by Sara R. Bradley

Created on: July 23, 2008   Last Updated: August 12, 2008

Located north of Vancouver, Whistler is a small resort town located in the Coast Mountains. Although the population of Whistler is a bit small, this town makes up for it in activities and the breathtaking beauty that surrounds it.

The town and people of Whistler are conservationists. If you are not a lover of nature and conserving nature, this is not the place for you. The people of Whistler are very proud of their town and the natural wonders that are part of it.

As you stay in Whistler, you may encounter a black bear or two. The black bear have moved into town due to drought conditions and have moved to the more populated areas in search of sustenance. Basic rule of thumb: do not feed them. This will save your thumb and possibly a hand. Most of the black bears in this area are not prone to violent behavior. There have been very few incidents involving humans and bears, so you can rest a little easier.

Activities in Whistler are abundant year round. When planning a trip to Whistler, you have so many options for fun and educational activities that it's a bit mind boggling. Here are a few of the activities that you can enjoy during the summer:
Rafting: Rafting takes place on the Elaho or Squamish Rivers. You can book a full day or a multi-day trip.
Rock Climbing: If you are into rock climbing, you have got to go to The Chief. Approximately 2140 feet high, The Chief offers many multi-pitch routes.
Historical Tours: Whistler has an actual ghost town. Too interesting to pass up. You can also go visit the Whistler Museum or go on the trails located throughout the town.
Horseback Riding: Horses on these trail rides are trained to deal with first time rider's all the way through expert riders. The trails are sure to be impressive.
Rap Jumping: What the heck is rap jumping? Well, let me tell you that if you have a heart condition you may not want to try this one. The definition of rap jumping, according to tourismwhistler.com, is "face-forward, free-fall rappelling." When rap jumping, you do have the necessary safety equipment. Ready, set, JUMP!
During the winter, there are even more activities to try:
Fishing: Contact a local fishing guide for the best fishing experience. The guides are from the area and know the best spots.
Dog sledding: Seriously. Who hasn't wanted to dog sled after seeing Eight Below? The trails run through open areas as well as through the snow covered forests in the surrounding areas.
Snowboarding: The annual snowfall in Whistler is about 33 feet. That's wicked! Snowboarding in Whistler has terrain for beginner to expert.
Bungee Jumping: Yep, bungee jumping. Jump from a pedestrian bridge at the south end of town. The bridge is over a river at the bottom of a canyon. Fabulous.
Sleigh rides The sleigh rides create a wonderfully romantic interlude. You can go on the standard sleigh ride or choose to go on the dinner sleigh ride, which includes a fondue dinner
Snowshoeing: You can go with a guide on a snowshoeing exhibition in the early morning or in the evening. As you are snowshoeing, be prepared to see much of the local wildlife. Snowshoeing is a great activity for anyone ages 5 and up.
If you are traveling to Whistler from the United States, please keep in mind that you do need your passport in order to cross the border into Canada and then to cross back over into the United States.

Overall, Whistler is a fabulous location. With or without a visit from a couple of black bears, you can be assured of an excellent vacation with dozens of treasured memories.

References:
http://www.tourismwhistler.com/

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