British Columbia Hiking – Lodge Based
Above the Alpine
-
- Activity Level: 3-4
- Days: 4
- Group Size: 4-12
- Member price: from $1,399
- Non-member price: from $1,549
Overview
Nestled in the Coastal Mountain Range, a trip to Whistler means stunning mountain views, crystal blue alpine lakes, lush rainforests and an adventure around every corner. Rich with natural beauty and a lively adventure community, it is the perfect destination for an active vacation. Our itinerary highlights the best of summer in Whistler—taking us to advanced hiking trails that are challenging but all the more rewarding.
We spend our days away crowds, hiking pristine alpine trails, marveling at glaciers, waterfalls and the turquoise blue water of the alpine lakes. Enjoy a well-earned lunch surrounded by crystal blue water and the striking views of Matier Glacier soaring just above us. Led by our skilled, local guides, we are treated to valuable, in-depth information about the areas we explore. Our nights are spent dining at the best local haunts, enjoying resort village life and relaxing with our new adventure comrades at the comfortable and scenic Legends Lodge.
See our Whistler Backpacking trip for more summer fun.
Trip highlights
- Hike through lush rainforests for unforgettable views of the Coastal Mountain Range
- Stay in comfortable lodge accommodations and enjoy local restaurants
- Hike to crystal blue mountain lakes and enjoy lunch under Matier Glacier
- Follow expert guides as they lead you on their favorite Whistler-region hikes
Activities
- Hiking
Accommodations
Condo-style lodge accommodations, 3 nights
Itinerary
Our adventure begins at a Creekbread Restaurant in Whistler Creekside Village at 6pm. Meet your guide and fellow travelers for introductions, dinner, and an overview of the trip itinerary. The evening is then free to settle into our lodgings. The hot tubs will be the perfect reward after our exhilarating hikes in the coming days! Dinner included.
Our hike begins at Joffre Lakes, a magnificent area of jagged peaks, ice fields, rushing streams and three blue lakes. Our trail begins in lush coastal rainforest, then climbs up a valley through boulder fields and little bridge crossings. At the third lake we enjoy a picnic lunch with views of Matier Glacier hanging above us. The return hike provides new vistas across the valley as we descend past the lakes below. Returning to our lodge, there is free time to walk to nearby Alpha Lake or soak in the hot tub before we meet up for dinner. All meals included.
Hiking: 7-9 miles; Elevation gain/loss: 1,200'; Transfers: 2 hours.
Equipped with our daypacks and a packed lunch, we transfer to the Skywalk trailhead. Starting in the British Columbia forest, the trail climbs steeply until reaching a vast alpine ridge where we are rewarded with panoramic views. We find a choice spot for lunch and take in the beauty of Mount Sproatt, Rainbow, Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains as well as the entire Whistler Valley. Our hike continues down through the rainforest and into the valley. Returning to our lodgings, there is time to relax before we gather for dinner at a favorite local restaurant. All meals included.
Hiking: 9-12 miles; Elevation gain/loss: 3,100’.
Today we set out for the alpine of Whistler Mountain. We begin by taking a 35-minute gondola ride with incredible views of the valley. Beginning at 6,000’, we follow singletrack trails that reward us with vistas of the dramatic glacial systems that surround us and dominate these mountains. We’ll pause to discuss the current state of our glaciers and how they shaped this impressive region. If time allows, we continue hiking to Blackcomb Mountain for further exploration, then descend back to Whistler Valley via the gondola. We expect to return to our lodging at about 5pm. Any travel plans out of Whistler can be scheduled after 6pm. Breakfast and lunch included.
Hiking: 7-10 miles; Elevation gain/loss: 1,000’-1,400'.
Note on Itinerary
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 trail conditions.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Three nights lodging; all meals from dinner on day one to lunch on day four; professional instruction and guiding; park entrance fees and permits; all gratuities related to services throughout the trip EXCLUDING lead guide and assistant guide gratuities; all scheduled transportation in Whistler for the duration of the trip.
Not Included
Transport from your home to the group meeting location at the start of the trip on Day 1; insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
Full payment is due at sign up, fully refundable up to 30 days prior to departure.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
30+ days prior to departure = $0
15 to 29 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
15+ days prior to departure = $0
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Weather
We expect summer daytime high temperatures to range from the mid 50's to 70's with evening temperatures dropping into the 40's - 50's. Afternoon thunderstorms are a distinct possibility so adequate rain gear is important.
Single Travelers
There is no single supplement fee for those willing to share accommodations with a same-gender roommate. If you are willing to share but we are unable to pair you with a same-gender roommate, you will not be charged the single supplement fee. If you do not wish to share and request single accommodations, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single accommodations available.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Weekend Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, 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.
Meet your guides
Christine M.
Christine holds a master's degree in science, but her love for hiking, biking and canoeing led her to a career in the outdoors. She takes every possible opportunity to explore her passion for all things adventure and sport!
Meet your guides
Makoto B.
Hailing from Switzerland, Makoto has called Whistler home since 2010. She's an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys introducing people to this spectacular region. She also speaks six languages and loves sharing cultural experiences.
Adventure Expert
Heather
Sitting under Matier Glacier and looking out at how big, stark and just raw the BC wilderness is; I felt very connected to this place. Be brave and jump into Joffre Lake!
Departure dates
Departure dates available soon.
Let us know if you want to be contacted when dates become available.
Notify meQuestions?
You can reach us by phone at 1-800-622-2236
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time.
Gear list
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. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff.
Required
- Day Pack (21L-35L)
- Day Pack Rain Cover
- Fleece/Wool Jacket or Sweater
- Hiking Pants (Convertible, Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
- Personal Bathroom Kit: Toilet Paper, Ziplock Bags, Personal Wipes, Hand Cleaner
- Personal First Aid Kit/Medications (Lightweight)
- Rain Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
- Tee Shirts (Cotton and Synthetic)
- Water Bottles (Three 1-Quart) or Hydration System
- Waterproof Hiking Boots
Recommended
- Bandana
- Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (Lightweight, Synthetic)
- Casual Clothing for Travel and Town Wear (Lightweight, Easily Washable)
- Casual Shoes for Travel and Free Time
- Flashlight or Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
- Hiking Shorts (Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Insect Repellant
- Liner Socks (Synthetic)
- Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
- Luggage (1 Piece)
- Luggage Tags and Locks
- Sun Block and Lip Balm
- Sun Hat
- Sunglasses and Accessories
- Toiletries
- Trekking Poles (Rubber Tips Required)
- Whistle
Optional
- Camera and Accessories
- Motion Sickness Remedies
- Reading and Writing Materials
- Small Binoculars
- Swimwear
Travel Documents
- Airline Tickets (Confirmation and Itinerary)
- Final Bulletin (Emailed Prior to Departure Date)
- Valid Passport
Contact Us
Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales (1-800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out REI Expert Advice, which has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
.Itinerary
Print Itinerary Expand all days
Our adventure begins at a Creekbread Restaurant in Whistler Creekside Village at 6pm. Meet your guide and fellow travelers for introductions, dinner, and an overview of the trip itinerary. The evening is then free to settle into our lodgings. The hot tubs will be the perfect reward after our exhilarating hikes in the coming days! Dinner included.
Our hike begins at Joffre Lakes, a magnificent area of jagged peaks, ice fields, rushing streams and three blue lakes. Our trail begins in lush coastal rainforest, then climbs up a valley through boulder fields and little bridge crossings. At the third lake we enjoy a picnic lunch with views of Matier Glacier hanging above us. The return hike provides new vistas across the valley as we descend past the lakes below. Returning to our lodge, there is free time to walk to nearby Alpha Lake or soak in the hot tub before we meet up for dinner. All meals included.
Hiking: 7-9 miles; Elevation gain/loss: 1,200'; Transfers: 2 hours.
Equipped with our daypacks and a packed lunch, we transfer to the Skywalk trailhead. Starting in the British Columbia forest, the trail climbs steeply until reaching a vast alpine ridge where we are rewarded with panoramic views. We find a choice spot for lunch and take in the beauty of Mount Sproatt, Rainbow, Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains as well as the entire Whistler Valley. Our hike continues down through the rainforest and into the valley. Returning to our lodgings, there is time to relax before we gather for dinner at a favorite local restaurant. All meals included.
Hiking: 9-12 miles; Elevation gain/loss: 3,100’.
Today we set out for the alpine of Whistler Mountain. We begin by taking a 35-minute gondola ride with incredible views of the valley. Beginning at 6,000’, we follow singletrack trails that reward us with vistas of the dramatic glacial systems that surround us and dominate these mountains. We’ll pause to discuss the current state of our glaciers and how they shaped this impressive region. If time allows, we continue hiking to Blackcomb Mountain for further exploration, then descend back to Whistler Valley via the gondola. We expect to return to our lodging at about 5pm. Any travel plans out of Whistler can be scheduled after 6pm. Breakfast and lunch included.
Hiking: 7-10 miles; Elevation gain/loss: 1,000’-1,400'.
Note on Itinerary
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 trail conditions.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Three nights lodging; all meals from dinner on day one to lunch on day four; professional instruction and guiding; park entrance fees and permits; all gratuities related to services throughout the trip EXCLUDING lead guide and assistant guide gratuities; all scheduled transportation in Whistler for the duration of the trip.
Not Included
Transport from your home to the group meeting location at the start of the trip on Day 1; insurance of any kind; alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, guide gratuities and items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
Full payment is due at sign up, fully refundable up to 30 days prior to departure.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
30+ days prior to departure = $0
15 to 29 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
15+ days prior to departure = $0
0 to 14 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Weather
We expect summer daytime high temperatures to range from the mid 50's to 70's with evening temperatures dropping into the 40's - 50's. Afternoon thunderstorms are a distinct possibility so adequate rain gear is important.
Single Travelers
There is no single supplement fee for those willing to share accommodations with a same-gender roommate. If you are willing to share but we are unable to pair you with a same-gender roommate, you will not be charged the single supplement fee. If you do not wish to share and request single accommodations, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single accommodations available.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Weekend Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, 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.
Meet your guides
Christine M.
Christine holds a master's degree in science, but her love for hiking, biking and canoeing led her to a career in the outdoors. She takes every possible opportunity to explore her passion for all things adventure and sport!
Meet your guides
Makoto B.
Hailing from Switzerland, Makoto has called Whistler home since 2010. She's an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys introducing people to this spectacular region. She also speaks six languages and loves sharing cultural experiences.
Adventure Expert
Heather
Sitting under Matier Glacier and looking out at how big, stark and just raw the BC wilderness is; I felt very connected to this place. Be brave and jump into Joffre Lake!