Van Life Whistler: Summer adventures in BC
This summer will mark ten years of us living in Whistler. Since the summer of 2014 we’ve been working and adventuring in this little mountain town, and we thought we’d share a few of our favourite things do in the local area. And yes, several of them include a van. After all, our very first van conversion (way way back, a little Astro van, which took us across Canada) was completed in our driveway in Whistler. And ever since, we’ve realised that being parked up lakeside, paddle boards ready to go, bikes in the back for an evening ride, might be our favourite way to spend a summer day. Read on for our favourite spots to hang out in Whistler for the day…
Riding the Lord of the Squirrels trail
(Note, today we’re talking about hanging out in Whistler during the day. Overnight van life in Whistler can be tricky. We’ve written about where to stay in Whistler overnight here, but please make sure you camp responsibly!)
Park up next to a Lake
Whistler has some beautiful lakes to chose from! If you’re looking for a picturesque place to take a photo of your beautiful van, Green Lake has some amazing photo spots straight off the highway. The water’s a little chilly but the views are beautiful! If you’re looking for somewhere a little warmer to swim, head to Alta Lake (Lakeside park or Rainbow park are great places to hang out for the day). Or try Alpha Lake with its big family friendly beach. Lost Lake. is probably the warmest lake and very popular on a sunny day. Or to get a little off the beaten track, head to Loggers Lake.
Ride the trails
Taking a break to admire the view
Whistler has many many bike trails. From the world famous Whistler Bike Park, to all the local trail networks, there’s something for all abilities in this mountain biking paradise. If you’re new to the sport try a lesson in the bike park, or check out the trails at Lost Lake for an introduction to the sport. Or if you’re looking for more of an adventure, ‘Lord of the Squirrels’ is famous for a reason! Check out the Cheakamus trails, West side trails, or something on Blackcomb to get a taste of some of the best riding in Whistler. TrailForks has all the latest information and trail status so make sure you check it out before you ride.
And what’s really handy after a ride… Giving your bike a hose down back at the van, and maybe taking a little shower? A cold beer in the fridge ready to go when you get back to the trail head? Van life definitely has a few advantages here.
This summer also marks 25 years of Whistler Bike Park, and the opening of the new Fitzsimmons Express 8 person chair, so there’s sure to be lots going on in town for that!
Take a Hike
Whistler is a hikers paradise. With alpine hikes accessible from the gondola and backcountry trails to pristine lakes there’s something for everyone here. For an easy stroll, check out some of the green trails on Whistler mountain, head to Lost Lake, or check out the Train Wreck in Cheakamus. Or for a longer hike, try Whistler Mountain’s High Note Trail, Garibaldi Lake with Panorama Ridge and Black Tusk, or Rainbow Mountain for some icebergs in the middle of summer! There’s more hikes here than you’d have time for in one summer so take a look at AllTrails for a full list, pick a few, and get out there!
Panoramic views on the High Note Trail
And after your Whistler adventures? There’s nothing quite like a cozy home to head back to. We love having everything we need packed into the van. Fancy a hike? Boots are in the back. Paddleboarding today? They’re ready to go! Lunch on the go? You get the idea.
We’ll be in the workshop a lot this summer, working on some custom conversions, as well as preparing some kits to ship out, but we’re also excited for all the adventures we’re planning right here in our backyard.