Plans are in place to install new slacklining posts at Lakeside Park in the next month, and Whistler park users are being reminded to keep slacklines off trees.
“We’ve seen a rise in popularity of slacklining in Whistler,” said Mayor Nancy Wilhelm-Morden. “This is a great sport that’s open to a wide range of ages and abilities, and the Resort Municipality of Whistler has tried to meet the demand for slacklining sites by installing designated posts in our major parks.”
“I’d like to remind everyone to use the slacklining posts, and not to anchor slacklines to trees in our parks. Anchoring slacklines to trees crushes their bark, which ultimately kills the trees, and we’ve lost six trees in our parks already.”
Trees are not only expensive to replace, but their loss impacts the long-term enjoyment of other park users. The recent damage to trees at Lakeside Park from slacklines means a loss of shade in the picnic area, which will take at least five years to replace.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to use slackline posts installed in five Whistler parks, including:
Installation of the slackline posts at Lakeside Park will take place over the next few weeks.
About Whistler Parks
The RMOW manages 31 parks within Whistler’s municipal boundaries, 40 kilometres of paved, multi-use Valley Trail, and a wide range of unpaved, non-motorized multi-use trails. The municipality recognizes that green spaces serve many purposes, including promotion of a healthy lifestyle by encouraging walking, cycling and other leisure activities. Residents, second homeowners, and visitors consistently report high levels of satisfaction with Whistler’s parks and trails.
Photo credit: Dave Buzzard
