The Best Biking Trails in Whistler, BC

Whistler may be a world famous ski resort, but it’s other claim to fame is its unlimited terrain for adrenaline-pumping mountain biking. Here’s where to go to experience the best biking trails in Whistler, BC.

From spring’s snowmelt until fall’s first snowfall, it seems that everyone in Whistler is riding a bike. Justifiably famous for its awesome skiing, Whistler is also home to some of the most amazing mountain biking on the planet, offering trails for every level of rider. That is why the biking trails in Whistler are on the top of many visitors’ must-experience list.
 

Why are the biking trails in Whistler so great?

Biking in Whistler

The Globe and Mail Photo

Boasting more than 300 kilometres of cross-country mountain biking trails, Whistler is one giant playground filled with leg-pumping uphills, adrenaline-inducing descents.
Fly over ramps and rock slabs, around switchbacks and down mountain-steep hills, through dense forests packed with gigantic trees and along rivers roaring with run-offs. Throughout your journey you’ll find spectacular views of mountain ranges with snow-caked peaks and cerulean lakes.
After an amazing ride, head to a Whistler patio like the GLC Bar & Grill or Dusty’s Bar & BBQ to rehydrate and soak up the late afternoon sun. You’ve earned a rest after another memorable day of mountain biking at Whistler.
 

Locals’ top recommended trails

The locals in the know have spoken, and these are the trails they recommend the most…
 

THE VALLEY TRAIL

Cross country mountain biking at Lost Lake

Tourism Whistler Photo

One of the best ways to explore Whistler, the Valley Trail is an extensive network of easy cruisers and paved paths that spans 40km and links Whistler’s beautiful parks, pristine lakes and gorgeous neighbourhoods.
Enjoy a relaxing ride from Whistler Village to Rainbow Park, where you can dip into Rainbow Lake for a swim or unwind with a picnic on the grass. On hot summer days, the Valley Trail is peppered with locals riding to the beach or heading to the park to barbecue with friends. Families with small kids can try the flat ride between the Meadow Park Sports Centre and Rainbow Beach. Along the way, stop at the wildlife viewing platforms and check out the fish ladder. To make the most out of your bike trip, pick up a map at the Whistler Visitor Centre in the village.
Directions
The Valley Trail spans 40km around the Whistler area. It is easily accessible from most parts of the town. Check out The Valley Trail map to find the best access point for you.
Details

  • Parts of this trail are paved and parts are not
  • Technical rating: Beginner – intermediate
  • Because of it’s length, different sections of the trail correspond to the technical abilities required

 

LOST LAKE PARK

Lost Lake Trail Whistler

Ant Jordan Photo

Located only a few minutes from Whistler Village, Lost Lake Park features a 35km network of single and doubletrack trails geared for beginners and intermediates.
Lost Lake Park’s trails are superb for families with kids who are confident riding bikes. Beginners can enjoy exploring the Lost Lake Loop, Donkey Puncher, Gypsy Drum, Hooktender, Panorama, Old Mill Road, Tin Pants and Molly Hogan. The Zappa single-track trails are great for intermediate riders. Named after the music legend’s songs, the Zappa trails include Fountain of Love, Pinocchio’s Furniture, Disco Boy, Dwarf Nebula, Packard Goose and the Grand Wazoo. All of the trails are well-marked with maps. After an incredible afternoon of mountain biking, dive into Lost Lake for a refreshing swim.
Directions
Ride along Blackcomb Way to Lorimer Road, then take the Valley Trail east until you see a bridge crossing the river. Ride over the bridge to a small log hut. All of the trails begin and end here.
Details

  • Technical rating: Beginner – intermediate
  • Physical rating: Easy – moderate
  • Important: These are multi-use trails. Watch for people jogging and walking on the trails

 

TRAIN WRECK AND RUNAWAY TRAIN TRAILS

Train Wreck Trail Whistler

Johnny Voris Photo

Train Wreck is a mostly flat trail that follows along the rumbling Cheakamus River, leading you through an old-growth forest and sunny clearings.
Several decades ago, a train that derailed here scattered its boxcars among the giant trees and along the Cheakamus River. Strewn over several hundred metres, seven abandoned boxcars remain crushed and twisted against the trees and clinging to the cliff above the river. Colourful graffiti art bring these rusted boxcars to life, giving this trail a funky, artsy vibe. Featuring gnarly roots, challenging rocks, steep ladders and wooden bridges, Train Wreck is a must ride. While Train Wreck is about six kilometres round trip, you can extend your ride by taking Runaway Train.
Directions
Drive eight kilometres south of Whistler Village to Function Junction. Turn right on Alpha Lake Road, drive across the train tracks for 200m. At the sharp bend in the road, park behind the store or market on the left and look for the Flank Trail sign. Pick up a trail map at any of the local bike stores or visit www.worca.com (Whistler Off Road Cycling Association). There are also excellent trail maps on the Trail Maps App: http://trailmapps.com.
Details

  • Distance: About 6km return
  • Length: 45-90 minutes

 

IT’S BUSINESS TIME (A.K.A. DUNCAN’S TRAIL)

It's Business Time Trail Whistler

Outdoor Project Photo

This exhilarating ride is a Whistler locals’ favourite.
The brainchild of a popular Whistler ski patroller and avid mountain biker named Duncan Mackenzie who died tragically in an backcountry avalanche, It’s Business Time was completed by friends as a fitting way to honour his memory. Today, their determination to celebrate a great friend and amazing person can be felt by all who enjoy this amazing ride.
It’s Business Time (known by many locals as Duncan’s Trail) is a thrilling, speedy ride that will seduce you into experiencing it again and again. Completed in 2012, this well-designed 2.6km trail features plenty of exhilarating downhills and some steep, anaerobic uphill climbs. Especially challenging are its large rock slabs, tight corners and technical features. If you find this ride more challenging than you’re prepared to tackle, turn off at the AM/PM trailhead, which takes you back to the access road.
Directions
It’s Business Time starts at the interpretive forest parking lot at Cheakamus Lake. From Whistler Village, drive south for about eight kilometres. Turn left at the Function Junction traffic lights. On your left, you’ll see a parking lot. Ride your bike up the access road (Microwave Climb) for 1.7 km. After a few steep switchbacks and past the water reservoir, look for a trailhead on your left. If you reach Tunnel Vision trail, you’ve gone too far.
Pick up a trail map at any of the local bike stores or visit www.worca.com (Whistler Off Road Cycling Association).
Details

  • Length: 2.6km
  • Time: 30-60 mins
  • Elevation gain: 96 metres
  • Technical Rating: Advanced
  • Physical Rating: Moderate – hard

 

WHISTLER BIKE PARK

Jumping at Whistler Bike Park

SnowBrains Photo

Thrill seeker? Whistler Mountain Bike Park’s 250km of lift-accessed descending mountain biking trails are waiting to test your skills and capacity for hard-driving fun. From easy cruisers to narrow, serpentine single-track trails and double blacks with berms, jumps and drops, the park offers something special for every level of rider. For those looking for more solitude during their ride, take the lift to one of the upper mountain trails. Head to the peak of Whistler Mountain where you can ride down 5,000 vertical feet of descent.
Single day Whistler Bike Park tickets range from $55-67 on average for an adult. Check out the park’s endless network of trails and their conditions here.
 

BIKING EVENTS

Crankworx Mountain Bike Freeride Festival

Red Bull Joyride, Crankworx 2016. Photo by Justa Jeskova

Justa Jeskova Photo

Every summer this popular annual 10 day event attracts the crème de la crème of mountain bike athletes and a stoked crowd of thousands of spectators. A display of mega speed, insane air, mind-boggling back flips and crazy vertical drops, Crankworx is a show that you won’t want to miss.
 
Toonie Time

The Toonie Experience Whistler

Tourism Whistler Photo

Each week from spring to autumn, over 300 local cross-country mountain bikers participate in the weekly Toonie Races – as popular a social event as it is workout. Sponsored by various local businesses, participants are treated to a post-race dinner and drinks.
 

BIKE RENTALS

If you’re looking to rent a bike, between Whistler Sport Rentals and the Demo Center, you’ll be covered no matter what you’re looking for. Whistler Sport Rentals offers standard yet great quality bikes that are perfect for a leisurely day on the hill. Additionally, if you’re looking for that high-end carbon full-build, then the Demo Center has you covered.
No matter your needs, contact us for any help you may need! Through our exclusive partnerships we can arrange the right bike rental for the best deal.
 

PLANNING A TRIP TO WHISTLER?

We have a variety of Whistler vacation rentals located anywhere from the Upper Village granting walking distance to the mountain, to the more peaceful setting of Creekside. Call our highly knowledgeable Destination Experts at 1.877.902.1616 and they can answer any questions you may have about the biking trails in Whistler, or accommodations. They’re available 7 days a week!