British Columbia Multisport
Beautiful Whistler Valley has transformed from a small fishing resort in 1914 to being the center of world attention as British Columbia prepares to host the Winter Olympics in 2010. The unifying thread throughout the passage of time has been the breath-taking mountains, crystal clear waters and multi-layered beauty of reeds rising above wetland ponds or the brief explosion of fragile wildflowers. We'll spend our days hiking past shimmering waterfalls and lakes to vibrant views of the ocean, jagged peaks and icefalls. Our whitewater raft trip takes us down one of Western Canada's most scenic rivers before we bicycle along a trail system carved through Whistler Valley to the shores of Alta Lake, former home of the resort's original Rainbow Lodge. Our multisport adventure is very active and in the great outdoors but we're hardly roughing it: Expect excellent meals, comfortable campsites (or inns/lodges on our two lodge-based departures) and even opportunities for a massage in upscale Whistler Village.
Important Notice: Day 1 is the day you should plan to arrive at the meeting point for the trip. This may require departing your hometown one or more days in advance.
British Columbia Multisport Itinerary:
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Day 1
Your trip begins today in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Arrive in Vancouver and transfer to our first night’s hotel. Our lodging is in the heart of this beautiful cosmopolitan city whose residents (and restaurants!) reflect its great ethnic diversity. Vancouver is surrounded by water on three sides and is named for Capt. George Vancouver, who explored the area in 1792. Our hotel is minutes from the downtown shopping and entertainment districts and overlooks mountains, sea and the glittering skyline. Meals on your own today.
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Day 2
After meeting our guides in the lobby at 9 a.m., we drive through astounding scenery as we snake north along the majestically rugged coastline of Howe Sound. Look for a 1,200-foot waterfall which pounds down just a few meters from the sea. To acquaint you with the unique natural history of the coastal rain forest, we'll venture into the aptly named Paradise Valley. As we hike past giant trees with moss hanging from every limb, we'll see outstanding views of the snow-capped Tantalus Mountains and reach the pristine shores of Levett Lake. We'll eat our lunch with a massive rumbling glacier as a backdrop to this postcard perfect setting. Then it's on to more beauty as we begin our Class IV river rafting adventure. The Elaho ("EE-la-ho") River, fed by runoff from the Lillooet Icefield, is considered one of BC's most scenic rivers. Towering glaciers and 1,000-foot tributary waterfalls feed this mighty waterway. At the end of our paddle, we step out of our wetsuits and relax over an outdoor BBQ dinner before transferring to our quiet home for the next five nights on the bank of Fitzsimons Creek. Our comfortable basecamp is outfitted with the best in camping amenities; spacious tents, comfortable sleeping pads, relaxing camp loungers, topped off with a fully equipped camp kitchen where your guides will prepare healthy and delicious meals to fuel our adventure! Hot showers and flush toilets are also available adjacent to our riverside oasis. Lodge-based departures: Our two lodge-based departures (June 28th & August 23rd) will offer trip members the same daily activities as the camping departures with the next five nights spent at conveniently located inn and lodge accommodations. Total hiking distance: 3 miles; Total rafting distance: 10 miles. All meals included.
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Day 3
After breakfast and a short ride to Whistler Village, we’ll board a gondola and be whisked into the high alpine meadows atop Whistler Mountain. Make sure you have your camera ready while we ascend as it’s common to spot black bears in the forest below. From the summit, we head into a backcountry bursting with wildflowers, some growing right next to lingering snow drifts. We trek across Piccolo Mountain en route to Flute and Oboe Summit as our adventure leads us across the aptly named Musical Bumps Trail with endless views of the snowcapped peaks and the massive glaciers that adorn the Fitzsimmons Range. The alpine wildflowers that paint the side of this trail include Indian paintbrush, Arctic Lupine and Mountain Arnica. Whistler was named for the rock-dwelling marmots that let their thoughts be known by shrill whistling sounds. As the resident Hoary Marmots and Ptarmigan scamper for cover among the rocks, sit back and absorb the picturesque mountain setting atop Oboe Peak where our guides create the ultimate alpine picnic. Total Hiking distance: 7-12 miles. All meals included.
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Day 4
Now that we’ve seen the high alpine view of Whistler Valley, it’s time to get fitted on our bikes for a ride on the Valley Trail. This beautifully crafted trail system links the entire valley as it winds past mountainside lakes and parks. A mix of both paved and gravel trail leads us past the shores of Alta Lake, where in 1914 a couple from Maine built the first fishing resort that soon became the most popular resort west of Banff and Jasper. We’ll cycle through the lush coastal rainforest along the clear waters of the River of Golden Dreams and over the glacial waters of Green Lake on a wooden boardwalk. Try to keep your eyes on the trail as the captivating views of the mountains ringing the valley will compete for your attention. This ride is sure to leave you with an overpowering desire to pack up and move to the Whistler Valley. Our route will bring us in a loop around the Valley on rolling terrain and finish at Lost Lake for a picnic lunch and optional swim. Relax in the late afternoon at the lake or ride into the Village with one of the guides to take advantage of the abundance of activities available in Whistler. You may choose to continue your day exploring on bike, shopping during a village stroll, enjoying a massage, or taking part in one of the adrenaline adventures such as zip line, Bungee jumping, etc. (additional cost) that make Whistler Village a world famous destination. We’ll have dinner as a group tonight back at our camp (or lodge). Total Biking distance: 10-20 miles. All meals included.
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Day 5
Today’s alpine hike brings us to the pristine Joffre Lakes. We’ll drive into the Pemberton Valley before climbing the steep Duffey Lake road to the Joffre trailhead. Just ten minutes up the trail, we arrive at a stunning view: the lower Joffre Lake mirroring saw-tooth peaks, towering spruce and the shining white Matier Glacier looming above. This is pristine mountain wilderness! As we follow a cascading glacial stream, the sun reflects off the glacier ahead while the aquamarine lower lake shimmers below. We soon arrive at a sandy beach on the middle lake, just below the glacier. After breaking for lunch, it’s another 30 minutes to the top lake situated directly under the glacier. Listen for the loud cracking sound of car-sized chunks of ice calving off the glacier, careening over the cliff and splashing down into the far side of the lake. Our return hike is almost all downhill and presents an entirely different view as the western sun hits the mountains across the valley. This is the ultimate Coast Mountain experience. Total hiking distance: 6-9 miles. All meals included.
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Day 6
Positioned right on the edge of the Horstman Glacier, Blackcomb Glacier Provincial Park and Garibaldi Provincial Park provide spectacular vistas of the Coast Mountain Range. This day trip to the parks allows us to “meet the mountains” and discover a piece of unspoiled nature, taking us back in time to the formation of this dramatic landscape. Fun for all, a day on the glacier is a delightful adventure full of excitement and fantastic scenery. Learn about glaciology and ice formation, and receive instruction on walking with crampons and an ice axe (no prior experience required). One of the many highlights of the day has us exploring the inside of one of the Blackcomb Glacier ice caves! Time and group interest permitting, we may even have an opportunity to experience the thrill of alpinism in an environment well-suited for beginners. Learn the basics of ice axe and crampon techniques, self arrests, glacier travel skills and rope handling. An unforgettable day out in the snow-covered backcountry! Tonight, we'll enjoy a final celebration dinner to commemorate a week’s worth of fantastic memories. Total Hiking Distance: Approx. 5 miles. All meals included.
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Day 7
After breakfast and some free time to relax or visit Whistler Village, we’ll begin our mid-morning drive back to Vancouver. En route, we’ll pass through Cheakamus Canyon with views of the Tantalus Ice field, home to sheets of ice over 100 feet thick. Our scheduled return time to Vancouver is noon; please do not book any departing flights prior to 2 p.m. Breakfast included.
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including weather and terrain conditions. Your guide has extensive knowledge of the region and may choose alternate trails or activities as conditions dictate.
If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted on this itinerary. If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign you a roommate if one is available. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee, which is one-half of the full single supplement. Please be advised that there are a limited number of singles available on most departures.
All lodging (on lodge-based departures) and camping accommodations (on camping departures) including group camping gear (tents, sleeping pads, camp chairs, eating utensils, etc.); meals as noted in the daily itinerary; local guides; all ground transportation from Vancouver to Whistler and return; rafting, cycling and glacier hike excursions and related gear; snacks and bottled water; Whistler Mountain gondola ride; one group airport transfer back to the Vancouver airport on Day 7; applicable entrance fees and taxes.
Airfare to/from Vancouver, Canada; 1 lunch and 1 dinner; alcoholic beverages; airport-hotel transfer upon arrival; optional additional activities and services in Whistler Village; guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.
This trip is rated Moderate [3]. Trip members should arrive in good physical condition and plan to spend 5-7 hours on most days engaged in a variety of activities. Hikes are all on-trail (except glacier hike) but include some steep climbs and elevation gains of up to 2,000 feet. The rafting day takes place on a class III-IV river with potentially fast-moving water. We recommend an exercise regimen consisting of hiking/walking, cycling and paddling/swimming (if possible) beginning at least 3 months prior to departure in order to prepare for this adventure. The better shape you are in, the more you will enjoy all this trip has to offer!
The weather in Vancouver and around Whistler is generally sunny during summer months, with daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s. Nights can be chilly (40s-60s), especially in the mountains so plan to bring along some warm clothing. As in any mountainous region, weather can change rapidly and brief afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon so please pack adequate raingear.
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased within 21 days of your initial trip deposit, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
British Columbia Multisport
The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you in choosing your equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary.
Weather
The weather in Vancouver and around Whistler is generally sunny during summer months, with daytime temperatures in the 70s-80s. Nights can be chilly (40s-60s), especially in the mountains, so plan to bring along some warm clothing. As in any mountainous region, weather can change rapidly and brief afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon, so please pack adequate raingear.
Gear Checklist
- Bicycles
- Bike helmet and gloves
- Crampons, ice axe and boots (for glacier hike)
- Group camping gear (tents, sleeping pads, camp chairs) - camping departures only
- Rafting gear (helmet, life vest, neoprene wet suit and booties)
- Trip leader first-aid kit
- Valid passport (required if arriving by air) or proof of citizenship (see pre-departure information for specific requirements)
- Photo identification
- Duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase. Sturdy, large-sized, able to hold all of your gear
- Rain cover or large plastic trash bag for your daypack, if it rains
- Small daypack for carrying water bottle(s), rain gear, camera, snacks
- Luggage tags and luggage locks
- Sleeping bag (rated to 30°F) - camping departures only
- A few lightweight, easily washable items for travel and to wear in towns
- Rain jacket, lightweight, waterproof and breathable, or a waterproof rain poncho
- Rain or wind pants, waterproof and breathable
- Midweight fleece or wool sweater
- Hiking pants
- Hiking shorts
- Long-sleeve shirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear
- Hiking socks and liner socks
- Casual socks
- Swimsuit (rafting day)
- Sun hat
- Wool or fleece hat
- Sturdy hiking boots, waterproof, lightweight, broken in, aggressive tread
- Cycling shoes or light hikers/running shoes for biking
- Casual, comfortable shoes for evenings
- Two (2) one-quart water bottles or hydration system
- Flashlight or headlamp, and spare batteries/bulb - camping departures only
- Sunglasses and retainer strap
- Sunblock and lip balm
- Toiletry kit
- Personal first-aid kit, small
- Insect repellent
- Several Ziploc plastic bags for wet clothes
- Bath towel
- Watch with alarm or travel clock
- Camera and film, spare batteries
- Small binoculars - highly recommended
- Pocket knife or multi-tool
- Padded cycling shorts
- Cycling shirt
- Padded cycling gloves
- Cycling jacket or windbreaker
- Own bike helmet (if custom fit is desired)
- Personal medication
- Motion sickness remedies
- Spare contact lenses or glasses
- Games and toys: Frisbee, cards, etc
- Reading and writing materials
- Paddling gloves
- Ear plugs
- Favorite energy snacks and drinks
- Hiking staff or trekking poles
Things to Consider
- Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, a change of clothing (including hiking boots and/or cycling helmet if required), and medications in your carry-on baggage, in case your luggage is delayed. Pack your camera and film in your carry-on, too.
- Wind chill can be a significant feature of this trip. Air temperatures are not very cold, but when the wind is constant, and when you combine this with the stress that altitude puts on your body, you can be robbed of body heat quickly. Wind or rain gear is very important.
- Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. However, once it becomes wet, it will drain your body heat. Bring wool or synthetics such as Capilene, MTS and Thermax.
- Always test your layers before a trip. Your outer layer should fit easily over the inside ones without binding and bunching up.
- Make sure boots are broken-in and bring moleskin, Second Skin® or Blister Block® for foot treatment. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters (the liner sock should be silk or synthetic).
- Stuff sacks are great for sorting gear. Use different sizes/colors to differentiate contents.
- Laundry facilities are available at the campground site in the resort lodge. The last washer load must be started no later than 90 minutes before the close of the front desk. Machines take loonie coins (one-dollar Canadian coin).
- Laundry facilities are also available on the lodge-based trips; there is a washer and dryer in each room.
Feel free to give us a call at (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores or REI’s Direct Sales (800-426-4840) will be happy to help you with gear questions. Or visit REI’s website at www.rei.com. The “Expert Advice” section has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
