About Whistler

Weather

Who cares what the weather is doing? In Whistler we’ve got great trails for all kinds of weather - why should a little rain stop you? Of course in the winter months our trails are covered with a deep layer of snow but that’s the beauty of living just 30 minutes of Squamish where the trails are almost always clear.
If you want to check the forecast to determine if you’ll need a little extra sunscreen or an extra layer of underwear, visit weatheroffice.gc.ca.

Wildlife

We live and ride in an incredible part of the world but we have to be aware of the fact that we share this space with all kinds of creatures and that some of them are pretty big. Whistler is known habitat for Black Bears, Cougars and Grizzly Bears and since it is usually us bikers and hikers who are out in the backcountry we are the most likely to encounter these awesome animals in the wild. Here are some tips from BC Parks on what you should do if you encounter a Bear or Cat in the wild. Click here to download BC Parks informative brochure.

If You Meet a Black Bear or Young Grizzly

  • Always fight back. Jump up and down, wave your arms and yell. Try to look as large as possible. Never play dead – it makes you easier prey. Remember that black bears and small grizzlies can climb trees, so stay on the ground.

If You Meet a Mature Grizzly

  • Quickly climb a tree to over four metres if you can. If not, assume the cannonball position on the ground. Lie in a fetal position on your side, with your knees against your chest and your head between your knees. Clasp your hands behind your neck. This position will show the bear that you are not aggressive, and will protect your vital organs in case of an attack.
  • If the grizzly is exhibiting predatory behaviour, do everything you can to escape or fight back.

If You Meet a Cougar (from the Ministry of Environment)

  • Never approach a cougar. Although cougars will normally avoid a confrontation, all cougars are unpredictable. Cougars feeding on a kill may be dangerous.
  • Always give a cougar an avenue of escape.
  • Stay calm. Talk to the cougar in a confident voice.
  • Pick all children up off the ground immediately. Children frighten easily and their rapid movements may provoke an attack.
  • Do not run. Try to back away from the cougar slowly. Sudden movement or flight may trigger an instinctive attack.
  • Do not turn your back on the cougar. Face the cougar and remain upright.
  • Do all you can to enlarge your image. Don’t crouch down or try to hide. Pick up sticks or branches and wave them about.

If a cougar behaves aggressively:

  • Arm yourself with a large stick, throw rocks, speak loudly and firmly. Convince the cougar that you are a threat not prey.
  • If a cougar attacks, fight back! Many people have survived cougar attacks by fighting back with anything, including rocks, sticks, bare fists, and fishing poles.

And finally, report the sighting

Forest Fires

As of Thursday, September 3, 2009, the fire danger rating has dropped to ‘Moderate’.

This means that campfires and barbecues are allowed, provided they are burned and extinguished in a safe manner.

To report a wildfire, call 911, 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on most cellular networks.

If you have any questions, please contact the Whistler Fire Rescue Service at:

  • (p) 604 935 8260
  • (f) 604 935 8289.