When you think of Whistler, you probably think of the epic ski season that attracts snow worshippers each year from November through May. However, summer in the Great White North is equally popular and the month of August is packed full of events and opportunity for adventure.
Here’s our pick of the very best things to do in Whistler during August…
Wanderlust 2019: August 1-4
August in Whistler starts with an air of calm largely thanks to the Wanderlust Festival – a yoga-centric event which graces Whistler every summer.
This four-day yoga celebration helps visitors connect, find peace of mind, and adopt a beautiful outlook on life. Wanderlust in Whistler draws thousands of yogis from across the globe who join together, unplug, unwind, and get in touch with their purpose and their practice. All against the most breathtaking of mountain backdrops.
Expect hundreds of classes taught by world-renowned yogis in every style you can imagine: invigorating vinyasa, relaxing yin, paddle-board yoga, hammock yoga, aerial yoga, and more – are stretched out over the festival. The event is structured in a way to allow you to learn from the world’s best at your own pace and in whichever way you choose to flow.
The festival will take place from August 1 to August 4 and once again you can expect a packed timetable of yoga classes, musical events, workshops, delicious food, insight, and most importantly, the meditative opportunity to help you connect with your best self. Ticket prices are flexible allowing you to build your own Wanderlust according to what you want to get out of the event.
Crankworx: August 9-18
Each year, Whistler Crankworx returns home to its birthplace. Since 2004 this incredible mountain biking festival – the largest of its kind – celebrates all that is great about this two-wheeled sport.
No matter whether you’re spectating or competing, the Crankworx festival is action-packed from start to finish with amateur races, young rider contests and pro-level bike park feats.
Events to look out for include the Red Bull Joyride, RockShox Ultimate Pumptrack Challenge, and Garbanzo Downhill. Don’t miss the Clif Speed And Style where athletes combine speed with staggering tricks all while trying to maintain composure and style.
The only ticketed event at Whistler Crankworx is the Red Bull Joyride. Starting from $119 CAD, the VIP experience is your exclusive front-row ticket and includes refreshments.
Here’s 3 top spectator tips to enjoy all the action at Crankworx Whistler 2019:
- Get to know the Crankworx Whistler 2019 schedule. It’s the best way to plan your day and ensure you don’t miss a thing.
- Chat with a Village Host or event volunteer to learn the best vantage points. The Whistler locals are a friendly bunch and will be happy to share their insider knowledge.
- Keep an eye on the weather! Expect temperatures in the high 20s celsius and be sure to pack plenty of water and some SPF.
One of the best ways to catch a unique glimpse of the action is to ride the Whistler Village Gondola. Summer operations provide the opportunity to purchase a sightseeing pass and you’ll soar above the bike park as athletes hit the jumps below. This vantage point also allows you to catch glimpses of trails as they emerge from the tree line before snaking their way back in.
Axe Throwing
Axe Throwing – Spend an afternoon enjoying one of the most Canadian activities around! You’ll hurl axes (or hatchets) at a target with the hope of sinking a bullseye, and you’ll soon see why this activity has become so popular around the world. Axe throwing regularly features on the itinerary of bachelorette parties in Whistler and is a bona fide sport.
The award-winning Forged Axe Throwing is open seven days a week and can be found in Function Junction – a short drive south of the Whistler Village area. While you’re in Function Junction, check out the hive of independent businesses, shops and restaurants. New for 2019, Forged Axe now offer a shuttle bus service making it even more accessible.
Other Unmissable Activities…
Ziplining – Escape the madness of Whistler Village and enjoy a spectacular zip lining experience with Superfly Ziplines. Take to the skies above Cougar Mountain on a network of tandem lines and take in breath-taking mountain views as you soar above old-growth forest. Available year-round, zip lining with Superfly is one Whistler activity not to be missed.
Blackcomb Helicopters – Get an unforgettable birds-eye view of Crankworx with Blackcomb Helicopters. These exhilarating tours take in glacial lakes, soaring mountains and dormant volcanoes as you explore the Coast Mountains from the air. The Whistler Explorer package starts from $179 and gives you a unique perspective of Whistler Blackcomb that so few will ever experience. One to cross off the travel bucket list!
Vallea Lumina – One of our favourite ways to spend a summer evening, this mesmerising multimedia experience, launched in 2018, is a massive hit with locals and visitors alike. Lights, lasers and holograms illuminate the trail as you follow along in the quest to find two missing hikers and uncover the enchanting magic of the Vallea Lumina.
Hiking – Enjoy a moment of serenity and reconnect with nature by hiking in Whistler. The valley is home to a number of trails with varying terrain. Explore Whistler’s neighbourhoods with a wander on the Valley Trail or adventure into the alpine on the High Note Trail atop Whistler Peak. There’s a hike for everyone.
