7 Thrilling Whistler Attractions With Instagrammable Views (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

Over the last 20 years, I have spent huge chunks of time in Whistler in all four seasons. Notwithstanding I have been to over 70 countries, this is one of my favorite places in the world. There are stunning views in Whistler in both winter and summer, and heart racing tours and activities for adventure seekers who love the outdoors. Here are 7 of the best Whistler activities for those who love breathtaking views and exciting excursions in nature in winter, spring, summer and fall.

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Other Whistler Experiences

If you are interested in other Whistler experiences, please see the list below:

For dining options:

• Whistler Restaurants: Budget Friendly Choices!
• Whistler Treats: 5 Amazing Places To Wreck Your Diet
• Fine Dining in Whistler: My Four Favourites

For summer activities:

• 21 Best Cheap Summer Family Activities In Whistler

For winter activities:

• A Whistler Winter in Canada: 7 of My Favourite Things
• Whistler Ski Resort: 10 Tips For The Best Ski or Snowboard Day

For Indoor activities:

• Whistler Indoor Activities: 8 Favourites From A Local

Best Exciting Outdoor Whistler Tours With Breathtaking Views 

Below are the 7 best Whistler things to do with spectacular views worthy of the most popular Instagram feeds. Most of these Whistler attractions are available in both winter and summer.

TAG Park Day Pass Offered By The Adventure Group

One of the best Whistler full day adventure experiences with unbelievable views is the TAG Park Day Pass offered by The Adventure Group on Cougar Mountain.

For one low price and between 9:00 am until dark, you can do Ziplining, an Aerial Obstacle Course, and RZR riding. After dark, you can also see Vallee Lumina, a fantastical light and sound show in the woods.

For a small additional fee, whitewater rafting is offered. However, unlike the other activities, there are limited spots for rafting and advanced reservations are required to secure a time in one of the rafts.

Each activity takes around 2 hours to complete, and except for the rafting, you line up for each one when you want and in the order you want. Believe it or not, you can do each activity as many times as you want throughout the day.

My Experience With The TAG Park Day Pass

I recently returned to Cougar Mountain to try this TAG Park Day Pass. This time, I took my two daughters aged 18 and 26 years old.

Without question, our day was fantastic. We loved the flexibility of doing what we wanted, when we wanted. It was really cool to know that after one adrenaline inducing adventure, another one was waiting for us just steps away. We left the day exhausted and covered in dust in the best way possible and I wouldn’t hesitate to do it all again tomorrow.

The guides were incredible. They were charming and patient ensuring that we always had the equipment on properly. They made sure that we felt safe at every moment. They clearly set out that at any time, we could safely and easily opt out of any activity, even if we were already in the middle of one.

These Whistler activities will thrill the most demanding adrenaline junkies, and the spectacular views of Cougar Mountain, Blackcomb Mountain, and beyond will leave you speechless!

RZR Tour on Cougar Mountain

The first thing we did on our TAG Park Day Pass was the RZR tour. It was a thrilling off roading experience in the backcountry of Cougar Mountain where we spent two hours ripping over crazy rocky terrain.

We each got to drive the RZR over boulders and uneven terrain, and through deep puddles. We whooped and laughed our way from start to finish. In several spots, the vistas of the mountains, glacial lakes, and forest were unreal.

The RZR Ride

Between the three of us, we had two off road vehicles that we took turns driving. Our guide made sure that our helmets were secure and our seat belts were tight. Then, he took us on trails that had us rocking and bouncing over large rocks and craters. We climbed large challenging hills and descended equally enormous passes. Our guide started us on gentle terrain, but that soon changed as our group got more confident.

Safety

The “Razors” were amazing. I have driven All Terrain Vehicles (“ATVs”) (sometimes called quad bikes in other countries) on many occasions all over the world. I absolutely love experiencing another country by heading into the hills or the countryside on an ATV. But, ATVs can be on the dangerous side. They are unstable and can flip very easily. Also, you don’t wear seatbelts.

Our experience with the RZR vehicles was completely different. It was much larger than an ATV, had unbelievably comfortable bucket seats that moved effortlessly with the motion of the vehicle, included four-point seatbelts and a roll bar.

We went over terrain that would have flipped any ATV that I have ever driven. But, this off road vehicle manoeuvred effortlessly. All of this without giving up the thrill of driving on some crazy stuff!

The Views On The RZR Tour On Cougar Mountain

Finally, the views were unbelievable and so different from the views that you get from Whistler or Blackcomb Mountain.

We drove in the backcountry and ended up on top of clearings that had us looking down on glacier fed lakes or over thousands of trees at faraway mountains. It was extraordinary.

Superfly Ziplines On Cougar Mountain

Next, we lined up for Superfly Ziplines. We waited around 30 minutes before we were loaded into large ATVs to take us to the first of 4 Ziplines.

Superfly Ziplines are made up of 4 ziplines where you fly alongside your adventure buddy. They include Canada’s longest year round zipline. At over 0.6 miles (1 km) long and 656 feet (200 meters) off the ground, you can reach speeds of over 62 miles (100km) an hour. The course is connected by scenic trails and boardwalks with stunning Instagrammable viewpoints.

Minimum age is 7 years old and 60 lbs (27 Kg) and maximum weight is 250 lbs (113 kg).

Safety

Our guides spent about 15 minutes explaining how to properly put on our harnesses, where to stand on the platform before each zipline, and what to expect both before and after a ride.

We basically didn’t have to do anything. We simply walked onto the platform, and stood there while our guides clipped us safely on to the zipline.

Unlike other ziplining that I have done, the guides release the brakes on the zipline and set you off on your adventure. At no point, do you have to “jump” off the platform. In fact, you are several feet from the edge of the platform before you even start. That means it is a lot less intimidating or scary than other ziplines where you have to find the courage to jump off the platform before your ride can begin.

The Views From Superfly Ziplines On Cougar Mountain

The views were out of this world. You got to choose from a sitting position where you went slower but could spend more time enjoying the mind blowing scenery of the mountains, trees and the creek below to a laying down position where you went as fast as you could aerodynamically go. In this position, you could still savour the incredible views as the rides were quite long, but we did go quite fast.

The three of us took turns zipping together. One of us had to go alone each time as we were a group of three, but that was ok. It was a blast to go together, hooting and hollering to each other the whole way over. It was also really nice to go alone and savour the 360 degree views in peace.

Aerial Obstacle Course On Cougar Mountain In Whistler

The final activity that we did during daylight hours with our TAG Park Day Pass was the Aerial Obstacle Course. This multi-level and multi-challenging course takes place in the trees of Cougar Mountain near the base. You swing, balance and jump your way through the forest canopy.

The challenges start easy and mere feet off the ground, and then gradually get more difficult and higher as each course progresses. Everyone is harnessed so that slips and falls might be scary, but will keep you secure and suspended from the ground.

There is a child’s course for children younger than 13 years old and/or less than 5’11” (with their hands straight in the air) and harder and more exciting courses for teens and adults.

The full adult course is very difficult. There are, in fact, five different courses that become more challenging as you progress. You need to have good core strength and not be afraid of heights. There is no time limit for finishing the course or how many times you can try it.

There is a guide below you that gives you pointers about how to get through a challenge (if you want them), screams encouragement when you need it, or gets you safely down if you get stuck or have had enough.

This is a good TAG Park Day adventure activity to do last. It is the most physical demanding of the activities offered and could take you some time to do it, depending on your abilities and how many levels you want to do. Most importantly, you want to be relaxed and not stressed about finishing so you can do the other exciting tours before the end of the day.

Instagrammable Views On Aerial Obstacle Course

The views are more subtle than the other attractions on the TAG Park Day Pass, but no less beautiful. You are deep in the forest surrounded by gorgeous trees and creeks below. You will feel like you are a million miles away from civilization, yet you are only a few minutes walk back to the base.

This is also a great activity if it rains. The treetops create a natural umbrella so that you are sheltered from most of the rainfall.

Vallea Lumina on Cougar Mountain

The final activity that we did with our TAG Park Day Pass was Vallea Lumina. This is a 1 mile (1.5 km) magical multimedia night walk through an old-growth forest on Cougar Mountain. You follow a story of two lost hikers and discover clues and mystic sights. Over approximately an hour, you walk in the darkness with lights, music and projected 3D imagery all around you.

My whole family (me, my husband, and four kids between the ages of 13-26 years old) has done this enthralling outdoor experience in Whistler several times over the years. I don’t want to say too much and ruin the surprises. Suffice it to say, it is a thrilling and beautiful activity in nature that everyone in your family will love.

For most of the walk, you are on a relatively flat and even path in the forest. However, at the start and the end, you will need to climb up steep stairs or down terrain. Accordingly, you must have basic physical fitness to do this walk.

Having said that, you walk the path at your own pace, so you can stop, look around and take your time if you need breaks. You should wear proper footwear (running shoes in summer and boots with treads in winter). Flip flops or heels would be unsafe.

Also, I would recommend bug spray in summer and to dress warmly. We did not need either when we have gone, but the weather can change quickly in Whistler, and the nights are often much cooler than the days.

Vallea Lumina is part of your TAG Park Day Pass, but you can also separately purchase tickets to it so anyone can enjoy this wonderful spectacle.

It only takes place in the dark so If you are doing the TAG Park Day Pass, you could take a break and leave in between the daytime activities on Cougar Mountain and nightfall. There is mostly only snack food available for purchase at the base and you may want to get some dinner before doing this evening Whistler attraction.

Riding The Lifts, Gondolas And Peak 2 Peak Gondola

No matter how old you are, there is a special thrill soaring hundreds or thousands feet in the air as you ride the gondolas, lifts and the Peak 2 Peak Gondola in Whistler. The views will simply take your breath away.

In summer, you purchase a 360 Experience Pass and in winter, a one day lift ticket, and you can ride the Peak 2 Peak and other gondolas that connect to it as many times as you want on that day.

Depending on the season, you start at the base of Whistler or Blackcomb Mountains, riding the gondola to the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain, or the Rendezvous Lodge on Blackcomb Mountain.

At the top, you find the Peak 2 Peak Gondola which has one of the longest free spans between ropeway towers in the world at 1.88 miles (3.03 kilometres). It also holds the world record for the highest point above the ground at 1,430 feet (436 metres).

A highlight of every day spent on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains is to take a ride or two (or three or four) on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. It connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains so you can see both of them and their magnificent views. It only takes 11 minutes to cross and you will hold your breath for most of it.

For an extra thrill, wait for one of the gondolas with a glass bottom! However, if the line up is long, just skip this. The gondola ride without the glass bottom is still amazing with spectacular awe-inspiring views.

In late spring and summer, it is common to spot bears on the journey up and down, so make sure you keep a close eye out for these amazing creatures.

Just remember: No matter how mild it is in Whistler Village, it will be much cooler at the top of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Make sure you dress properly!

Cloudraker Sky Bridge on Whistler Mountain

At 2181 metres or 7155 ft, you will reach the Peak of Whistler Mountain off of a ski lift called “the Peak Chair” (located above the Roundhouse Lodge) and find the Cloudraker Sky Bridge.

This suspension bridge is 130 metres or 426 ft long and crosses from the Whistler Peak to the West Ridge where Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk viewing platform is located. From many places along this bridge and viewing platform, you will get a 360 degree view of Rainbow Mountain, Black Tusk and other Coast Mountains.

What I love about this breathtaking experience is that it is included in the cost of your 360 Experience Day Pass.

Instagrammable Views

The views from here are unlike any you will find anywhere in the world. Well, at least none that I have ever found in my 45 years of travelling in over 70 countries. Simply put, you will be speechless and awe-struck by the jaw dropping vistas that surround you.

Interesting as well, the views up here are totally different from the views from Cougar Mountain with the TAG Park Day Pass, or the Ziptrek Ecotour (discussed below).

You are so high on Whistler mountain that the landscape is almost barren. As you peer over top of the Skybridge to the other Coast Mountains, you eventually see thousands and thousands of trees. However, your immediate surroundings are very stark, dominated by rocks and red clay-like earth. 

Believe it or not, underneath the Sky Bridge is Whistler Bowl, an advanced skier’s paradise. In summer, you may still find a little bit of snow here even though in Whistler Village, it is shorts and t-shirt weather.

***The Cloudraker Sky Bridge is only open in summer.

Ziptrekking on Whistler Mountain

I have done a fair bit of ziptrekking over the world. Without a shadow of a doubt, ziptrekking on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains through Ziptrek Ecotours was by far the best that I have ever done.

The Views

First of all, the scenery is mind boggling. We did the “Mammoth tour” (essentially combining the Eagle and Bear Tours) which means that we did every single zip line (9 of them) that is offered except the one called the “Sasquatch”.

There wasn’t one zip line that didn’t have beautiful views of far away mountains, hundreds of trees, or the Cheakamus river running through a deep valley.  Quite frankly, the tour is worth it just for the views.

The Zipping

Then, there is the zipping! The ziplines range from 400 – 2400 ft (120 metres – 730 metres), the longest one descends 30-storeys. The first zipline launches from Whistler mountain at an elevation of 3300 ft (1000 metres). 

My heart raced every time I stepped up to the launching pad. Normally, there was a death defying drop facing me while I found my courage to step off the ledge. But, what a thrill! And it was effortless. I did not have to do ANYTHING either before, during or after the zip. Our guides clipped and unclipped us, and magically slowed us down in the perfect spot before we reached the end. All we had to do was enjoy the ride.

Treetop Bridges

When we weren’t zipping, we were walking over treetop bridges that were nestled deep within the tops of the trees. Most of the bridges swung and bounced as we walked over them. As you can imagine, the views were amazing!

Along the way, our guides taught us about the trees and the animals living in the forest. It was an amazing way to spend our time in between zipping.

Last Word

What do all of these Whistler attractions have in common? The ability to leave you stunned with the natural beauty around you and the mind blowing thrills in which you are engaged.

Add in adrenaline surging through your body as you go ziplining, drive over crazy terrain on the RZR Tour, challenge yourself on the Aerial Ropes Course, glide on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, or walk over the Cloudraker Skybridge, and you will be scrambling to find enough adjectives to describe your amazing time on your Whistler vacation.

Disclaimer: I received complimentary tickets from Ziptrek Ecotours and TAG Park Day Passes. While I very much appreciated them, it in no way influenced my opinion about my experiences. 

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