Whistler Magazine Summer 2024

CUTTING EDGE

Passion and dedication make Whistler Mountain Bike Park a world-class destination

TOP 10 TO-DO LISTS A LAND OF FIRE AND ICE PATIO DINING SEASON

COMPLIMENTARY MAGAZINE

Please take one

FACES OF WHISTLER: Whistler’s Top Ten, 15 BY

ALISON TAYLOR

GEOLOGICAL WONDERS: A Land of Fire and Ice, 18 BY ALISON TAYLOR

BIKE PARK: Cutting Edge, 26 BY DAVID SONG

WHISTLER HOMES: Modern Mountain Home, 34 BY ALYSSA NOEL

FINE DINING: Patio Season, 48 BY

BRANDON BARRETT

BREAKFAST SPOTS: Fuel Up for Adventure, 59 BY ALISON TAYLOR

BRANDON BARRETT is the former features editor for Pique Newsmagazine. He is the 2018 recipient of the John Collison Investigative Journalism Award. In his free time, he is a theatre producer, performer and playwright.

DAVID BUZZARD is a commercial, architectural, and food photographer based in Whistler and Vancouver. He has won nine press awards for photojournalism for the Whistler Question and The Squamish Chief.

JUSTA JESKOVA is a local photographer, focusing on outdoor lifestyle, portraits and action photography. Her images can be seen in promotional material around the town as well as in well-known international magazines. Originally from Alberta, ALYSSA NOEL is Pique Newsmagazine’s arts editor. She has an M.A. in arts and culture reporting, and her work has appeared in various publications throughout Canada.

SONG is a news and sports journalist for Pique Newsmagazine who moved to Whistler in 2022 after nearly two decades in Calgary, Alberta. He has covered everything from March Madness basketball to PGA Tour Champions.

COVER PHOTO OF BIKING ON THE SABERTOOTH HORSE TRAIL ON WHISTLER MOUNTAIN BY JUSTA JESKOVA

DAVID

SUMMER/FALL 2024

What is your favourite Sea to Sky mountain peak or glacier?

GENERAL MANAGER, ADVERTISING/OPERATIONS

Catherine Power-Chartrand

EDITOR

Armchair Glacier, on the north end of town, is one of my favourites with its distinctive “arms” encircling the glacier. It’s also the name of everyone’s favourite book store, a must-visit if you’re in Whistler!

I’ve never been up Mount Cayley but I’ve spotted its distinct, jagged peak from many mountain tops. I like to think of it as the lessfamous cousin of Black Tusk.

Alison Taylor

ART DIRECTOR

Shelley Ackerman

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brandon Barrett

Alyssa Noel

David Song

PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

Lesley Anthony

David Buzzard

Mike Crane

Drew Dodman

Justa Jeskova

Getty Images

Chris Rollett

Logan Swayze

Tourism Whistler

PRESIDENT, WHISTLER PUBLISHING LP

Sarah Strother

ACCOUNTING

Heidi Rode

CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION

Denise Conway

I am awed by the Tantalus Range and find it even more fantastic now that I can spot the First Nations legendary spears and dogs. (Read the Fire and Ice. feature in this edition!)

I love the sight of the dramatic Black Tusk peak as I'm heading up the Sea to Sky highway—it lets me know I'm almost at Whistler. I think everyone must feel its welcoming presence when coming up the Sea to Sky.

Living north of the Village, I’m lucky to wake up to a view of Armchair Glacier and Wedge Mountain.

Whistler Magazine (ISSN-0835-5460) is published twice annually by PACIFIC COASTAL PUBLICATIONS LP, a division of Glacier Media Group

202-1390 Alpha Lake Road, Whistler, B.C., Canada, V8E 0H9 Phone 604-938-0202 | Fax 604-938-0201

Email: cpower@whistlermagazine.com

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Copyright © 2024, by Glacier Media Group. All

Al Fresco

DINING

Course-side dining doesn’t get better than this. Offering picturesque views of the 18th hole, our scenic and sun soaked patio is the ultimate destination for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. Join us before or after a round, or your Whistler adventures - all are welcome!

DISCOVER WHISTLER’S BEST KEPT SECRET

P: JUSTA JESKOVA

WHISTLER REVELS AT BEING BEST IN CLASS

FROM BIKING TO ART TO CULINARY CREATIONS, WHISTLER SOLIDIFIES ITS SPOT ON TOP

Whistler is a place of delightful superlatives. As the internationally renowned home of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Whistler is a town of accolades and awards, a place of world records and a world of extremes.

Here are a few superlatives to its name.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), in its rankings of The Best Ski Resorts in the U.S. and Canada for 2023-2024, named Whistler Blackcomb No. 1. Of particular note, WSJ highlighted the quality of terrain, the abundance of snow, and the always exceptional après-ski scene.

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is the biggest bike park in North America. It boasts 70 trails from the Top of the World at the peak of Whistler Mountain to the trails that wind down to the valley floor. Read more about it in our feature story on page 26.

The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola is a recordbreaking feat of engineering as the longest and the highest lift of its kind in the world It’s 436 metres high, stretching above the Fitzsimmons valley. It has the world’s longest unsupported span for a lift of its kind at just over three kilometres; and, it’s part of the world’s longest continuous lift system, connecting two high-speed chairlifts and one gondola.

ALISON TAYLOR Editor

Not to be outdone, the Whistler Sliding Track has its claim to fame too as the fastest sliding track in the world. Just ask anyone who was at the BMW IBSF World Championships in 2019 where all track and world records were smashed. Outside of competition, trained bobsled pilots take visitors down this track to experience the G-forces and the thrill of hurtling 125 km/hour down a winding concrete path. Are you ready to tackle the fastest track in the world?

But it’s not just in sports that Whistler has made a name for itself.

The Audain Art Museum is home to one of the top three Emily Carr collections in the country—33 paintings, spanning her lifetime. It’s quite a sight to see them displayed together in the beautiful museum.

And, just last year, Wild Blue was named best new restaurant in North America in the World Culinary Awards. Read more about what’s

happening at Wild Blue in our fine dining section.

You get the picture. This is a place where things are extraordinary. We have award-winning chefs working in celebrated kitchens—check out what Chef James Walt is doing with TopTable’s latest invention called Provisions (on page 59). We have nature that’s bigger and bolder than most places—read about our geological history of fire and ice which created our surrounding landscape on page 18. We invented the biggest mountain biking festival in the world 20 years ago and now Crankworx is in four different countries, returning to its birthplace at the height of every summer.

So, what does it mean to be best-inclass? It means we’re continually pushing the boundaries. It means we’re finding new ways to connect with people and have them connect with Whistler. And it means that once you get used to being the best, it’s hard to be anything less. Reinvention. Rejuvenation. Reminders. Staying number one is hard work. Whistler, however, is always up for the challenge.

Alison

TRAIL MIX THINGS TO DO & SEE

[ IN & AROUND WHISTLER ]

WATER WAYS

There are so many ways to enjoy the water in Whistler. Jet boating on the Green River. Whitewater rafting on the rapids of the Lower Cheakamus. Paddle boarding on Alta Lake. Canoeing on the always popular River of Golden Dreams. Keep cool in the mountains whether you’re looking for big adventures or to unwind in nature.

SPA EXTREME

Even a day at the spa in Whistler can be extreme. Take the Scandinave Spa thermal journey experience. Get toasty warm for 15 minutes in the dry sauna, take the plunge and submerge into a cold pool (you can even put your head under a chilly waterfall), then melt into a 15-minute period of relaxation. And repeat. Embrace the whole experience by disconnecting from your device and staying silent, a mandatory part of the experience. This is an exercise in pushing your limits and trusting the process. And, the perfect place to decompress. Check out scandinave.com

VALLEA LUMINA

When the sun goes down and the stars come out, there’s another nighttime light show on display just north of town. It’s called Vallea Lumina, a multi-media nightwalk in the forest with talking trees, jumping fish and so much more. The rest of the journey is yours to discover. This is fun for the whole family. Check out vallealumina.com for tickets and details.

FOREST BATHING

It somehow goes without saying that a simple walk in the woods is good for your body and soul. But perhaps it’s good to remind ourselves to get out among the trees. The Japanese call it shinrin-yoku, or forest bath. The idea is to let nature wash over you so you soak in all its goodness—the calm, the fresh air, the peace. You might emerge from the forest a changed person! INSIDER TIP: There are so many ways to enjoy forest bathing in Whistler. If you prefer to add some adrenalin to your tree time, don’t miss out on the Ascent Trails on Blackcomb Mountain. These three linked trails go from the base of the mountain to the Rendezvous restaurant, winding through oldgrowth forest along the way. It’s 6.2km with a total elevation gain of 1,200m. Check out whistlerblackcomb.com.

ADRENALIN JUNKIES

There are lots of ways to get your thrills in Whistler and leave here with a story to tell. Perhaps the biggest tales come from the bungee bridge south of town, where you can throw yourself off a bridge over the rushing waters of the Cheakamus River. Another tale will have you flying over the trees via zipline, rising to the challenge and steeling your nerves for Canada’s longest zipline—The Sasquatch. Or, you can navigate the world’s fastest sliding track at the Whistler Sliding Centre via bobsleigh or head-first via skeleton. Choose your own adventure and get ready to regale everyone with your Whistler adventure.

ALPINE TREASURES AT WHISTLER BLACKCOMB (and beyond)

WILDFLOWERS

In bloom two to three weeks each summer. Mountain Buttercup. Alpine Fireweed. Indian Paintbrush. Arctic Lupine… and many more.

ANIMALS

Spot the resident black bears frolicking on the slopes. Or listen for the marmots whistling among the rocks. (That’s where Whistler gets its name!)

LAKES

Nothing beats the crystal, chilled blue waters of a glacial alpine lake. Pull off your hiking boots and dip your toes… or your whole body. >>

TRAIL MIX

RAINBOW REOPENING

If all goes to plan, Rainbow Park is gearing up for a busy summer. The park, which was closed last summer due to major upgrades, is set to open in June. Among the improvements to this 35-year-old destination spot are an expanded beach area, a new dock with hammock, a paddleboard launch, and new and expanded gathering spots and picnic areas. The volleyball courts will be revamped as well as accessibility options. Rainbow Park sits on the shores of Alta Lake on the west side of the valley with Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains as backdrop. Don’t forget your volleyball, your beach towel and your sunscreen.

INSIDER TIP: Parking is often a challenge at this popular park. Consider walking or biking along the Valley Trail or taking the shuttle to get the most out of your day.

TEE TIME

Golf is a popular pastime in Whistler, with four worldclass courses on its doorstep— Nicklaus North, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club, the Whistler Golf Club, and Big Sky There’s something unique about each one, offering players a different perspective on every tee. You might just find yourself teeing off next to a black bear!

VIEW FROM ABOVE

While the journey into Whistler’s backcountry is worth every step of the way, sometimes it’s nice to arrive in style. Nothing beats an alpine picnic and paddleboard at a pristine glacial lake, especially when a helicopter delivers you right to the shores. Choose an adventure that suits you: heli hiking, heli biking, even heli fishing. The journey alone—soaring over the Coast Mountains—will take your breath away. Or you can take in the view via float plane.

INSIDER TIP: If you’re not ready to soar among the clouds, try viewing the mountains from another amazing vantage point—the record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Enjoy the 360 Sightsee Experience and soak it all in.

BACKCOUNTRY READY

For the past four years, call-outs for Whistler Search and Rescue (WSAR) have been on the rise. In the last WSAR annual report, which covers March 1, 2023 to March 6, 2024, there were 92 responses, up from 88 over the previous year. And, while search and rescue in Whistler is often associated with lost and injured skiers and snowboarders, summer remains an equally busy time. Last summer there were 25 responses for hikers, nine for climbers and five for bikers. INSIDER TIP: Be prepared heading into the backcountry. Pack bear spray. Dress accordingly (that includes proper footwear) and bring extra layers. Pack food and water, bring a cell phone, and relay your plan to someone before leaving.

JEREMI’S TREE

If you’ve travelled the Sea to Sky highway at night, there’s a very good chance you’ve seen a sparkling tree lit up with white lights, a beacon in the dark sky. This is Jeremi’s Tree, on the west side of Highway 99 between Squamish and Whistler. The lights were installed by a group of friends several years ago in honour of their late friend Jeremi Lindstrom, who died of cancer when he was only 29. Lindstrom was a cook in Whistler. He believed that one particular tree along the highway was just the right size and shape to be a perfect Christmas tree. For the past decade, Lindstrom’s friends have rallied together, restringing lights, replacing light bulbs, and keeping his memory alive—a testament to friendship and a life well lived. W

Whistler’s

10

1 TAKE IN THE SCENERY FROM ABOVE: Whether it’s on the Peak-to-Peak gondola, by helicopter, or float plane; I’m convinced each time that Whistler is one of the most beautiful places on earth.

2 ALPINE HIKING AND WILDFLOWERS: I always pack my field guides to read up on the local flora and fauna during hikes. The turquoise glacial lakes high up in the mountains are also a perfect spot for a picnic.

3 AUDAIN ART MUSEUM AND THE ARTIST DINNER SERIES: With its stunning architecture and significant collection of B.C. art, the museum is a place where I love to bring friends and family when they visit. From participating in a weekly yoga class to dressing up and indulging in the Artist Dinner Series, there’s always something fun to do.

4 CULTURAL CONNECTOR: On rainy days, heading to the places along the Cultural Connector is a go-to. (The scenic pathway through Whistler Village and the Upper Village links six cultural institutions. Pick up a printed brochure and map at any of the Village Host booths or the Visitor’s Centre.)

PHOTOS BY DAVID BUZZARD

THREE LOCALS GIVE US THE GOODS ON SOME OF THEIR FAVOURITE THINGS IN AND AROUND THE RESORT

ELYSE FEAVER

Six years ago elyse feaver came to whistler for the weekend with her husband; she left with an offer on an empty piece of property and dreams to build a home and a life here. Not long after, the couple moved across the country, relocating from Toronto to the West Coast mountains. She hasn’t looked back. In fact, you could say she fell in love with Whistler at first sight.

“Whistler captures your heart with the landscape, the opportunities for sport, the opportunities for culture,” she says.

To start this new chapter, Feaver immersed herself in the community. “It’s such a welcoming community,” she says. “I feel like I fit into a lot of different groups within the community.”

She started coaching figure skating at the local rink, became a board member of the Whistler Institute to make use of her background in education, and volunteered at the Audain Art Museum (AAM). That’s where she found her niche.

Feaver has since parlayed that volunteer role into a permanent position where she is now engagement and volunteer manager, with a goal to further deepen the museum’s place in the community.

When she’s not making the most of Whistler’s outdoors, you can find Feaver at the Audain Art Museum where she is happy teaching visitors more about its incredible collection and its role in telling the regional history of this area.

ELYSE’S TOP 10 THINGS TO DO >>

6 RACES AND EVENTS: Whether it’s cheering from the stands at Crankworx, or competing in a triathlon myself, it’s exciting to witness the high calibre of athletes who come to Whistler to compete.

7 VALLEY TRAIL PATIO HOPPING: My husband Doug and I can usually be found wandering somewhere along the extensive trail systems that run through Whistler. Most of our routes are planned around strategic stops at patios like the Alpine Café, the Whistler Golf Club, or Nita Lake Lodge.

8 LIVE MUSIC: The Summer Concert Series is a perfect place to head after work to meet up with friends. Also, anywhere the Hair Farmers are playing is bound to be the best time!

9 LAKE DAYS: My favourite lake day is grabbing a boat from Backroads and paddling to all of Arts Whistler’s Art-on-the-Lake activations.

5 MEADOW PARK: On the hottest days, you might find me cooling down on a free-skate session at the Meadow Park arena.

10 WATERFALL ADVENTURES: When friends come to visit, I like to take them on a waterfall tour featuring well-known spots like Brandywine and Nairn, as well as some secret places where half the fun is remembering how to get there.

WEITIEN HO

nineteen-year-old weitien ho can’t decide. His choices aren’t like most teens. Rather, Ho is torn between pursuing a life of professional skiing or professional mountain biking. To be fair, it’s not a bad position to be in as a Whistler teen.

“I can’t pick one or the other. I just have fun doing both,” he says while gearing up for his summer season of racing which will include Enduro World Cup circuit races throughout Europe and back on home turf.

Ho capped off his season on skis this year with a win to secure a coveted spot on the World Freeride Tour next season. All eyes are on him both summer and winter.

Ho, who is perhaps the quintessential Whistler kid, moved here from Vancouver when he was four years old. Among his great results from last year on his bike was a first place finish in the U21 category at the Whistler Enduro during Crankworx, as well as a first place in the Squamish Enduro. He finished 7th overall last summer in the UCI Enduro World Cup rankings.

Ho says he loves the variety of trails in Whistler from the steep technical trails to the fun flowy jump trails. The options grow with the amazing network in Squamish and Pemberton.

The beauty of riding in Whistler, he adds, is the people. “It’s such a close community.”

As for any decisions about his future, all things are on the table for this athlete. And in the meantime, Ho continues to race up the rankings on his skis and bike.

Stay tuned for more from this Whistler teen.

JASON MC CLEAN

though he grew up in the Sea to Sky corridor, Jason McClean, whose grandparents owned The Hitching Post Motel in Mount Currie for 20 years, isn’t your typical product of the mountains.

“I was a strange Sea to Sky kid,” he jokes. “I golfed all summer and played hockey all winter.”

He continues to do both. But it was that early introduction and love of golf that set his career in motion. At 36 years old, McClean is now the sales and marketing manager for the Whistler Golf Club, one of the four premier courses in the area. It’s been a busy time in the industry since he took on the role one year ago.

“Covid was a spike for the entire golf industry,” says McClean, with the last few years some of the best on record.

And while pundits are predicting a slight dip in business this year, as of the spring, Whistler is trending ahead of numbers from last year.

1 A DAY IN THE WHISTLER BIKE PARK:

Some of my favourite trails are: Dirt Merchant (jump trail) double black, Angry Pirate (flowy tech trail) black diamond, Ninja Cougar (flowy corners) blue, Insomnia (tech and fun corner trail) black diamond, Polo Fiction (tech trail) double black diamond, Del Bocca Vista (flow trail) green, Top Of The World (tech trail starting at the top of Peak Chair) black diamond.

2 TRAIL RIDING IN THE VALLEY:

Some of my favourite trails in the valley are: Hey Bud (steep tech trail) double black diamond, Howler (rocky tech trail) double black diamond, Green Therapy (tech/flow with some rock faces) double black diamond, High High>High Society (flow trail) blue, Lord of the Squirrels—if you are looking for a longer day on the bike this is a great loop. The trail has a very well maintained climb that gets you right into the alpine for some stunning views before a super fun descent back into the valley.

3 GO NORTH OR SOUTH: I would also suggest going to ride Pemberton or Squamish one day. Both places have another huge trail network with lots of variety and are both under an hour drive from Whistler.

4 FLY ABOVE THE TREES: Ziplining either with Ziptrek or Superfly.

5 BUNGEE JUMPING: At Whistler Bungee.

6 ATV OR JEEP TOURS

7 HIKING AROUND THE TOP: It's easy to access the alpine via the gondola and hike the trails at Whistler and Blackcomb.

8 FRISBEE GOLF: A locals’ favourite at Lost Lake.

9 VISIT DURING CRANKWORX: A worldwide bike festival with a week of exciting events going off, races, film contests etc. 10 PADDLE THE

That’s not to say visitors can’t book a tee time; Whistler Golf Club, like the other courses, ensures open tee times for resort guests, offering a great balance between members and paying guests. There is, he adds, something special and awesome about each course.

But, he would be remiss not to highlight the signature No. 16 hole at the Whistler Golf Club, located in a big natural amphitheatre with an elevated tee. “You’re hitting your ball into Whistler and Blackcomb,” he says. “I think it’s the best looking shot in all of Whistler.”

JASON’S TOP 10 THINGS TO DO

1 GOLF, ESPECIALLY AT MY HOME COURSE OF WHISTLER GOLF CLUB: I love Whistler Golf Club for its traditional Arnold Palmer design, bordering ancient cedar forests, with modern updates, challenging features, and stunning mountain views. But we’re spoiled for choice in Whistler; we have four amazing resort courses that I love playing on rotation, all four ranking amongst the best in Canada.

2 ONE OF THE BEST FREE ACTIVITIES IS A DIFFERENT KIND OF GOLF, DISC GOLF: Whistler is home to an amazing disc golf course that can be found at Lost Lake Park.

3 THE SEA TO SKY CORRIDOR HAS TOP B.C. HIKING TRAILS like Wedgemount Lake, Whistler Train Wreck, and the trail network connected to the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish.

4 WE LOVE APRÈS IN WHISTLER with patio sessions at places like The Beacon Pub, Black’s Pub, or Dubh Linn Gate for pints and nachos.

5 MY FAVOURITE WHISTLER TOUR ACTIVITY IS ATVING with Canadian Wilderness Adventures or The Adventure Group Whistler. If you’re a thrill seeker, go with the advanced tours.

6 I’M A SUCKER FOR A SAUNA SESSION: I love recovering at the Scandinave Spa in their cold plunge pools, hot tubs and sauna/steam rooms. This is always a great rainy-day activity.

7 FISHING IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED in this area, but we have some amazing trout fishing in our local lakes, and salmon fishing during the spring and fall season.

8 I’VE BEEN GETTING INTO PICKLEBALL LATELY: The Whistler Racket Club has some great tennis and pickleball courts and an underrated restaurant/après scene.

99I’M ALWAYS HAPPY ON THE VALLEY TRAIL whether walking or biking. It connects our community and offers some of Whistler's best views.

10 A HELI-TOUR WITH FRIENDS in Whistler offers amazing views and even a 19th hole heli-golf experience with Blackcomb Helicopters. W

LATE-NIGHT DINING

CHAMPAGNE SABERING

PRIVATE WINE CELLAR

VODKA ICE ROOM

COCKTAIL BAR

OPEN FROM 5:30 PM

A LAND OF FIRE AND ICE

THE SEA TO SKY HIGHWAY IS RICH WITH GEOLOGICAL WONDERS AND FIRST NATIONS LEGENDS

STORY BY ALISON TAYLOR

There is perhaps no better welcome to whistler than the sight of the dark and majestic Black Tusk mountain reaching up beyond the surrounding peaks, jutting into the western sky. A harbinger of the end of the journey north, Black Tusk is a sign that you are near, that Whistler is just around the corner. But it is far more than that.

“It’s a geological wonder,” says Dr. John Clague, professor of earth sciences at Simon Fraser University. “I would say this is a spectacular feature.” And that’s saying something in a region full of geological wonders—glaciers, active volcanoes, hotsprings, and more.

“(The area) has some amazing geological highlights,” he adds.

One of the things that stands out for Clague in the Sea to Sky corridor is the “interplay between ice age glaciation and volcanic activity. It’s a story of fire and ice.”

This dynamic area is now an “aspiring geopark.” If approved, the Fire and Ice Geopark will be part of the UNESCO Global Geoparks, recognized for its geological significance and managed into the future accordingly.

Like some mythological tale, the fire and ice saga has been carved out in the rocks and mountains for hundreds of thousands of years. But the stories of the Sea to Sky landscape often run much deeper than that.

MAJESTIC BLACK TUSK RISES IN THE BACKGROUND WITH FIRST NATIONS DRUMMERS IN FULL REGALIA. THIS PHOTO WAS PART OF THE UNCEDED PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT AT THE SLCC WHICH ASKED GUESTS TO LOOK AT THE WORLD THROUGH A DIFFERENT LENS, RESHAPING OUR VIEW OF THE WORLD AND FIRST NATIONS' PRESENCE IN IT.

ABOVE LEFT: THE BARRIER IN GARIBALDI PROVINCIAL PARK WAS FORMED WHEN HOT LAVA COLLIDED WITH GLACIAL ICE.

RIGHT: ALISON PASCAL, CURATOR AT THE SLCC, KEEPS THE STORIES OF THE LOCAL FIRST NATIONS ALIVE.

THE THUNDERBIRD (BLACK TUSK)

Long before tourists made the trek up the Sea to Sky highway, Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation lived together in the shared village called Spo7ez, south of today’s Function Junction. Over time, they began to disrespect each other and the Thunderbird took action, flapping his wings, causing a volcano to erupt. A great landslide buried Spo7ez in rocks. Hundreds were killed but the survivors returned to their homes— Squamish to the south, Lil’wat to the north—with a message: the communities must work together in order to survive.

The story of cooperation lives on today, manifested in the stunning Squamish-Lil’wat Cultural Centre in the heart of Whistler.

“It’s just a really good story to keep in mind about how two different communities can work together to one really important goal,” says Alison Pascal, curator at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC), of the story of the Thunderbird.

Black Tusk is an andesite spire, made up of volcanic rock. It’s a stratovolcano, which means it’s made up of many layers of lava and ash. Likely, lava formed a cone from the old conduit of a volcano. This spire, or conduit, is more resistant to erosion, and over the past million years, the flanks have

“IT’S JUST A REALLY GOOD STORY TO KEEP IN MIND ABOUT HOW TWO DIFFERENT COMMUNITIES CAN WORK TOGETHER TO ONE REALLY IMPORTANT GOAL.”

— Alison Pascal

worn away, leaving the basalt spire, or the distinctive Black Tusk. Another theory is that it was created after a volcano erupted under an ice sheet.

INSIDER TIP: Black Tusk isn’t just a distinct geological feature. It’s a popular hike too, but not for the faint of heart. This is rated difficult. It’s about 11 hours round-trip and close to 30 kms, with a total elevation gain of 1,740 metres.

FIRE AND ICE

It’s hard to imagine today’s vibrant coastal rainforest as a frozen wasteland in the last Ice Age. Picture the Sea to Sky corridor covered in thick ice sheets, some as thick as three kilometres. This was at a time when all of North America was covered in ice, with glaciers reaching into the Strait of Georgia.

About 15,000 years ago, nearing the end of the Ice Age, volcanoes were also erupting.

Take Mount Garibaldi, Squamish’s majestic peak visible from the highway if you look to the northeast while passing Squamish. It stands out, a solitary figure reaching roughly three kilometres into the sky above Howe Sound. Mount Garibaldi is a dormant volcano, its most recent eruption about 12,000 years ago.

“A long time (ago)...but not for a geologist,” jokes Clague. Around that time, lava flowed from Clinker Peak in the same area. As it came down the mountain it came into contact with the decaying Cheakamus valley glacier. This collision of hot and cold, of fire and ice, stopped the lava flow, freezing it in place and forming a steep vertical rock face that stretches several metres high. This feature is known as The Barrier, quite a sight to behold on the hike up to Garibaldi Lake.

Clague refers to Garibaldi as one of the “diamonds in the chain of volcanoes” which includes other nearby peaks like Mount Meager near Pemberton and Mount Baker just over the border in the United States.

“These are young volcanoes in Canada that are part of a system of volcanos that run up and down the coast.”

These volcanoes are part of the eastern edge of the Ring of Fire on the Pacific Ocean, which contains 75 per cent of all active volcanoes on Earth. The Ring of Fire is caused by shifting plate tectonics.

“Nothing to get too excited about,” says Clague, of the volcanic activity in the Sea to Sky area. “Our biggest worry is not so much a volcanic eruption… it’s more earthquakes.”

MOUNT GARIBALDI—NCH’

While geologists like Clague see the story of Mount Garibaldi in the rocks, there is another story too—the Nch’kay’ legend.

The people of the Squamish First Nation have been visiting Nch’kay’ for thousands of years. “The volcanic rock from Nch’kay’ was a main source of trade for the Squamish people,” says Sxwixwtn, Wilson Williams, Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw spokesperson and council member.

The Nch’kay’ names means “dirty place or grimy place,” because the main streams that flow off the mountains are choked with volcanic debris; obsidian is naturally occurring

volcanic glass and was a major source of trade for the Squamish People, the Skwxwú7mesh.

Legend has it that the Creator wasn’t happy with the people who had been blessed with an abundance of natural

ABOVE: APTLY NAMED THE TABLE, THIS IS ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF FIERY LAVA COLLIDING WITH ICE FROM

“I also believe that in recent years, people and other levels of governments are more willing to listen, to work with us, and to affect real change.”

INSIDER TIP: There are amazing hikes in Garibaldi Provincial Park including the Diamond Head area which includes Mount Garibaldi and Attwell Peak. Elfin Lakes is a 22 km round-trip hike with two alpine lakes along the way. Rated intermediate in terms of difficulty, with 600 metres elevation gain, this hike takes approximately six hours.

EVER-CHANGING LANDSCAPE

As steadfast and stoic as mountains are, a sign of permanence and strength, they are a dynamic landscape too. They are blustering snowy, windy places in the height of winter; peaceful, quiet and warm havens in the summertime.

Slopes are covered in snow for six months of the year then dotted in a kaleidoscope of colourful wildflowers for a few special weeks in August. But perhaps the most important changes, taking place right before our eyes, are the ebb and flow of the glaciers. For most, glaciers aren’t an everyday sight; but in Sea to Sky country, they are as much a part of the landscape as the trees and the lakes.

And they are telling their own unique story, receding year over year, in some cases quite rapidly. Clague calls the glaciers the “canaries in the coalmine in terms of climate.”

On the west side of the highway, between Squamish and Whistler, you can see the glaciers on the top of the magnificent Tantalus Range. Legend has it, according to SLCC Squamish Nation curator Dominique Nahanee, that many years ago a group of mountain goat hunters got caught in a blizzard and perished. The dark sharp edges of the mountains represent their spears; the foothills are the hunting dogs. The Xaays, or “the transformer brothers,” thought the hunters deserved a life and they blew their dust on them, turning them into the mountain range. The hunters live forever under a blanket of snow, the loyal dogs at their feet.

“No matter what way you look at it,” says Nahanee, “something always has a backstory.”

INSIDER TIP: Don’t miss the pullout on the southbound side of the Sea to Sky highway where you can take in the Tantalus Range, see the glaciers from afar and imagine the hunters who are there forever. W

THE SPECTACULAR TANTALUS MOUNTAIN RANGE DOMINATES THE WEST SIDE OF THE SEA TO SKY HIGHWAY BETWEEN SQUAMISH AND WHISTLER.

ATV Tours

ARTS & CULTURE

WHISTLER IS MORE THAN STRONGER, HIGHER, FASTER ON THE TRAILS AND SLOPES — IT’S A THRIVING COMMUNITY THAT ALSO CELEBRATES MOUNTAIN ART AND CULTURE

VISITING ART EXHIBIT: TOM THOMSON

if the emily carr collection and the breathtaking display of First Nations masks aren’t enough to tempt you to visit the AUDAIN ART MUSEUM, there is now one more reason to stop by this summer. Locals and visitors alike are in for a rare treat with the summer exhibit, Tom Thomson: North Star. The threemonth-long exhibit will feature work from the renowned Canadian artist, who though he died before the Group of Seven was officially formed, is considered an integral part of the early 20th century movement. Together these artists told the story and reflected the spirit of Canada through their art—landscapes of trees and lakes and rivers. North Star is a window into Thomson’s legacy, focusing on his small en plein air oil sketches. He produced more than 400 of those in his lifetime. The exhibition is made up of selected works from the McMichael Canadian Art Collection and the National Gallery of Canada, among other Canadian museums and private collections. “With Thomson, because the career is so brief—really less than four years—it is less of an arc and more of an explosion,” says Ian A.C. Dejardin, co-curator of the exhibition. “What will be key is to learn more about the sparks that set it off.” Tom Thomson: North Star will be at the Audain Art Museum from June 29 to September 30. Check out audainartmuseum.com

FIRST NATIONS’ FOCUS

it has become commonplace among local businesses and organizations to formally acknowledge that they operate on the “shared, unceded territory” of the Lil’wat People and the Squamish People. This history and culture of the two First Nations—Lil’wat to the north of Whistler and Squamish to the south—is brought to life at the SQUAMISH LIL’WAT CULTURAL CENTRE (SLCC) located in the Upper Village. The centre was forged from negotiations around the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Since then it has been a pivotal part of the community, a place to tell the stories of the two Nations as well as a place to share community events and current exhibitions. Visit slcc.ca to learn more.

LOCAL GALLERIES

after getting your fix at the local museums Whistler Museum, Audain Art Museum, Squamish-Lil’wat Cultural Centre don’t miss out on the private art galleries dotted throughout Whistler. Here you’ll find an array of artists who are inspired by the world around them. Take ADELE CAMPBELL FINE ART, located at the Westin Resort and Spa. This gallery has been a part of Whistler’s cultural scene for the last 30 years, showcasing Canadian art. Browse the gallery and soak up the soulful bears of local artist Susie Cipolla, or the whimsical landscapes of Dana Irving, or the abstract brushstrokes of Teri Paul. Check out adelecampbell.com

SUMMER NIGHTS COME ALIVE WITH FREE CONCERTS

THE WHISTLER SUMMER CONCERT SERIES is back again to keep toes tapping in the heart of the Village. The series begins with award-winning and always-popular Walk Off The Earth who take centre stage at Whistler Olympic Park July 1 as part of the Canada Day celebrations. Walk Off The Earth is a two-time JUNO award-winning multi-platinum band and a fan favourite in Whistler. The excitement continues all summer long. These are not-to-miss evenings! The Village comes alive as the sun dips behind the mountains. The concerts are free and all ages are welcome to take part in the fun and entertaining vibe. You can bring your picnic blanket and lawn chair. Or get closer to the stage and join in the dancing. The evenings begin at 6:30 p.m. with live opening sets by local DJs, followed by the main act at 7:30 p.m. Other artists hitting the stage this summer include Aysanabee, The Sheepdogs and Astrocolor. Check out the calendar of events on page 64 for details on the concerts.

TOM THOMSON, PETAWAWA GORGES, 1916, OIL ON WOOD PANEL, 21.4 × 26.5 CM. MCMICHAEL CANADIAN ART COLLECTION.

SUSIE CIPOLLA, MAKING WAVES, ACRYLIC ON GALLERY CANVAS, 40 X 60 IN.

CULTURAL CRANKWORX

the 10-day CRANKWORX mountain biking festival in July is about far more than riding or racing a bike. Rather, this festival is about celebrating all things mountain biking, and that includes the unique arts and cultural component of the sport. Dirt Diaries, for example, has become as much a part of the festival as the Enduro race. Six different filmmakers produce a short video that hits the big screen during Crankworx. The same is true of Deep Summer. Just as Dirt Diaries tells the stories of mountain biking through film, Deep Summer does the same through photos. Five photographers and one wildcard entry will showcase their work for another evening of beauty, art and entertainment. The photographers shoot for three days during the first weekend of Crankworx then showcase their talents to music on the big screen. Both cultural events are free at Whistler Olympic Plaza when the sun goes down. Check out crankworx.com and check the events listings on page 64 for dates.

WHISTLER GALLERIES

AUDAIN ART MUSEUM

4350 Blackcomb Way 604-962-0413 audainartmuseum.com

ADELE CAMPBELL FINE ART GALLERY

In the Westin Resort & Spa

604-938-0887 adelecampbell.com

ART JUNCTION GALLERY & FRAME STUDIO

1068 Millar Creek Road, Function Junction

604-938-9000 artjunction.ca

MOUNTAIN GALLERIES AT THE FAIRMONT

In the Fairmont Chateau Whistler

604-935-1862 mountaingalleries.com

THE PLAZA GALLERIES

22-4314 Main Street

604-938-6233 plazagalleries.com

THE GALLERY AT MAURY YOUNG

ARTS CENTRE

4335 Blackcomb Way 604-935-8410 artswhistler.com

SQUAMISH LIL’WAT CULTURAL CENTRE

4584 Blackcomb Way 1-866-441-SLCC (7522) slcc.ca

WHISTLER CONTEMPORARY GALLERY

In the Hilton Resort

604-938-3001 (main) In the Four Seasons Resort 604-935-3999 whistlerart.com

CUTTINGEDGE

STORY BY DAVID SONG

When eric and heather kissinger from East Burke, Vermont asked their three kids to choose between Disneyland and Whistler for their family vacation last summer, the response was unanimous: bike park.

The Kissinger children had previously seen Return to Earth, a Red Bull film co-starring local pros Jackson Goldstone and Brandon Semenuk. But what stood out the most to them was a segment featuring preteen kids as they carved up Sea to Sky trails with aplomb. Eldest daughter MJ was hooked, as were her brothers Easton and Evan.

The family spent nearly 10 weeks living in Creekside, where they often warmed up on—of all trails—Freight Train, a black diamond in terms of difficulty. They can’t wait to be back. >>

“Our mountain is a bike park in the summer, but it is a fraction of the size of Whistler,” says Eric, a 44-year-old teacher. “(Whistler) is really, really special. There's such a variety of terrain, whether you want to jump around and do tricks, or you want to go down super steep and scary stuff, or you want to be out in the middle of nowhere.

“We come from an area in Vermont that's got a great bike culture, but Whistler is next-level.”

As one of the first facilities of its kind, the Whistler Mountain Bike Park opened in 1999 and has remained on the cutting edge of trail design ever since. It features 143 sanctioned trails spanning a combined 102 kilometres: from mellow green runs to gnarly pro lines and everything in between. It is the biggest bike park in the world.

Two gondolas and three chairlifts ferry people across this rugged playground, including the newly-upgraded Fitzsimmons Express, which can

now accommodate up to five people and five bikes per chair, and promises to make things more expedient than ever before.

As the bike park hits its milestone 25 years in operation this year, there’s little doubt it has become a renowned summer playground for locals and guests, changing the course of Whistler’s history in the process and setting the stage for endless summer adventures in the mountains.

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

One of the park’s crown jewels is the Top of the World trail. Accessed from Peak Chair, it boasts a 1,500metre (5,000-foot)

descent that starts from the pinnacle of Whistler Mountain and treats all comers to utterly breathtaking views. From there, riders make their way down a technical black trail.

On the other end of the spectrum are the learning areas: Fitzsimmons Skills Centre, Gatorade Skills Park, and so on. All were purpose-built to help riders of varying skill levels upgrade their game. >>

“THERE'S

SUCH A VARIETY OF TERRAIN, WHETHER YOU WANT TO JUMP AROUND AND DO TRICKS, OR YOU WANT TO

GO DOWN SUPER STEEP AND SCARY STUFF

, OR YOU WANT TO BE OUT IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE.”

— Eric Kissinger

“Whistler Bike Park is a world-class destination because of the passion and dedication of the mountain bikers that work and visit here,” says Pierre Ringette, Whistler Blackcomb’s (WB) senior manager of snow surfaces, trail maintenance and grooming. “The level of pride that our riders have for the park is inspiring to be around.”

It all began at the Fitzsimmons Zone, a relatively compact sector with something to offer everyone—from the basic Learning Centre to the iconic A-Line. Its paths have been modified or rebuilt entirely numerous times to keep up with surging demand.

Garbanzo entered the picture in 2004 as an alternative, directed at intermediate to advanced riders. It’s got jump-heavy offerings like Freight Train and all kinds of wicked single-track like Goat’s Gully or In Deep.

“A

Then there’s Creekside. As the park’s newest zone, it’s been under development since 2015 and was specifically made to complement the beauty of the local forest. Many of its trails take guests over bridges that allow them to hear the burble of moving water, which helps cool things down in summer.

In other words: the Creekside Zone is new, fresh and enormous.

“In developing the trails there, it was important for us to ensure we were meeting the needs of all our guests, including our regular park riders, families and new riders to the park,” Ringette explains. “In fact: when the first trails went in, we purposefully had three different builders construct them in order to inject diversity into the network.

“Generally, Creekside is ideal for riders that are looking to embrace nature at its finest. When you’re out there, you really do feel a new sense of adventure as you realize just how big our bike park is and how much it has to offer.”

‘EVERYTHING YOU COULD WANT’

Creekside’s latest gem is the 1199 downhill track. Named in honour of late Canadian favourite Stevie Smith, it pushes even the

world’s best with 500 metres of descent along its 2.4-kilometre length. Its name, 1199, comes from Smith’s winning points tally from his 2013 World Cup overall title.

“A lot of high-profile riders love to ride Whistler because it always has such a great atmosphere and the best jump trails on the planet.

“I’d say with the new 1199 track, it really has everything you could want,” opined local World Cup athlete Lucas Cruz.

Lucas and his younger brother Tegan have already joined a long legacy of talent. From speed demons like Claire Buchar, Finn Iles and Squamish brothers Jakob and Dane Jewett to enduro aces Miranda Miller, Jesse Melamed and Andréane Lanthier Nadeau, the Sea to Sky has fostered enough gifted riders to compete with most anywhere else on Earth.

They all owe much of their development to the mountain bike mecca in their own backyard.

Dylan Marino, a 17-year-old who burst onto the World Cup scene last summer, and has ridden throughout Europe, has plenty of praise for Whistler’s unique amenities.

“The bike park has helped me grow immensely, and I honestly don't know what I would do without it,” he says.

CanoeTours

RIVER OF GOLDEN DREAMS CANOE TOURS

“I'm so fortunate to live where I live, being able to ride every day I can. It’s a big part of my identity.”

Local pro rider Georgia Astle, a late bloomer to the sport, has wasted no time, making up for her late start by making a name for herself on the world stage. The bike park holds a special appeal for everyone, she says.

“It's rare to find anyone who loves jumping [but doesn’t enjoy] A-Line, even if there are more challenging and trickable jumps in other places,” she says. “I am so happy lapping Dirt Merchant and A-Line for what they are, and how they're built is appealing for the masses.”

CRANKWORX CONNECTION

Indicative of the park’s success is the mass appeal and growth of Crankworx, the iconic mountain bike festival born in Whistler and now featured the world over. It has become Whistler’s largest event, generating $30 million last summer alone in Whistler with more than 300,000 attendees over the 10-day period.

Last summer, Greg Knight watched his 12-year-old daughter Zoe win the Kidsworx enduro race. In his elation, the Whistlerite went so far as to say that his town has become almost

more popular in summer than in winter due to the growth of biking.

He’s not wrong. Tourism Whistler’s stats back up Knight’s claim. With three million visitors every year, more than half (55 per cent) come in the summer to enjoy sightseeing, hiking, golfing, swimming, dining, and, of course, mountain biking.

“The heart of Whistler's tourism has always been the winter sport side, but there is no doubt in my mind that biking and sightseeing are starting to catch up,” remarks Astle. “Now with e-bikes and mini 20-inch kitted-up kids’ bikes becoming more normal, biking is a sport the whole family can join in on.”

This year Crankworx kicks off from July 19-28 and promises to deliver another festival of epic proportions, particularly the addition of women to the slopestyle event for the first time ever.

THE NEXT LEVEL

From the Crankworx pros to the local kids, the bike park continues to hold mass appeal, drawing more and more people to its trails every year. The name of the game is: progression. Take 14-year-old Cooper Olson. He does not hail from as far away as the Vermont-based

Kissingers, but the Abbotsford native frequented Whistler with his family as a child. His family has since moved up here full-time, and now the teen handles blacks and double-blacks with relative ease.

“Probably my two favourite trails would be A-Line or Dirt Merchant,” Olson says. “I can tell the jumps are really well-built, and they're very smooth transitions. Doing them confidently makes me think I'm actually getting way better at the sport every time I ride.”

The Whistler Bike Park generally operates from May to October. Various rentals (from downhill bikes to e-bikes) are available, as are lessons which cater to all demographics. Official maps include a progression matrix to help guests find trails suitable to their skills and preferences.

“This community of mountain bikers are the ones who grow the sport by pushing the development of amazing bikes and gear, building incredible trails that hold up to thousands of laps, and coaching the next generation to love the sport,” says Ringette. “It really is inspiring to watch kids who grow up in the Sea to Sky become some of the best mountain bikers on the planet, competing on the world stage and winning.” W

MODERN MOUNTAIN HOME

LOCAL DESIGN FIRM TRANSFORMS BLAND INTERIOR INTO A ONE-OF-A-KIND MOUNTAIN SANCTUARY

STORY BY ALYSSA NOEL

PHOTOS BY CHRIS ROLLETT

MAIN PHOTO: THE EXISTING DARK WOOD TONES IN THE HOME WERE REPLACED WITH A WARM CUSTOM COLOUR ON NEW OAK MILLWORK.

TOP RIGHT: BLACK DETAILS THROUGHOUT, SUCH AS THE STUNNING PENDANT LIGHT IN THE DINING ROOM, CREATE A FOCAL POINT AS WELL AS A TOUCH OF SOPHISTICATION.

BELOW RIGHT: THE NATURAL LIGHT AND THE VIEWS FROM THE KITCHEN WINDOWS SET THE STAGE FOR THE MODERN MOUNTAIN AESTHETIC DESIGN.

BOTTOM LEFT: THERE ARE TRUNDLE BEDS TUCKED BENEATH THE BOYS' CUSTOM BUILT-IN BEDS, PROVIDING EXTRA SPACE FOR ANY SLEEPOVERS.

BOTTOM RIGHT: A GIANT MURAL OF SKI-RUN AND BIKE-TRAIL NAMES IN THE BOYS' BEDROOM, OFFERS INSPIRATION FOR MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES.

It’s hard to beat whistler’s lakecrest neighbourhood. With sweeping mountain views on the shore of Alta Lake, the quiet streets are tucked away from the hubbub of the Village, but still close enough to bike or walk to the action.

When the Glynns, an Irish family living in Hong Kong, decided to purchase an existing home in the area there was just one problem: the space had no personality.

Enter Lynn Gentile and her team at Whistler-based Cabin Fever Interiors.

“The home was not that old when my clients purchased it,” says Gentile. “The overall bones were very West Coast, so

we chose to provide an overall design aesthetic that worked with the existing West Coast architecture—with a complement of Scandinavian undertones.”

The designer had a hand in nearly every room in the house. The first order of business was to do away with the stark, white walls and dark undertones. To that end, they created one-of-a-kind millwork and panelling—dubbed “Glynn Gray” after the family—and added black metal details to “cool down the existing palette and provide a refreshed look for the new owners,” Gentile says.

Pops of colour, however, can be found in the bedroom set aside for two school-age boys and another for the family’s daughter.

TOP LEFT: POPS OF COLOUR WITH A MOUNTAIN THEME LIVEN UP THE GIRL'S BEDROOM.

The boys’ room features two beds tucked into a nook that’s surrounded by windows, offering a peek into the surrounding trees.

“The length of the room allowed us to customize two twin built-in beds with flip-up reading lights and integrated charging stations, but also pull-out trundle beds tucked directly below for two friends, making it the ultimate sleepover room,” Gentile says.

“There [is] plenty of room beside the beds for playtime with ample storage for their toys and books provided by the custom tree-themed bookshelf and drawers.”

One wall of the room also features a giant mural that uses ski-run and bike-trail names from Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains—complete with the Peak 2 Peak— to depict the shapes of those mountains.

“It’s kind of a ‘Where’s Waldo’ or treasure map for them to locate the runs and trails of their nature’s playground,” Gentile adds. “It was to be a source of wonder and inspiration that would entertain and intrigue them well into their teen years and beyond.”

The girl’s room, meanwhile, also leans into the mountain theme, but with a feminine flair. That added up to a pink, green and grey mountain mural and flourishes of pink on the bedding.

“The mountain theme was also key to the concept for [her] bedroom, as she was a super energized little tyke at the time—cute as a button, but also rough and tumble,” Gentile says. “Quite sure she will grow up to be a real mountain girl!”

Another way the design aimed to accommodate the young family was converting an oversized pantry into a cozy breakfast nook. Using the Glynn Gray millwork, the team added large, chunky cabinetry in white oak for storage and a built-in bench under a window with blackand-grey-checked fabric to complement the black table and chairs.

“[The space is] more conducive to family dining, directly off the kitchen and out of the sight lines of the more formal entertaining spaces,” Gentile explains. >>

THIS FAMILY-FRIENDLY BREAKFAST NOOK WAS DESIGNED WITH COZINESS IN MIND, DIRECTLY OFF THE KITCHEN AND TUCKED AWAY FROM THE FORMAL ENTERTAINING SPACES.

One of those more formal spaces is the dining room, which also received an extensive facelift, including a custom-built dining table and, one of Gentile’s favourite touches, a spunmetal drum pendant. The bold, overhead light fixture is one of “the most interesting” black matte fixtures in the house, she adds.

“It is literally made by spun metal and the interior texture of the light looks like actual wood grain,” she says. “I absolutely love this light fixture. It [offers a] simple, yet elegant silhouette and the connection to nature.”

For her part, Gentile says one of her favourite spaces in the home is the media room, again featuring a pop of Whistler culture.

“The media room has a real modern, mountain aesthetic,” she says. “It is warm and inviting with the large-scale barn door, oversized furniture, retro chairlift photo, flanked by the Glynn Gray wall panelling and reclaimed wood feature wall.” Likewise, the primary bedroom, with its oversized barn door and gentle aesthetic, offers a quiet refuge.

“I love the softness of the primary bedroom, as well as the feature wall we created with padded wood panels and the low-scale modern furniture and finishings,” she says.

THIS MEDIA ROOM SANCTUARY IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO WATCH A MOVIE OR A HOCKEY GAME WITH ITS COMFORTABLE OVERSIZED FURNITURE AND WARM WELCOMING AESTHETIC. W

SUMMER STYLES

WHISTLER’S BOUTIQUE SHOPS

are filled with amazing items to take home as gifts for family and friends, or better yet, yourself! Update your wardrobe, splurge on a beautiful piece of jewellery, find something special for your home, or treat your tummy. Check out some of our favourite things for the summer season— an eclectic mix of function, fun and fashion!

LOVE TOKEN NECKLACE

Based on Rosemonde Gerard’s 19th century French poem, the Love Token necklace is stamped with the French sentiment “+ qu'hier – que demain.” It is a symbol of growing love which translates from the poem’s French verse meaning “I love you more than yesterday and less than tomorrow.” Whether an expression of self-love, romance or friendship, this pendant is as meaningful as it is franco-chic.

Available at Ruby Tuesday

Upgrade your summer wardrobe with the Rails Pasadena Dress. This trendy mediumstone-wash shift dress boasts a full button front and is designed for both comfort and style. Don’t compromise on either with the Pasadena Dress.

Available at Abigail Lifestyle Boutique

$249

Treat yourself with this sparkling Whistler snow-capped mountain bangle in 14-karat yellow gold with 22 round, brilliant-cut diamonds, for a total of 0.09 carats.

Available at Keir Fine Jewellery

$3,450

PASADENA DRESS BY RAILS

DIAMOND MOUNTAIN BANGLE

SHOPPING AREAS

CLASSIC CAMP CHAIRS

These bright, timeless and vibrant outdoor chairs are made of up to 100 per cent recycled plastics. With worry-free maintenance and a 25-year limited lifetime warranty, these weatherproof chairs are guaranteed to never rot, crack or splinter. Made in North America. Available at Camp $449

CUT LOOSE V-NECK SWING DRESS

A fresh warm-weather dress for beaches and beyond! This A-line dress features a V-neckline, short raglan sleeves, a curved swing hemline that just kisses the knees and finishes with a pair of on-seam side pockets. Made in a crinkled viscose blend with a timeless check pattern, this suitcase-friendly dress will keep you cool and in style.

Available at Amos & Andes $174

PLEATED COPPER VESSEL

Loom-woven, copper wire vessel made by metal artist Frances Solar. Solar is a contemporary Canadian artist who combines textile techniques with unconventional materials to create unique woven sculptures, both freestanding and wall-mounted. Solar lives and works in Squamish. Available at Audain Art Museum >>

Whistler Village is the hub of activity at the base of the mountains. A pedestrian-only paradise, it offers over 200 stores, galleries, restaurants and bars.

Village North is centred around Whistler Marketplace, which offers a supermarket, liquor store and many fine shops and amenities.

Upper Village, situated at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, is another walking-only area with many wonderful stores, restaurants and galleries.

Nesters is just two minutes north of Whistler Village and offers a variety of shops and restaurants, with a liquor store, grocery store and restaurants.

Rainbow Plaza, a five-minute drive north of the Village, has a grocery store, liquor store, coffee shop, gas station and more.

Whistler Creekside, a five-minute drive south of the Village, is a shopping area near the base of Whistler Mountain.

Function Junction is just 10 minutes south of Whistler Village and offers hardware, organic groceries, breweries, bakeries and many more shops and services.

WHISTLER CREEKSIDE

FUNCTION JUNCTION

WHISTLER VILLAGE

Village North Nesters

SPIRIT WOLF LEATHER EMBOSSED WALLET

This embossed wallet designed by Paul Windsor is made with genuine 100 per cent leather. The refined full-panel embossed Indigenous artwork mixed with RFID protection provides extra safety and outstanding style. Paul Windsor was born and raised in Kitimat and lives in Vancouver, and is experienced in sanding, painting paddles, carving and casting.

Available at Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) $45

MEN’S VERGLAS 2.5 LAYER

FASTPACK JACKET

Gear up for speedy adventures with this packable, lightweight jacket, perfect for fast-paced adventures or as a back-up shell when the weather takes an unexpected turn. This 2.5-layer jacket provides waterproof and breathable protection. When not in use, it can be packed away within the hand pocket, taking up minimal space in your backpack. Available at Helly Hansen $260

CARAMEL MACCHIATO BOMB

Looking for a little somethingsomething with a hint of coffee? This coffee-flavoured centre, wrapped in caramel, dipped in blonde chocolate (caramelized white chocolate), and topped with crushed toffee bits will be like sipping your morning coffee—but even better.

Available at Rocky Mountain Chocolate

$5.50 each

RIVER VAN GRAPHIC SHORT SLEEVE TEE

This comfortable T-shirt combines the moisture management, temperature regulation, and odor resistance of Merino wool with the softness of organic cotton. The standard fit sits slightly shorter than a regular fit, while still retaining a sense of structure and shape, allowing for ease of movement and a more relaxed feel.

Available at Smartwool

$85

MEN’S WATERPROOF LEATHER SNEAKERS Say goodbye to shoe discomfort with The Olukai Lae‘ahi Lī ‘Ili’s anatomically contoured footbeds that mimic wet sand for unparalleled support! Footbeds are removable and washable. Try on a pair at Kabn for a lightweight, airy experience with a soft cushioned midsole.

Available at KABN $180

OLUKAI

NAKED RAKU CERAMIC PIECE

This primitively fired Raku ceramic piece by Kathleen Tennock is inspired by the beauty of river rock. Each piece embodies a delicate dance between fire and clay, resulting in unique smoke patterns that resemble stone. Free shipping to Canada and the U.S. Available at the Audain Art Museum and at kathleentennock.com

$450 >>

PROVISIONS GRANOLA

Created in collaboration with Araxi pastry chef Aaron Heath, the Provisions granola was developed a few years ago as a parting gift for guests at the signature Araxi long-table dinners. It is made up of steelcut oats and a variety of toasted nuts, seeds and dried fruits, including pecans, dried apricots and dried cherries. Available at Provisions $13.95

PATIO SEASON

WITH ITS ICONIC BACKDROPS AND DEEP LOVE OF FOOD AND GOOD TIMES, WHISTLER’S PATIO CULTURE RUNS DEEP

STORY BY BRANDON BARRETT

Whistler is rightly recognized the world over for its awe-inducing mountainscapes. That just comes with the territory when you are one of the most popular, iconic ski and mountain biking resorts in the world. Nestled as it is into lush coastal rainforest, Whistler offers a smorgasbord of postcard-worthy backdrops suited to whatever the mood or occasion. And what occasion isn’t better with food?

Want to take in Whistler’s twin peaks at the end of a busy ski day? There’s a patio for that. Care to people watch in the heart of Whistler Village with a craft cocktail in hand? There’s a patio for that. Maybe the scenic serenity of a lakeside idyll is more your thing? There’s a patio for that, too.

Pair those wildly diverse landscapes with locals’ abiding passion for living the good life—après anyone?—there’s no question Whistler’s patio culture runs deep. We’ve handpicked some of our favourite fine-dining patios in town, along with the perfect dishes to pair them with.

>>

SEAFOOD IS THE PERFECT SUMMER

ARAXI RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR

First opening its doors on Halloween night 1981, Araxi, Whistler’s original fine-dining restaurant, has staked out one of the Village’s most desirable pieces of land for its patio, smack dab in the middle of bustling Village Square.

“The Araxi location is perfect,” says James Walt, BC Restaurant Hall of Fame chef and culinary director-Whistler for TopTable Group. “There’s not too many patios like it, where you’re right there in the square. You can get quite the buzz going out there, especially in the summer when the oysters are going and the sun is shining.”

Araxi has always struck a chord somewhere between fine-dining formality and the laidback, plaid-wearing ethos of Whistler residents, and its patio is a prime example of that best-of-both-worlds’ appeal. Its cuisine—highly seasonal, hyper-local, and exquisite in its presentation—rivals any Michelin-starred kitchen the world over.

“YOU CAN GET QUITE THE BUZZ GOING OUT THERE, ESPECIALLY IN THE SUMMER WHEN THE OYSTERS ARE GOING AND THE SUN IS SHINING.”

— James Walt

But, like Whistler itself, Araxi eschews stuffiness when the situation calls for it. White table linen and salad forks not your style? Sidle up to the bar for a beer and elevated pub food. Or, better yet, snag a table on the patio, order a plate of B.C. oysters or chilled seafood, and let the people watching begin.

Unlike other patios surrounding it, Araxi’s 66-seat space is built right at street level, putting you and your dining mates in the thick of the action, while still providing cover via umbrellas and tree planters for the camera shy.

“It just makes it that much more appealing. You’re not out of it; you’re in the mix, you’re in the fray,” Walt says.

“Over the years, people come with their dogs and people park their bikes. That’s the most appealing thing about it: the street-level of it—you’re really soaked right in with everything.”

A pioneer of farm-to-table cooking, Walt picked Araxi’s hot smoked wild salmon, paired with fresh spring peas and summer squash as the perfect patio dish—although he struggled narrowing it down to just one.

“Oysters, absolutely. Chilled seafood, for one. We are in British Columbia after all,” he adds. “Caprese salad. Our tomatoes are exceptional. At nighttime, it becomes more seafood-forward, so fish dishes, lighter soups, always a light pasta dish. We definitely gear more towards what’s fresh at the farms.”

ARAXI’S CHILLED

PATIO NOSH. >>

RED DOOR BISTRO

Tucked away in Creekside, far from the hustle and bustle of Whistler Village, means the Red Door Bistro sometimes flies under the radar compared to its more visible fine-dining counterparts.

But you’d never know it from its waitlist, with the restaurant often booking reservations weeks in advance. Part of that is due to the bistro’s intimate setting, counting just 28 seats on its hidden-gem patio.

“It’s definitely quaint,” explains chef-owner RD Stewart. “It feels like you’re nestled away somewhere else. You’ve got the fresh-cut flowers, the big cedar-stained table that seats 10. You feel secluded in your own mini fine-dining patio. When we have the awning out at night, the candles and everything, it is quite the special spot.”

It’s the perfect setting to enjoy Stewart’s distinct B.C. spin on contemporary French fare, a menu that engages each of your senses. A veteran of fine-dining kitchens across the resort, Stewart describes his summer menu as both “light and decadent,” a seemingly impossible balance that

makes full use of the local farm suppliers that dot the Sea to Sky corridor.

“Nobody really wants to sit down to eat stew when it’s 35 degrees out,” Stewart says.

When the mercury spikes, one of Stewart’s tell-tale dishes is a layered Rootdown Farm organic butter lettuce and baby gem lettuce salad, with shaved fennel, marinated minitomatoes, and radish, tossed in a lemon-pepper avocado dressing and sprinkled with Happy Days goat cheese.

“The butter lettuce is light and fluffy, and the baby gem is sturdy and crunchy, so we put those two layers together to make a tower, about seven or eight inches tall, rather than shoved into a little bowl. It takes a bit of skill structurally to build a salad like that,” Stewart says.

But the pièce de resistance from Stewart’s summer menu is undoubtedly his saffron teabrined halibut filet, giving the outside of the fish an electric-yellow hue, served with French beans, a vibrant tomatillo salsa verde that cuts through the fattiness of the halibut, and a baby shrimp and cucumber salsa on top.

DAVID BUZZARD

DAVID BUZZARD

TOP: RED DOOR BISTRO EXECUTIVE CHEF

WILD BLUE RESTAURANT + BAR

It’s been years since a restaurant in Whistler caused the kind of buzz that Wild Blue has since opening its doors on the outskirts of the Village in the summer of 2022.

And, judging by the response from both locals and visitors alike, you can most certainly believe the hype.

The brainchild of Toptable founder and legendary B.C. restaurateur Jack Evrensel, Wild Blue brings together an Avengers-level team of local and B.C. culinary luminaries, from former Iron Chef and Vancouver Magazine Chef of the Year Alex Chen, to award-winning restaurant director Neil Henderson, and former Fairmont Chateau Whistler executive chef Derek Bendig.

The resulting seafood-forward concept is inspired by the coastal cuisines of Japan, Italy and France, utilizing decidedly Pacific Northwestern ingredients. In short, the kind of plates best enjoyed en plein air (even if the ocean is a 45-minute drive away).

“In Whistler, our summer patios evoke such a different sensory experience,” says chefpartner Chen. “Outside, our summers are fairly short, but when it’s happening, everything is blooming. You can hear birds chirping away.

Even the air, the breeze, is different. It’s just a different vibe. In Whistler, sitting at one of the best restaurants in town, on the patio enjoying the food with your loved ones or friends, nothing really beats that combination.”

Maintaining its penchant for seafood, Wild Blue’s summer menu takes advantage of the many offerings of its local farm suppliers, with more of a focus on lighter, acidic fare.

“It’s a very exciting time with lots of options and lots of farm produce that is available to us,” Chen adds.

For his patio dish, Chen picked a staple of the restaurant’s menu since Day 1: a snap pea salad that he described as a vegetarian version of surf and turf. Featuring local kelp, puffed wild rice, and topped with a sesame miso dressing, it is quintessential WIld Blue.

“It has a lot of crunch, tons of umami, and it is very savoury,” Chen explains. “Like a lot of what we do, it’s vegetable-forward and doesn’t necessarily need meat or seafood.

“To me, that is the kind of food I love to eat now: keep it simple and let the ingredients sing. Our suppliers are committed to the same ideals: you shouldn’t manipulate these ingredients much because they’re almost perfect.”

THE SNAP PEA SALAD AT WILD BLUE RESTAURANT + BAR, FEATURING LOCAL KELP, PUFFED WILD RICE, AND TOPPED WITH A SESAME MISO DRESSING.

MOUNTAINS

Your

Dining Room Make

Savour your Portobello favourites in Whistler’s great outdoors. Featuring made-to-order sandwiches and fresh, nourishing salads, we craft your perfect lakeside or mountaintop picnic. Pre-order online and pick-up available. LEARN MORE & ORDER

MOUNTAIN ROOTS

BUY LOCAL, BUILD COMMUNITY

Creativity and hard work are alive and well in the mountains. Budding entrepreneurs are making their mark in Sea to Sky country with innovative products and ideas. Here’s a few to check out during your time here.

BURNING BRIGHTLY

As the covid pandemic dragged into 2021, Abbie Lowther got to thinking about a new business that could weather the storm. Always loving candles, she believed there was an opportunity for a product that was non-toxic, locally made, and affordable. The Whistler Candle Company was born, made of natural soy wax, essential oils, natural scents and wooden wicks. “I wanted to use all the best ingredients. It’s really clean burning.” Lowther makes the candles in small batches to keep the quality consistent. Each one is handcrafted in fiveounce tins. There are five to six different scents including juniper fir and balsam, ginger and palo santa, and orchid and black amber. While Lowther still has her full-time job as a manager at Wild Blue, she’s hoping to keep growing her passion project. Whistler Candle Company candles are available at Fresh Street Market, Forecast, and the Green Lake Gas Station. Check out Instagram: Whistler Candle Company.

BAKED GOODNESS

a new bakery with whistler roots has set up shop in the heart of the Pemberton Industrial Park. Jen Park, who once owned and operated Whistler’s 200 Degrees Bakery, has opened in a new location with a new name, The Bread Warehouse. The industrial park is a good fit, she says, given the space and power needed to run the industrial bread ovens. It hasn’t stopped her fans from following her up the highway as well as the hungry mountain bikers in Pemberton. “We’ve had a really warm welcome from the Pemberton community,” says Park. It’s worth the drive to pick up some frozen packs of chocolate croissants to bake at home or grab a fresh coffee and treat. The fresh baguette and country sourdough loaf are popular sellers too.

SWEET CRAVINGS

a new chocolate factory in function junction is enough to tempt any sweet tooth. Turner’s Chocolates manufactures small-batch chocolate from cocoa beans sourced around the world from places like Costa Rica and Venezuela. The shop is located on Millar Creek Road, beside the new marijuana shop, A Little Bud. Turner’s is producing dark, milk and white chocolate bars as well as chocolate bark with almonds and raisins and raspberries. Check out turnerschocolate.ca or stop by the Function store.

ARTSY BOTTLES

in february this year, beloved whistler artist Isobel MacLaurin passed away at 92 years old. She is fondly remembered in the stories and the art she left behind. Among that artwork is a piece that has been transferred onto a stainless steel bottle as part of a fundraiser to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Arts Whistler. It’s a bright, flowery, cheerful design, much like the artist herself. MacLaurin is one of four artists whose work is featured along with Dave Petko, Andrea Mueller, and the late Chili Thom. “They represent almost every decade of Arts Whistler,” says Arts Whistler executive director Maureen Douglas. The tumblers, she adds, are a truly unique piece of Whistler that guests can take home. The bottles come in 20-ounce stainless steel tumblers for $30. They are available at Arthentic, the locally curated gift shop in the lobby of the Maury Young Arts Centre.

FUEL UP FOR ADVENTURE

TWO EXCITING NEW VENUES AND A CLASSIC ORIGINAL ENSURE THERE ARE BREAKFAST/BRUNCH OPTIONS FOR ALL

Finding a good breakfast/brunch spot to fuel up for the day is a critical part of any holiday. It’s even more essential when you’re in a resort town with endless opportunities for adventures. You need sustenance to enjoy bike park laps, to hike up into the alpine, and to swim in crystal-blue glacial lakes.

Here are some ideas to get your day off to an amazing start: an oldschool haunt with Whistler charm, a classy new hotspot in the heart of the Village, and a pop-up that’s making waves before it officially opens its doors.

TOP: SOUTHSIDE DINER OWNER LES ECKER WITH THE BREAKFAST POUTINE.

ABOVE: THE BUZZING, OLD-SCHOOL SOUTHSIDE DINER.

STORY BY ALISON TAYLOR, WITH FILES FROM BRANDON BARRETT

PHOTOS BY DAVID BUZZARD

CHEFS KYLE

LEE AND JAMES WALT WITH PROVISIONS BREAKFAST SANDWICHES.

PROVISIONS

The recent opening of Provisions, tucked between Araxi and Bar Oso to complement the TopTable Group block of restaurants at Village Square, has been well worth the wait.

Even before the food arrives, Provisions sets the stage for something extraordinary. The space, with its black and light wood decor and marble counters, is trendy, welcoming and a hive of activity. It’s one of the things Chef James Walt loves about the space, which opened December 2023.

“The thing I like most about it—and more than I thought—is the communal aspect,” says the award-winning culinary director at the helm of Whistler’s TopTable restaurants. “It’s hopping.

“IT’S IN THE CROISSANT FAMILY, WHERE IT’S A LAMINATED YEASTED DOUGH, AND WE ROLL IT UP

SO IT ALMOST LOOKS LIKE A CINNAMON BUN OR DANISH BUT IT’S IN SUGAR, ORANGE AND CARDAMOM.

— James Walt

I think it was a really good idea how we did the setup… The connection to the public is amazing, the vibe of the place.”

Walt is referring in part to the floor-toceiling windows that span the entrance wall and which can be opened to let in the sun and fresh air, adding versatility to the space.

But Provisions’ four walls can only hold attention for so long. It’s what’s going on behind the scenes that really speaks to people: the homemade buns, the made-in-house sausage, the homemade soft-serve vegan ice cream with seasonal fruit, the fresh juice program, most of this fuelled with farm-fresh ingredients from the nearby Pemberton valley and by culinary masterminds pulling it all together.

In addition to the always-popular avocado toast on homemade sourdough, toasted and rubbed with garlic and oil, Walt also highlights Provisions’ SEC sandwich: sausage, egg and cheese, with organic Sakura pork, on a homemade seeded milk bun.

“It’s exceptional,” he says.

And, let’s not forget the pastry

department and the mouth-watering sweet treats on display. At first, Walt worried about the limitations of the small pastry kitchen and believed that making croissants would be an added challenge in an already demanding space.

“So we developed a morning bun,” he says. “It’s in the croissant family, where it’s a laminated (folded in with butter many times over) yeasted dough, and we roll it up so it almost looks like a cinnamon bun or danish but it’s in sugar, orange and cardamom. It’s becoming one of those things that’s very unique and it’s exceptional how good it is.”

Sweet, crunchy, with all the flakiness of a croissant but “it’s the orange and crust that puts it over the top.”

So stay tuned, says Walt. With the hours expanding from 8 am to 8 pm over the summer, he expects Provisions to get even busier with takeout options.

“Compared to the other restaurants, there’s a really high ceiling to what we can do,” says Walt. “It’s actually given us a whole new area to play. Honestly, for an old guy like me, it’s been almost a rejuvenation.”

SOUTHSIDE DINER

For everything that’s new and savvy about Provisions, the Southside Diner oozes old-school charm and flare with a nod to Whistler’s earliest days.

Two breakfast places couldn’t be any different and yet one thing remains the same—delicious food.

Tucked on the corner of the west side of the highway at Creekside, the Southside Diner takes up the bottom floor of a building that dates back to the early 1960s, when things were a little simpler, and wilder.

It’s the kind of place where the legendary Toad Hall photo, that famed snap of naked Whistler ski bums standing proudly in line, hangs on the wall.

This summer marks the 20-year anniversary of the Southside Diner, (not to be confused with the Southside Deli which operated there for 18 years prior). And so, it’s a fitting time then, to reflect on the longevity of this Whistler institution.

“There was a lot of turmoil the first bunch of years,” reflects owner Les Ecker who cut his teeth at various Village bars before starting the diner with a partner in 2004. “(But), for the most part it’s been a fantastic experience.”

It’s the kind of place where you can order the Breakfast Poutine: two poached eggs with Hollandaise sauce perched on diced bacon, breakfast sausage, grilled onion, cheese curds, homefries, and the requisite poutine gravy.

“It has everything that’s delicious in it,” says Ecker simply. “A lot of goodness, and super hearty.”

OPEN LATE

LORETTE BRASSERIE’S CROQUE MADAME ON TOASTED SOURDOUGH WITH COUNTRY HAM, GRUYÈRE, DIJON BECHAMEL AND A FRIED FREE-RANGE EGG, ALONG WITH THE EGGS BENEDICT AND YOGURT PARFAIT.

LORETTE BRASSERIE – A POP-UP

This summer, breakfast lovers can also taste test Whistler’s newest restaurant even before it officially opens its doors, with the Lorette Brasserie pop-up.

Lorette is the brainchild of restaurateur Jay Paré and his nephew and executive chef James Paré, the duo now at the helm of Village hotspots Caramba, and more recently Quattro.

The breakfast pop-up, located at Caramba, will pave the way for their new restaurant, Lorette, when it opens later this year.

“It gives us time to fine-tune what we’re going to do,” says Jay, of the decision to offer the breakfast menu out of Caramba.

The menu features some stalwart breakfast staples—avocado toast, the hangover sandwich with its bacon, sausage, eggs and cheddar, and of course, the Lorette classic breakfast.

An added twist on many plates is the potato tartlet. That, says Paré, is in homage to the long-standing Elements breakfast spot (in the Summit Lodge) which will be the new location of Lorette. “We reinvented the potato tartlet that was always on their plates,” he adds.

There are several Eggs Benedict options on the menu too but Paré highlights one in particular that he believes stands out—the buttermilk-fried-chicken eggs benny. The chicken comes on a buttered muffin with poached eggs and truffle Hollandaise.

Paré adds: “Our Hollandaise is some of the best I’ve tasted and I’m a Hollandaise aficionado!”

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MAY

THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER

Four artists featured at the Audain Art Museum in this summer exhibition from April 21 to Sept. 9. The artists use photographic and video works to contemplate the social, environmental and political state of the world.

WHISTLER FARMERS’ MARKET

Head to the Upper Village Stroll at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. Farm-fresh fruits and veggies, handmade jewellery and art, food and drink vendors, and so much more. There are additional Saturday markets on long weekends.

TOM THOMSON: NORTH STAR

The Audain Art Museum features pieces of Canadian great Tom Thomson, with art from leading collections around the country in this visiting exhibit.

THE PEOPLE’S FILM

The community will decide the next film at the Maury Young Arts Centre. This is more than a movie screening! Movies are chosen around a theme. Each film has a special place in pop culture. Check out artswhistler.com

MAY 17

Whistler Mountain Bike Park opens

MAY 17-19

Whistler Children’s Festival

Whistler’s longest-running festival for children and families–41 years! Circus performers, free activities, workshops, magic shows, interactive experiences, and arts and crafts. whistlerchildrensfestival.com

MAY 31-JUNE 2

Whistler Half Marathon

A weekend for all racers–there’s a kids run, a 5K, a 10K, and of course, the Whistler half marathon. There’s also a 30K course to really test your mettle.

JUNE

JUNE 1-23

Nourish Whistler Wellness Series

Various events throughout June to celebrate the spring season of renewal in the mountains. There’s something for everyone: arts, food, mindfulness events, and more. whistler.com

JUNE 8

The Back Forty

A 28-kilometre mountain biking race in the heart of Whistler, with 1,461-metre climb and 1,471-metre descent. There are three stages to conquer: Check Out Cheakamus, the West Side Wallop, and Beaver’s Epic. worca.com

JULY

JULY 1

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Walk Off The Earth

Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

JULY 4

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Aysanabee Free outdoor music in the mountains, with opener DJ Peacefrog. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

JULY 5

Whistler Summer Concert Series: The Sheepdogs Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

JULY 11

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Ibibio Sound Machine

Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

JULY 12

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Need Breed Brass Band

Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

JULY 19-28

Crankworx

Ten days of the best mountain biking festival in the world. Crankworx was born in Whistler 20 years ago and returns once again this summer, bringing all levels of race competition, cultural events and more. This is Whistler at its summertime best. crankworx.com

JULY 23

Crankworx: Deep Summer

Six photographers showcase their art set to music. Free. On the big screen at Whistler Olympic Park, 8:30-10pm

JULY 25

Crankworx: Dirt Diaries

Do not miss this filmmaker showdown with six unique stories about riding bikes. Free. On the big screen at Whistler Olympic Park, 8:30-10pm

AUGUST

AUG. 7-10

Flag Stop Theatre & Arts Festival

This is the 13th annual Flag Stop festival in Whistler with four days and nights of original theatre, live music, comedy and more. thepointartists.com

AUG. 8

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Astrocolor Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm.

AUG. 9

Whistler Summer Concert Series: The Suffers Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm.

AUG. 15

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Fort Knox Five Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

AUG. 15

Art on the Lake

Free music and working artists celebrate in the height of summer at this unique art event at Lakeside Park and on Alta Lake. artswhistler.com

AUG. 16

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Colin James Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

AUG. 22

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Trans Canada Highwaymen

Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

AUG. 23

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Ocie Elliott Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

AUG. 29

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Drag in the Mountains Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

AUG. 30

Whistler Summer Concert Series: Boy & Bear

Free outdoor music in the mountains. Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm

SEPTEMBER

SEPT. 14

The Witsend

Geared at intermediate to advanced female mountain-bike riders, The Witsend is a great way to connect with other female riders in the community. worca.com

SEPT. 14

Whistler Village Beer Festival Enjoy beer in the mountains at Whistler Olympic Plaza at the 11th annual beer festival. For tickets go to gibbonswhistler.com

OCTOBER

OCT. 14

Whistler Mountain Bike Park closes OCT. 17-20

Whistler Writers Festival

Annual event celebrating the written word with author readings, workshops and more. whistlerwritersfest.com

NOVEMBER

NOV. 7-17

WHISTLER VILLAGE & UPPER VILLAGE MAP