I recently enjoyed a staycation in Whistler with my boyfriend and our dog, Beau. It’s an easy two-hour drive from Vancouver along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway, making it a perfect weekend escape.
Below is a polished, two-day Whistler itinerary that I recommend for a refreshing short trip. I suggest arriving the evening before Day 1 or early on Day 1 to maximize your time.
Two Days in Whistler Itinerary Overview
Here’s a simple plan to make the most of two days in Whistler. Feel free to swap activities based on weather, energy levels, or how much time you want to spend relaxing.
Day 1
- Morning: Sunrise bike ride along the Whistler Valley Trail, followed by a morning helicopter tour
- Afternoon: Swim and relax at Alta Lake
- Evening: Window shop in Whistler Village and dinner at The Raven Room
Day 2
- Morning: Hike part of the Sea to Sky Trail with a stop to see Brandywine Falls
- Afternoon: Ride the Sea to Sky Gondola and explore activities at the summit
- Evening: Sunset at Green Lake and dinner at La Cantina
Read on for more detail about each recommendation and other dog-friendly activities around Whistler.
About Whistler
Whistler is one of North America’s most famous ski resorts, set in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia. The town blends chalet-style architecture and a compact village core that’s lively year-round. While winter brings skiers and snowboarders, summer and shoulder seasons offer lush scenery, hiking, lakes, and calmer village strolls.
Getting to Whistler
The drive from Vancouver via the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) is stunning, with ocean views on one side and mountain peaks on the other. The route is roughly 120 kilometers and typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. If you have time, stop at highlights like Shannon Falls or the town of Squamish.
Best Time to Visit Whistler
Whistler is a year-round destination. Winter (December–March) is peak ski season, while summer (June–August) offers green landscapes, lake activities, and long daylight hours. This two-day itinerary is geared toward summer visits when outdoor lake and trail activities are most enjoyable.
Where We Stayed—Pan Pacific Whistler
We stayed at the Pan Pacific Whistler in the Village Centre, which offers dog-friendly suites—a big plus when traveling with a pet. Our suite featured a full kitchen, fireplace, and balcony with a view. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a dry cedar sauna. There’s a spa and cocktail bar onsite if you want a more relaxed evening.
Where We Ate
With only two days, you’ll likely choose a few favorite spots. We enjoyed The Raven Room, a local cocktail bar and eatery with thoughtful menu options, and La Cantina, which serves Mexican street-food-style dishes with several vegan and gluten-free choices.
Things to Do in Two Days
Two days is short, but you can fit in a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic time outdoors. Whistler is very dog-friendly, with many trails and lakes that welcome pets—Beau had a fantastic time.
1. Walk Around Green Lake
Green Lake offers stunning scenery and a lakeside path perfect for walking with your dog. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and a great place for an evening stroll or picnic.
2. Swim at Alta Lake
Alta Lake is a favorite for sunbathing, swimming, and boating. With grassy areas, docks, and nearby amenities, it’s ideal for a relaxed afternoon by the water.
3. Bike the Whistler Valley Trail
The Whistler Valley Trail has over 40 kilometres of paved and boardwalk paths connecting lakes, neighborhoods, and viewpoints. It’s perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely walk with your pet.
4. Hike the Sea to Sky Trail
The Sea to Sky Trail stretches from Squamish northward and links to parts of the Whistler Valley. Along the way you’ll find forested sections, riverside views, and access points to waterfalls such as Brandywine Falls.
5. Explore Whistler Village
Whistler Village is compact and walkable, with shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a pleasant place to window shop, grab a coffee, or enjoy an evening out.
6. Visit Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls is an accessible and dramatic waterfall worth visiting. There’s a short viewing walk from the parking area, and for a longer outing you can explore nearby loop trails that pass old rail features and bridges.
7. Picnic at Whistler Interpretive Forest
The Interpretive Forest offers shaded trails and a chance to cross McLaurin’s Crossing suspension bridge over the Cheakamus River—a lovely spot for a picnic and some calm time among old-growth trees.
8. Check Out Nairn Falls
About twenty minutes north of Whistler, Nairn Falls is an easy, scenic hike with a dramatic rock-walled gorge and a pleasant viewing platform—another dog-friendly outing if you want a short adventure outside town.
9. Walk the Ancient Cedars Trail
The Ancient Cedars walk is a peaceful, low-key forest trail that showcases impressive cedar trees and offers views toward Cougar Lake. It’s a nice option for a quieter nature experience.
10. Take a Helicopter Flight
A helicopter flight over the Coast Mountains is unforgettable. We landed on a snow-covered ridge and took in sweeping alpine views—definitely a memorable splurge if you can fit it into two days.
Sea to Sky Gondola
The Sea to Sky Gondola provides panoramic views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. At the top you’ll find interpretive trails, viewing platforms, a suspension bridge, and options for hiking or climbing. Trails range from easy loops to more challenging routes for avid hikers.
Is Whistler Worth a Visit?
After two days in Whistler we returned refreshed and full of outdoor memories. Whistler is absolutely worth visiting—whether you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or a dog. It blends outdoor adventure, lakeside relaxation, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
What would you include on a two-day Whistler itinerary if you were bringing your dog?
This two-day Whistler post was created in collaboration with Pan Pacific Whistler and Blackcomb Helicopters. Thank you to the brands and destinations that supported this trip.