The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Whistler in Spring (2023 Update)
As spring creeps in and the days get longer, Whistler becomes a magical blend of snow-capped mountains, sunshine, and budding greenery.
Whether you’re planning a Whistler spring break or looking for a spring skiing adventure, this time of year is a fantastic time to check out Whistler and work on your ski-goggle tan.
What to Expect Weather-wise During Springtime in Whistler
You can expect steadily increasing temperatures and fewer rainy days over the spring months. As a result, everyone is putting away their down jackets and even breaking out their shorts.
March
Although March averages highs of around 7 C (44 F), don’t let these warmer temperatures fool you, as it’s also the month with the most significant snowfall.
Typically, we see around 13 days of rain in March. However, with lows averaging about -2 C (28 F), this precipitation usually turns into snow on the mountain.
April
April starts to warm up even more as the average high temperature increases to 11 C (51 F) and lows warm to 0 C (32 F). We usually see about nine rainy days on average during the month of April in Whistler, and the snow takes on a slushy and more playful form.
We recommend hitting the slopes later in the day, once the sun has warmed the mountain, as those overnight temps will still be hovering around freezing, making those early laps a little icy.
May
For the final month of spring, you can expect up to 17 C (68 F) during the day and 4 C (39 F) overnight. Of course, the snow will become a little bare as the month goes on, but it’s still enough for a lot of fun.
These warmer days also bring longer days. On average, there are 15 hours of sunlight during the days of May, allowing a lot of time for fun outdoor activities.
What Should You Pack for a Holiday in Whistler in Spring?
If you come in early spring, you’ll still need to bring a good-quality rainproof jacket and some layers to wear underneath, but the number of layers can decrease as spring establishes itself.
You’ll also need to consider that it often rains in the village at the base of the mountain while it’s a balmy, sunny day at the top. Plan ahead!
If you don’t believe how balmy it can get, come to Gaper Day weekend, which marks the end of the ski season in true Whistler fashion.
Skiers and riders wear hilarious costumes (or lack thereof) as they hurtle down the slopes towards the inevitable apres-ski after-party at the GLC, a house party or impromptu gathering in the parking lots.
What You Need to Know About Whistler Spring Skiing
- Whistler has one of the longest ski seasons in North America. As most ski resorts are shutting down in April, you can still find two metres of a base at Whistler Blackcomb.
- Bluebird sunny days lead you down the slopes and into the apres-ski good times bathing in Vitamin D at Dusty’s at the base of Creekside or Merlins on Blackcomb.
- Day tickets start at CAD $109 before tax; however, if you buy more than one day or pre-purchase them online, they will be discounted to CAD $89 before tax.
- Whistler Mountain will be the first to close on April 16th, 2023. Of the two giant mountains. Blackcomb Mountain will stay open until May 22nd, 2023.
- One thing to keep in mind is that once Whistler closes, the opening time for Blackcomb is pushed back until 10 am.
- Don’t worry, though, because you will still be able to shred until 4 pm, which is plenty of time to ride. These are our favourite runs for sunny days.
- Try Springboard on Blackcomb Mountain, which comes alive in the spring. It’s a long, wide blue run that starts just under the Rendezvous restaurant.
- Or, Rhapsody Bowl on Whistler Mountain is also an excellent option for those slushy Whistler spring skiing laps. It is an open blue run that offers a range of pitches and rollers.
- If you’re looking for a chair to lap, nothing beats Crystal Chair. It’s the best area for side hits and fun, warm laps.
8 Best Spring Adventures in Whistler
1. Ziplining
Speed demons need only apply to a zip line tour of whistler
If you love Whistler for the views, with ziplining you can fly like a bird over the beloved forests and valleys.
Ziptrek Ecotours has the longest zip line in North America, spanning over 2 km, and Superfly offers fantastic trips around Cougar Mountain.
2. Hiking
Now that the snow has started to melt, the trails are freed up for hiking and trail running.
If you’re new to hiking, we’d recommend the various guided hiking options found in Whistler, especially if you’re headed to higher altitudes where there may still be snow on the ground. We’ve put together a guide for guided hikes here.
3. Mountain Biking
Want a more adrenaline-fuelled way to take to the trails? Whistler is a mecca for mountain biking.
The Whistler Bike Park opens in May, and some of the trails around Whistler are usually free from the snow around April.
4. Axe-throwing
Forged axe-throwing is indoors (offering shelter from the Spring showers), a great way to bring together friends and only a short walk from the best brewery in town, Coast Mountain.
5. RZR
The Adventure Group never disappoints for thrilling outdoor activities in Whistler
Springtime also means big puddles, perfect when ripping around on a RZR.
The team at TAG will have you smiling from ear to ear in their 4×4 all-terrain RZR vehicles as you enjoy fast, flowy off-road trails.
6. Bungee Jumping
Get the ultimate rush with Whistler Bungee. Take the 160-ft plunge over a running river, and don’t forget to smile as their amazing team captures your experience on Whistler’s most extreme attraction.
7. Snowmobile Tours
Just because it is sunny doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the backcountry on a snowmobile. Canadian Wilderness Adventures tours run in the spring, allowing you to explore the Callaghan Valley.
We recommend the Callaghan Cruiser for beginners or the Wilderness Run for those looking to go faster.
8. Bear Tours
Our four-legged locals start to make their way out of hibernation during spring, and Whistler in April is the perfect time to see them.
Although bears aren’t uncommon around Whistler Village, we recommend joining Whistler Photo Safaris to capture them in the great outdoors.
Look Out for Spring Discounts
It’s a Spring Thing
Spring in Whistler is more than just Whistler spring skiing; the season comes with some fantastic dining deals. Many restaurants have three-, four-, or even five-course specials during the week.
Want to finally get a chance to eat at those five-star fine dining establishments without breaking the bank? Spring is your chance.
The It’s a Spring Thing movement gets top restaurants in Whistler to present delicious set-course meals at surprisingly reasonable prices.
For example, last year, fine dining restaurant Araxi offered a five-course fixed-price menu for $36, which involved ever-changing menus that taste of spring.
This fell between April 15th and May 31st and ran Mondays through Thursdays.
Alta Bistro, another top restaurant, offered a three-course menu for $30, which showcased seasonal French cuisine.
They only use locally and ethically sourced ingredients, which supports local farmers, fisheries and distilleries. This deal ran Sundays through Thursdays.
Whistler Après Voucher
Another fantastic deal to get you out of hibernation and into the mountains during spring is the Whistler Apres Voucher offered by Tourism Whistler when you book accommodation through them.
The CAD $75 voucher can be used at over 40 of Whistler’s best restaurants, and all you have to do is use the promo code SPRING2023 when booking either online or over the phone.
A few restaurants that stand out to us here at Forged Axe Throwing are Dustys, the Beacon Pub and Eatery, and the always-delish Mexican Corner.
To access this incredible deal, you must book a three-night stay between March 1st – April 30th, 2023. We recommend booking quickly with this deal as it is only valid for a limited time.
Save on Ski Rentals
Want to enjoy the Whistler spring skiing conditions but don’t have any of the gear? That’s okay because you can save on ski rentals at this time of year.
Booking online and in advance is always a good idea when booking rentals, regardless of the time of year; however, if you visit Whistler during spring, you can save even more.
Rentals shops like Black Tie Rentals offer 37% off Whistler Village ski rentals on walk-up bookings at their Sundial Hotel (Main Village) and La Chamois (Upper Village) locations.
Another option for skiing at Whistler in April is to buy ex-demo boards and skis from rental shops. For example, premium Mountain Rentals offers highly discounted rentals, which sometimes are cheaper than renting.
Don’t Miss Whistler’s Spring Events
World Ski and Snowboard Festival
Spectators beware, it gets slushy.
The famous World Ski and Snowboard Festival (WSSF) has been a massive celebration for years. Locals and tourists have seen acts like NAS, Busta Rhymes, and The Whalers, to name a few.
Being on hiatus for the last few years has everyone extremely excited that the festival is returning April 15 – 18, 2023, with an array of parties and events.
The Saudan Couloir Ski Race Extreme will put racers’ skills to the test as they speed their way down one of Whistler’s most prolific areas.
If racing isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there will be many parties. The Slush Cup is also returning, so wax your board or skis and break out your best swimsuit. It’s going to be wild.
Go Fest
Dubbed Whistler’s greatest outdoor festival, Go Fest brings outdoor education, musical acts, art, and sport to Whistler in May.
Traditionally held on the Victoria Day long weekend, Go Fest is another festival that’s been on hiatus over the last few years.
In the past, we have seen events such as talks about land acknowledgment, live street performances on the Village Stroll, and various musical acts playing through the village.
For those looking to challenge themselves on an athletic level, there are trail running races, mountain biking races, and group fitness classes including amazing yoga at the parks.
Go Fest is yet to confirm dates and events for 2023; however, their “SEE YOU IN 2023” message on their website has us absolutely buzzing.
Easter in Whistler
The Fairmont Whistler is the place to be Easter morning.
Easter is an eggcellent time to visit Whistler for families as it is one of the first long weekends with warmer weather.
There are a lot of events that happen in Whistler and the Sea to Sky area during Easter. These are our favourite events that put a hop in our step.
Easter egg hunts are a must, and we love the Britania Mine’s excellent Dino Easter Egg Hunt they run yearly. Usually, the hunt runs over the Easter long weekend and the weekend before.
If you want something more local, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler also offers an Easter egg hunt around their hotel. It is $50 to purchase a basket, and they have eight areas for you to explore.
The Wildflower in the Chateau is our pick for Sunday brunch as they put on an unforgettable Easter buffet with a live omelet station, seafood and carving station, and a decadent dessert display.
Last year, the buffet was $79 for adults and $39 for children between the ages of six and 12. The great news is that children five and under eat free, another good reason to visit Whistler in April.
As we get closer to Easter, more events will be announced. You can stay up to date through the Forged Axe Throwing guide to the Easter Weekend in Whistler.
Sunshine and Spring Laps in Whistler
Spring in Whistler is one of the most exciting times to visit. The transition into warmer weather and longer days have everyone excited for a fantastic summer.
Skiers and snowboarders will enjoy the fun springtime conditions, and those looking to enjoy the outdoors will love the transition to hiking, biking, and exploring Whistler without freezing.
If you want to escape the city and enjoy the outdoors, don’t forget to drop into Forged Axe Throwing so we can give you local tips on what to do.