Whistler is that rare destination that feels magical all year round, but there is something special about the in-between season. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, shorter lines and better value, in-between season (spring or fall) is the perfect time to enjoy this mountain playground.

Ready to head up the Sea to Sky for a Whistler spring fling? Here’s how to plan (with your BCAA Membership in hand) the perfect in-between season getaway and save along the way.

How to prep for your drive

Change your tires

Getting to Whistler means you'll get to drive the beautiful (but sometimes challenging) Sea to Sky Highway. If you’re driving to Whistler between October 1 and March 31, your vehicle must have winter tires or M+S. Even during springtime, road conditions can change quickly, so proper tires are essential.

Pack an emergency kit

Just in case, pack a roadside emergency kit, an ice scraper, blanket, phone charger and warm layers of clothing. BCAA Members save 20% on pre-made emergency kits from F.A.S.T., making it easy to be prepared for the unexpected. If you’d like to build your own kit, here’s how to prepare an emergency kit at home.

No car? No prob.

Take an Evo Car Share to Whistler for the day or weekend. They’re ready when you are and BCAA Members save 10% on every trip. Or hop on an Epic Rides bus, which runs round trip from Vancouver to Whistler for $44. 

Before you go, check the weather

In-between season weather is often unpredictable. Whistler gets sunshine one minute, snowfall the next, so check the forecast and road conditions. Are you planning to hike, ski or explore outdoors? Layer up and bring appropriate equipment, jackets and hats. To help you gear up for less, BCAA Members earn 10% back in CAA Dollars® at Decathlon.

Early start, fuel smart

A full day or weekend in Whistler is always worth it. And since the drive is about 2 hours from the Lower Mainland, it’s best you get an early start. Get a good night’s sleep the night before, then get up and at ‘em at the crack of dawn. Need caffeine to get revved up for the road? Stop at Blenz Coffee for a free beverage upsize and 10% off food items. Then gas up at Shell along the way and save 3¢/L on fuel plus 10% on in-store snacks with your BCAA Membership card.

Slow and steady gets you there

The highway can still be icy on in-between season mornings, so take it slow and drive with respect and care. And don’t forget to bring your BCAA Membership card for more exclusive savings and emergency roadside assistance (or download the BCAA App) so we can get you back on the road if needed.

What to do in Whistler

Relax at Scandinave Spa

If you’re seeking soothing relaxation, visit the Scandinave Spa Whistler wellness retreat. Surrounded by old-growth rainforest, Scandinave’s Thermal Journey experience takes you through cycles of hot pools, a cold plunge, and relaxation installations designed to leave you refreshed. The spa also offers serene, silent Nordic baths, eucalyptus steam rooms and a range of restorative massage treatments that deepen the sense of calm and renewal. BCAA Members save 15% on the Thermal Journey and 10% on massages. 

Hit the slopes at Whistler Blackcomb

Easily one of Whistler’s biggest attractions is Whistler Blackcomb, North America’s largest ski resort. Whistler Blackcomb boasts 8,171 acres of terrain, 36 lifts, over 200 marked runs, 16 alpine bowls and 3 glaciers. Change in season is an excellent time to ski or board at a discount (though depending on snow levels, some select runs may be closed). Celebrating its 60th season, the resort hosts events like the Fire & Ice Show every Sunday in January through March and the Kokanee Valley Race Series, adding extra excitement to your mountain day.

Explore Whistler Village

Stroll through Olympic Plaza and Mountain Square, where you’ll find local art galleries, cozy cafés, and unique shops. In-between season offers a more relaxed pace, perfect for browsing without the usual crowds.

Dining out in Whistler is always a year-round highlight. Watch for It’s a Spring Thing dining specials in late March, April, and May when many restaurants offer discounted menus. In November, Whistler Cornucopia celebrates food and drink with special tastings and culinary events. In-between season truly shines and sparkles for all food lovers.

Seek the thrills

Adventure lovers can leap off a bridge with Whistler Bungee Jumping, soar above through the trees on a zipline tour, splash down river on whitewater rafting or send it on your mountain bike to enjoy:

• Whistler Mountain Bike Park: 80+ km of trails, 4,900 vertical feet, 130 trails (beginner to pro)
• Cross-country trails: 350 km in the valley (spring to fall)
• Paved trails: 40+ km on the Valley Trail

You can also visit the Whistler Sliding Centre for a world-class bobsleigh and skeleton experience (November through April) or take a sunrise helicopter flight over the Coast Mountains.

Gentle, thoughtful, sustainable fun

Prefer something quieter? Explore the Audain Art Museum, hike or snowshoe through forested trails, ride the meditative 11-minute Peak 2 Peak Gondola that connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountains or go on a horseback riding adventure near Pemberton, just an hour drive north from Whistler. 

Stay longer

The second you arrive in Whistler, you’ll want to stretch your stay. If you’re thinking about extending your trip, in-between season is the perfect time to find affordable accommodations, as some hotels offer rates 75% lower than peak season. Suddenly your trip looks really affordable with BCAA Membership and savings of up to 15% at participating hotels including Fairmont, Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott.

Your final getaway checklist

In-between season in Whistler offers the perfect mix of adventure, adrenalin, good eats, hot tubbing, relaxation, and savings. Enjoy a less crowded mountain escape that’s as memorable as it is affordable.

Not a Member? Join today so you’ve got BC’s Best Roadside Assistance and access to valuable everyday savings on the road to Whistler. Before you head up the highway, download the BCAA App for faster access to Roadside Assistance and partner discounts. And don’t forget to share your Whistler adventure on BCAA Connect.