Vancouver to Whistler Day Trip Itinerary: Summer & Winter Adventures
If there’s one day trip from Vancouver that we never get tired of, it’s the drive to Whistler. The Sea-to-Sky Highway feels like a destination on its own, with every turn revealing mountains, inlets, and waterfalls. By the time you arrive in Whistler, you’ll feel like you’ve been on a world-class adventure even if it was just a quick escape from the city.
We’ve done this trip more times than we can count. Sometimes in the middle of summer when the lakes shimmer in the sunshine, other times in the dead of winter when the village is draped in snow and après-ski is in full swing. Whether you’re an avid skier or someone who just wants to soak up the alpine vibes without strapping on skis, a Vancouver to Whistler day trip itinerary is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of British Columbia in a single day.
If you’re spending a weekend in the city first, check out our detailed Vancouver weekend itinerary to pair with this day trip.
This guide covers how to get from Vancouver to Whistler, what to see along the way, and two full itineraries (one for summer, one for winter) so you can plan the perfect adventure no matter when you’re visiting.
Why Take a Vancouver to Whistler Day Trip?
There are some day trips that feel rushed but Whistler is one of those rare places where a single day really works.
- Easy drive: Just under 2 hours each way from downtown Vancouver.
- Scenic journey: The Sea-to-Sky Highway is one of the most stunning drives in the world.
- Year-round activities: Skiing in winter. Lakes and hiking in summer. And village fun anytime.
- Flexible: Go by car, bus or guided tour. No need to stay overnight (though we often wish we could!).
On our first trip, we underestimated how much there was to see on the way and thought we’d just “drive straight through.” We ended up turning around mid-drive to stop at Shannon Falls because we couldn’t resist. That’s when we realized the journey itself is half the adventure.
Best Time to Go to Whistler
- Summer (June–September): Warm, perfect for hiking, biking, and lakes.
- Winter (December–March): Ski season, magical winter vibes.
- Shoulder seasons: Quieter, but some activities are limited.
If you’d like to stretch your legs while you’re in Whistler, don’t miss our guide to the 5 best easy hikes near Whistler for every season
Getting From Vancouver to Whistler
By Car
Driving gives you the most freedom to stop at waterfalls, lookouts, and cute towns along the way. The route is well-marked, and in summer it’s an easy cruise. In winter, remember that snow tires or chains are legally required from October to March.
By Shuttle/Bus
If you don’t want to drive, shuttles like Epic Rides, Skylynx or the Whistler Shuttle run multiple times daily. They’re comfortable and drop you right in the village. These buses run every 1-2 hours in the summer and it’s a budget friendly option.
By Tour
Guided day tours such as Landsea Tours and Adventures are a great option if you want to fit in specific stops like the Sea to Sky Gondola or don’t want to worry about timing.
The Sea-to-Sky Highway Experience
Honestly, the drive itself is worth the trip. Even if you only had time for the road and back, you’d be happy. But here are some of our favorite Sea-to-Sky Highway stops:
- Horseshoe Bay: A cozy seaside village with coffee shops, perfect if you left Vancouver hungry.
- Shannon Falls Provincial Park: Just a five-minute walk from the parking lot to see one of BC’s tallest waterfalls.
- Sea to Sky Gondola (Squamish): Sweeping views of Howe Sound, plus short trails and a suspension bridge.
- Brandywine Falls: Just before Whistler, this dramatic waterfall is an easy 10-minute walk from the highway.
We once pulled over at Brandywine Falls on a crisp autumn day and had the whole viewpoint to ourselves. The waterfall thundered below, and with the leaves just starting to turn golden, it felt like one of those “secret Canada” moments that no tour brochure ever captures.
Vancouver to Whistler Day Trip Itinerary – Summer
Whistler in summer is one of those places that makes you wonder why you’d ever want to leave. Between alpine hikes, glacial lakes, and the patio scene, it’s as lively as winter but with sunshine.
Morning: Scenic Drive & Quick Stop
Leave Vancouver by around 7:30 am, and if you need a caffeine boost, grab a coffee in Horseshoe Bay or Squamish along the way. Your first stop should be Shannon Falls Provincial Park, where a short 10-minute walk from the parking lot takes you to the base of one of BC’s tallest waterfalls. After stretching your legs, continue a little further up the highway to ride the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish. Here you’ll be treated to sweeping views over Howe Sound, suspension bridges, and easy trails that make the stop well worth the detour. Once you’ve soaked in the sights, continue your drive toward Whistler.
Midday: Mountain Adventure or Lakeside Bliss
Once you reach Whistler Village, you’ll have a couple of great options to choose from depending on your energy and style of travel.
- Adventure Option: Take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, it is an engineering marvel that connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. From the top, the Whistler Summit Trail is a manageable hike with sweeping alpine views that make the ride up completely worth it.
- Relaxed Option: If you’d rather keep things easygoing, rent a bike in the village and follow the Valley Trail. It loops around Lost Lake, offering a peaceful way to soak in Whistler’s alpine charm at a slower pace. You can also head out to Alta Lake, which many locals consider the best of Whistler’s lakes thanks to its sandy beaches, picnic spots and panoramic mountain views.
Afternoon: Whistler Village & Lunch
Head back to the pedestrian-only village for lunch. Some favorites:
- Ohyama Ramen: Our favourite (mostly winter) lunch stop in whistler. Their creamy vegan ramen is my all time fav!
- Creekbread: Wood-fired pizza with local toppings.
- La Cantina: Tacos for a quick, flavorful bite.
- Bearfoot Bistro: If you’re in the mood for something upscale.
After lunch, wander the cobblestone streets, browse boutiques, or just grab a patio seat for a drink.
Evening: Waterfall Stop & Return
On the way back, stop at Brandywine Falls. The sunlight in the evening makes it especially beautiful and is a nice break before the last stretch to Vancouver.
Here’s our full guide on the best things to do in Whistler in summer from alpine hikes and gondola rides to lakeside picnics, we’ve rounded up everything you need to make the most of sunny days in the mountains.
Vancouver to Whistler Day Trip Itinerary – Winter
Whistler in winter is magical, even if you never set foot on skis. The village sparkles with lights, and the snow-covered mountains look straight out of a postcard.
Morning: Early Drive Up
Leave Vancouver around 8 am to get ahead of the traffic and make the most of your day. The drive itself is beautiful and if you need a quick warm-up, stop in Squamish for a coffee before continuing along the Sea-to-Sky Highway toward Whistler.
Midday: Skiers vs. Non-Skiers
If you’re a skier, head straight to Whistler Blackcomb, North America’s largest ski resort, where endless runs await. You can easily spend the whole day exploring the slopes and then take a well-deserved lunch break at the Roundhouse Lodge, where the panoramic views are just as satisfying as the food.
If skiing isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Whistler in winter. Hop on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which offers jaw-dropping views even if you never set foot on skis. For something more active but still accessible, try snowshoeing at Lost Lake, a peaceful trail system surrounded by alpine scenery. You could also go ice skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza. If you’d prefer something more tranquil, slip away to the Scandinave Spa, where outdoor hot pools, saunas, and steam baths are surrounded by forest and mountain views. It is a heavenly way to spend the afternoon and one of our favourite things to do in Whistler.
For a bit of winter fun that doesn’t require much skill, head to the Coca-Cola Tube Park where you can fly down snowy lanes on a giant inflatable tube. It’s our favourite winter activity and carefree fun for both kids and adults. We sometimes love spend a cozy afternoon wandering through Whistler Village with a hot chocolate in hand and our go-to spot is Purebread Bakery, where the baked goods are almost too good to share.
Afternoon: Après-Ski Fun
Whether you ski or not, experiencing après-ski is a must in Whistler. The atmosphere is lively, social, and the perfect way to end an active day. The Longhorn Saloon is a true Whistler icon, with a buzzing patio that looks directly onto the mountain. It is ideal for people-watching and soaking in the alpine views with a drink in hand. If you’re after something a little cozier, the Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub is a favorite for its hearty comfort food and warm, welcoming vibe, making it just as inviting for non-skiers as it is for those coming off the slopes.
Evening: Explore the Village & Drive Back
Spend a little time wandering Whistler Village in the late afternoon, browsing shops or grabbing a last hot drink before your drive home. Since it gets dark early in the winter, it’s best to start heading back toward Vancouver by around 4 pm to make the return trip more comfortable.
But if you’d like to stretch out your evening in Whistler, we highly recommend Vallea Lumina. We did this multimedia night walk in 2020 and absolutely loved the experience. It felt like stepping into a fairytale forest filled with lights, sounds, and storytelling. It’s family-friendly, magical in the snow and one of the most memorable things you can do in Whistler after dark.
Where to Eat in Whistler
We’ve eaten our way around Whistler, and these are the spots we keep returning to:
- Casual: El Furniture Warehouse (cheap eats), Peaked Pies (Australian meat and veggie pies), Ohyama Ramen (winter comfort).
- Mid-range: Alta Bistro (local and seasonal), 21 Steps (modern comfort).
- Upscale: Bearfoot Bistro (yes, you can saber champagne), Araxi (classic fine dining).
- Coffee & Hot Chocolate Stops: Purebread (baked goods paired with hot chocolate or coffee), Mount Currie Coffee Company (best lattes and relaxed, local vibes)
If you’re curious about other cold-weather escapes, check out our full guide to the best winter day trips from Vancouver.
Tips for the Perfect Vancouver to Whistler Day Trip
- Leave early: Aim for at least 8 am to maximize your time, especially in the winter.
- Check the weather: Winter conditions can change fast. You will need winter tires if you are driving there.
- Book in advance: Gondolas, activities, and restaurants fill up, especially on weekends.
- Pack layers: Even in summer, it can be chilly in the alpine.
- Parking: Use Whistler’s day lots (pay-to-park but convenient).
Final Thoughts
No matter the season, a Vancouver to Whistler day trip itinerary delivers. We’ve done this drive so many times and it never loses its magic. In summer, we can’t get enough of the lakes and alpine trails. In winter, we love the contrast of adventure on the slopes with cozy evenings in the village. And even when we don’t ski, Whistler still feels like the perfect alpine escape.
Whistler is proof that sometimes the best trips don’t require flights or long drives just a willingness to hit the road and explore.
