Changing of the seasons in Whistler brings welcomed rain, crisp temperatures, and teasing sprinkles of snow on the distant mountain peaks creating opportunities for endless Whistler fall activities. The air carries the smell of winter and campfires, and the wool, flannel, and fleece return as the kings and queens of village fashion. Fall days are ripe for adventure while the evenings call for something a little cozier. With plenty to do in the dramatic fallscape of our mountain town, here’s what we consider some of the best.
Ancient Cedars trail
Fall is the perfect time to get outside and explore some of the lesser-seen areas of Whistler, away from the crisp lakes and stunning peaks that it’s famous for. The Ancient cedars trail on Cougar Mountain winds its way for 5km through some of the oldest standing trees in North America, many estimated to be over 1000 years old. While there are other stands of massive trees in the Whistler valley, none compare to the giants of the Ancient Cedars. These wonders must be seen for their size to be truly appreciated. Another bonus of this adventure is unlike many other trails in the area, this trail is 100% dog friendly!
Enjoying a view on route to the Ancient Cedars. Photo by Abby Cooper
Forged Axe Throwing
When we think of fall, we think of flannel, and when we think of flannel we think of lumberjacks. So what better way to celebrate the dropping of leaves than donning your favourite flannel jacket and heading to Function Junction to hurl axes into stumps. Forged Axe Throwing opened in Whistler in 2017 and has become a local favourite. They offer drop in classes for up to 10 people and also allow you to book for private groups.
Forged Axe Throwing is always a good time, especially when unfavorable weather hits! photo courtesy of Forged Axe Throwing
Village Deals
The pre-season is the best time to take advantage of deals for winter gear in Whistler. Shops throughout the village stroll are offloading last season’s product at big discounts to get ready for the incoming shipment of new products. This means you can run away with brand new gear in last year’s colours for a fraction of the cost. Most rental and demo stores will also be unloading their used fleet of equipment from last season for a bargain, if you ask nicely!
Speaking of village deals… break up your shopping with a Apres Lager – this little can is a tasty steal of a deal! Available on the Longhorn Patio!
North Arm Farm
Located 30km north of Whistler in Pemberton BC, North Arm Farm is a 60-acre organic farm, market, bakery, and restaurant. Nestled underneath the towering North face of Mt Currie you will find seasonal produce, baked goods, soups, sandwiches, live music, and farm tours. The main attraction in the fall is the sprawling U-Pick pumpkin patch. Pull on your rubber boots and head out into the muck to hand select pumpkins and winter squash for cooking, carving, or Instagraming.
Vegetables are ready for harvest at North Arm Farms! Photo by Conor Halliwell
FireRock Lounge
Creative cocktails, craft beer, seasonal appetizers, and cozy fireplaces, FireRock Lounge in the Westin Resort & Spa Whistler is the perfect place to unwind and wrap up after any autumn day in Whistler. They’re open for lunch, dinner and late night to accommodate any adventure.
Carefully crafted cocktails await at FireRock Lounge! Photo by Abby Cooper
While you are waiting for the snow to fly why not take advantage of some of the other unique offerings that the Whistler valley has to offer, and don’t forget to tag @gibbonswhistler in any posts you have about your favourite Whistler fall activities!
PS, our new Après Lager is a great addition for aprèsing anything fall! Check us out on Instagram.
