gondola operate in a limited capacity, such as being available only for downhill rides during the summer due to construction or other operational adjustments.

Travelers have called out that the enjoyment of the gondola rides heavily depends on the weather. Clear skies are recommended for the best experience, and tickets are generally purchased on the day of the visit to avoid issues with non-refundable tickets on poor weather days.

According to forum posts, bear viewing tours in Whistler are offered by Whistler Discovery Tours and Whistler Photo Safaris. Travelers have noted that bears are more active early in the morning or late in the evening, suggesting these times as the best for tours.

Some travelers said that bear sightings can also occur spontaneously around Whistler. A suggested location is the valley trail circuit around the Whistler Golf Course, particularly in early morning or evening. This is described as a likely spot to see bears, especially during September and October, and it is free of charge.

For many users, booking bear tours as a solo traveler can be challenging. Tours typically require a minimum of two people. However, one user managed to book a single seat after finding that other participants had already booked for that day, indicating that solo travelers might join existing groups.