When to Go to Whistler
Whistler by season
Whistler’s continental climate brings warm summers and mild winters, with its close proximity to the sea preventing the bitterly cold temperatures seen elsewhere in Canada. The annual snowfall averages 914cm, so it’s the perfect ski destination. That said, the resort can be visited year round. To help you choose when to travel, we’ve split the year into its four seasons:
April to June
Spring is a lovely time to visit Whistler, as the skies are bright and sunny and the flowers begin to bloom, turning the landscape green again. The ski season is tailing off by now, although if you’re lucky there might still be snow in April. Temperatures average 11-15°C so it’s not too cold, although it’s still a little cold for hiking, and some routes may not yet be open.
July to September
Summer’s temperatures reach highs of around 27°C, so it’s never too hot, allowing you to get out and walk, bike, kayak or play golf in comfort. It can still get cold in the mountains though, so it’s best to be prepared with a jumper or two, and if you do set off on a hike, look out for bears feeding off the berries by the sides of the pathways.
October to December
Autumn sees cooler weather return to Whistler, with temperatures hitting freezing by late October. The trees turn all shades of orange and gold at this time, which looks especially beautiful in the low autumn sun. November is the wettest month although, if it’s cold enough, this can fall as snow, opening the ski runs a little earlier than usual.
January to March
Although Whistler’s ski season runs from December to April, its peak months are December to February, so if it’s powder you’re after, this is the time to travel. You’ll need to wrap up warm, as temperatures fall somewhere between -6°C and freezing in Whistler Village, while up on the mountains they are colder still, often with a light breeze.
