FACES OF WHISTLER: Local Talent goes Global, 17 BY DAVID SONG
FLORA AND FAUNA: Whistler’s Wildlife Paradise, 20 BY DAVID SONG
COVER STORY: That Whistler Feeling, 26 BY NEVILLE JUDD
WHISTLER HOMES: Starting from Scratch, 34 BY ALISON TAYLOR
FINE DINING: The Perfect Canvas, 48 BY BRANDON BARRETT
CASUAL DINING: Totally Awesome Eats! 59 BY WILL JOHNSON
COVER PHOTO OF RIDER BERNARD KERR AT THE CRANKWORX MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL BY CLINT TRAHAN/CRANKWORX
CONTRIBUTORS
BRANDON BARRETT is the former features editor for Pique Newsmagazine. He is the 2018 recipient of the John Collison Investigative Journalism Award. In his free time, he is a theatre producer, performer and playwright.
DAVID BUZZARD is a commercial, architectural, and food photographer based in Whistler and Vancouver. He has won nine press awards for photojournalism for the Whistler Question and The Squamish Chief.
WILL JOHNSON is a journalist, whitewater rafting guide and actor from Vancouver Island—where he lives with his wife Kristina and his children Celista, Kris and Aza on the slope of Mount Tzouhalem.
NEVILLE JUDD began his journalism career in the UK before moving to Canada where he worked for The Province, covering sports and adventure. His travel stories have appeared in UK and North American dailies for many years.
SONG is a news and sports journalist for Pique Newsmagazine who moved to Whistler in 2022 after nearly two decades in Calgary, Alberta. He has covered everything from March Madness basketball to PGA Tour Champions.
DAVID
SUMMER/FALL 2026
Which is your favourite Whistler festival?
GENERAL MANAGER, ADVERTISING/OPERATIONS
“Every year my book club tries to get to the Whistler Writers Festival. We’ve heard talks from some amazing authors: Esi Edugyan, Eden Robinson, Peter Carey. We’re lucky to have this festival in town and it’s a great reason to come to Whistler in the fall!”
Crankworx brings worldclass mountain biking to the community in a uniquely accessible manner. There aren’t many other festivals where superstars mingle with fans to such an extent. Even more rare is the phenomenon of local kids and teens competing on the same stage as elite athletes.
Catherine Power-Chartrand
EDITOR
Alison Taylor
ART DIRECTOR
Shelley Ackerman
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brandon Barrett
Will Johnson
Neville Judd
David Song
PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS
Scott Brammer
David Buzzard
Kelly Cosgrove
Getty Images
Lisa Smart
Clint Trahan
Tourism Whistler
Fredy Valencia
GENERAL MANAGER & PUBLISHER, LODESTAR MEDIA
Sarah Strother
CIRCULATION/ DISTRIBUTION
Denise Conway
“Cornucopia all the way! November in Whistler is the best with wine seminars, a silent disco, winemakers’ lunches and dinners, and fun with friends – old and new.”
Flag Stop is a truly grassroots arts festival that feels like one of the last bastions of authentic Whistler culture. The Point, a 1950s fishing lodge that is today a thriving arts hub, comes to life with live music, painting, and homemade food, all culminating in an original play on Flag Stop’s breathtaking mainstage: a floating dock on the scenic waters of Alta Lake.
Whistler Magazine (ISSN-0835-5460) is published twice annually by LODESTAR MEDIA
All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the publisher.
AL FRESCO DINING IN THE HEART OF THE MOUNTAINS
Course-side dining at its most inviting. Offering picturesque views of the 18th hole, our scenic and sun soaked patio is the ultimate destination for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. Whether you are concluding a round or returning from your Whistler adventures, we invite you to linger on the patio — where all are welcome.
P:
DISCOVERING THE HEART OF A MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY
Whistler’s visitors are often fascinated by the people who call this mountain town home. Who lives here? How do they make a living? Where are their houses? Are they always skiing, biking and après-ing?
These are fair questions! On the surface, Whistler is a glossy, high-end haven designed for people to make the most of life. It’s hard to imagine there are people rushing to daycare drop off, others who are teaching teenagers calculus and history, still more mopping floors, healing injuries, serving pints. You get the point.
So, here’s a little insight into the local community behind the fancy resort.
According to the last census in 2021, Whistler has a permanent population of almost 14,000. And yet, on any given day, factoring in tourists and workers, that population can easily more than double to 31,000 people.
The median age of the permanent population is around 35 years old—Whistler is young! And the median household income is around $99,000. But these stats only reveal some things. Here’s the real deal on the local community.
This is a town that attracts adventurers. This translates to a community full of great entrepreneurs (see our Faces story on page 17 and Mountain Roots on page 56). It’s also a place that celebrates pushing boundaries and finding opportunities. Check out our festivals story on page 26 to learn how the world’s
ALISON TAYLOR Editor
biggest mountain bike festival, Crankworx, started in Whistler before going global or how other festivals began with a dream, like the Whistler Film Festival and the World Ski and Snowboard Festival, and became huge economic drivers for Whistler, critical to the town’s success, especially during the slower months.
A hefty portion of our population lives and works in town. And while there are commuters from Pemberton and Squamish (to the north and south of Whistler), many people have put down roots right in town. This has been done by design. With great insight, Whistler’s forefathers created an entity called the Whistler Housing Authority (WHA) to create affordable housing for the workers. They understood that having the locals close by created a unique sense of community. Visitors and locals would eat dinner side by side in restaurants, shop for groceries at the same stores, enjoy après together. Today, thousands of local families are housed in WHA homes throughout the valley. This makes for a vibrant, busy, exciting town, even during the quieter periods.
But here’s the part about Whistler that
tourists don’t always get to see, that speaks to the enormous depth of our community. Earlier this year, tragedy struck close to home when 23-year-old local Kai Smart died in an avalanche in Japan. Born and raised in Whistler, his passing devastated the community, and beyond. Smart was all that’s great about Whistler—an adventurer, fearless, talented. Less than a year ago, he graduated with honours from the University of British Columbia. The response from near and far was swift and generous. A Go Fund Me campaign, set to raise $120,000 to cover foreign medical expenses for the family, as well as to establish a memorial fund in Smart’s name, had more than doubled in less than two weeks.
And while Smart’s reach went well beyond Whistler, the campaign’s skyrocketing trajectory reflects the heart and soul of the community and that unspoken pact for most mountain dwellers— we are in this together, we have your back, we are one, we share your triumphs…and your grief.
Find a way to experience the real Whistler community during your time here; Whistler Magazine offers some ideas to do just that. We are happy to have you here and share our love of the mountains and this place we call home.
BY ALISON TAYLOR
TRAIL MIX THINGS TO DO & SEE
[ IN & AROUND WHISTLER ]
MILESTONE MOMENTS
has been a year of major milestones in Whistler. The 2025/26 ski season marked 60 years of skiing at Whistler Mountain (45 years for Blackcomb Mountain). It was the 40th anniversary of the legendary Peak to Valley ski race, the longest Giant Slalom race in existence, from the top of Whistler Mountain to the bottom for a staggering 5.6 km of vertical descent. It was also the 30th anniversary of the World Ski and Snowboard Festival. Never a place to shy away from a good celebration, Whistler has been living it up in style to mark these moments, as well as taking stock of just how far the town has come. Consider: in 1966 Whistler had four lifts (one four-person gondola, one double chairlift, and two T-bars). Today, Whistler Blackcomb boasts 37 lifts, more than 200 trails and more than 3,300 hectares (or 8,000-plus acres of skiable terrain). Not to forget… the world’s biggest mountain bike park for summer fun.
THE VIEWS FROM BEYOND
There’s a whole world waiting to be explored just beyond Whistler’s boundaries. Alpine lakes. Ancient glaciers. Quiet forests. There are several ways to get there. You can go on your own steam, hiking some of the excellent alpine trails in the area. Think Rainbow Mountain or Skywalk Trail on the west side of the valley. Or, head into Garibaldi Provincial Park on the east side via Cheakamus Lake or Garibaldi Lake. For a different kind of experience, try an ATV tour. It’s a fast and fun way to explore the mountains for all abilities. Check out canadianwilderness.com or whistleratv.com.
THE VIEWS FROM ABOVE
find some perspective by getting up high while in Whistler. There are several ways to do it, each one exceptional and worth the effort. The PEAK 2 PEAK gondola, which spans the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains offers spectacular 360-degree views. It’s the longest and highest lift of its kind, spanning 4.4 km (2.73 miles) and takes 11 minutes one way. There’s the Cloudraker Skybridge at the top of Whistler Mountain, a 130 metre (427 foot) suspension bridge that will quite literally take your breath away. It’s one of the highest suspension bridges in North America. Or, check out the view via helicopter to really understand the beauty of the Coast Mountains and Whistler’s place in it.
PARK PLANS
There are 14 major parks in Whistler including Rainbow Park, Lakeside Park and Alpha Lake Park, with something unique to recommend each from beach volleyball courts and lake access to play structures and food trucks.
To note, this summer one of Whistler’s favourite kids’ hotspots, is closed for upgrades. The Meadow Park splash park and playground will be closed until November while the renovations are underway. The fields at Meadow Park will also be temporarily closed, however the picnic area next to the River of Golden Dreams will be open as well as the tennis/pickleball courts. Check out options and info at whistler.com.
THE CORE
Hit up the indoor climbing wall and see how how high you can go. whistlercore.com
SHOP LOCALLY
the whistler farmers’ market is a must-do in the summer, a place where you can find great local treasures, fresh farm fruit and veggies and cool artisans. Vendors set up along the pedestrian walkway of the Upper Village. There is also live music. The market runs beside the Adventure Zone at the base of Blackcomb Mountain with lots of kids activities like a bouncy castle, mini golf, a climbing wall, and more. The farmers’ market runs every Sunday and select Saturdays on long weekends from May to October, 11am-4pm.
ESCAPE! WHISTLER
Put your riddle and puzzle-solving skills to the test in Whistler’s themed rooms at Escape! Whistler. escapewhistler.com
FORGED AXE THROWING Throw an axe at Forged Axe Throwing in Function Junction and feel the thrill of hitting the bull’s eye. forgedaxe.ca >>
TRAIL MIX
NAMING RIGHTS
Black bears may get all the buzz as Whistler’s top animal attraction (read more about the local flora and fauna on page 20). But what about the oft-overlooked hoary marmot that gave Whistler its name. Arguably not as majestic or as grand as the resident black bears, the hoary marmot is the largest North American ground squirrel. The marmots live near the tree line on the mountains, using the rocky areas for cover. It’s their distinctive whistle, however, that gives them the edge as one of Whistler’s renowned animals. Originally called London Mountain, Whistler’s name changed in 1965 as a nod to the whistling marmots. Check out the alpine hiking trails on Whistler Blackcomb for a good chance of spotting (or hearing!) a hoary marmot.
A THERMAL JOURNEY
discover the many benefits of the Scandinave Spa’s thermal journey at the outdoor spa, tucked among the forest. It begins with a digital detox, stashing your phone away in the locker as you prepare to embrace silence. The next part of the journey is to increase your body temperature in one of the saunas, steam rooms or hot pools. Aim to spend 15 minutes here. Next, a quick cold plunge from head to toe. Aim for 30 seconds. The final step is a 15 minute period of relaxation. Repeat this process throughout your time at Scandinave and reap the health benefits. Check out scandinave.com
PARK PASSES
the stunning garibaldi Provincial Park sits in Whistler’s backyard, in the heart of the Coast Mountains. Hikers need a day-use pass to access the park on certain days, with a set number of passes available each day. Check bcparks.ca.
Garibaldi Park has more than 90 km of established hiking trails with stunning geological features including the iconic Black Tusk, the towering Mount Garibaldi and Garibaldi Lake wildlife like mountain goats, grizzly and black bears, cougars and wolverines.
PLAN FOR POOCH
With numerous pet-friendly hotels in town, Whistler rolls out all the stops for dogs. There are several off-leash parks in Whistler offering great places to burn off a little energy: Barking Bay at Rainbow Park, Canine Cove at Lost Lake Park, Alpha Lake Park and Bayly Park. Dogs must be on-leash in Whistler Village. It’s also important to note that dogs are strictly prohibited in the Rainbow Lake and 21 Mile Creek watersheds (the hiking trails on the west side of the valley). This is in order to protect Whistler’s drinking water as well as the local wildlife. Dogs are also prohibited in Garibaldi Provincial Park to protect sensitive alpine ecosystems and manage wildlife.
RAIN OR SHINE ADVENTURES
Don’t let a little west coast drizzle get in the way of any outdoor fun. You can enjoy all kinds of adventures in all kinds of weather such as ziplining through and above the forest, rain or shine;. bungee jumping over the Cheakamus River, rain or shine; hitting the whitewater for some river rafting or some high-adrenaline jet boating, rain or shine. whistlerbungee.com, ziptrek.com, tagwhistler.com, whistlerjetboating.com
LOCAL SUDS
enjoy a taste of whistler during your après sessions this summer. Local brewers have lots on offer to quench your thirst and are always brewing up something new. Coast Mountain Brewing, with its Hope You’re Happy IPA and Crystal Chair Lager, has a brewery and tasting room in Function Junction but you can find its beer in hotels and restaurants throughout Whistler. Whistler Brewing is also located in Function Junction with fan favourites like Mountaineer Pilsner and Bear Paw Honey Lager. Head to the Brewhouse in the Village for a Lifty Lager. Or try a Gibbons Après Lager at the Longhorn or Tapley’s. And don’t miss out on the annual Whistler Beer Festival Sept. 14–20. >>
TRAIL MIX
ARTFUL STRETCHING
there is perhaps no more stunning place for a yoga class than at the Audain Art Museum, Whistler’s unique art gallery in the heart of the Village. For an hour on Thursdays join a class to strengthen your body and calm your mind with breathwork. Yoga registration includes access to the museum galleries on the day of the yoga session. Register at audainartmuseum.com. Go to page 32 for more info on exhibits and artwork.
THE TEA ON TEE TIMES
The pressure is on, and not just when you’re teeing off or putting for par. Rather, this summer is set to test golfers as the multi-million-dollar renovations continue on the Whistler Golf Club, prompting its closure for the 2026 season and putting pressure on the other local clubs. Fortunately, there are options in the Sea to Sky corridor. The spectacular Fairmont Chateau Whistler is a walk from Whistler Village and the legendary Nicklaus North Golf Course is just five minutes north of the Village. Don’t forget about the equally impressionable Big Sky Golf Club or the Sunstone Golf Club to the north in Pemberton and Furry Creek Golf & Country Club, south of Squamish. And, now there’s even more reason to return to Whistler in the summer of 2027 and beyond. Whistler Golf Club is set to open next summer with a redesign of several holes, better turf and fairway enhancements, and new tee complexes, among other things.
FEEL THE BURN
Alocal favourite, the Blackcomb Ascent Trails are a must for anyone looking to spend time in the forest, to work up a sweat and to experience the mountains. It’s a continuous uphill climb on Blackcomb Mountain starting at the base. The first section is Little Burn—less than a kilometre and an easy introduction to the Ascent Trails. This is followed by Big Burn—2.2 kilometres and the heart is really starting to pump. Big Burn ends at mid-station where you have the option to download on the gondola. The final stretch is the aptly named Heart Burn—more than 3 kms ending at the Rendezous Lodge where you can reward yourself with a drink and a bite to eat. It’s a combined 6.2 kms with 1,200 metres in elevation gain. Check out whistlerblackcomb.com for pricing and hours of operation for the gondola download.
AWARDS SEASON
One local pot shop is making its mark in Whistler. A Little Bud, located in Function Junction, made a name for itself at the most recent Whistler Excellence Awards, run by the local Chamber of Commerce. A Little Bud won Emerging Business of the Year as well as Service Excellence – Small Business. Check out alittlebud.ca.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre/Justa Jeskova
Xwalacktun, He-yay meymuy (Big Flood), 2014-15
Photo: Tourism Whistler, Andrew Strain
LOCAL TALENT GOES GLOBAL
SEA TO SKY ENTREPRENEURS HONE SOUGHT-AFTER SKILLS AT HOME
STORY BY DAVID SONG
Most locals and visitors come to Whistler to ski famed slopes, bike the region’s myriad of trails or explore its backcountry terrain on their own terms. Other, more niche sports have a place as well: climbing, paragliding, kayaking, highlining, and more. This is a Mecca for thrill-seekers and restless adventurers.
Yet there is more than one way to be adventurous. Some folks venture into the business realm, using their passion for athletics and the outdoors to conceive goods or services others may find useful. At times, these local entrepreneurs gain enough momentum that clients outside of British Columbia begin to take notice.
LOCATION SCOUTS MEREDITH AND KEVIN HODDER NEAR ONE OF THEIR FAVOURITE WHISTLER SPOTS: ALONG THE CHEAKAMUS RIVER AT HOUSE ROCK.
Christine Cogger’s quarter-century in the field of event producing has taken her from small-time running races to the Winter Olympic Games.
Dave Kelly united with friends Rob Cocquyt and Tom Prochazka to revolutionize bike parks around the globe as Gravity Logic (GL). And Meredith and Kevin Hodder founded Whistler Peak Productions, a full-service production company providing support for film, television, and advertising projects.
They operate in distinct realms, but their stories all feature common threads of enterprising gumption and innovative foresight.
PRODUCTION PROWESS
Meredith Hodder began her career in 1999 in Los Angeles at Creative Artists Agency, serving as an assistant to a motion picture agent. She then caught wind of a new-at-the-time CBS reality contest show dubbed Survivor (yes, that Survivor) and proceeded to work on both it and a similar program The Amazing Race
Upon relocating to Whistler, Meredith planned to switch careers—but former colleagues began reaching out with renewed interest. Many of them needed local assistance for projects in the Sea to Sky. Peak Productions was thus born and has been operating for over 20 years.
Husband Kevin Hodder, meanwhile, began finding opportunities to help film crews accessing remote, glaciated locations during his mountain guide certification process. Together, they have grown their business into one capable of servicing major productions close to home (like the 2010 Olympics) and worldwide.
“One of our proudest achievements is a Harper’s Bazaar editorial with photographer Txema Yeste, shot on the Pemberton Ice Cap for their September issue,” Meredith says. “We helicoptered the models, crew and couture wardrobe onto the glacier, resulting in a series of striking images that capture the raw beauty and allure of Whistler. The work went on to win the prestigious Lucie Award for Best Fashion Layout of the Year.”
“I HAD TO CONSISTENTLY REMIND MYSELF THAT I WAS AT THE GAMES AND…TO TAKE IT ALL IN. AS A LITTLE KID, I WOULD WATCH THE OLYMPICS ON CBC AND I WAS SO PASSIONATE AND JUST LOVED IT SO MUCH.”
— Christine Cogger
It’s not all glamorous. Days are long, schedules are fast-paced, and all kinds of heavy lifting (both figurative and literal) is needed to move equipment to and from set. However, responsible planning and preparation—which the Hodders excel at—can ensure things run smoothly.
They also love the people they deal with.
“You form incredible friendships through production,” says Meredith. “Long hours and challenging situations have a way of bringing people together.
“We’re incredibly proud to live and work in Whistler. It truly is one of the best places on the planet. The local film community is made up of exceptionally talented people we genuinely love working with. And when it comes to locations, the possibilities are endless—stunning natural backdrops are everywhere you look. Combined with Whistler’s close proximity to Vancouver, it offers the ideal balance for clients looking to capture both city and nature in a single day of production.”
‘AN EVENT IS AN EVENT’
For a humble Pembertonian, working at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games this year was “a surreal feeling”.
Back in February, Christine Cogger’s career brought her to the Livigno Snow Park in Italy. She facilitated the awarding of 57 Olympic medals to athletes from a range of nations, including Canadian big-air ski champ Megan Oldham.
Staffers like Cogger are expected to be impartial, but she couldn’t help wearing Maple Leaf pins on her clothing. A quick and quiet congratulations to Oldham during her ceremony was another little memory that will last a lifetime.
“It was a really positive experience, first and foremost,” Cogger recalls. “I was really lucky [because] the venue team and my own victory ceremony teams were incredible. That really made it an unforgettable experience because that’s what it’s all about: relationships.
“I had to consistently remind myself that I was at the Games and…to take it all in. As a little kid, I would watch the Olympics on CBC and I was so passionate and just loved it so much. I would say that to anybody who’s working at a big event: take a moment to just appreciate how far you’ve come.”
As unique as the Olympics can be, they’re fundamentally similar to programs she’s run for Triathlon Canada, IRONMAN and the Invictus Games.
DAVID BUZZARD
“At the base level, an event is an event. It doesn’t matter how big it is, it doesn’t matter how small it is,” says Cogger. “For me, it’s really about creating an amazing experience for the participants, volunteers, spectators, whether that’s your little backyard 10k run or the Olympics. You’re still trying to create that atmosphere. Yes, there can be a little bit more pressure on a national or an international scale, but I think a lot of that pressure is self-driven anyway, so it’s surprisingly similar.”
The Concordia University alum broke into event producing 25 years ago as a member of Whistler Blackcomb’s (WB) event team, gradually parlaying that opportunity into various other gigs. She can often be found behind the scenes of endurance races and is also a medal ceremony specialist.
To anyone else looking to get into the event production business, Cogger would say: put yourself out there, don’t be afraid to ask questions and do not shy away from different roles, from picking up garbage to running the show.
FORCE OF GRAVITY
It’s been 30 years since Dave Kelly first worked on local bike trails as a
Whistler Backroads employee, eventually becoming lead hand and co-manager for the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. It wasn’t long til he found a niche in the marketplace and decided to take a leap of faith.
In 2005, Kelly founded Gravity Logic (GL) alongside Rob Cocquyt and Tom Prochazka. GL provides services in the realm of planning, designing and building bike parks as well as rental and retail audits or safety management consultations for existing facilities.
“Rob and Tom are the best business partners and friends ever,” Kelly says. “Rob is naturally very smart and an incredibly hard worker. He does essentially all of the ‘business’ side and without him we would be struggling to remain organized.
“Tom is the senior statesman of the industry and brings a lifetime of practical experience. There is no problem too big for Tom to solve in a calm, professional manner.”
Together, they voyage around the world doing something Kelly would do for free anyways—bringing popular and profitable bike parks to life. Many successful American parks owe their existence to GL, which has also
developed a top-notch reputation in Europe. It all comes back to the same philosophy that made Whistler a global biking hotspot.
“DH (downhill) bike parks were [once] very basic, usually gnarly singletracks that appealed to only hardcore bikers. With that level of participation, bike parks would never be financially sustainable,” says Kelly.
“We knew in order to grow the sport and ensure financial success, we needed to cater to all abilities and lower the skill barrier to entry. Using excavators to build smooth flowy trails for beginners, with berms and jumps for intermediate and advanced riders, we saw a huge boom in visits and revenue ensuring the success of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park and created a model for biking areas around the world to follow.”
Although Kelly says that some may criticize him and his peers for “dumbing down” the sport of mountain biking and attracting “too many” visitors, he remains proud to be at the forefront of creating a sustainable business model that ensures the industry’s long-term success.
In 2021, Kelly was inducted into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame.
GRAVITY LOGIC FOUNDER DAVE KELLY AT LAKE LEATHERWOOD, ARKANSAS.
WHISTLER’S WILDLIFE PARADISE
THE LOCAL TEMPERATE RAINFOREST IS ALIVE WITH THOUSANDS OF SPECIES
STORY BY DAVID SONG
According to the whistler biodiversity project (WBP), an initiative launched in 2004 to catalogue local plant and animal life, there are at least 4,821 distinct species residing in the Sea to Sky corridor. Project editor Bob Brett wouldn’t be surprised if that number rose to 7,000 or more in the next decade.
That’s far too many to cover in one article, but you get the idea: There are Whisky Jacks in the sky, Hoary Marmots among the rocks, stunning alpine wildflowers like Indian Paintbrush and White Mountain Heather, smellier Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus) in the wetlands, and the travelling Western Toad (Anaxyrus boreas) of Lost Lake fame (see page 22). In short, Whistler is teeming with diverse life.
MAIN PHOTO: A BLACK BEAR LIVING HIS BEST LIFE IN A MOUNTAIN MEADOW FULL OF WILD LUPINES . RIGHT, FROM TOP: SKUNK CABBAGE BLOOMS IN THE EARLY SPRING; WHISKY JACKS, OR GREY JAYS, ARE VERY CURIOUS AND WILL OFTEN APPROACH HUMANS; INDIAN PAINTBRUSH ARE COMMON WILDFLOWERS IN THE ALPINE; THE HOARY MARMOT’S CALL IS THE INSPIRATION FOR WHISTLER’S NAME; WHITE MOUNTAIN HEATHER FORMS PATCHES IN ROCKY CREVICES.
HELPING THE WESTERN TOAD
With its toadlets measuring the size of a dime, one of Whistler’s most sensitive animals, the Western Toad, has to make the journey from the waters of Lost Lake to the shelter of the forest every summer.
The migration of up to 40,000 toads annually usually happens from the end of July to the end of August. This is a critical time for the toads. While Lost Lake Park remains open during the migration, visitors are asked to watch where they step and bike at this time.
Whistler has done its best to help them on their way, building two underpasses for the journey as well as installing signage, fences and boardwalks.
The Western toadlets are an important part of the ecology of Lost Lake, feeding on the detritus of the lake which keeps it clean. Learn more about the Western toad at whistler.ca
Brett explains that the region is blessed with an unusual abundance of old-growth forest when compared to most other parts of Canada, or even most other parts of the world. Individual trees range from 600 to 1,000 years old, with the forest itself reaching 10,000 years, and it has not been significantly impacted by fires since the last ice age. Three main tree species dominate: Western hemlock, Douglas fir and Western redcedar (the latter of which is known as the tree of life with deep roots in Indigenous culture).
“Visitors come to British Columbia often looking for big trees,” says Brett. “One of the main things [this province] is famous for is its forests, and in 100 years of intensive logging we’ve managed to cut down virtually all of the big trees, all of the primeval forests. With a little bit of knowledge, I think people can understand that these forests in Whistler are really special and we’re lucky to have them.”
These elder trees are frequently accompanied by ferns and mosses that thrive in the local temperate rainforest climate. Some trees also carry lichen: a harmless combination of fungus and algae that resides on bark without taking anything from its host.
Virtually all plants are hard-pressed to survive
without their mutually beneficial relationship with fungi, which generate mycorrhizal networks between plant roots. In the absence of such connections, local trees would not be able to access enough nutrients to grow, particular in acidic environments. This phenomenon has been documented by Canadian conservationist Suzanne Simard, whose work in turn has influenced pop culture tentpoles like the Avatar film franchise.
More than 1,000 fungal species are listed in the WBP. A number of them are desirable for eating, medicine or dyeing clothes, but it is their silent and unseen contributions that truly makes them invaluable.
WHISTLER LIES IN THE LUSH, COASTAL TEMPERATE RAINFOREST FULL OF TOWERING, MAJESTIC OLD-GROWTH TREES. IT’S EASY TO ACCESS THE FOREST. THERE ARE HIKES FOR ALL LEVELS AROUND WHISTLER THAT ARE EASILY ACCESSIBLE.
KEEPING WILDLIFE WILD
British Columbia’s once-grand fish populations have declined over time, just like its ancient forests, but Whistlerite nature influencer Macaila Wagner still identifies Pacific salmon as the Sea to Sky’s most prominent animal. As a keystone species, these fish have a disproportionately significant impact on their environment by bridging marine and terrestrial ecosystems—their annual migration facilitates an incredible transfer of nutrients. They can be found in the Cheakamus River and a little further afield in the Mamquam River and Squamish River, less than an hour south of Whistler. There are five species found in the Pacific waters: Chinook, Coho, Pink, Chum and Sockeye.
That said, many visitors tend to worry about bears first and foremost. Whistler is home to a pair of iconic species: grizzlies (distinguishable by their large shoulder humps and concave facial profiles) and black bears (which lack a hump and have a relatively straight face). Despite these naming conventions, both can range from blonde to black in fur colour.
UNWIND
A LARGE GRIZZLY CATCHES A COLOURFUL SALMON TO FEAST ON BY THE RIVER’S EDGE. BOTH SPECIES CAN BE FOUND IN THE SEA TO SKY CORRIDOR.
Bears are generally not aggressive, though mothers with cubs ought to be afforded particular respect. Wagner recommends that people make noise when hiking through bear country, avoid navigating unfamiliar areas alone, and be prepared for their recreational pursuits (i.e. bringing bear spray and securing all food or animal attractants).
If one does encounter a bear, giving it space is vital. The vast majority of bear attacks are defensive or territorial in nature.
“We can spectate and enjoy wildlife from a distance, but we shouldn’t really be interacting with it all,” Wagner says. “Being a wildlife steward means keeping wildlife wild, and we can effectively do this by keeping our distance. I have been here many, many years and I still get excited at wildlife sightings, especially bears.
“It’s unrealistic to expect people to completely ignore wildlife, because it’s exciting and we want people to be passionate! I think best practices can be to take that moment to appreciate safely, and then move on.
[Advocate for] this messaging when others aren’t following good practice as well. Stand up for wildlife!”
The same principle applies towards flora. “Don’t Love it to Death” is an education campaign that urges locals and visitors to recreate while minimizing their environmental impact: packing up garbage, not feeding animals and leaving plants alone. However, foraging can be done responsibly with accurate information or a reliable guide.
Wagner adds: “I think a great final reminder could be to appreciate the small stuff in the same way we appreciate the big and grand. The large ecosystems that we see are merely the visible expression of the tireless work performed by the tiny ecosystems beneath our feet and on the surfaces of rocks and trees. When you see reminders around to stay on trail, it’s because of things like step moss—which we see everywhere—that take one whole year to grow one little frond. Get out, have fun, be curious, but enjoy responsibly.” W
THAT WHISTLER
THE WHISTLER OUTDOOR CONCERT SERIES TAKES PLACE AT WHISTLER OLYMPIC PLAZA ON THURSDAY AND FRIDAY NIGHTS THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER. CHECK OUT THE EVENTS CALENDAR ON PAGE 64-65 FOR DATES AND TIMES.
STORY BY NEVILLE JUDD
Festivals are now woven into the fabric of the resort. THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE.”
FEELING
It’s september 1997 and i’m trying to prop up my eight-week-old son Ryan in a ski boot for a photo opp. Next, we pose Ryan on a massage table at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, followed by a photo of him in the hotel kitchen wearing a chef’s hat.
My wife and I are competing in the Mountain Moments Media Challenge, part of a Whistler fall event that no longer exists. Somehow, the memory captures the essence of the town’s festival scene back then: immersive, improvised, and so much fun. (Ryan’s 29 now and claims not to remember anything.)
“The events’ scene was scrappy, a bit rough around the edges,” recalls Christa Vandeberg of the late ‘90s when she moved to Whistler for a job at Starbucks. Today she is festivals, events and animation supervisor for the Resort Municipality of Whistler.
“Most things were driven by passionate locals who just wanted to create something fun for their friends and the community. There was a real DIY
energy, events were smaller, more intimate, and often pulled together with limited resources but a ton of creativity.
“Over the past 25 years, the scene has grown into something far more polished and diverse, but it still carries that same spirit. What’s changed is the scale, the professionalism, and the year-round nature of it all. Festivals are now woven into the fabric of the resort. There’s something for everyone.”
Pick a month, any month, and you’ll find festivals and events in Whistler.
Add the name “Whistler” and you can count on an annual Film Festival (December), Writers Festival (October), Beer Festival (September), Pride Festival (January), Children’s Festival (May), and the Summer Concert Series. There’s Cornucopia (November), Nourish Wellness Series (June), the World Ski and Snowboard Festival (which marked its 30th anniversary in April!) and the Mecca of mountain biking festivals, Crankworx (July-August). For the full summer run down of Whistler’s festivals and events, check out the calendar on page 64. >>
ABOVE: CROWDS GATHER ON WHISTLER MOUNTAIN TO CHEER ON COMPETITORS DURING CRANKWORX.
BELOW: A SKIER STARTS DOWN THE RACE GATES DURING THE WORLD SKI AND SNOWBOARD FESTIVAL.
CRANKWORX MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL
It’s the cornerstone of Whistler’s summer event calendar. A captivating mix of elite athleticism, amateur enthusiasm and community celebration, Crankworx (July 24-August 2) is a huge multi-million-dollar economic engine for Whistler, attracting worldwide attention to the sport of mountain biking.
“Vibrant, thrilling, inclusive, inspiring …” is how Teresa Fasch describes Crankworx. “Walking through the buzzing expo village before arriving at the Boneyard, (the dirt stadium at the base of Whistler Mountain Bike Park) surrounded by thousands of fans watching the world’s best riders compete just metres away … it’s the unique accessibility, energy, and passion that define Crankworx.”
Fasch is Crankworx’s senior manager, marketing and communications, a job that takes her as far afield as New Zealand for the event’s world tour. Crankworx’s popularity has only grown since its inception in 2004, in part because
of its enduring global relevance from a sports and cultural perspective, says Fasch.
“Crankworx represents the highest level of competition, storytelling, and cultural impact within mountain biking, bringing together the sport’s biggest moments, strongest performances, and most engaged audiences.”
It has also been an agent for change and inclusivity. In 2012 it broadened its appeal to children aged five to 12 with Kidsworx. In 2015 it introduced equal prize money for women and men and expanded the women’s slopestyle competition.
“Seeing the first woman (Shealen Reno) crowned Crankworx FMBA Slopestyle World Champion in 2023 marked a major step forward for progression and representation in the sport, reflecting the inclusive direction mountain biking continues to move toward,” says Fasch.
The blend of sport and mountain culture also inspires the festival’s story, she adds. “Crankworx is about more than competition, it’s about creating a sustainable platform for athletes, showcasing creativity, and building meaningful connections across the global mountain bike community.
“Whistler’s diverse terrain and deeply rooted riding community enable a festival environment that challenges the world’s best athletes while remaining accessible to fans. The proximity of venues creates an experience where spectators can engage closely with the sport and its athletes.”
For Vandeberg, who was part of the production team in Crankworx’s early years, it’s particularly gratifying to see the festival stay true to its roots after all these years.
“Even though Crankworx has gone global, it still carries that original Whistler spirit,” says Vandeberg. “The community is proud to see our athletes on the world stage, and that feeling hasn’t faded. For locals, it still feels like a celebration of who we are. For visitors, it’s a window into the creativity,
bravery, and community that define this place. And seeing kids from local families progress in the sport, that’s been one of the coolest parts of the whole journey.”
WORLD SKI AND SNOWBOARD FESTIVAL
A similar mix of athleticism, culture and nightlife sustains the World Ski and Snowboard Festival after three decades. Held every April, the festival lands at just the right time, says Vandeberg.
“Winter’s been long, the seasons are shifting, and suddenly you get those mellow spring days on the hill with friends that feel like a little reward. You ski a bit, slide into après, maybe catch a band, and somehow end up at an evening event that turns into a reunion you didn’t expect.
“And if you’re a visitor, you can’t help but get swept up in it. The whole place feels lighter, more playful, you really feel the spirit of the community and our love of winter. It’s that free-spirited, anything-goes, spring energy that keeps WSSF such a favourite around here.”
CORNUCOPIA
Another long-running staple in the events calendar is Cornucopia, Whistler’s annual celebration of food and drink in the mountains. This year the festival runs Nov. 5-15. Cornucopia is ten days of curated events from wine tastings and winemakers’ dinners to silent discos and comedy nights. The festival has become a huge success in Whistler, creating buzz during Whistler’s so-called “shoulder season,” that time between biking and ski season.
NOURISH WELLNESS SERIES
If WSSF, Crankworx and Cornucopia represent the enduring festivals that have weathered the ups and downs of event production in Whistler, then the Nourish Wellness Series in June brings a new twist to the scene. Throughout the month, Nourish focuses on wellness through speaker series, curated outdoor activities and food, among a host of 75 separate events. Think yoga. Think hiking in the mountains. Think wellness seminars. Think delicious dining. “Come as you are, explore what wellness means to you, and leave a little more whole,” the tagline promises. >>
THE NOURISH WHISTLER WELLNESS SERIES OFFERS HEALTHY AND FULFILLING EXPERIENCES.
FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: THERE ARE ALWAYS LOTS OF SMILES TO GO AROUND AT THE ANNUAL WHISTLER CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL; THE WHISTLER WRITERS FESTIVAL CELEBRATES THE WRITTEN WORD; SELL-OUT EVENTS HIGHLIGHT THE POPULARITY OF CORNUCOPIA, CELEBRATING FOOD AND DRINKS IN THE MOUNTAINS.
WHISTLER WRITERS FESTIVAL
While festivals in Whistler naturally come with a promise of adventure and outdoor pursuits, the traditional arts are just as much a staple of Whistler’s festival scene, and with good reason says awardwinning writer and filmmaker, Rebecca Wood Barrett, who is director of The Whistler Writing Society and organizer of the 25th annual Whistler Writers Festival (November 5-8).
“There’s a lot of cross-over in the type of person who loves outdoor adventure and the storytelling arts,” says Wood Barrett. “Whistler is full of people who have adventurous mindsets. I think that’s a core part of their identity. They want to explore. Take risks. And be connected to each other in these pursuits. Both sports-driven events and our festival events offer all of these possibilities.”
Since founder Stella Harvey hosted the first Whistler Writers Festival in her living room 25 years ago, the event has grown to become a big draw on B.C.’s cultural calendar without losing its sense of intimacy. Whether they’re a reader, a writer, or both, attendees can expect to be welcomed into a warm, intimate event where they’ll get to meet other people who love books, reading, and expanding their mind with big ideas, says Wood Barrett.
The writers’ festival is as popular with visitors as it is with locals.
“Once a good thing takes off, then visitors want to join in too,” says Wood Barrett. “They want to be a part of an authentic, Whistler experience where they’re side-by-side with locals, participating in locally created cultural events.”
THE WHISTLER FEELING
While other events have come and gone over the years, that mix of attendees is often the key to festivals thriving, according to Arts Whistler executive director, Mo Douglas.
“What endures are events that appeal to both locals and visitors,” says Douglas. “It’s not exactly 50–50, but close. If locals show up, visitors see that and think, ‘This must be good.’ If locals don’t go, you’re not resonating. Everything I’ve programmed has had to appeal to locals first.”
The Whistler Children’s Festival (May 15-17), for example, has been attracting visitors and locals for so long (43 years, to be exact), its audience is multigenerational, says Douglas, who sees parents who attended the festival as kids in the 1980s and ‘90s.
The other essentials that make Whistler the quintessential festival town are driven organizers, committed volunteers and a special location. People are primed to participate here.
“The physical experience of being at a festival matters,” says Douglas. “When you’re in the village, everything’s centrally located, everything’s close by, it’s all there. The other extraordinary thing is how much of what we do has been free over the years.”
Adds Wood Barrett: “Whistler has some unique qualities that make it an ideal crucible for cooking up festivals. First, you’ve got founders and organizers with passion and drive. They’re fearless. Scrappy. They work tirelessly. Then you’ve got the local volunteers and attendees who show up from the beginning, and give a new festival the base it needs to grow.”
The collective know-how of so many people who’ve produced, performed, volunteered, or worked behind the scenes over the years makes Whistler an incredibly fertile place to create and grow festivals, says Vandeberg.
“That connection between the people who build the experience and the people who show up for it … that’s the Whistler feeling.” W
ARTS & CULTURE
WHISTLER IS MORE THAN STRONGER, HIGHER, FASTER ON THE TRAILS AND SLOPES — IT’S A THRIVING COMMUNITY THAT ALSO CELEBRATES MOUNTAIN ART AND CULTURE
Less than a decade after the resort municipality was formed in 1975, the Whistler Arts Council was established and it, along with the later established Arts Whistler, has been shepherding the arts and culture scene ever since. Don’t miss out on the vibrant arts and culture scene that makes this town more than meets the eye. Here’s some things to explore throughout the summer months. — Alison Taylor
TAKAO TANABE: INSIDE PASSAGE
do not miss out on a visit to the audain Art Museum during your time in Whistler. In addition to the permanent collection of art, which highlights a large selection of Emily Carr’s works as well as those from other B.C. artists, this summer will see two special exhibitions featuring pieces from renowned Canadian artist Takao Tanabe. From June 13 to Oct. 19, Takao Tanabe: Inside Passage, will celebrate the artist’s contributions to Canadian art. The retrospective event coincides with Tanabe’s 100th birthday on Sept. 16. It will feature more than 60 paintings over seven decades. Tanabe, who is a second generation Japanese-Canadian, is known for his abstract and representational landscapes. His work highlights coastal vistas, mountains and rivers and “evokes both stillness and grandeur, offering a poetic reflection on nature…” according to the Audain Art Museum’s website. A concurrent exhibit, Vistas: From Takao Tanabe’s Travels, will also run this summer from May 16 to Sept. 21, featuring landscapes from B.C., North America, Europe and the Arctic. These exhibits are just one more reason to visit the audainartmuseum.com as well as offering repeat guests another reason to visit again.
EN PLEIN AIR
arts whistler is once again offering En Plein Air Painting Adventures in the mountains this summer. These outdoor workshops, on July 18 and August 22, are led by a professional painter with the mountain backdrop as inspiration. The French phrase “en plein air” describes the process of painting landscapes outdoors. Arts Whistler “invites you to slow down, explore your creativity, and capture the surrounding landscape…” For more information, head to artswhistler.com.
CRANKWORX CREATES
crankworx, the world’s biggest mountain bike festival, is about so much more than racing down the mountains or mindblowing tricks on two wheels. Born in Whistler more than 20 years ago, Crankworx has evolved into a ten-day extravaganza, which also explores the cultural side of mountain biking. To that end, there are two must-see events during the festival that bring together the wider community and celebrate all things mountain biking from the sport and the lifestyle to the crowning achievements as well as the heartaches. Dirt Diaries (July 30) highlights short films by six filmmakers. The films are shown outside on the big screen at Whistler Olympic Plaza in the Village. Judges will choose the top film. The event is free and everyone is welcome to attend. Deep Summer (July 28) is similar to Dirt Diaries but photographers showcase their work in a photo slideshow set to music. Deep Summer is also on the big screen at Whistler Olympic Plaza. It is free and all are welcome to attend. For more go to crankworx.com.
FIRST NATIONS FEAST
not many people have the chance to indulge in Indigenous cuisine in a dedicated First Nations museum/cultural centre. But Whistler guests have the chance to experience both at the Spo7ez Summer Solstice Feast. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to discover the beauty and rich history behind the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC), which showcases the local First Nations history and culture—Squamish Nation to the south and Lil’wat Nation to the north; Whistler is part of their shared territory. The Spo7ez Summer Solstice Feast celebrates the seasonal abundance from the land with wild game, salmon and foraged foods. The menu includes: fresh spring herb bannock, wild rice and dandelion salad, cedar plank salmon with lemon balm, venison loin with huckleberry radish, and more. The evening will begin with a cultural welcome experience and move into the celebration of food and connection. This is a great opportunity for a first-hand look at the SLCC, which is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Check out slcc.ca. The Spo7ez Summer Solstice Feast on June 20 is part of the Nourish Whistler Wellness Series. For tickets and information on more events go to nourishwhistler.com
FLAG STOP FESTIVAL MARKS 15 YEARS
in a town with a festival to mark every month, or so it seems, the locally born and bred Flag Stop Theatre & Arts Festival holds a special place in the heart and soul community. “It taps into the creative works of the community and also artists from across the province,” says Flag Stop visionary and writer/ musician Stephen Vogler. This year is the 15th anniversary of Flag Stop and the festival kicks off on Friday August 5 with a night of entertainment in Florence Petersen Park in the Village. The event then shifts to the shores of Alta Lake at the The Point Artist-Run Centre. On the nights of August 6 and 7, the play Jackie and Jack, written by Jim Christy, which explores a fictional meeting between Jackie Kennedy and writer Jack Kerouac in the ‘60s, will take place on the floating stage on Alta Lake. Tickets are available at thepointartists.com and include dinner and the show, or just the show. The Point also hosts its Lakeside Concert Series over five Sundays this summer, starting June 28. Check out the line-up online or in the events section on page 64. The Point is a unique community cultural hub on the west side of Alta Lake. It includes the Creative Cafe, open every Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 4pm with food, drink, often live music, and creative opportunities. For example, visitors can rent painting equipment—brushes, canvases, and paint—and while away the afternoon by the lake. It’s worth it to walk, bike, boat, or drive and explore this authentic Whistler arts hub.
WHISTLER GALLERIES
AUDAIN ART MUSEUM
4350 Blackcomb Way
604-962-0413 audainartmuseum.com
ADELE CAMPBELL
FINE ART GALLERY
In the Westin Resort & Spa
604-938-0887 adelecampbell.com
ART JUNCTION GALLERY & FRAME STUDIO
1068 Millar Creek Road, Function Junction
604-938-9000 artjunction.ca
MOUNTAIN GALLERIES AT THE FAIRMONT
In the Fairmont Chateau Whistler
604-935-1862 mountaingalleries.com
THE PLAZA GALLERIES
22-4314 Main Street
604-938-6233 plazagalleries.com
THE GALLERY AT MAURY YOUNG
ARTS CENTRE
4335 Blackcomb Way 604-935-8410 artswhistler.com
SQUAMISH LIL’WAT
CULTURAL CENTRE
4584 Blackcomb Way 1-866-441-SLCC (7522) slcc.ca
WHISTLER CONTEMPORARY GALLERY
In the Hilton Resort
604-938-3001 (main) In the Four Seasons Resort 604-935-3999 whistlerart.com
STARTING FROM SCRATCH
WHISTLER VILLAGE CONDO TRANSFORMS INTO LUXURY RETREAT
STORY BY ALISON TAYLOR PHOTOS BY SCOTT BRAMMER
Established these last 40 to 50 years, Whistler Village was designed purposely to entice people to stay and spend time in the heart of the town. And so, it remains the go-to vibrant gathering space for the community, both locals and tourists, where people live and party, vacation and dine, and perhaps most importantly, where Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains are right outside your door.
Rental condos in the Village have seen it all over the years—ski boots clomping on wood and tile floors, dirt-caked mountain bikes banging against walls, wet gear taking up much-needed space.
OPPOSITE PAGE: THE CURVED WALL ACCENT AT THE ENTRYWAY ADDS AN ELEGANCE AS YOU FIRST WALK IN THE DOOR.
ABOVE: THE GALLEY-STYLE KITCHEN RUNS THE LENGTH OF THE MAIN LIVING SPACE, ADDING ROOMINESS TO THE CONDO.
LEFT: THE WINDOWS WERE UPDATED WITH BLACK PAINT AND A NEW VALOR FIREPLACE COMPLEMENTS THE LUXURY ADDITIONS THROUGHOUT. >>
ABOVE: THE KITCHEN FEATURES IMPORTED ITALIAN TERRAZZO STONE ON THE COUNTERS AND BACKSPLASH AND CUSTOM CABINETRY.
OPPOSITE LEFT: THE BATHROOMS ARE JAPANESESTYLE INSPIRED AND FEATURE HIGH-END SPA TOILETS AND HEATED TILE FLOORS.
But as the years have passed, many units now are starting to show their age and some wear and tear: odd space configurations have developed over time, weird designs and decor from the ‘80s and ‘90s are commonplace, and buildings have struggled keeping up with changing building codes.
For Montreal native Sébastian Dupéré and his business partner Brent Gray, it would have been easy to spruce up their unit at Marketplace Lodge, which was built in 1987, and get it back in the rental pool as quickly as possible.
But, they saw potential within those tired walls. And, perhaps more importantly, they wanted to do the right thing. The end result? Unit 215’s renovation is wholly unexpected yet universally appealing in its luxury and elegance. It is on the market for $1.8 million.
“It appeals to that buyer who understands design and quality,” says realtor Dave Burch, of this unique Village listing.
For Dupéré, the extensive renovation was simply the right thing to do.
“TO MAKE A PLACE THAT WE REALLY LOVE, THAT WOULD NECESSITATE CHANGING THE LAYOUT.”
— Sébastian Dupéré
“Projects in Whistler seem to be lipstick jobs to maximize the money,” says Dupéré from Montreal “(Whistler) is such a great town that these places deserve a good (renovation).”
The business partners embarked on what was to become a two-year process, in the end transforming a cramped and dated one-bedroom plus den into a twobedroom, two-bathroom, 806-square-foot Village oasis, with utmost attention to detail.
That much is obvious as soon as you open the front door to an entryway featuring a curved wall and custom millwork in muted tones. Discerning choices like these are evident throughout, from the layout to the furnishings.
But it all had to start with work behind the scenes.
“To make a place that we really love, that would necessitate changing the layout,” explains Dupéré.
The renovation began with a blank slate and a goal to reconfigure the space to gain more square footage and make it feel fresh, airy and bright. Critical to that was the decision to add a steel beam across the span of the unit.
“That opened up options,” says builder Jeff Burdett, of Burj Enterprises, the builders who led the project.
Those options included: adding a new HVAC system to control indoor air quality, ventilation, and temperature; installing soundproofing throughout; raising the ceilings and moving the plumbing to create
even more space; and, concealing the updated sprinkler system, among other things.
This extensive behind-the-scenes work then set the stage for what was to follow.
The kitchen, which now runs down one wall, features imported Italian terrazzo stone for the countertops and backsplash—a statement choice adding elegance to the space and a perfect complement to the custom cabinetry.
The window trim is repainted in black with custom blinds to add a modern touch and the walls are finished in real lime plaster, a subtle but significant change to painted drywall. This brings a unique 3-D element to the space.
There is a Japanese aesthetic throughout. Both bathrooms feature high-end spa toilets, as well as floor-to-ceiling tiles, with a custom concrete sink in the main bathroom.
In addition to the beauty of the space, there is also a focus on functionality. The entry closets, for example, feature built-in boot dryers for wet ski and snowboard boots, as well as a washer/dryer. There is also space to store skis and snowboards. The entryway and bathrooms also feature heated floors.
“It needs to be very functional,” says Dupéré, of any rental property in Whistler. “You’re on vacation; it needs to be nice.”
The unit is finished off with a high-end furniture package, including custom photography on the walls. The end result: a place that is functional, comfortable and desirable. >>
Photo: Russell Dalby
Burj Enterprises has done similar upgrades in other Village complexes, “bringing them up to speed and bringing them up to 2026.”
“It all adds up to a better product,” says Burdett. It also increases the rentability and the resale value. Rentals in the Marketplace unit have been busy since the renovation was completed.
Burch says that this unit appeals to high-end renters who see the value in the luxury upgrades. It will ultimately find a buyer who steps inside and is immediately drawn to it.
“The end user will be someone who loves it,” he adds.
In addition to its Village location, Marketplace Lodge also offers underground parking and a communal hot tub. The building abuts Whistler Olympic Plaza, a hub of community activity with a free concert series on on select dates throughout the summer and a free outdoor skating rink in the winter. The units are Phase 1, which means there is unlimited use for owners as well as nightly rentals to generate income.
After talking about the renovation and highlighting the choices over the two-year process, Dupéré jokes that maybe he doesn’t want to sell it after all.
Then again: “We’re always looking at new projects and new opportunities to do a similar treatment at a different location.
“There’s an old mentality (in Whistler) that needs to change. The town deserves it. We need to put some quality behind it.”
TOP: THE UNIT WAS FINISHED WITH A HIGH-QUALITY FURNITURE PACKAGE
PHOTOGRAPHY.
SWEET SUMMER BUYS
THERE ARE SOME GREAT WAYS TO BEAT THE summer heat in Whistler. You could take a gondola high into the alpine and hike in the cooler air, you could go for a swim or float in one of Whistler’s refreshing lakes, or you could spend a few hours in our air-conditioned boutique shops! There’s no shortage of fabulous gifts to take home for others or yourself — enjoy!
CABLE KNIT “PULL THRU” WRAP
Made with 100 per cent wool and genuine fox, this stunning wrap is a wardrobe must-have. Subtly accented with genuine fur trim, this versatile piece can be worn with the loop “pull thru” for a hands-free option or as an open poncho or shawl for a more casual look. The one-size shawl is perfect to pair with your favourite jeans, for travel or an evening out! Available at Snowflake $325
SORELLA LINEN FLORAL DRESS
Crafted from breathable linen, this piece combines timeless elegance with everyday practicality. The delicate floral pattern adds visual interest, while ribbed detailing at the bodice provides subtle structure and definition. Functional pockets offer convenient storage without compromising the dress’s refined silhouette. Available in a sophisticated blue tone, this versatile style transitions seamlessly from casual outings to relaxed social gatherings. Perfect for those seeking quality construction and understated sophistication in their seasonal essentials. Made in Italy. Available at Amos & Andes –The Whistler Sweater Shop $118
JEANIE BEAR PENDANT
This exquisite 25th anniversary Jeanie Bear Pendant is available in 14k white and yellow Canadian gold, with a featured natural Canadian round brilliant cut diamond and surrounded with 22 additional Canadian diamonds. Specially handcrafted in Canada in memory of Jeanie the Whistler bear, 10 per cent of sales are donated to the Get Bear Smart Society. Chain sold separately.
Available at Keir Fine Jewellery
$3,300
SEA TO SKY ALPHABET
Sea to Sky Alphabet, written by Bronwyn Preece and illustrated by local artist Kate Zessel, highlights the unique and beloved part of the world nestled in southwest B.C. This beautiful book takes readers on a lyrical journey through the alphabet, travelling from ocean’s edge up into the snowy slopes of the alpine. Readers are invited to experience the richness of this place’s history and landscapes. Incorporating words from the local Lil’wat and Squamish First Nations, this book encourages respectful engagement with these lands.
Available at Arthentic at Maury Young Arts Centre
$24.99
WESTERN PIA DENIM SHIRT
Softly structured and soulful by design, the Western Pia Denim Shirt from Kerri Rosenthal breathes new life into a heritage staple. Distinguished by rose-hued whipstitch detailing and a relaxed, rhythmic drape, this 100 per cent cotton denim piece swaps traditional rigidity for a luxurious, lived-in ease. Available at Abigail Lifestyle Boutique $385 >>
SHOPPING AREAS
Whistler Village is the hub of activity at the base of the mountains. A pedestrian-only paradise, it offers over 200 stores, galleries, restaurants and bars.
Village North is centred around Whistler Marketplace, which offers a supermarket, liquor store and many fine shops and amenities.
Upper Village, situated at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, is another walking-only area with many wonderful stores, restaurants and galleries.
Nesters is just two minutes north of Whistler Village and offers a variety of shops and restaurants, with a liquor store, grocery store and restaurants.
Rainbow Plaza, a five-minute drive north of the Village, has a grocery store, liquor store, coffee shop, gas station and more.
Whistler Creekside, a five-minute drive south of the Village, is a shopping area near the base of Whistler Mountain.
Function Junction is just 10 minutes south of Whistler Village and offers hardware, organic groceries, breweries, bakeries and many more shops and services.
BEAR BENTWOOD BOX BY SHAIN JACKSON
In British Columbia, First Nations peoples used unique and beautifully adorned traditional containers commonly known as bentwood boxes to store their most precious of possessions. One of the aspects distinguishing the Bear Bentwood Box from other wooden boxes lies in its construction—the body of the container is constructed using only a single piece of West Coast cedar. Bears symbolize the hightest level of friendship. They embody strength healing and unconditional support. 5”W x 5”D x 4”H. Shain Jackson is a Coast Salish Artist and lawyer from the First Nation community of Sechelt, B.C.
Available at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
$178.75
MEN’S EVERYDAY SHORT
LOG BOWLS
SLEEVE BUTTON DOWN SHIRT
Need a shirt that’s nice yet casual? Sharp yet comfortable? The Men’s Printed Short Sleeve Button Down can tick all the boxes. With the uncontested style of a button down paired with the comfort of four-way stretch-woven fabric and breathable Merino wool with sport underarm panels, all in an engaging print, this shirt can take you from afternoon hike to night on the town with ease. For everyday versatility, look no further. Available at Smartwool
$110
The raw natural beauty of a tree, combined with a vibrant, high-gloss bowl. So beautiful! Each bowl is handmade by Canadian artisans, utilizing locally reclaimed trees which have either fallen or been removed due to infrastructure or inclement weather. Each piece is designed to embody timeless beauty, with an element of story telling. Sizes range from 2” to 11” in a variety of fabulous colours.
Available at Camp Lifestyle + Coffee Co.
From $75 – $400
Lush and vibrant, Ayala Bar’s Emerald Reflection collection channels the deep greens of nature’s finest treasures. With bold designs and rich colors, these pieces bring energy and elegance to your look. Perfect for evening events, garden parties, or days when you want to feel radiant.
Available at Ruby Tuesday Accessories Ltd.
$149.95
AYALA BAR EMERALD REFLECTION EARRINGS
THE CANOE ON THE LAKE DIP SET
Bring a touch of lakeside serenity to your table with the best-selling Canoe on the Lake Dip Set. Handcrafted with care and inspired by peaceful paddle moments, this ceramic set is perfect for entertaining at the cottage or adding a rustic, nautical vibe to your home. Great for dips and chips, veggies and breads, or for salsa and nachos. The pond platter is approximately 14” long x 10” wide, and the canoe dip pot is approximately 10.25” long x 3.25” wide. This Canadian pottery set comes with two paddles (spreaders) and description cards.
Available at Whistler Kitchen Works
$89.99
LAWREN HARRIS MUG SET
Enjoy your favorite hot drinks in this beautiful set of bone china mugs featuring four memorable paintings by Canadian artist Lawren S. Harris (1885-1970), member of the Group of Seven art movement. The four paintings include: North Shore - Lake Superior, North Shore - Baffin Island, Greenland Mountains, Afternoon Sun - North Shore Lake Superior. Packaged in an attractive gift box, they make a special gift for your friends and family.
Microwave and dishwasher safe.
Available at the Audain Art Museum
$55 >>
IT’S A WRAP NECKLACE
This LULU | B Designs sterling silver necklace is strung with Spinel gemstones. Artist Mary Lou Banks is always looking for those deeper treasures that lie just beneath the surface. In 2008, Mary Lou combined her passion for unique jewelry pieces with her background as a geologist to create LULU l B Designs. She began to haunt Paris shops, coming back from each subsequent trip with more and more sparkling and unique gemstones, crystals, freshwater pearls and silver, and thus, LULU B l Designs was born.
Available at Adele Campbell Fine Art Gallery
$475 W
FINE DINING
THE PERFECT CANVAS
WHISTLER’S BEST PASTA DISHES STRIKE A BALANCE BETWEEN TRADITION AND INNOVATION
ILL CAMINETTO EXECUTIVE
CHEF MARK
MCLOUGHLIN
DINES ON THE DECADENT LOBSTER AND SAFFRON
SPAGHETTONI.
STORY BY BRANDON BARRETT
PHOTOS BY DAVID BUZZARD
There’s an old saying in the cooking world: if you want a sense of a chef’s creativity, see what they do with a bowl of pasta.
One of the world’s simplest foods, pasta offers chefs the perfect canvas to paint in their true colours.
“It’s basically a blank slate. It’s noodles. It’s flour and water. So it’s really about what you do with it,” explains Mark McLoughlin, executive chef at Whistler’s long-cherished Italian institution, Il Caminetto.
What Whistler chefs are doing with pasta these days strikes a balance between tradition and innovation. Like an old nonna’s recipe passed down through the generations, each of the restaurants featured on this list owes a debt of gratitude to their forebears, while still adding their own distinct flair.
From comforting Italian classics to elevated indulgence, we searched high and low to find the best pasta in Whistler. So, tuck in your bib, pour yourself a tall glass of Chianti, and dig in. Buon gusto! >>
TRATTORIA DI COMO CULINARY
DIRECTOR MARK
GREENFIELD, LEFT, AND GENERAL MANAGER MICHAEL
GRAHAM WITH THE PAPARDELLE RAGÙ
DI CARNE.
TRATTORIA DI COMO
There is no figure that looms larger over Italian cuisine in Whistler and, arguably, the country, than Umberto Menghi, renowned Italianborn restaurateur, chef, TV personality and bestselling cookbook author.
The restaurants he opened in the heart of the Whistler Village—Il Caminetto and Il Trattoria— elevated the resort’s fine dining scene to previously unseen heights and both became culinary destinations in their own right.
So, when Executive Table Group—owners of seven fine dining locations across the Lower Mainland and Sea to Sky—wanted to reimagine Menghi’s former Il Trattoria space this winter into Trattoria di Como, they made sure to get the Whistler luminary’s blessing.
“It’s a real labour of love. It’s not an homage because it’s our own trattoria and will evolve and develop under new ownership, but the idea is there are so many people in town and so many visitors who have made incredible memories in that room: anniversaries and birthdays and special occasions. It’s iconic and doesn’t need to be tinkered with,” explains Mark Greenfield, Executive Table Group’s culinary director.
Both the kitchen and the front-of-house teams count veterans of the original Il Trattoria, which closed in 2019, and even several dramatic artworks adorning the walls were brought in from the original restaurant.
“We’ve put the band back together,” Greenfield says. “In terms of the recipes, the dishes, it’s a ton of stuff people will recognize.
“IT TAKES HOURS AND HOURS OF SIMMERING AND SLOW, PATIENT CARE AND ATTENTION TO NURTURE IT ALONG AND DEVELOP THOSE FLAVOURS.”
— Mark Greenfield
We really want people to understand that connection to the good old days.”
On the menu side, Greenfield says the focus is on technique and ingredients, “no smoke and mirrors.” He was quick to note how Canadiangrown durum and winter wheat lend themselves to exquisite pasta.
“It’s highly prized around the world. Canadian wheat is sold on the world market and bought almost exclusively by Italian pasta-makers who then ship it around the world as premium Italian pasta,” he says. “So when you’re buying madein-Italy dried pasta, more likely than not, you’re eating Canadian-grown wheat.”
One dish diners have been clamouring for since Trattoria di Como opened its doors this March is the pappardelle ragù di carne with braised veal, wild mushrooms, rich cream and arugula.
“I think it speaks to the soul of Trattoria,” Greenfield says. “There’s no shortcuts with it. It takes hours and hours of simmering and slow, patient care and attention to nurture it along and develop those flavours. There’s no trick, no piece of equipment you can use to hack it.”
NO. 9 FINE DINING IN CANADA
‘BEST OF THE BEST’ TRIPADVISOR TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE AWARDS, 2025
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QUATTRO RESTAURANT
When uncle and nephew Jay and James Paré took over Quattro at the height of the pandemic, there were certain things about the restaurant started by local bon vivant and one of the so-called Godfathers of Whistler’s booming fine-dining scene, Antonio Corsi, they knew they would never change.
One is the famed spaghetti Quattro, a dish that has achieved near-mythical status in Whistler culinary lore. A late-night concoction Corsi whipped up after a long shift, it blends ground chicken with generous helpings of garlic, chili flakes and black beans, an unlikely combination on paper that adds up to more than the sum of its parts.
The other? The joie de vivre that Corsi imbued into virtually every aspect of the restaurant’s vibrant ambience.
“The atmosphere here is the vibration of life. Those are Antonio’s words,” says James. “It needs to be exciting and fun. Jay says that all the time and lives and breathes that. We’re not re-creating the wheel here.”
retirement, the trio shared many a glass of wine and plate of food discussing Quattro’s future. With the Parés, Corsi could rest easy that his cherished restaurant would stay in good hands.
The Parés have worked diligently to preserve the aspects of the restaurant that made it so appealing in the first place, while still pushing it forward into the future.
These days, that means making more pasta in-house—the rigatoni, gnocchi and stuffed pastas are all made fresh daily— and letting the ingredients sing, like the murgella burrata flown in direct from Italy.
And while the spaghetti Quattro rightly garners much attention from diners, the dish that perhaps best exemplifies Quattro’s evolution under the Parés is the tagliatelle bolognese and its eight-hour braised ragù. “Not just some tomato sauce and ground meat,” James points out, the richly layered ragù is made from doubleground mortadella, prosciutto, pancetta and short ribs, simmered to perfection.
IL CAMINETTO
As a young chef cutting his teeth, first in Toronto and then in Whistler’s original fine dining restaurant, Araxi, Mark McLoughlin wasn’t all that interested in Italian food. Sure, he appreciated a nice bowl of pasta as much as the next guy, but he saw Italian cuisine as mainstream, familiar, safe, not exactly the milieu of an aspiring contemporary chef looking to make a name for themselves.
“I basically ignored it because Asian and Nordic were the ‘in’ cuisines at the time,” he says.
Then, when Araxi’s parent company, Toptable Group, took over Il Caminetto from Umberto Menghi, McLoughlin had an opportunity to become the restaurant’s chef de cuisine, before moving up to executive chef. He quickly had an epiphany.
“What happened is I realized this is probably the cuisine I should have been cooking all along. It translated to what I love to do with food: relying on our relationships with local farmers and being able to highlight their food in the best possible way,” he explains. “I think Italian really can speak to that—through simplicity.”
It’s this pairing of Italian sensibilities with quality local ingredients that has come to define McLoughlin’s philosophy at Il Caminetto.
“We’re always trying to have an eye towards that. So if we’re doing bolognese, which is so Italian, we’re bringing in Brant Lake wagyu beef from Alberta, the most local high-end ground beef we can get; local carrots for the sofrito,” he says. “That’s how we try to approach things: Italian sensibilities, and then bring our own locality into that sense of place.”
A benefit of those close ties to local farmers is just how adeptly McLoughlin and his kitchen crew can adapt to the seasons.
“It actually dictates our entire menu … We have such amazing farmers and suppliers and foragers … and we want to highlight their product the best we can. Pasta is a great way to do that,” he says.
“So as the seasons change, we want to capture that as soon as possible and put that into the menu. And pasta is probably the easiest place to make those changes, the quickest place.”
You’d be hard-pressed to find two people better suited to carry on Corsi’s 30-year legacy than the Parés. Both worked at the restaurant in the 2000s, and, as Corsi was readying for
THE TAGLIATELLE BOLOGNESE WITH AN EIGHT-HOUR BRAISED RAGÙ AT QUATTRO WHISTLER. >>
“Everything speaks for itself. You don’t need a ton of ragù because it’s so potent. Those cured meats add a real complexity to it,” James says. “Someone eats this and they’re so comfortable. They could eat it until they can’t move—and that’s the whole point. Be comfortable. Be yourself.”
On a menu stuffed with delectable favourites, McLoughlin picked the decadent Nova Scotia lobster and saffron spaghettoni in white wine cream as a standout dish.
“It’s comforting with that sense of luxury,” he says “It’s a little bit indulgent, and I think that speaks to our style.”
PASTA LUPINO
Sammy Buck is the first to admit: Pasta Lupino isn’t trying to compete with the more fine-dining-oriented Italian restaurants on this list.
“All those restaurants are incredible, it’s just not the route Pasta Lupino wanted to take,” says Buck, who, with his business partner Bradley Lewis, took over the locals’ favourite last year.
For more than a quarter century, Pasta Lupino has been serving up hearty, unfussy and affordable Italian-inspired comfort foods in generous portions, a surefire way to win over cash-strapped locals in a town where most restaurants cater first and foremost to wellheeled tourists.
Pasta Lupino’s focus on approachability goes beyond the pricing, too. Virtually every menu item the kitchen team makes in-house daily, from its various noodles and sauces to its pizza dough, is available for purchase over the counter, turning prospective diners into home chefs. Its pasta machine is savvily positioned right by the front window, so passers-by can see the product being made in real time.
“That’s a big motivation for the whole team,” Buck says. “They know they’re making real, honest food. Having that pasta machine in the front window, they see the process. We’re not hiding anything in the back. Everything is made in-house.”
Buck didn’t hesitate when picking a standout dish from Pasta Lupino’s straightforward menu: the waist-expanding pleasures of its hand-breaded chicken parm topped with either rosé or tomato and basil sauce and gooey mozzarella, all served on a heaping bed of linguine.
“It’s a really hearty, warming meal, for starters,” Buck says. “It’s just simple. We’re not trying to overcomplicate things. Our main focus for every dish is the pasta itself and the fact that it’s made in the restaurant every day.” W
DINE IN OR AT HOME WITH PASTA LUPINO’S MOUTH-WATERING CHICKEN PARM TOPPED WITH MOZZARELLA AND SERVED ON A BED OF LINGUINE.
MOUNTAIN ROOTS
BUY LOCAL, BUILD COMMUNITY
The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in Whistler with new businesses popping up and older ones standing the test of time. The Whistler community is nothing but encouraging when it comes to supporting its local talent and hard work. Check out these businesses carving out their niche and staking their claim in the Sea to Sky corridor and beyond.
CREATIVE COOKIES
they are almost too pretty to eat! Siobhan Pilling’s cookies are works of art. Think ski goggles and gondolas, hockey jerseys and cowboy boots, mermaids and dinosaurs. The themes are endless. “I come from a fine arts background and I love baking,” says Pilling who has a degree in fine arts, specializing in photography and painting. Four years ago she started the Pemberton Cookie Co. out of her kitchen and she hasn’t looked back. Birthday parties, bachelorette parties, hockey team celebrations, realtor open houses. Using a 3D printer to make the cookie cutter, Pilling starts with a homemade vanilla sugar cookie base and transforms it “using those techniques that I learned first as an artist, now as a cookie artist.” Check out pembertoncookieco.com or follow @pembertoncookieco on Instagram.
SOURDOUGH BREAD WORKSHOPS
baking bread, as anyone knows who has dabbled in the process, is an art in and of itself.
So why not learn the tricks of the trade from a master baker at a local micro bakery? Rising Knead Bakery, the brainchild of Meg Stringfellow and founded in 2014, is where to go to learn the basics of how to bake naturally fermented artisan bread. In these three-hour workshops, you will learn about sourdough and fermentation, how to care for your starter, and how to mix, fold and proof the dough. “People want to be able to know that they can produce it themselves, something so simple and delicious,” says Stringfellow. The workshops include all things to start making your own bread right at home. Rising Knead also offers monthly pop-ups with a selection of laminated pastries made from scratch and naturally leavened bread. Don’t miss these Sundays in Function Junction: May 17, June 14, July 12, August 16, September 20, and October 18, from 7 am to 12 pm at the commercial kitchen located at 14-1209 Alpha Lake Road. Check out risingkneadbakery.com or on instagram at rising_knead_bakery
A DECADE OF COASTAL CULTURE
“it feels like yesterday that we started it,” says Thomas Thacker, of the whirlwind decade of business for Coastal Culture, the go-to shop for all things mountain biking in summer, and all things skiing/snowboarding in winter. Adds co-owner Ryan Brown: “We’re proud that we’re able to do it. It’s not an easy thing to do in today’s Whistler, or today’s Canada.” With the community behind them, it was worth the leap of faith. The store was named as a nod to Whistler’s Coast Mountains and the fact that skiing and biking are the core of Whistler’s culture. Coastal Culture is readying for a busy summer ahead. “Our summertime is all going to be about e-bikes,” says Thacker. Check out Coastal Culture in Creekside, beside Tim Horton’s. coastalculturesports.com
FLOWER POWER
preserving the magic of special flowers has become a flourishing business for local Helen Hamilton. A well-established wedding hair and makeup artist (whistlerweddingmakeup.com), Hamilton created Flora and Frame in the wake of her grandmother’s passing in 2023. Hamilton’s grandmother loved to press flowers. “I think she would be so humbled,” says Hamilton of what grandmother Jean Clark would say of her business. Last year, Hamilton was fully booked by the end of the summer, with enough work to keep her busy throughout the winter. “That was a great feeling in the second year of business,” she says. Hamilton has created some popular designs like the Growing Garden or the Bouquet Burst as a starting point for the design. But she can work her magic for custom orders too. Check out floraandframe.com.
MAKE THE MOUNTAINS YOUR DINING ROOM
Savour your Portobello favourites in Whistler’s great outdoors. With house-made sandwiches and fresh, nourishing salads, we curate your perfect lakeside or mountaintop picnic. Pre-order online for a seamless pick-up before your next adventure.
MONGOLIE GRILL CHEF
JASON BORON DISPLAYS
HIS KNIFE-HANDLING SKILLS WHILE GRILLING UP THE STIR-FRIES CHOSEN BY THE HUNGRY SHEWFELT/ BENNETT FAMILY.
TOTALLY AWESOME EATS!
PORTOBELLO, DUSTY’S AND MONGOLIE GRILL ALL ENSURE KIDS HAVE SOMETHING GOOD TO CHOMP ON
STORY BY WILL JOHNSON
You can’t forget the young ones.
When it comes to eating well in the Whistler area, some local establishments have made the effort to ensure kids have choices they’ll crave, and love—and they’re thinking outside the box to do it.
Whistler Magazine caught up with Dusty’s, Portobello and the Mongolie Grill to hear how they appeal to youthful taste buds.
MONGOLIE GRILL
At Mongolie Grill in Whistler, it’s all about the experience.
Where else can you select your ingredients then watch them get flipped and stirred, cooking right in front you while the massive grill sizzles? Kids get a front-row seat as the chefs toss their tasty creations into the air.
“It’s a really fun and interactive way to eat for the kids. They’re going to see all the items we have, and we have quite a big selection, and they’re going to choose exactly what they love, then the chef will cook the meal right in front of them,” says manager MC Brisson.
“It’s also a way for the parents to have a break, maybe after a long day (adventuring in the mountains) when everyone is tired, and it’s a bit hypnotizing for the kids to go right up to the grill. It’s a learning experience for the kids, as well to see the process of getting it all ready.”
Sometimes the kids get carried away when faced with all that choice at their fingertips.
“Parents have to be mindful of what their kids put in the bowl, because they get so excited.”
Potential ingredients include base items like noodles, along with all kinds of vegetables and meat, and seafood items like shrimp. You can flavour your meal with any sauce combination too. Each diner custom-designs what they’re going to eat. Jasmine or brown rice is delivered to the table.
Adds Brisson: “We become the kids’ favourite restaurant, and they say to their parents ‘I want to go back to Mongolie Grill, that was so fun!’”
PORTOBELLO
Portobello is a cozy gem inside the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, where mountain enthusiasts stop both before and after their day in the outdoors. For chef Cliff Crawford, fine-tuning the menu to appeal to young diners is an imperative way to keep families happy. With its outdoor firepits, Portobello is the perfect spot to hang out with the whole family.
“We want to make sure the kids enjoy coming here and having a good time, but also we need to have food they want to eat,” he explains.
Some kids’ favourites include the mac and cheese or the cherry-wood smoked Porto ribs, rubbed with Chateau spice blend and topped with sweet and sticky BBQ sauce.
“Sometimes lounges and restaurants aren’t necessarily kid-friendly, so I wanted to create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable and relaxed, and it doesn’t feel like you’re going to a bar. It’s a little more cozy.”
Let’s not forget about the breakfast options to fuel families as well as the treats.
“If you come at breakfast there’s multiple types of waffles that they can have, and we have a lot of donuts if you walk by the pastry counter. Kids tend to love that spot!”
And don’t forget the s’mores dessert!
There’s lots on offer too for the more refined palate so parents can enjoy their Portobello dining experience too.
Located in the Upper Village, Portobello is a great choice just a short walk from the hustle and bustle of the main Village.
S’MORES AND A HOT CHOCOLATE ARE ALWAYS A HIT AT THE PORTOBELLO OUTDOOR FIREPITS, AT THE FAIRMONT CHATEAU WHISTLER. >>
OPEN LATE
DUSTY’S BAR & BBQ
For a restaurant that specializes in its bar and barbecue, you might not expect a generous children’s menu, but that’s exactly what they have.
“For our children’s menu we give them colouring sheets, and we offer a kids’ pizza, kids’ chicken fingers and a kids’ pulled pork sandwich—and all of these come with fries and veg sticks,” said Matty Shirtcliff, assistant manager at Dusty’s Bar & BBQ.
“Most kids are probably pretty hungry when they come off the mountain, and a lot of them are quite fussy, and after a long day parents want to know there’s something palatable for them that will fill them up.”
The kids’ portion sizes are reduced from the adult size, but still hefty enough to fill young bellies.
“It’s a hard job for parents to take kids out on holiday and it’s a great experience but oftentimes there’s the stress and struggle, so if we can make it a little easier, feed the kids at a lower cost with lots of options, then we feel like we’ve done a good thing.”
The most popular item is the chicken fingers.
“Who doesn’t love chicken fingers? We offer fried chicken fingers in a red basket and they come with plum sauce and of course there’s ketchup as well.”
The pulled pork sandwich is also popular, being a slightly tweaked version of the adult one. That means no additional elements like cole slaw.
The kids gobble it up.
“Sometimes when I bring over the food the kids look visually quite hungry and it’s always nice to see the young ones get animated and excited.”
KIDS WILL ALWAYS BE HAPPY WITH CHICKEN FINGERS AND FRIES AT DUSTY’S BAR AND BBQ, ALONG WITH CRAYONS AND A COLOURING PAGE TO KEEP THEM OCCUPIED!
DAVID BUZZARD
THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER CALENDAR OF EVENTS
DATES
VISTAS: FROM TAKAO TANABE’S TRAVELS
The special exhibit of Takao Tanabe’s travels runs from May 16–Sept. 16 at the Audain Art Museum. The art in this exhibit reflects the renowned Canadian painter’s travels across B.C., North America, the Arctic and Europe. See more in the Arts section on page 32 and read about the concurrent exhibit on Tanabe’s work Takao Tanabe: Inside Passage which runs from June 13 to Oct. 19. Or go to audainartmuseum.com
WHISTLER FARMERS’ MARKET
Every Sunday in the Upper Village. Vendors sell farm-fresh fruits and veggies as well as jewelry and artwork by local artisans. From 11am to 4pm, and on some select Saturdays. Visit whistler.com for more info.
WHISTLER SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
On select days throughout the summer (see dates in calendar), head to Whistler Olympic Plaza in the heart of the Village and catch live music. These shows are free and suitable for all ages. DJs kick off the evenings at 6:30pm with the headline act at 7:30pm. Bring a blanket and good vibes. Head to whistler.com for info on the acts.
MAY
MAY 15
Opening Day
The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is set to open for the summer season, heralding five months of non-stop downhill action. For tickets and hours of operation go to whistlerblackcomb.com.
MAY 15–17
Whistler Children’s Festival
Whistler’s longest running festival is all about the kids! With circus performers, jugglers, comedians, art workshops, and more. The festival takes place throughout the Village and at the Maury Young Arts Centre. For tickets check out whistlerchildrensfestival.com.
MAY 30
Run Comfy Numb
Comfortably Numb is one of Whistler’s legendary single track mountain bike trails. This is your chance to run it! The trail race is 25km, through the forest north of Whistler. This being Whistler, there is, of course, a 50km option too. That’s one way to start your summer race schedule! Go to runcomfynumb.com.
JUNE
JUNE 4–28
Nourish Whistler Wellness Series
Throughout June, don’t miss out on this special wellness series with workshops, dining events, seminars and more. Curate your own wellness itinerary at Nourish. Check out nourishwhistler.com for the full schedule and read more about it in our festivals story on page 29.
JUNE 6
Whistler Half Marathon
A mainstay in the summer sports lineup, the Whistler Half Marathon also includes a 32km, 10km, 5km and a kids race. whistlerhalfmarathon.com.
JUNE 13
The Back Forty WORCA, Whistler’s long-standing bike club, hosts this mass-start mountain bike race. Three stages, 28km combined with almost 1,500 metres to climb…and descend. Check out worca.com for more details.
JUNE 19
Art of the Cocktail
Celebrating the Audain Art Museum’s exhibit Takao Tanabe: Inside Passage, and highlighting the evolution of the Canadian painter, Whistler bartenders will create a signature cocktail that reflects Tanabe’s palette and compositions. The event begins with a curatorial tour of the exhibit followed by the cocktail-making workshop inspired by the art. For tickets head to audainartmuseum.com.
JUNE 20
The Pemby Pounder
A trail running race that winds through the Mackenzie trails in Pemberton with sweeping views of Mount Currie along the way. There’s a 9km race, a 22km race, and new this year, a 42km race. Go to thepembypounder.com.
JUNE 20
Tenderfoot Boogie Trail Race
This scenic trail race on the southside of Whistler takes in forests, glacier-fed streams and rivers. There are 12km, 26km and 50km distances. Go to trailwhisperer.ca.
JUNE 28
Lakeside Concert Series
Check out the live entertainment at The Point Artist Run Centre on the shores of Alta Lake from 3:30 to 6pm. Go to thepointartists.com.
JULY
JULY 1-3
Whistler Summer Concert Series
Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm.
JULY 5
Lakeside Concert Series
Check out Victoria-based folk/ roots duo The Zonnis at The Point Artist Run Centre on the shores of Alta Lake from 3:30 to 6pm. Go to thepointartists.com.
JULY 9-10
Art on the Lake
The family-friendly event at Lost Lake Park features artisans and musicians in this weekend-long summer festival put on by Arts Whistler. Learn more at artswhistler.com.
JULY 9-10
Whistler Summer Concert Series
Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm.
JULY 12
Lakeside Concert Series
Check out musician Jeff Bonner in the show Songwriters Unite at The Point Artist Run Centre on the shores of Alta Lake from 3:30 to 6pm. Go to thepointartists.com.
JULY 16-17
Whistler Summer Concert Series
Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm.
JULY 18
En Plein Air Painting Adventure
Paint the mountains “in the open air” at Whistler Blackcomb. Learn more on page 32. Go to artswhistler.com.
JULY 19
Lakeside Concert Series
Check out local band the Papa Josh Trio at The Point Artist Run Centre on the shores of Alta Lake from 3:30 to 6pm. Go to thepointartists.com.
JULY 24-AUGUST 2
Crankworx
The world’s biggest and best mountain biking festival kicks off in Whistler and turns the town into a week of epic feats on dirt, highoctane parties and industry events, and a huge cultural celebration of all things mountain biking. Head to crankworx.com for the full events schedule.
JULY 26
Lakeside Concert Series
Check out Pemberton band The Zummers on the shores of Alta Lake from 3:30 to 6pm. Go to thepointartists.com.
JULY 31
Teeny Tiny Art Show
Big talent on a small canvas!
Local artists are featured in the annual Teeny Tiny Art Show put on by Arts Whistler. The exhibit runs throughout the summer until October at the Maury Young Arts Centre. artswhistler.com.
AUGUST
AUGUST 5-7
Flag Stop Theatre & Arts Festival
The 15th annual festival kicks off on Friday with an 11-piece marching jazz band from the gazebo to Florence Petersen Park, where the music and entertainment continues from 6 to 10pm. The festival also includes dinner and play, Jackie and Jack by Jim Christy, for Saturday and Sunday at The Point Artists-Run Centre on the floating stage on Alta Lake. Go to thepointartists.com and check out the arts section on page 32.
AUGUST 13-14
Whistler Summer Concert Series
Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm.
AUGUST 20-21
Whistler Summer Concert Series
Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30 pm.
AUGUST 21-23
Ultra Trail Whistler
The UTMB is back again in 2026. Runners can choose from several distances including the 100km, 50km, 25km and 10km events. Check out whistler.utmb.world for info.
AUGUST 22
En Plein Air Painting Adventure
Paint the mountains “in the open air” at Whistler Blackcomb. Learn more on page 32. Go to artswhistler.com.
AUGUST 27-28
Whistler Summer Concert Series
Whistler Olympic Plaza, 6:30pm.
SEPTEMBER
SEPTEMBER 12
GranFondo Whistler
Cheer on cyclists who have biked up the Sea to Sky highway from Vancouver to cross the finish line in Whistler in this epic road race. rbcgranfondo.com.
SEPTEMBER 14-20
Whistler Village Beer Festival
Celebrate all things beer at the annual multi-day festival with events throughout the Village. The main action takes place at Whistler Olympic Plaza on Sept. 19 where you can sample more than 80 craft beverages: beer, cider, seltzers, with food trucks and live music. Go to gibbonswhistler.com.
SEPTEMBER 19
The Witsend
A mountain bike race for all female riders, The Witsend, hosted by WORCA, is an enduro race offering full and short course options so… there’s something for every female rider. Check out worca.com.
SEPTEMBER 20
The Hillman
WORCA presents The Hillman Enduro for men. Like The Witsend mountain bike race for females, there are options in The Hillman: a five-stage full course or a threestage short course, catering to competitive mountain bikers as well as the more laid-back. Go to worca.com.
SEPTEMBER 19-20
Whistler X Tri
A destination race that starts with a swim in Lost Lake, moves to a mountain bike ride in Whistler’s classic singletrack, and finishes with a trail run through the forest. There are several events: Kids, Sprint, Championship, and Team Challenge. Go to whistlerxtri.com.
SEPTEMBER 23
The People’s Film
Chosen by the community each month, The People’s Film is back at the Maury Young Arts Centre after a summer hiatus, running on the last Wednesday of every month until June 2027. For times and films go to artswhistler.com.
SEPTEMBER 25-27
UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Downhill
Whistler Blackcomb is set to host the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Downhill at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, on the legendary 1199 trail.
OCTOBER
OCTOBER 12
Closing Day
The Whistler Mountain Bike Park closes for the season as Whistler readies for another winter of skiing and snowboarding.
NOVEMBER
NOVEMBER 5-8
Whistler Writers Festival
Reading events, workshops, panel discussions and more in the festival calling to all readers, writers and storytellers. whistlerwritersfest.com
NOVEMBER 5-15
Whistler Cornucopia
This is the annual fall festival celebrating food and drink in the mountains.There are winemakers dinners, drink seminars, food tastings, parties and more. whistler cornucopia.com.
WHISTLER VILLAGE & UPPER VILLAGE MAP
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