Whistler is a top spot for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts, attracting visitors from every corner of the globe. It’s famed for its breathtaking mountain views and charming chalet-style village among both locals and tourists who come to ski its renowned slopes, explore its many hiking trails, and soak in its cultural scene. Whether you’re after thrilling adventures or a wellness retreat, Whistler has something special for everyone.
Below, we’ll dive into how you can easily reach this world-class destination and start planning your next adventure at North America’s largest ski resort.
Where is Whistler?
Whistler is located in the heart of the Coast Mountains of British Columbia (BC), Canada. This mountain paradise is approximately 120 kilometres (75 miles) north of Vancouver, B.C. It’s accessible via Highway 99, also known as the Sea to Sky Highway.
Surrounded by natural beauty, Whistler is close to a variety of outdoor activities. To the west, you’ll find the influence of the Pacific Ocean in nearby coastal towns and fjords, adding to the region’s scenic allure. To the east, Garibaldi Provincial Park provides a pristine wilderness ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
Just 20 minutes north of Whistler off Highway 99 is Pemberton Village, a charming community in the Pemberton Valley. Known for its beautiful lakes and Provincial Park, Pemberton has plenty of additional outdoor activities you can enjoy during your stay—from fishing and horseback riding to exploring local farms and ranches. It’s the perfect day trip during your Whistler stay. If you don’t have a car, simply hop on the bus or call a taxi to take you there.
Within Whistler itself, the village is home to both casual and world-class restaurants and retail shops, featuring stunning mountain views. There’s no shortage of brunch spots, tasting tours, delicious pub food, and fine-dining restaurants. Whether you’re hitting the slopes in winter or exploring hiking trails in summer, Whistler is a hotspot year-round. Its location is ideal for recreational opportunities, making it a destination worth visiting time and again.
Flights to Whistler
While Whistler itself doesn’t have an airport or airstrip due to its mountainous terrain, travellers have convenient options for reaching this iconic destination. Helicopter and floatplane services have fast and scenic flights to Whistler, with beautiful aerial views along the way.
Closest Airport to Whistler
The closest major airport to Whistler is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), located approximately 135 kilometres (85 miles) south of Whistler. As one of Canada’s busiest airports, YVR has a wide range of domestic and international flights, making it a convenient gateway for travellers heading to Whistler.
The airport has modern facilities, numerous dining and shopping options, and efficient ground transportation services, ensuring a seamless travel experience for visitors arriving from around the world. From YVR, you can easily arrange ground transportation or continue your journey to Whistler via helicopter or floatplane.
Driving to Whistler
There’s only one road that leads to Whistler – Highway 99, also known as the Sea to Sky Highway. It has spectacular views, whether you’re driving from Vancouver or coming from Lillooet. As you drive along this scenic route, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of rugged mountains, coastal fjords, and forests. You can even stop for a photo op at one of the lakes along the way, such as Green Lake.
Upon arrival in Whistler, you’ll find a range of parking options available, both free and paid. Before hitting the road, be sure to check the road conditions, especially during winter months when the weather can be unpredictable. For travellers crossing from the United States, information on border crossing wait times and locations can be found here.
Luxury Travel to Whistler
When planning a luxurious getaway to Whistler, getting there is half the experience.
Harbour Air Seaplanes: A Scenic Flight from Vancouver to Whistler
For those seeking a unique and unforgettable way to reach Whistler, Harbour Air offers seaplane flights directly from Vancouver. This isn’t just transportation; it’s a breathtaking aerial tour of British Columbia’s stunning coastline and rugged mountains. As you soar above the landscape, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of Howe Sound, the Coast Mountains, and Whistler Blackcomb before landing gracefully on the serene waters of Green Lake. Harbour Air’s flights are perfect for travellers who appreciate both convenience and natural beauty, setting the tone for an extraordinary Whistler experience.
Luxury Shuttle and Private Car Services: Comfort and Elegance on the Road
If you prefer to travel by road but still crave luxury, Whistler’s private car services and luxury shuttles are the perfect choice. Companies like LuxBus offer premium vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and stylish journey from Vancouver to Whistler. Whether you’re looking for a private SUV with a professional chauffeur or a luxury shuttle service with all the amenities, these options provide a smooth and stress-free ride. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway in comfort, knowing that your every need is catered to.
Helicopter Transfers: The Ultimate Luxury Travel Experience
For the ultimate in luxury and convenience, a helicopter transfer to Whistler is unbeatable. This service offers a swift, exhilarating journey from Vancouver, with the added bonus of spectacular aerial views. Imagine soaring over the dramatic peaks and valleys of the Coast Mountains, arriving in Whistler in a matter of minutes. Helicopter transfers are ideal for those who value their time and want to start their Whistler adventure as quickly and stylishly as possible. It’s a VIP experience that adds a touch of exclusivity to your trip.
How to Get to Whistler From Seattle
If you need to know how to get to Whistler from Seattle, start by heading north on Interstate 5 towards the Canadian border. Once across the border, continue north on Highway 99, the Sea to Sky Highway, through scenic British Columbia.
Getting to Whistler from Seattle takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times. It’s a beautiful drive with views of the Pacific Northwest and the Coast Mountains as you make your way to this world-class resort destination.
How to Get to Whistler From Vancouver
If you’re wondering how to get to Whistler from Vancouver, fortunately, it’s fairly straightforward.
Travel north on Highway 99, also known as the Sea to Sky Highway. This scenic route winds along the Howe Sound and the Tantalus Range for a short 120-kilometre (25-mile) drive. The drive from Vancouver to Whistler takes about 2 hours, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from the city. Although getting to Whistler may seem simple, we still suggest inputting your hotel’s address into your GPS so you don’t miss your turn off.
Getting a Shuttle and Bus to Whistler
Wondering where to catch a shuttle or bus to Whistler? One of the most convenient and cost-effective ways of getting to Whistler is by shuttle service, which operates daily from downtown Vancouver and Vancouver International Airport. These buses have plenty of luggage space and large windows, allowing passengers to enjoy panoramic views of Howe Sound and the Tantalus Range without the stress of driving.
Insider tip: Sit on the left side of the bus when heading to Whistler for the best views. Most buses make stops at Whistler Creekside and the central Gateway Loop in Whistler Village, with some services offering direct stops at hotels.
Do You Have More Questions About How to Get to Whistler?
Planning your trip to Whistler is just the beginning of an unforgettable B.C. adventure. Whether you choose to drive along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway, fly in via helicopter or float plane, or hop on a shuttle from Vancouver, Whistler is a lively destination year-round. From world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter to exhilarating hiking and mountain biking trails in summer, Whistler has something for every traveller.
Ready to experience Whistler for yourself? Book your stay with Outpost Whistler today and discover our range of lodging options designed to suit your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a cozy mountain chalet, a luxurious condo experience, or a family-friendly townhome, Outpost Whistler has you covered. Start planning your Whistler getaway now and make memories that will last a lifetime.
