10 FUN Things To Do in Whistler in October

If you are looking for the best things to do in Whistler in October then you are in the right place! Whistler is one of the best resorts in North America and the number one resort in Canada. While October is considered shoulder season, that does not mean that there are not things to do. So why is it shoulder season? Well, summer activities have typically closed (hiking and swimming etc.) and the winter does not get into full swing until late November.

There are still many things to do in Whistler in October to keep you busy. It is also one of the quietest months to visit.

Things to do in Whistler in October

Bike the Valley Trail in Whistler

One of the most popular free things to do in Whistler in October (if you are driving here locally) is to bike. There are bike-friendly paths all over town, making it one of the easiest ways to get around! If you are not local, there are bike rental shops all over! The network of paved bike paths connects all of Whistler’s neighborhoods, lakes, and local forests.

There are even e-bikes that now be rented! Make sure to pack rain gear for wet days.

Whistler Train Wreck Hike

Hiking in whistler in October is one of the most popular outdoor activities you can do, as long as you pack for the weather. There are dozens of hikes taking you around the village, to alpine meadows, waterfalls, snow walls, lakes, and gorgeous views, and all levels and abilities are welcome. One of the easier hikes (or some like to call it a walk) is the Whistler Train Wreck Hike. It is just south of the Village, at Function Junction.

Beautifully colored graffiti covers up rusty train car boxes that have been lying among the trees in the forest for close to 70 years. Over time this train wreck became more than a locals’ secret and just a few years ago a path was built, along with a suspension bridge, to give visitors access to the site (without having to illegally walk on the train tracks to get there).

The trail is suitable for all ages and is even stroller-friendly until you get up to the train car area. It is well worth a trip to the train wreck to learn about the 1950s derailment and how the box cars came to lie wedged between towering cedars and fir trees.

Ride the Peak to Peak Gondola until October 10th

Whistler Blackcomb’s world record-setting PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola transforms the high alpine experience with new, awe-inspiring vistas as it bridges the gap between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. It is one of the perfect things to do in Whistler in October on a dry day.

The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, as part of the world’s longest continuous lift system, introduces summer guests to unprecedented access to Whistler Blackcomb’s high alpine for sightseeing, hiking and mountain-top dining. The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola travels a span of 4.4 kilometres/2.73 miles in about 10 minutes.

While on Whistler or Blackcomb, there are dozens of alpine hikes to take advantage of. Plan for at least two hours just to get up the mountain, ride across and ride back down. I suggest while you are on one of the mountains, grab something to eat or take a short hike.

Location: On Whistler or Blackcomb. Access via Blackcomb Gondola or Whistler Village Gondola.

Tickets: (Until October 10th)

WEEKDAYS: Adults $65, Senior (65+) $56, Youth 13-18 $56, Child 7-12 $34, 6 and under FREE

WEEKENDS: Adults $80, Senior (65+) $71, Youth 13-18 $71, Child 7-12 $41, 6 and under FREE

SLCC Squamish Li’wat Cultural Centre

Open year-round, the SLCC brings together the vibrant cultures of two local Indigenous groups in one beautiful space. It offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the Indigenous people (the Squamish and the Li-wat people) who inhabited the region that Whistler is part of.

There is an hourly guided tour that gives you a glimpse into the Squamish and the Li-wat people who lived in this region! On the main level you can find a gift shop, perfect for local souvenir shopping, as well as a cafe.

Plan for about 1 hour here.

Location: 4584 Blackcomb Way

Hours: 10am to 5pm. Tours are hourly on the hour from 10am-4pm

Prices: Adults $20.00 Students (13-18) $7.00 Children (6-12) $5.00 Family Pass $45.00 (up to 2 adults and 2 youth under 18)

Visit the Bike Skills Park

Make sure to head over to the Fitzsimons Bike Skills Park on a dry day in Whistler in October. It has has jumps and bumps for all skill levels (yes you beginners too). It is located next to Daylot #2 between the upper village and the main village. You will find all ages and abilities, from the littlest riders to those who have years of experience! There are two pump tracks and a variety of straight tracks! This is a popular place to bring kids of all ages if you are visiting whistler with kids. There is also a skate and scooter park right next door if they prefer those kinds of wheels!

Make sure you bring a bike lock and a refillable bottle of water to fill up at the water station! There are bike racks everywhere! There are picnic tables if you want to pack a lunch and enjoy watching the skilled riders take to the jumps!

Ziplining in Whistler in October

Put on some layers and enjoy this adrenaline-fuelled activity in October in Whistler. It is actually available all year long! You can zipline from the village or you can go to nearby Cougar Mountain.

You can book here for Ziptrek and book here for Superfly. I have done Superfly and it is amazing (and very high!!!) Both actually operate all year round.

Take A Food Tour in Whistler in October

Enjoy the best dining in Whistler when you take a food tour this fall. Food tours are popular in almost every city and Whistler is no exception. You can take an early evening food tour with an expert foodie when you visit Whistler in October

This luxury experience also has a wine add on and ends early enough in the evening to have a nightcap.

Look for Fall Colors

As the leaves change from greens to golds, you can seek out the best fall colors in Whistler on the following hikes: Brandywine Falls, Sea to Sky Trail to Green Lake, Rainbow Park, Valley Trail, Train Wreck Hike, and Whistler Interpretive Forest.

Enjoy Fall Dining Deals in October

Whistler is known for its fall dining deals. With October being shoulder season it is the most affordable time to check out all of the best dining spots in Whistler.

Check out Escape Whistler

Escape Whistler has 6 themed escape rooms. They include a pirate ship, buried cabin, pinball machine, yukon gold, underwater lair, and a rabbit hole! The escape room is designed for 2 to 6 players and Escape Whistler recommends playing with 6 players. Families with younger children should start with the pirate themed room.

Price: $37 per player, per game (children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult and children under 5 are free)

More Whistler Travel Resources for 2023

If you are still in the planning stages, this information will help you plan your visit to Whistler.

Start with how to get from Vancouver to Whistler. If you are from out of town, there are ways to get to Whistler without a car.

Traveling with Kids? This post has all of the best things to do in Whistler with kids! It has things for all seasons! I also have a post on the best Whistler hotels for families.

Shopping? Whistler Village has plenty of shopping options from clothing, to gear to souvenirs. Make sure you read this post on Whistler souvenirs before your trip!

5 Things to pack for a Summer Whistler Trip

Make sure you have these things packed for your trip to Whistler

• Sunscreen and hat: With plenty of beach and pool time (and hiking time too), make sure you have a hat and sunscreen.
• Bug Spray: depending where you are, the bugs can be bad. If you are headed to the alpine lakes, you will need it for sure. At dusk it is bad on the trails around Whistler village, as well as at the skate park.
• Bathing Suit: Do not forget your bathing suit. Pools and lakes are what make Whistler so great in the warmer months
• Comfortable shoes: Even if you are not a hiker, there are plenty of walking trails in the village. Whistler Village is such a walkable area and with a focus on eco-experiences, park the car and walk as much as you can.
• Bikes: If you are a local, consider bringing a bike! The village trails are perfect to bike to the lakes, and all over the village. Most people will bike to dinner and places like the farmer’s market. This helps limit your car use as well! ALl hotels offer bike valet or bike storage for visitors.

That is far from all, read my Guide to What to wear in Whistler which has a complete packing list for visiting at any time of the year.

Where to Stay in Whistler

Below I have listed some popular properties in Whistler to stay.

Four Seasons Whistler – The Four Seasons is one of Whistler’s luxury 5 star properties. The Four Seasons Whistler has a swimming pool and hot tub. They offer a bike valet that is convenient and safe. In the winter, I love the ski valet option where you can leave your skis at the ski hill instead of having to bring them back to the hotel. Four Seasons is located in the Upper Village near the Blackcomb Gondola. If you are visiting as a family, they offer playpens or cribs and high chairs for guests. They also offer childproofing items, art class, a seasonal playroom, and little luxuries like kids bath robes.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY

Delta Hotel Whistler – The Delta offers rooms with full kitchens. This is ideal for those who like condo style accommodation but want the convenience of a hotel. There is coin laundry on site which may be needed to dry out wet ski gear. The Delta offers babysitting services as well. There is a heated indoor/outdoor pool as well as a hot tub. The Delta is in Whistler Village close to everything.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY

AirBNB‘s are another great option as they offer more space. Most are designed for 4 or more people making them perfect for families or trips with friends. You can read more about Whistler AirBNB’s or check out my go-to favorite here. One downside to AirBNB’s is that they are not all in the village.

You may also want to check out: Whistler in September, or Whistler in November.