Whistler MTB Holidays are truly incredible, Whistler is classed as the one of best mountain bike destinations in the world, located in British Columbia, Canada. It's part of the larger Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort and boasts some of the most famous Downhill and Enduro MTB trails in the world. We have all seen the films, watched the Crankworx events and dreamed about hitting A-line.

Top 10 Facts About Whistler Bike Park

  • Trail Network – Whistler Bike Park features 70 world-class downhill trails across four distinct zones, from beginner greens to expert double blacks, the ultimate destination for Whistler mountain biking holidays.
  • Trails – With 112 trails and over 250 km of lift-accessed MTB terrain, Whistler is the largest bike park in North America and a must-ride stop on any Canadian MTB trip.
  • Lift Pass Pricing – A 1-day adult Whistler Bike Park pass costs approximately CA$100, with multi-day and season passes available for those booking longer Whistler Bike Park packages.
  • Season Dates – The Whistler MTB season runs from mid-May through to early October, giving one of the longest summer downhill biking seasons in the world.
  • Opening Day – The bike park traditionally opens in mid-May, making Whistler the first big alpine MTB resort to kick off the summer riding season.
  • Top of the World Trail – The legendary Top of the World alpine descent can be added to your lift pass for CA$22, giving access to high-alpine terrain with breathtaking views.
  • Closest Major AirportVancouver International Airport (YVR) is just a 2–2.5 hour transfer away, making travel for your Whistler mountain biking holiday simple and stress-free.
  • Transport to Resort – Dedicated shuttles and coach transfers run daily from Vancouver Airport to Whistler, ideal for visitors travelling with bikes and luggage.
  • Global Reputation – Known as the world’s premier gravity-fed downhill bike park, Whistler draws mountain bikers from across the globe, cementing its reputation as the ultimate summer mountain biking destination in Canada.

Whistler Bike Park is famous for its diverse trails from A-Line with massive jumps and tabletops to the Top of the World trail, an epic alpine trail that starts at the peak of Whistler Mountain. Whistler is truly a bucket list mountain bike holiday destination and we are super excited to offer MTB holidays here to our amazing clients.

Mountain Biking in Whistler has become an absolute must-ride destination for any dedicated rider, the pure variety of trails on offer in this incredible resort from the Garbanzo Zone, located on the lower part of Whistler Mountain known for its extended and challenging trails offering a mix of technical tracks and jumps. "Original Sin," "Golden Triangle," "Duffman," and "Del Boca Vista." to name a few. To the Creekside Zone, the original base area of Whistler Blackcomb which features a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels such as "Lower A-Line," "Lower Angry Pirate," and "No Joke."

Travelling to Whistler for your MTB holiday is more of a pilgrimage that just has to be made once in your lifetime at least. The atmosphere in the village of Whistler is constantly buzzing, there are pro riders all around you, the trails are in incredible condition and you'll feel like you have arrived in a PlayStation game! 

Whistler has stamped its authority as the go-to mountain bike holiday destination since the late 90's. In 1998 the first downhill mtb trails were built and "Schleyer," was opened. This marked the beginning of lift-accessed mountain biking on Whistler Mountain. The success of this initial trial encouraged further development. In 2001, the Boneyard trail network was officially opened, expanding the bike park's trail offerings. This network included more challenging and technical trails, attracting a broader range of riders, looking for proper downhill trails and big ass jumps that Whistler is now so famous for. 

The bike park expanded to Whistler Mountain in 2003, offering riders a variety of trails on both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Additionally, the opening of the Peak 2 Peak Gondola in 2008 enhanced connectivity between the two mountains, providing riders with even more terrain to explore. Whistler continued to grow into one of the very best mountain bike holiday destinations in the world with amazing trails, a modern lift network and infrastructure it was the place to be and to be seen by all the pros and the public alike. 
 

A day in the life at Whistler

Our Whistler MTB Holidays will offer bike park laps and venture beyond the bike park and into famous riding areas such as Squamish and Pemberton. A typical day at Whistler bike park whilst on an MTB Holiday could look like this.

  • 9:00 am - Breakfast at one of the local cafes in Whistler Village, try Forecast / Moguls / Lift Coffee, our first suggestion would be Forecast Coffee as they have a bigger space for groups to eat.
  • 10:00 am - Head to the Whistler Bike Park and pick up your lift pass at the ticket window. 
  • 10:30 am - Begin your riding day with warm-up runs on some of the easier trails. Consider starting with a trail like "Easy Does It" to get accustomed to the bike and the park conditions. Gradually progress to more challenging trails as you feel comfortable.
  • 12:00 pm Explore trails like "B-Line" or "Crank It Up" for a mix of flowy sections and small jumps. Use this time to work on your technique and build confidence.
  • 2:00 pm Once you are ready hit the more advanced trails in the park "A-Line" or "Fade to Black" for larger jumps, technical features, and steeper descents. 
  • 5:00 pm Head back to Whistler Village for some well-deserved post-ride beers and dinner. Many restaurants offer a variety of cuisine options to suit your preferences. Share stories of your day with fellow riders and soak in the mountain biking culture.
  • 5:00 pm KEEP ON RIDING, Whistler Village Gondola stays open until 8pm in June July and August. 
     
Whistler mtb

Stevie Smith and Jackson Goldstone

Some incredible riders have come from Whistler and none more influential than the late Stevie Smith and current World Cup racer  Jackson Goldstone, Stevie's protégé. Stevie Smith, also known as "The Canadian Chainsaw," was a professional downhill mountain biker from Canada, born in 1989, in Cassidy, British Columbia. Known for his aggressive riding style, speed, and fearlessness on the downhill courses, he was loved by everyone. Stevie won the UCI Downhill World Cup overall title in 2013, becoming the first Canadian male to achieve this feat since 1998.

In 2018 Whistler built a new DH track called 1199 as a tribute to Stevie Smith. the track was designed and built to bring a World Cup-level track to Whistler in the Creekside Zone with a 500m vertical drop and some proper technical terrain. The name, 1199, comes from Smith’s winning points tally from his 2013 World Cup overall title. 

Jackson Goldstone exploded onto the MTB scene with his YT videos as a young kid, fast forward a decade and he is winning World Cups, signed to the Santa Cruz Syndicate WC team and living the dream. The future of our sport is bright with young talent like this on the scene. 

Stevie Smith DH Track 1199 Whistler

When is the best time to visit Whistler

The opening and closing dates of Whistler Bike Park can vary from year to year based on weather conditions and other factors. Whistler's mountain bike season typically spans from late spring to early fall. Opening in late May or early June, depending on snowmelt and trail conditions. The closing date is typically in September or early October. However, the closing date can be influenced by weather conditions and the onset of winter.

It's common for Whistler Blackcomb to announce specific opening and closing dates as the biking season approaches. They take into account factors like snowpack, trail conditions, and weather forecasts to determine the most suitable timing for the park to operate. Checking the official website closer to the time you plan to visit will provide the most accurate information regarding the bike park's opening and closing dates for the current season. Our Whistler MTB Holidays will run from May - October. 
 

Whistler MTB

Some of the biggest events in the world visit Whistler

Whistler Bike Park, being one of the best mountain biking destinations in the world, hosts the most prestigious mountain bike events in the world and these bring huge crowds. The most famous is likely Crankworx Whistler. Crankworx is one of the most significant mountain biking festivals globally, and Whistler is its flagship location. The event typically takes place in August and includes a variety of competitions such as downhill, enduro, slopestyle, and more. It attracts top riders from around the world and features a lively atmosphere with music, parties, and bike-related festivities. Other Whistler Mountain Bike Events include

  • Fox Air DH: This downhill race is part of the Crankworx Whistler festival and is known for its flat-out speed and big jumps. A true rider favourite as it is super fun and the crowd go wild! 
  • Garbanzo DH: Another Crankworx event, the Garbanzo DH is an extended downhill race that starts at the top of Whistler Mountain and descends to the village. It's a gruelling race that tests riders' endurance and technical skills.
  • Canadian Open DH: Forming part of Crankworx, the Canadian Open DH is a prestigious downhill race attracting elite riders. The course typically features a mix of technical descents and jumps, making it a thrilling event for both participants and spectators.
  • Enduro World Series (EWS): Whistler has hosted rounds of the Enduro World Series, a global enduro mountain biking competition. The destination is becoming more known for its trail that extends beyond the bike park. 
  • Whistler Mountain Bike Park Opening Weekend: At the beginning of the mountain biking season, Whistler Bike Park always kicks off with its opening. This weekend includes races, demos, and other festivities to kick off the riding season
     

How to travel to Whistler

The best way to travel to Whistler Bike Park from Vancouver City and the airport depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule. We 100% recommend staying in Vancouver for 1 or 2 nights if you are making the trip over from Europe or the UK. Vancouver is an awesome city, jump on a boat ride, visit Coast Gravity bike park or drink some beers on the lake shore! 

Car, If you're in Vancouver, you can drive to Whistler. Take Highway 99 (Sea-to-Sky Highway) north. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From Vancouver Airport, rent a car at the airport and follow Highway 17 and then connect to Highway 99 north. The drive from the airport to Whistler takes about 2 hours and is stunning. 

Shuttle Services, various shuttle services operate between Vancouver and Whistler. They provide convenient transportation without the need to drive. Some companies include: Skylynx which offers a direct shuttle service from Vancouver Airport to Whistler. Pacific Coach Lines also operates scheduled services between Vancouver and Whistler. We however recommend Whistler Shuttle

Public Transportation, Bus - TransLink's bus service connects Vancouver to Whistler. The bus departs from the Vancouver International Airport and various locations in Vancouver. Check the BC Transit website for schedules. Train and Bus Combo: You can take a combination of SkyTrain and bus to get to Whistler. This involves taking the SkyTrain from YVR to downtown Vancouver and then connecting to a bus.

There are many ways to get to Whistler it all depends on your budget, if you book one of our Whistler mtb Holidays we will arrange the transfers for you and these will be included in the cost of your trip unless you decide to create a custom trip with us and then you can remove them if you so wish! 
 

Beyond the bike park

Whistler has so much to offer beyond the bike park and the jumps, berms and chairlifts. Whistler is within a stone's throw of many other incredible mountain biking destinations that make the west coast of Canada so good for riding bikes. From Pemberton only 35 minutes north of Whistler and its stunning singletrack trails surrounded by deep valleys and farmland. To Squamish, which is just over an hour from Whistler and has some of the very best trails in whole the Sea to Sky Corridor. 

Squamish is home to some world-class mountain biking trails, trails like "Half Nelson" and "Full Nelson" are famous for their well-designed features and flow. Squamish is famous for it's rock slabs, huge steep rock slabs which everyone wants to ride! The breathtaking natural beauty of Squamish adds to the allure of mountain biking. Riders get to experience panoramic views of mountains, forests, and the scenic Sea-to-Sky corridor while navigating the trails. We explore further than just whistler on our incredible MTB holidays here and can not wait to show you this stunning destination. 
 

If you have any questions regarding a Mountain Bike Holiday in Whistler then please use the form below to get in touch and one of our friendly team will get back to you ASAP. 
 

Enquire now

Frequently asked questions

Can I ride Whistler, Squamish and Pemberton on one holiday?

Yes. Many riders consider this the ultimate British Columbia mountain bike trip. Each destination offers completely different terrain, allowing you to experience bike park riding, technical enduro and natural backcountry trails during one holiday.

How many trails are in Whistler Bike Park?

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park has more than 80 purpose-built trails spread across multiple lift-served zones, offering everything from beginner flow trails to expert-only double black descents

Is Whistler good for enduro riding?

Yes. Beyond the bike park lies an enormous network of natural trails linking Whistler, Squamish and Pemberton. Expect long descents, technical rock features, roots, alpine singletrack and spectacular scenery.

Is Whistler only about the bike park?

No. While the bike park is world-famous, many riders visit just as much for the incredible natural riding around Squamish, Pemberton and the surrounding mountains. Combining bike park laps with natural enduro riding creates one of the best mountain bike holidays available anywhere.

Is Whistler suitable for a mountain bike holiday?

Absolutely. Few destinations anywhere in the world combine such a famous bike park, outstanding natural riding, beautiful scenery, excellent accommodation, vibrant nightlife and easy access from an international airport. For many riders, Whistler is the ultimate mountain bike holiday destination.

Is Whistler suitable for advanced mountain bikers?

Without question. Advanced riders come to Whistler for legendary downhill tracks, technical rock slabs, huge jump lines, natural alpine descents and some of the best enduro riding in North America.

Is Whistler suitable for beginner mountain bikers?

Yes, although beginners should build confidence gradually. The bike park offers excellent green and blue progression trails with lessons and coaching available, but Whistler's terrain is generally bigger, longer and rougher than most UK bike parks.

Is Whistler suitable for intermediate riders?

Absolutely. Intermediate riders have access to a huge selection of blue and red trails both inside the bike park and on the surrounding natural trail network, making Whistler an ideal place to progress your riding.

What are the different zones in Whistler Bike Park?

The park is divided into Fitzsimmons, Garbanzo, Creekside and Peak zones. Each offers progressively bigger terrain, longer descents and more technical riding as you move higher up the mountain. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

What is A-Line?

A-Line is arguably the most famous jump trail in the world. Known for its huge berms, perfectly shaped tabletops and incredible flow, it has become one of mountain biking's most iconic descents and attracts riders from across the globe.

What is Pemberton famous for?

Pemberton offers fast, flowing singletrack through alpine meadows, forests and open mountainsides. It is generally less busy than Whistler and provides some of British Columbia's finest natural trail riding.

What is Squamish famous for?

Squamish is one of Canada's premier enduro destinations. Famous for granite slabs, technical singletrack and challenging climbs, it provides an excellent contrast to Whistler's lift-served riding.

What is the weather like in Whistler during summer?

Summer temperatures generally range between 18°C and 30°C in the valley. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains, so riders should always carry suitable clothing for changing weather.

What is the Whistler Mountain Bike Park?

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is the largest lift-accessed bike park in the world. It features over 80 purpose-built trails spread across four mountain zones, catering for riders from first-time visitors through to World Cup downhill professionals. 

What makes Whistler different from other mountain bike destinations?
Whistler is widely regarded as the spiritual home of modern mountain biking. Few places combine a world-famous bike park with such an incredible variety of natural trails, huge alpine descents, vibrant mountain town atmosphere and legendary riding history. ---
What type of riding is Whistler best known for?

Whistler is famous for downhill mountain biking, but it is equally respected for enduro, trail riding and backcountry adventures. Many visitors split their holiday between the bike park and guided rides in Squamish and Pemberton.

When does Whistler Bike Park open?

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park normally opens in mid-May and operates into October, making it one of the longest bike park seasons in North America. Exact dates vary each year.

When is the best time to visit Whistler?

The main riding season runs from late spring until autumn. July and August offer the best weather and full bike park operations, while June and September are often quieter and still provide excellent riding conditions. 

Where is Whistler?

Whistler is located in British Columbia, Canada, approximately 120km north of Vancouver along the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway. It is easily reached from Vancouver International Airport in around two to two and a half hours by road.

Which airport should I fly into?
We recommend flying into **Vancouver International Airport (YVR)**. Airport transfers are arranged from Vancouver to Whistler. If you choose to fly into another airport, you'll need to arrange your own transport to Whistler. ---
Why is Whistler considered the world's most famous mountain bike destination?

Whistler is widely regarded as the birthplace of modern bike park riding and is home to the legendary Whistler Mountain Bike Park. Combined with incredible natural trails around Squamish, Pemberton and the Sea to Sky corridor, it offers one of the most complete mountain bike destinations anywhere in the world. Whether you enjoy downhill, enduro, trail riding or huge backcountry adventures, Whistler has something for every experienced mountain biker.

Why is Whistler so famous for mountain biking?

Whistler helped shape modern mountain biking. It is home to the world's largest lift-accessed bike park, hosts Crankworx every summer and has influenced trail building across the globe. Many of the sport's greatest riders have lived, trained and competed here.

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