How to Access Whistler Lakes this Summer

Spending summer days at any of Whistler’s lakes is a relaxing way to soak up the mountain culture and take a break from all the high-adrenaline activities offered. Accessing the lakes is a common query we have from our guests, so we want to give you the ultimate guide to accessing Whistler Lakes in summer 2022. Enjoy!

Lost Lake

Quietly tucked away at the base of Blackcomb mountain, Lost Lake is a haven for those wanting to kick back and relax after a morning sweating on the surrounding trails. This is a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike, and has floating docks for those keen to swim! Lost Lake has on-site facilities, including washrooms, picnic tables, and a food or gelato truck on most days throughout the summer. The beach area is nice and shallow, ideal for letting little ones wade under the guidance of parents. This is also where the famous toad migration occurs, so make sure you stay up to date by checking the resort municipality of whistler for updates on closures.

Parking & Access

There are several ways to access Lost Lake – by foot, public transit or parking at the lake. Since parking directly at the lake is limited in the summer, we highly recommend taking the free shuttle or the scenic route by foot via the Valley Trail. The Lost Lake Park Free Shuttle runs daily from June 29, 2022, through Labour Day, every 20 minutes from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can park in the day lots and hop on at the Gondola Transit Exchange. You can also check out this handy video for more information on navigating Lost Lake!

Alta Lake

Likely the most popular lake in Whistler, Alta Lake is always bustling with excitement and activities. Rainbow Park at Alta Lake has a popular dog beach, sand volleyball, roped-off swimming area, washroom facilities, and food trucks on site. To learn more and to view the food truck schedule and locations, visit the whistler.ca website. Alta Lake also has several access points, is home to the Whistler Sailing Club, and is close to the Trailhead of Rainbow Falls Loop.

Parking & Access

For Rainbow Park, there is limited pay parking available on-site, as well as a free shuttle. The free Rainbow Park Shuttle is scheduled from June 29 through Labour Day on weekends (Saturdays/Sundays) and statutory holidays (Canada Day, BC Day, and Labour Day) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The shuttle is scheduled to operate every 20 minutes from Whistler Village at Blackcomb Way at Whistler Olympic Plaza across from Day Lot 4.

Green Lake

Green Lake is the largest lake in Whistler and is fed by the glacial runoff from Fitzsimmons Creek. This makes for cold water, all summer long, ideal for a cold plunge to refresh the mind and body! Our favourite spot on Green Lake is known as The Spit, and is just a short walk from Nicklaus North Golf Club. If you want a solid workout on a paddleboard or kayak, Green Lake’s large size is ideal for keeners craving a workout. Just make sure you keep the wind direction in mind, as the winds can be quite strong on your paddle back to the dock or spit.

Parking & Access

There is limited parking available at Nita Lake Lodge, or you can cruise on your bike from the Village via the Valley Trail. If you prefer to take public transportation, you’ll want to make sure you take the #30 bus, get off at the Meadow Park stop, and take the short walk to Nicklaus North Golf Club. You can learn more here.

Alpha Lake

Alpha Lake is a quiet and lesser visited park than others in Whistler, making for an ideal, relaxing spot on a summer day. Located in Creekside, this is perfect for guests staying outside of the main village. The lake is beautiful and quietly tucked away at the base of the Westside trail network, with plenty of amenities nearby in Creekside.

Parking & Access

Alpha Lake Park is located just 5 kilometres south of the Main Village, with limited parking available on site. From May 15 to Sep 15, pay parking is in effect daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at an hourly rate of $2. Accessible parking is offered at no cost. You can also take Bus #10, 20 or 21 southbound, and the park is a short 10-minute walk from the Bayshores transit stop.

This summer, book direct online and save up to 30% on your Whistler vacation. We can’t wait to host you in our beautiful mountain town!