Explore Like A Local
Explore Like A Local
Posted on June 09, 2021
Maybe it is your first time visiting Whistler or maybe you are looking to experience something a little different on your next trip up the Sea to Sky corridor? To help you explore more, our team of ‘Whistlerites’ at Crystal Lodge have created a list of hidden gems and must-see’s to share with you.
This ‘Explore Like A Local’ program ranks the ideas from easy (green circle) to hard (black diamond). We’ve even included ‘InstaMoment’ suggestions by placing a “” to the spots where you are guaranteed to get a photo that will leave your friends jealous!

Kids Water Park 
Spend the afternoon in Alpine Meadows cooling off at the free water park, go romping at the playground or enjoy an outdoor BBQ picnic.
Farmer’s Market
Every Sunday from 11 am – 4 pm in Summer at the new location of the Whistler Racket Club you can explore almost 100 different vendors featured throughout the season including farms, hot and artisan foods, drinks, liquor, and a variety of talented creators.
Rebagliati Park
Walk the Valley Trail to Ross Rebaglia Park, named after one of our local Olympians. Make sure to bring a book so that you can sit back, relax, and read on one of the giant chairs overlooking the river.
Skate Park and the Riverside Pump Track and Dirt Jumps 
Whistler has the second largest skate park in Canada which draws some amazing talent. The newly shaped Riverside Pump Track and Dirt Jumps are located next to the skate park and range from beginner to expert skill levels. Walk along the Valley Trail to the skate park and dirt jumps to people-watch. You will be impressed at the tricks some people can do.
Crystal Lodge
Head back to the Crystal Lodge and relax in the rooms or soak in some sun in the outdoor pool and hot tub area.
Selfie in front of the Olympic Rings 
Head south down the village stroll to the Olympic Plaza, home of the 2010 Winter Olympic medal ceremonies. Bring a blanket to have a picnic on the lawn while enjoying some Purebread treats.

Kayaking the River of Golden Dreams 
Hop in a kayak at Wayside Park and spend the next 3 hours floating the River of Golden Dreams. To turn this into a black diamond, try the excursion on a Stand-up Paddleboard.
Frisbee Golf
There is a 27 hole course that is located near Lost Lake cut right into the hillside. The first 9 are fairly easy but for the other 18 expect rocky ground, steep hills and thick forests. This is truly an outdoor experience!
Rainbow Falls 
Follow the Rainbow Falls trail from Alta Lake Road, a well-maintained trail that gains over 100-meters of elevation. The trail follows along Twenty One Mile Creek, with various viewing points along the way and eventually looping you back to the car park.
Lost Lake Lookout 
Head up the Sea to Sky Trail in the Lost Lake trail system and find the Lost Lake lookout that overlooks Whistler Valley and Nicklaus North Golf Course. Definitely camera-worthy.
Sunrise Yoga at Lakeside Park Dock
Mornings in Whistler are amazing, why not spend it on a dock getting in your morning yoga session. Don’t forget your bathing suit for a refreshing dip after.
Hike to Brandywine Falls 
Head south on Hwy 99 for 15 minutes until you come to the Brandywine Falls signs. From the parking lot, the walk is only a 1km round trip and is also dog friendly.

Joffre Lakes 
Spend the day exploring the three crystal blue glacier-fed Joffre Lakes located north of Pemberton on Hwy 99.
Parkhurst Ghost Town 
Bike to Emerald and visit the old logging ghost town near Green Lake that was built in the 1920s. This is an easy walk once you are in Emerald and has a lot of unique photo opportunities, including a tree growing through the triangular steel.
Lord of the Squirrels 
This 20kms+ 1400m bike ride is not for the light at heart. From the village, you are looking at around a 5hr+ trip, but it is definitely worth the climb up Sproatt Mountain for the amazing views and the legendary ride.
Axe Throwing at Forged 
This activity is not necessarily hard but it definitely takes some skill to throw an axe. Head to Function and embrace your inner lumberjack as you compete with your friends.
Hike to Garibaldi Lake 
With turquoise-coloured water nestled between alpine mountains and a spectacular glacier as the backdrop, Garabaldi Lake is one of the most scenic destinations in British Columbia.
The above activities are only the start of the amazing things that Whistler locals like to explore, there is always more to see, so if you would like more information please feel free to contact us at the Crystal directly.
As restrictions ease, Crystal Lodge Whistler is excited to welcome back our guests. If you have any questions about our rooms or would like to book your next adventure in Whistler, please feel free to contact our Guest Services Team and they can assist you at info@crystal-lodge.com or 1 800 667 3363.