10 Reasons to Visit Whistler Canada in the Fall (Guest Post)

I must admit, it has been years since I have visited the vast and beautiful country just to the north of my Midwest home. But Canada is definitely on my travel bucket list!

With all there is to explore in Canada I don’t want my followers to wait on me, so I jumped at the chance to share a guest post from a Canadian local.

Rachael Hopwood Jarvis is a travel writer who is passionate about the Canadian resort of Whistler. As well as a love of skiing and snowsports, Rachael is a keen equestrian and self-confessed shopaholic.

I’m excited to learn along with all of you as Rachel shares 10 reasons why Whistler (located just north of Washington state) makes for a fun-filled Fall getaway.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler info@mikecranephotography.com

Guest Post, By Rachel Hopwood Jarvis

Whistler is one of Canada’s leading tourist destinations, popular with winter skiers and summer adventurers alike. However, the much-underrated fall season is something of a hidden gem for this mountainous region of British Columbia.

1. It’s the best of both weathers

Free from the extremes of heat and cold experienced during summer and winter, fall offers the most comfortable temperatures in Whistler. Chilly fall mornings serve as a reminder that the icy grip of winter is just around the corner, yet glorious sun-soaked afternoons are perfect for enjoying an abundance of outdoor activities. Bring layers – that way, you’ll be ready for anything.

2. Access the highest trails for hiking

The thaw is long and slow at Whistler’s highest peaks and the snow usually melts completely by early August. That means fall is the most accessible time to enjoy a guided hike in the stunning wilderness. While you can enjoy the labyrinth of hiking trails by yourself, it’s advisable to head out on a guided hike in Whistler to ensure you stay safe and enjoy the most breathtaking backcountry views the area has to offer.

3. It’s the last chance to go biking

Mountain biking is a much-loved summer activity that continues to be enjoyed through fall. With the snow just a few weeks away, it’s best to grab a mountain bike and head out while the trails are still clear. Lost Lake Park is a great place to start. You’ll get a feel for the terrain and take in a number of local landmarks. The lift-accessed Whistler Mountain Bike Park remains open until Thanksgiving Monday and private mountain biking tours in Whistler are also recommended.

4. Try axe throwing on a rainy afternoon

While the weather in fall provides plenty of opportunities to get outdoors, the occasional rainy afternoon is inevitable. When rain stops play head for Function Junction, one of Whistler’s coolest neighborhoods.

Alongside a host of eateries and breweries, you’ll find Forged Axe Throwing. Originally a fun pastime enjoyed by local lumberjacks, axe throwing has become a world-renowned activity and sport, and you’ll soon see why. There’s something primal and fun about hurling axes at a wooden target and beating your friends at this oh-so-Canadian version of darts.

The award-winning venue promises a friendly and raucous welcome and lots of fun during the session. They’ll also be on hand to provide safety briefings and teach you a trick shot or three.

5. Take advantage of the best deals

Fall is a great time to find deals on accommodations, dining, and activities. October and November have the lowest average hotel rates with a nightly average of $212 – that’s a 29% saving compared to the yearly average of $297 per night. Huge winter crowds are just around the corner, so some of Whistler’s best hotels offer deals to lure pre-season tourists. Many of Whistler’s leading restaurants put on mid-week dining deals too, so be sure to stay beyond the weekend.

6. Shop till you drop

Whether shopping is your idea of relaxation or your cardio, there are hundreds of shops in Whistler’s pedestrian village. For those who love to ski, the annual Turkey Sale is a must-attend with deals on both new and used ski and snowboard gear. The sale takes place over the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend in October. Elsewhere, you’ll find everything from fine artwork and fashion, jewelry, the latest outdoor sportswear and a host of luxury items.

7. Stroll around Whistler’s museums and galleries

A visit to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre comes highly recommended, celebrating the history and culture of local First Nations. The Whistler Museum is also worth a visit and is the place to discover the history of the area and unique mountain culture. Check out the many historical displays and photographs on show and don’t miss the original gondola cabin. The Whistler Public Library plays host to a number of seminars and movie nights, as well as being home to ‘Whister’s Living Room’. It’s a cultural and community hub for locals, seasonals and visitors alike.

8. Drink craft beer at the Whistler Beer Festival

The Whistler Beer Festival (September 9-15) traditionally marks the end of summer and the start of fall, and the event continues to grow in size and popularity. Tasting events, beer battles, cask nights and plenty of great food should be expected in a celebration of over 140 beers and ciders from 70 distinct breweries. Tasting competitions and even beer yoga are other featured events filling an awesome itinerary.

9. Meet the authors at the Whistler Writer’s Festival

Now in its eighteenth year, the Whistler Writer’s Festival (October 17-20)  is a book lovers’ paradise attracting avid readers, aspiring writers and published authors alike. While books are of course at the heart of the event, the festival incorporates evenings with food, music, and stories, as well as a busy workshop timetable. There’s something cozy about settling down with a good book and a hot drink as the autumn leaves float on the breeze outside!

10. It’s a foodies paradise!

Whistler has become one of Canada’s culinary beacons boasting some of the country’s leading restaurants and eateries. As one of the last fall events, the Cornucopia Festival (November 7-17) is the ultimate ode to local food and drink in British Columbia.

For eleven days, Cornucopia offers an unforgettable culinary experience with tastings, winery dinners and meet the chef events. Locals describe the event as where the wild meets the refined, and in many ways that’s true. Local produce is gloriously transformed into colorful, flavor-filled creations served at intimate dinners, buzzing tasting events, and chef table luncheons. 

Who is ready for a road trip to Whistler?!

A little axe throwing in Function Junction sounds like a super fun idea to me! Thanks to Rachel for putting Whistler on my travel radar.

Have you visited Whistler or have another favorite destination in Canada? Please share in the comments below.

Wherever the road takes you, make it a joyous journey,
Traveling Tanya

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