Trail Series, Part 32 When I was a kid I remember riding my…read morebmx bike to elementary school proudly sporting a backpack with an iron on decal that read "Eat my dirt!" During our off-road buggy tour those days came flooding back to me as there were many times that we found ourselves eating the dirt of those riding with us (which didn't subtract from our enjoyment of freely roaming the Canadian wilderness even a little bit). I couldn't keep myself from loudly expressing my excitement just like a kid enjoying a roller coaster for the first time. I think Dana may have laughed the entirety of the ride and for the longest time I kept thinking to myself, "Wow, I am unusually funny today because she just can't seem to stop laughing. I should probably write this material down!" (It took me longer than I'd care to admit, but I eventually realized that Dana was laughing because she was having so much fun off-roading and not because my comedic material was all that good. ) Joan served as our jovial tour guide and did a great job with the safety orientation before we left, provided excellent instruction about how to safely navigate each section of the course, and timed our river crossing perfectly for the end of our ride (since we happily got drenched!). The course itself was always engaging, provided some spectacular vantage points, and included a great variation of sections to test your technical skills and also give you an opportunity to open up that throttle (at times exceeding speeds of 60 kph). If this were a hiking trail I'd rate it as moderate in difficulty, so be aware you will be jostled around quite a bit and you will likely feel just a tad sore the next day as you're describing your adventure to others with a smile that you're unable to wipe off your face. While the course presents a worthy challenge, the buggies they provide are well suited for the task (and an excellent helmet and goggles are provided to all adventurers). In keeping with Canadian tradition, we were careful to pack an "Oh Henry!" bar as part of our emergency rations. And that's...Henry's Take. #eatmydirt Photo Credit @danavoros

I took my daughter to do the off-road buggy and we had an absolute blast! Our tour guide, Brock,…read morewas very personable and patient with the inexperienced members of our group AND was still able to accommodate the ones who wanted to GO! 5 out of 5, I would recommend this place to anyone!

It still gives me a thrill just writing about this experience. I had the most amazing time…read moreziplining with Ziptrek Whistler. It was my first time, and I am someone who is scared of both heights and speed, so this was a big deal for me. But Lucy and Max from the Ziptrek team were incredible. They made me feel so comfortable and safe the entire time, and honestly gave me the courage to actually enjoy it instead of being scared. And trust me, it is completely worth it. There are 5 ziplines and each one has such a beautiful, breathtaking view. I loved every second of it and I already know I will be doing this again. Highly recommend it to anyone, even if you are scared like me.

Went on the Eagle tour. Really enjoyed the first zipline which let you race against a friend…read more Website says you must be able to hike but it's quite an easy walk. However you do end up doing a lot of standing, especially when the group before us got delayed when someone got stuck! The views were superb and the guides were great!

Vallea Lumina is one of the most magical experiences I have ever had. The entire trail feels like…read morestepping into another world filled with lights, music, and storytelling that makes you feel like part of the adventure. Every turn has something beautiful or surprising and it is impossible not to get swept up in the atmosphere. The walk is easy and accessible for most people which makes it enjoyable instead of tiring. The pacing is perfect and the visuals are stunning. It is the kind of experience that makes you feel like a kid again in the best way. I highly recommend Vallea Lumina to anyone visiting Whistler. It is relaxing, immersive, and totally unique. If you are looking for something special and memorable, this is it.

This place is simply magical. We come every year when we visit Whistler. It's only a very short…read moredrive from the village. You won't regret your visit. Kids or no kids-this is a great date night, solo visit, or I family for well behaved children. This art installation is something special for everyone. Buy tickets for certain time slots online. This enchanted light show event is only at night for the best viewing. Free parking lot if you are driving or you can pay for a shuttle from town. The "camp" home base has changed a bit in the last few years. Now there are camp fires to sit by if you come early. Drinks and snacks for purchase as well. Once your tour starts, you will walk a very easy wide path through the forest. It's self guided, but you will be with others in your group. You can hang back or rush through. Everything is on a loop. It has been snowy, rainy, cold, and dry during my visits. Dress accordingly as you will enjoy every single time. There are things to see and hear. I don't want to spoil it, but it's really special. If you want spoilers, look at my photos. Most of all, enjoy it!

Ever feel like the challenges of life are closing in on you? Sometimes it just feels like it is…read moreonly a matter of time before you succumb to those pressures and demands. It feels not so much a question of if, but when, you'll finally be consumed by them. And then, often by accident, life takes an unexpected turn and you are provided an opportunity to choose to push the eject button (that's been right in front of longer than you realized) and propel yourself into what feels like an alternative universe. A place that allows you to unplug from the breakneck pace of today's society, take a deep breath, and finally linger in the bliss of just being present. No chirping cell phones, no calendar reminders, no bills to receive, no health concerns to ponder, and no need to make plans for the future. An all too brief respite from what emotionally entangles you and seeks to rob you of your peace and your purpose. Without planning it, we fell into such a rabbit hole while floating down the River of Golden Dreams (its actual name). A little rowing (and a lot of just floating) later, we arrived at Green Lake and just allowed the wind to help us drift across glacial waters so green we felt like they can be seen from outer space. We dipped our hands into that water, splashed it around a bit, and pondered just how much time and attention it voluntarily sacrifices to the stresses of today. It whispered its response back to us, "None." So what to do if Green Lake doesn't happen to be in your backyard, and yet an escape is exactly what you need right about now? Good question! We're on this journey right alongside of you, so while we're pursuing our "Green Lake escape", we wish you good fortune in discovering yours! (In keeping with Canadian tradition, we were careful to pack an "Oh Henry!" bar as part of the emergency rations for us and our tour guide Peter.) And that's...Henry's Take. #celebratelife #justbreathe #wetadventures

Head over to Wayside Park where there's a tiny parking lot or a turnout on the side of the freeway,…read morewhich can be easy to miss. Walk down the path where you find a nice little park with people lounging and participating in water activities. We struggled and found ourselves in the village until we called to ask where exactly they were located. The rental cabin here is situated right on the end of Alta Lake with canoes, kayaks, etc. for rent. We signed a waiver, got a quick lesson, and were pretty much off with our kayak for $30 CAD/hour. They provided lifejackets, paddles, and even a waterproof pouch to store your things. If you're smart, bring a nice beer or drink along as they have cupholder in the kayak. Even though this was my second time kayaking, it's easy to pick up. Unfortunately, I am still terrible at it and totally lack the strength and direction to pull through. Thank goodness we got the two-person kayak, so I had help --lots of help. You can make it across the entire lake and back within the hour, which was all we needed.

Just a heads up to those of you thinking to get the edge or season passes. They've made the refund…read moresystem as much difficult as they possible could. I purchased the 5 days edge pass in May without realizing that my mom will need a knee replacement surgery this coming winter. As soon as I know the surgery is happening in this coming winter, I put in a request online to refund my money at the beginning of July. They not only asking you to fill out a mile long form with all those emails going back and forth, you are also requested to get all the signed documents from the doctors for approvals. It's been 2 months and I am still waiting for the refund. I've been going to Whistler for more than 30 yrs, this year is the worst experience ever.

Like everyone else, I'm pretty sure this year has been feeling like one of the longest never ending…read morestories of our lives!!! 2020 please end soon ... please!? Needed this dayscape - via the magnificent Sea-to-Sky Highway to the majestic mountain enclave - Whistler - in beautiful British Columbia! Folks be prepared - you will be tempted to stop several times on the drive up. Spectacular views during the daylight hours will leave you breathless!!! This review is done under - Whistler - but encompasses the drive up, the beautiful scenery, the mountains & forest that are all part of an amazing nature built province ('State' - for all those in Merica) of BC. And no, BC does not belong to Britain but to Canada. Don't laugh I've been asked this question before! I won't get into the whole Commonwealth technicality but yes if one is leaning towards that angle I guess you could say - the Queen does own the whole of Canada as we pay mega bucks as in millions each year to the UK - to be part of the British Empire! Oh how lucky we are!? So Harry & Megan got tired of this British royalty life & escaped to a quieter environment in ... Hollywood!?? Ok then!!! The big draw to Whistler is in the winter - skiing & snowboarding. The Blackcomb & Whistler mountains are world wide renowned & super popular! Hiking & mountain biking takeover in the summer. Whistler is mighty expensive so bring all 5 of your credit cards! There are a few good restaurants as well but please make reservations ahead of time or you'll be left hopping around to find whatever's available. Of note & in no particular order but worth trying, Oso Bar (Spanish) - make reservations this spot is fire (thank you manager for the complimentary dessert), Lucia Gelato (try the Ginger flavour), Fat Tony's Pizza (open till 3am so could be a real life saver), El Funiture Warehouse aka All Food @ $5.95 Everyday - that's like $3 bucks US right!?! Everyone eats here, superstars, the rich, the average Joe - there's no class rules when your starving & don't want to blow a lot of money - you will save money eating here!!! Avalanche Pizza, Splitz Grill (can be pricey but it's the burger you design so blame yourself for the hunger causing your mind to go crazy with so many toppings) & finally tacos at La Cantina. There's a few more spots including fine dining but that will be for an update after covid-19 ends. I'm real hesitant to go inside & prefer to stick to patio dining for now, as much as I can. The Whistler Village area is real easy to walk around in & you'll only need to drive if you have to go further up the mountain. I have been coming to Whistler since the early 90s & have stayed in many hotels & condo rentals. Definitely shop around & prebook your stay before coming up here. However, today's trip was just a day trip escape from the big city & was thoroughly enjoyed. The drive from Vancouver takes 90 minutes or less depending on how fast you drive - longer if you stop along the way & or make a pit stop in Squamish, a beautiful town & worth the stop - see my Squamish review. Whoa got the shock of my life while walking about! Five years ago on a cruise in the Caribbean, our group met the super charismatic, charming, & so awesome Cruise Director (entertainment) Matt! Check him out on Instagram @ mattcruisedirector. Merica many of you might be very familer with him from the Carnival Cruise Line!!! Couldn't believe he's now living here - currently on the Sunshine Coast of BC but will be relocating to Vancouver. It was a pleasure to run into him & his wife! I had vivid fond cruise flashback memories while chatting with him. That awesome cruise back in 2015 on Carnival Breeze was phenomenal!!!!! It was a total awesome riot! I discovered my island paradise - Curaçao! Side note - Vancouver & Whistler hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics! I can tell you from first hand experience with actually being involved in the Olympics as a volunteer - it was so spectacular an event!!!!! Vancouverites today still speak highly of it! Super natural Whistler is highly recommended if you've never been - so do check it out! Come experience Whistler & be wowed!!! You will exhale & feel that - we got this ... life is good after all!!!!!

We had four senior citizens (70-75) on our safari and had an incredible time. Our guide was Joel…read moreand he was personable, knowledgeable and had a dry sense of humor. We learned not only about bears but the foliage and berries they eat. An hour into our tour, Joel spotted a bear about 100 feet in the woods sitting with his back to us. The bear slowly moved toward our Jeep and came out of the woods fifteen feet to the left front side of our Jeep. We learned her name is Ruby and she walked down the road for at least 100 yards before going back into the woods on the other side of the road. Fortunately, we have a great video of Ruby walking toward us and down the road. Joel said she was about 14 years old weighing 300+ pounds. As a bonus, we were able to visit Olympic Park and saw the shooting area for the Olympic biathlon, went to the top of the 90 meter ski jump and Joel took us down one road where we truly did off road driving. A truly memorable experience. Tom G

Had the best time with TAG! We experienced 2 adventures with them- snowmobiling and the Vallea…read moreLumina. There was still lots of snow on the mountain trails for our ride and Marley was a terrific guide. The light show was really well done and their sound system rocked throughout the woods. Axe throwing, included with the day pass, was also fun. It was easy to get there and back to the village on the free shuttle service. Highly recommend!

This is by far my favorite zip line in Whistler - this year we bought the zip line package and it…read morewas changed to include ATV, obstacle course and the Lumina which is a great deal. Had a blast with 4 different zip lines with stunning scenery and great guides and the rest of our party also enjoyed the ATV tours . Highly recommend this group for Whistler adventures

Would not go back. They only let us ride for an hour and the snowmobiles are really uncomfortable…read moreto drive. Not like a touring snowmobile. VERY expensive for such a short ride that was supposed to be 2 hours. Our guide Tammy was super sweet and did her best to accommodate but it should have been a lot longer. I wouldn't waste your money on this place

Don't waste your time and money…read more tl;dr - go somewhere else. We did the family tour. It sucked. There is a lot wrong here: 1 - The whole tour is "follow the leader" at an excruciatingly slow pace. There's no fast part of the trail, nor any area where you're allowed to really experience any adrenaline at all. I can't emphasize this point enough - this is an extremely calm, slow, uninteresting tour. Your heart rate will not go up. 2 - The trail is poorly maintained and you'll be bobbing up and down an obnoxious amount. 3 - The machines are old and poorly maintained. My windshield fell off (by itself) twice on the ride. 4 - The process to geared up and get going takes so long (because there isn't enough staff) that your 2 hr tour will be 90 mins max. 5 - The whole operation is disorganized and you'll spend a lot of time waiting around for them to figure out who/what/where. As for the positives: 1 - The tour guide was nice and she tried her best. 2 - Nice that they provide transport to/from Whistler village. I've had much better experiences on other tours. Go somewhere else and have actual fun.

I recently joined a tour with Whistler eBikes and had a great time overall. The highlight was…read moredefinitely our guide -- friendly, engaging, and clearly knowledgeable about the area, which made the ride more enjoyable. The tour itself was well-paced, offering a long, smooth journey through Whistler with plenty of scenic views. It was much more relaxing than I expected, and a really fun way to spend a day outdoors. That said, the bikes themselves could use some updates. They felt old, fairly heavy, and a couple had worn-down tires, which took away from the otherwise smooth ride. Some sections of the trail looped back on themselves, which made the route feel a bit repetitive at times. Overall, though, it was a good experience: beautiful landscapes, a laid-back atmosphere, and a guide who made the tour engaging. With some bike upgrades, this could easily become a five-star experience. Works out to be 150$/person for 2.5 hours. Maybe pricey for most but it is competitive pricing.

What a beautiful ride through the whistler bike trails and area. Lost Lake and Green lake were…read morebeautiful. Following the glacier stream throughout. TJ was an excellent and knowledgeable. Would recommend

We did the "Finer Things" progressive dinner tour with Christine and had a lovely time. We'd never…read morebeen to Whistler before and figured this would be a good way to get oriented while trying a bunch of restaurants at once - we were right. Christine did a great job of combining local history with culinary info. The restaurants were selected well and provided some delicious food - a lot of it too - this is a full meal +, so don't worry about going away hungry. My vegetarian spouse had plenty of options, too. The wine sabering demo was a highlight and Christine did some trivia and games that kept us all engaged. Would definitely recommend!

Our guide, Carol, was great. We learned how to saber a champagne bottle, the highlight in my…read moreopinion. The tour highlights the exceptional food scene in Whistler, as well as some of the history and culture. All considered, a fun experience.