4 May

This Month in Whistler: The Local List

Whistler is like an onion. Start peeling off the layers of the four seasons, the big events and the well-known activities (skiing – we talk about skiing a LOT) and you’ll find a host of ever-changing natural wonders, fresh events and ideas for things to do that are a step or two off the well-beaten path.

We’ve done a whip round to bring you The Local List for this month in Whistler – a short sweet round up of the things we’re stoked to see and do this month, challenging you to get out and sample those moments that might not happen any other time of the year.

Wakey, wakey – Whistler’s black bears are waking from hibernation right now.

Ah May, season of possibilities, spring specials and first bike rides and hikes. Here we shed the last of our winter skin, and embrace the warmth of the sun once more. It’s quiet and there’s definitely some deals to be found – so what are we up to this month?

We’re going to the wild side:

The snow is melting, which means any hike to a river or waterfall is worth the effort
We’re spotting bears all over the place – bear viewing tours start May 15 for the best and safest way to view our favourite animals as they wake from hibernation. More tips on bear smart practices and what to do if you see a bear here
In related news, the skunk cabbage is growing fast…
…and the hummingbirds are back!

Spring thaw – time to sit by a river and listen for a while.

We’re getting active and adventurous:

Time to hit up the driving ranges to loosen up the swing, golf season is upon us! (Courses opening from May 1)
We’re going to go and find Lost Lake again. Still some snow on trails at low elevations but hey – it’s an adventure. Train Wreck Trail is also good to go
It’s daylight well past 8 PM now, which means our favourite pastime – chilling out on lakeside docks and watching the sun set
Chasing snow – the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola is currently closed for regular maintenance, but we can’t wait until it reopens May 27 so we can check out the snow on Whistler and Blackcomb (you can still go spring sightseeing on Blackcomb)
We’re still skiing Blackcomb, right up to Gaper Day on May 22…
…which is neat because the Whistler Bike Park opens May 19. Double Play!

Time for a catch up? Alta Lake, late evening.

We’re eating and drinking:

Anything we can order from a sunny patio, preferably while wearing a t-shirt
The first local produce of the season at the first Farmers’ Market on May 21
All of the Indulge in Whistler dining specials
Free appies and live music at Fairmont Fridays in the Mallard Lounge
Brunch with Mom (Mother’s Day on May 14)

We’re hitting the shops:

The brand new Giant Whistler store, full of shiny, shiny new bikes. And clothing. And bike cleaning gear.
Source for Sports and Escape Route Whistler, with spring sports gear including new stand up paddleboards
Soles of Whistler for new spring shoes (and maybe a deal on boots for next winter)
Kier Fine Jewellery, Rogers Chocolates and Ruby Tuesday for something special for Mom (Mother’s Day is May 14 – there, that’s two reminders)
We’re just happy to stroll about too – the flowers in Whistler Village are starting to bloom – gorgeous!

The first market of the year, held on the May Long Weekend. Where are the Jeggs?

We’re expanding our horizons:

Drawing big with the Matisse Exhibition at the Audain Art Museum, and thinking small at the Teeny Tiny Show at The Gallery at the Arts Centre
Listening as local legend Leslie Anthony hosts four unique authors to tell their tales in the Spring Reading Series with the Whistler Writing Society
With workshops at the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre that connect us with First Nations culture in new way
Finding balance at Being Centred: Your Body, The Magical Mandala Workshop with Loka Yoga

New – the GLC all-weather patio.

We’re trying something NEW:

Forged Axe Throwing, conveniently located next to Whistler’s newest brewery. That’s all the awesome, right there.
Checking out the Canada 150 deals, packages, menus and contests happening around Whistler
Learning how to make Doug Fir Syrup and Sours with Alta Bistro and the Whistler Public Library
Playing Garden Games with mocktails, snacks and entertainment in Florence Peterson Park

Let the biking begin! First toonie of the season coming right up.

We’re checking out these events:

Whistler’s Great Outdoors Festival from May 19 – 22
Bici Gusti Gourmet Ride on May 19
The First Thursday Toonie Ride and First Phat DH Wednesday of the season thanks to WORCA
Funk Night at Brandy’s (Thursdays)
Mountain Bike Heritage Week at the Whistler Museum from May 16 – 21
Art Battle at Dusty’s on May 12
Whistler Spring Classic: North American Enduro Tour from May 27 – 28

Well, there you have it – a short list with the flavours of the month in Whistler. There’s a ton more to discover, so to to keep up to date with what’s on in town and find deals on accommodation, activities and more, visit Whistler.com.