World-Renowned Heights
Whistler’s year-round bird watching hotspots stretch from down amongst the lakes, climbing high to the inspiring peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. The trails and amenities make it one of the most accessible spots in the province to see higher-altitude species like Sooty Grouse and the adorable Canada Jay.
-
1Shadow Lake Interpretive Forest
Explore the marsh and second growth coniferous forest surrounding Shadow Lake and watch for owls, waterfowl in autumn, a variety of warblers in the summer, and much more. Signs along the interpretive trail help to describe the history of the forest. (Info courtesy of Karl Ricker, Whistler Naturalists)
-
1Green Lake
Follow the paved Valley Trail around the south western side of the lake, either starting from Meadow Park or the Nicklaus North Golf Clubhouse. Swans, loons, and grebes can be seen out on the water of this turquoise colored lake, and the delta at Fitzsimmons Park is great for viewing shore birds during the summer. (Info courtesy of Chris Dale, Whistler Naturalists)
-
1Rainbow Park
Located at the northern end of Alta Lake, Rainbow Park is a popular summer destination. For birding, follow the paved Valley Trail from the park up to the Emerald Forest Trailhead and either continue towards the Golden Dreams Conservation Area or head back to Rainbow Park. Along the lake there is a viewpoint where you can watch for Common Yellowthroats, Merlin, and depending on the season, American Dippers. (Info courtesy of Heather Baines, Whistler Naturalists)
If you’re lucky, you might even have a grouse (or family of them) cross your path!
-
1BReD - Organic Sourdough
100% plant-based and vegan-friendly, this coffee shop and bakery is known for its sourdough bread, delicious cinnamon rolls, and a host of other baked goods. They plant a tree for every coffee sold and just hit a milestone of planting 40,000 trees with their charity partner.
-
1Table Nineteen at Nicklaus North
Situated at the Nicklaus North Golf Course in a glacier fed lakefront setting with towering mountains. Enjoy modern, refined main dishes and share plates.
-
2Creekside Market
Classic grocery offering fresh produce, deli meats and cheeses, baked goods, and other grab-and-go food items.
-
3Fix Café
Nestled within Nita Lake Lodge, this cafe serves up fairtrade, organic coffees and teas, as well as homemade soups, sandwiches, and fresh fruit and vegetable smoothies.Â
-
4Rendezvous Lodge
Located at the top of the Blackcomb gondola, the lodge boasts beautiful views of both Whistler Mountain and the valley below to enjoy while you refuel and recharge.
-
5Roundhouse Lodge
Located at the top of the Blackcomb gondola, the lodge boasts beautiful views of both Whistler Mountain and the valley below to enjoy while you refuel and recharge.
Après Birding Cooldown
Whistler Village is not just the beating heart of this alpine community, it’s the perfect rest and relaxation centre to recharge in between outdoor adventures.Â
Keep an eye on your food – Clark’s Nutcrackers and Canada Jays can be quite sneaky opportunists!
-
1Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
Learn about the art, history and culture of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. Hourly guided tours, interactive exhibits, and a cafe that features Indigenous-inspired dishes.
-
1Whistler Blackcomb
Alpine hiking trails with incredible views are easily accessible by gondola (lift tickets required). On both mountains, choose from short, family-friendly strolls on wide paths to more advanced hikes. Summer is the optimal time for birding adventures on the mountains. Olive-sided Flycatchers, various raptors, and White-tailed Ptarmigan are only a few of the birds that can be seen at these heights. As the winter moves in, there are less birds and skiing or snowshoe equipment is required to move about. (Info courtesy of Karl Ricker and Jim Wharin, Whistler Naturalists)
-
1Thunderbird Café
Located in the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, this cafe features an Indigenous-inspired menu selection of affordable daily specials made with fresh, local ingredients and a selection of specialty coffee drinks.
-
1Lift Coffee Company
Located right across from the Whistler Village Gondola, enjoy gourmet coffees, artisan sandwiches, and delicious smoothies. Sit outside on their large heated patio.
-
2Moguls Coffee House
Cozy coffee shop housed on the first floor of the Blackcomb Lodge serving coffee from Agro Roasters, fresh baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, and moreÂ
-
3Mount Currie Coffee Company
Sustainable coffee served by authentic mountain-loving people. This friendly coffee shop offers the classic specialty coffees, as well as baked goods and a good selection of breakfast items.
-
1Crêpe Montagne
Cozy, charming French crêperie with both sweet and savory options. They also serve other classic breakfast fare as well as cheese and meat fondues, and Swiss raclette.
-
2Portobello
Breakfast bowls, sweet and savory options, and breakfast sandwiches all served in a rustic, modern space with an open kitchen.
-
3Elements Urban Tapas & Wine Bar
A bustling brunch hub serving classic breakfast fare such as eggs benny, frittatas, and a range of brunch cocktails.
-
4The Green Moustache Organic Cafe
Fresh and healthy food that’s 100% organic and plant-based. Salads, wraps, hearty soups, and a range of cold pressed juices and smoothies are available to fuel you up for a day of birdwatching.
-
5Naked Sprout Café
Bright and cozy cafe serving healthy, organic dishes, from smoothies and juices, to homemade soups and ramen bowls.
-
1The Mallard Lounge
Casual, refined dining at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Canadian and West Coast inspired food, creative cocktails, and live entertainment.
-
2The Raven Room
An ever-changing menu of creative libations and conscious, leveled-up locally sourced eats, all served in a stylish spot within the Pan Pacific Village Centre Hotel.
-
3Alta Bistro
Seasonal-focused alpine dishes with roots in modern French cuisine. Enjoy the casual atmosphere of their industrial-chic space and ever-changing menus.
-
4Hunter Gather
Easygoing gastropub serving classic pub farem and BC craft beer and wine. Their laidback patio seating with picnic tables is perfect for sunny days or warm evenings.
-
5The Whistler Grocery Store
Curated assortment of grocery items for cooking or making your own meals, or grabbing snacks and goodies to take out on the trails.
-
1Fresh Street Market
Fruits, veggies, cheese, and more! Check out their fantastic deli counter for hot meals and soups to go, sandwiches, and salads.
-
2The Deli by Picnic Whistler
The go-to place for all charcuterie needs. Get one of their beautifully crafted charcuterie boxes or try their assortment of sandwiches and vegan wraps. Other deli snacks include a variety of cheeses, pickles, crackers, and meats.
-
3Purebread
This family bakery is creative with baked goods. Enjoy sweet and savoury pastries, assorted desserts, breads, cakes, and more.
-
1Amos & Andes
This cozy sweater shop in the heart of Whistler carries Cowichan inspired sweaters, winter accessories, and a variety of summer-worthy fits.
-
2Armchair Books
Before heading out birdwatching, stock up on outdoor resources, such as local bird and nature guides, maps, and more.
-
1Whistler Foto Source
For bird or nature photographers, this local shop carries cameras, lenses, and more accessories to make sure you’re ready to capture the perfect moment while out on the trails.
-
2Escape Route
One-stop-shop for all outdoor-related gear, helping you be prepared for the ever-changing climate and conditions of alpine birding hikes.. Rentals available.
-
3Ecologyst
Sustainable, BC-made clothing perfect for summer weather or the variable alpine climate.
-
1Overnight accommodations.
Whistler offers a diverse selection of accommodations, which means you will find the perfect place to call home during your stay. Choose from charming mountainside townhomes, full-service hotels, secluded alpine homes and fully equipped condominiums.