The town of Whistler hardly needs an introduction. The ski-Mecca-turned-resort-destination has attracted outdoor lovers since the ‘60s and has become one of the preeminent mountain towns on the planet.
It has hosted the Olympic Games and is a globally-recognized mountain bike hub. Located less than two hours drive north of Vancouver, Whistler sits in the Canadian Coast Range mountains, which stretch 1600 kilometres along the length of British Columbia. Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America, and consistently sits at the peak of “Best of” lists in every leading outdoor magazine. Approximately 12,000 people live here. Millions visit annually, injecting a uniquely cosmopolitan energy into a mountain town cultural foundation. From a dynamic live music scene to vast wilderness to a celebrated culinary scene, Whistler is unlike anywhere else.
Do you belong in Whistler?
Alpine Meadows
One of Whistler’s original neighbourhoods, Alpine Meadows is built around an authentic locals’ community. Whistler’s high school is located here as is tasty food and cold beer at Alpine Cafe, a convenience store, and the incredible Meadow Park Sports Centre, which has a rink, beauty swimming pool, world class gym and playing fields.
Alta Vista
Some of Whistler’s most attractive and high-end homes can be found in this lakeside neighbourhood, which also is home to Lakeside Park, a popular grassy area with multiple docks and SUP/canoe rentals.
Cheakamus Crossing
When the Olympic Games came to town, this is where the Athlete’s Village was built. Since then, a mostly locals’ only community has grown beside the frigid waters and fantastic walking trails of Cheakamus River. There is also a BMX track, soccer fields, tennis courts, community gardens, hostel, daycare, and corner store. Many of the properties here are part of the Whistler Housing Authority, a community affordable real estate program, but some of the more attractive homes become available on the open market.
Creekside
The original townsite for Whistler—or Alta Lake as it was originally known—Creekside has everything you need, including an access point to Whistler Mountain via the Creekside Gondola. There are also a host of incredible restaurants and pubs, a gas station, cold beer and wine store, and a grocery store. Creekside is home to two of Whistler’s five lakes, including Alpha Lake where the most popular dog park in town is located.
Function Junction
Once a happy locals’ secret, Function Junction has become a hot spot for tourists and locals alike. This hideaway neighbourhood has few residential real estate opportunities but many breweries, yoga studios, restaurants, cafes, bike shops and the famous Purebread bakery. As Whistler grows, so do Function Junction’s opportunities.
Nicklaus North
This is a golf course community on the shores of the always cold but beautiful Green Lake. Nicklaus North golf course is home to Table 19 restaurant and Fitzsimmons Fan Park, a fantastic lakeside spot that gets very little traffic.
Spring Creek
Family-friendly and home to a school, this neighbourhood has some of Whistler’s most beautifully designed and modern homes. Located close to Function Junction and Cheakamus Crossing near the southernmost boundary of the Whistler area and a few great mountain bike and hiking trails, not to mention easier access to local’s favourite, Logger’s Lake.
Spruce Grove
Spruce Grove is home to many single-family homes, sports fields, a next-level disc golf course, and Whistler Waldorf school. Located close to a grocery store, sushi spot, Mexican food and the village itself, Spruce Grove is a fantastic location for new and long-standing Whistler families alike. It’s also close to La Scandinave spa and Vallea Lumina.
Rainbow
One of Whistler’s newest neighbourhoods, Rainbow is on the northern side of the community and lies within walking distance of Green Lake’s beautiful shores. The high school is nearby, as is a gas station, great coffee spot and a few other shops. North of Rainbow, you can find mountain biking singletrack, the Ancient Cedars trail and great hiking trails.
Upper Village and the Benchlands
At the base of Blackcomb Mountain, there are a few golf courses, many restaurants and shops, the higher-end hotel properties, and Whistler’s beautiful Lake Lost, which is great for both hanging out and mountain biking. Many of Whistler’s ski in/ski out properties are here.
Whistler Cay
Tucked away but ultra close to the pedestrian village, Whistler Cay is a residential only community with an elementary school and daycare. Located behind the Whistler Golf Course and close to Alta Lake, this neighbourhood is an awesome option for families.