Whistler in the summer?

Canada’s premier ski resort might not spring to mind when you’re considering a summer vacation spot, but Whistler does have a lot to offer that doesn’t involve snow. Outdoor enthusiasts of all ability levels can enjoy a bounty of activities, from nature walks or fishing trips to mountain bike descents and white water rafting.

Blackcomb Mountain now has a new Adventure Zone that offers mini golf, horseback riding, a circus trapeze, the Westcoaster alpine slide, the Great Climbing Wall and giant checkerboards. For alpine adventure, visitors can ride up the gondola on Whistler Mountain, explore the hiking trails and end the day with a twilight BBQ at 6000 feet.

For those of us who’d like a little more sedate vacation, Whistler’s pedestrian-only village is filled with outdoor cafes, new shops and boutiques. Street entertainers perform daily throughout the village, with juggling and acoustic music acts. Twice a week, free outdoor evening concerts feature theme nights including jazz, classical, roots and blues. Summer festivals are coming up soon, with “Whistler’s Really Big Street Fest” August 20-22, and the Whistler Jazz and Blues weekend September -19.