Whistler Blackcomb earns its reputation primarily through world class skiing and snowboarding, but its warm weather offerings draw nearly as much praise as the winter. The resort’s downhill mountain bike park is often regarded as the world’s best, offering everything from gentle beginner paths to demanding jump lines for advanced riders. As with the ski operation, this remains the largest bike park anywhere, with routes stretching from the summit down to the valley floor.
Wildlife sightings rival the bike park in popularity among visitors. Summer guests are almost certain to spot creatures ranging from birds and beavers to pikas and marmots. The mountain and surrounding areas also support a substantial black bear population, along with occasional grizzlies, though these are spotted far less often.
Given how common both bears and cyclists are on the mountain, encounters between the two happen on occasion. This encounter at the Whistler Bike Park, for example, managed to spark a pretty horrifically corny dad joke.
Hikers, bikers, and other summer recreators can cut down on the odds of an unexpected bear encounter by traveling in groups and keeping noise levels up while on the trail. Officials in Whistler advise carrying bear spray and being confident in how to use it quickly if needed. Since bears tend to be most active around sunrise and sunset, steering clear of trails during those hours offers extra protection. Black bears make up most of the local population, but grizzlies also live in the area and reports of sightings have been climbing.
What to Do If You Encounter a Bear:
If you see a bear:
- give the bear as much space as possible; back away slowly
- check around for other bears, cubs or a food source
- back away slowly the way you came or give the bear a very wide berth, if you must continue
- speak calmly and firmly to show you aren’t threatening
