(This article is sponsored by Tourism Whistler)

It’s the time of year where Whistler shows the world it has so much more to offer than some of the greatest skiing on the planet. Spring has officially arrived on the West Coast, and that means you’ve got endless recreation and entertainment options when you head up the Sea-to-Sky Highway. 

Chances are, in between ski days, you’ve spent a good bit of the long West Coast winter hibernating. And, really, who can blame you? With the days getting longer and the weather getting warmer, now’s when British Columbians can make the most of Whistler with a weekend or—for optimum value—midweek getaway.

The beauty of one of the province’s most gorgeous destinations is the way you can play a round of golf in the morning, hit the slopes in the early afternoon, head out to an old-growth forest trail later if you’re feeling extra-ambitious, and then cap the perfect day off with world-class dining. 

An added bonus to the return of the warm weather? Spring is when you get maximum bang for your buck when it comes to Whistler accommodations, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a favoured destination for those who want to experience beautiful British Columbia without blowing their budget. 

Spring savings at Whistler include deals on accommodation, with three-night stays starting at $135 per night, making it easy to truly get away from it all for more than an afternoon drive up the Sea-to-Sky. Extend your stay and book midweek for increased savings. 

That also means you’ve got extra time for multi-sport adventures now that the days are getting longer. As soon as the snow starts to melt, Whistler becomes one of the province’s most fabulously varied playgrounds—a place where you can not only ski, golf, hike, paddleboard, and bike, but do so the same day. 

Whether you’re skiing, hiking, or biking, the region boasts an an extensive network of trails, epic and challenging in the alpine on fresh powder, or geared to anyone looking for a quick afternoon walk, run, or ridge further down the mountain.

Boasting no shortage of Instagrammable magic, the hike to Rainbow Falls features gently winding trails and the everpresent meditative sound of Twentyone Mile Creek. Get your hiking legs tuned up for the summer ahead with short but rewarding walks in the valley on the Valley Trail or Fitzsimmons Creek Accessible Nature Trail.

Whistler’s dizzying network of trails offer a myriad of options for anyone happiest when two-wheeling. Assuming you’re not going the bring-your-own-bike route, the village boasts numerous rental shops (many offering spring discounts for spring booking) where the selection ranges from rugged suspension bikes to cruisers and e-bikes. Hop on and head out to the Danimal trail system with its crystalline Alta and Nita lake views, or Lost Lake with its lakeside beach and towering mountain backdrop.

Worried about picking the right trail? Whistler offers sightseeing bike tours catering to all levels of expertise. The extensive Valley Trail system makes exploring as easy as it is rewarding. 

As exhilarating as an adrenaline rush might be, sometimes you want to slow things down a bit. Few outdoor activities are more relaxing and meditative than paddleboarding, and Whistler has multiple options—not to mention rental facilities—for those looking to hit the water and drink in the scenery. Beginners can take to one of Whistler’s famously scenic five lakes, where the occasional beaver has been known to float on by, and chances are good you’ll see more local wildlife while relaxing in the fresh mountain air. Multiple lake access points are your golden ticket to stunning mountain views. 

Got your workout on the slopes, the links, or biking or hiking in the mountains? Relax and be pampered at one of Whistler’s many spas, which offer everything from thermal hot springs and open-air baths to eucalyptus steam rooms and hot stone massages. 

Or instead do apres-ski—or post-paddleboard—with a happy hour in the village, where the choices swing from craft beer breweries and sports bars, to classic lounges and family-friendly pubs.

When it’s dinner time, the beauty of shoulder season doesn’t stop with deep hotel discounts. When looking for spring-inspired dining in Whistler you can go casual or upscale with the option of sitting outside in the shining sun. So yes, you’re covered for grass-fed-beef burgers and hand-thrown pizza, or you can indulge in the best B.C. has to offer—cedar-smoked sockeye, Fanny Bay oysters, Pemberton Valley potatoes—at one of Whistler’s many world-renowned fine-dining restaurants. 

Spring is here bringing the sunshine and warm West Coast weather with it. Whistler, with its endless list of adventures just up the Sea-to-Sky Highway, awaits. Get out and explore one of beautiful British Columbia’s most beautiful places.

To start planning your spring getaway to Whistler visit whistler.com/spring-thing