On shared unceded L̓il̓wat7úl and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh territory

Whistler’s alpine is a beautiful place, but trail users should always respect the physical challenge it presents, as well as the technical terrain, unmarked cliffs, sudden storms and changes of temperatures, and all kinds of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, and cougars. Be prepared for anything by following these AdventureSmart tips.

Basic trail and camping safety

Trail and campground users should always:

  • Respect closures – there are always good reasons when a trail or area is closed to the public.
  • Be honest about your abilities, your level of fitness and experience. If it’s more than you expected or is taking longer than you budgeted for, be prepared to turn back to ensure you make it down safely before nightfall. Whistler Search and Rescue and helicopters cannot operate at night.
  • Check the most recent weather forecast and dress appropriately with the proper footwear and an extra layer of rainproof gear.  
  • Give yourself lots of time to get up and down with extra time for unexpected delays.  
  • Plan ahead. Always inform others of your specific plans and estimated time of return.
  • Be knowledgeable and prepared for anything, carrying:
    • Extra food and water
    • An emergency blanket/shelter to spend the night if necessary
    • A simple first aid kit
    • A signaling device, such as a whistle
    • Navigation aids such as a map or compass
    • Matches and lighter (for emergency use only)
    • A pocket knife
    • A flashlight or headlamp
    • Sun protection, including sunglasses
    • Save your phone battery in case of emergency and running on low power mode.
  • Mountain bikers should bring a repair kit and tools, and should be able to make basic repairs, such as fixing flats and broken chains.
  • Bug spray is essential, especially during the early part of the alpine hiking season.
  • Remember that the Alpine is always safer with a friend or group. 
  • Respect the rules for a trail or area. Do not bike in hiking-only areas, protect watersheds as posted, and leave pets at home unless they are specifically permitted.  
  • Share trails and pack out any litter.
Bear eating grass

Grizzly, black bear, and wildlife safety

Grizzly and black bears exist in the Whistler area, including the Alpine Trail Network. Cougars, wolves and coyotes are also common. 

All trail users should be bear aware by:

  • carrying bear spray (and knowing how to use it in the event of an encounter)
  • Never hiking or biking alone
  • being alert to bear signs (scat, prints, tree markings). amd
  • respecting trail closures.

For more information, visit Living Alongside Wildlife.

Winter safety in the backcountry

Whistler’s alpine backcountry is open during the winter months for snowshoeing, backcountry skiing and snowmobiling (in approved areas).  

Snowmobilers accessing Rainbow and Sproatt must stay out of the 21 Mile Creek Watershed.

Rainbow Lake and the 21 Mile Creek area are critical to Whistler’s water supply.

Being Adventure Smart in the winter means accepting additional risks. Additional safety measures include: 

  • Visit Avalanche Canada to help assess the hazards before heading out.
  • Snowshoers should bring poles to assist in steep and icy sections.
  • If you’re not sure about the thickness, avoid traveling on lakes. Stay off any ice with a thickness of 7 centimetres or less. 
  • Dress warm with moisture-wicking underlayers and a waterproof outer layer that wicks sweat while keeping out snow and rain. Bring extra clothing if your clothes get wet. 
  • Be extra cautious on bridges that can be covered with snow. 
  • Be alert to tree wells, which are hollow depressions that form under trees as the snow levels build up. That small tree ahead might be the top of larger tree with a hole around its base. 

Wildfire protection tips

To help protect Whistler’s water supply, forests, and livelihood, please:

  • Respect any trail closures.
  • Check the current fire danger rating.
  • Follow any restrictions, including campfire bans.
  • If campfires are permitted, ensure they are fully extinguished with sand and water before leaving.
  • Dispose of matches and cigarette butts safely.

Reporting fires

Report fires in Whistler by dialing 911. Outside of Whistler dial 1-800-663-5555 or dial *5555 on your cell phone. 

Learn more about wildfire protection and current fire danger ratings.

About AdventureSmart

AdventureSmart is a national program dedicated to encouraging Canadians and visitors to Canada to get informed and go outdoors, recommends always carrying the 10 essentials. These include flashlight, fire-making kit, signaling device, extra food and water, extra clothing, navigation/communication aids, first aid kid, emergency shelter, pocketknife and sun protection.

Emergency contacts

  • For medical emergencies and rescues: 911
  • Wildfire reporting: 1-800-663-5555 or *5555
  • Whistler RCMP (non-emergency): 604-932-3044
  • Conservation Officer Service (for injured or aggressive wildlife): 1-877-952-7277