Finally, you're in Whistler! After a long drive to go up the mountains of British Columbia, you've finally reached this incredible ski town. The place looks like it came out of a Christms fairy tale, doesn't it? It's exciting with all the winter sports on offer but also peaceful with its magnificent scenic views. Now, only one question remains—
how do you get around here? Well, you can always take the bus, grab a taxi, and more! It's no secret that Whistler isn't like any other city out there, but its public transport is efficient enough that you won't feel stressed as you commute.
Riding a Gondola
As a ski town, one of Whistler's main modes of public transportation is, of course, the gondola. Though it's mostly for skiers and tourists, it bears noting that the gondolas have proven to be an efficient way to get around. Especially if you're going to the higher parts of the town. Apart from when you're skiing and other winter sports, the gondolas, specifically the Peak 2 Peak gondolas, take you from Whistler Village up to the Blackcomb Mountains and back. It's a great way to sightsee and look at the many
neighborhoods of Whistler.
Getting a Taxi
Just because Whistler is a ski town, it doesn't mean there's no public transit here. In fact, one of the most common ways to get around here is to take a taxi. Although it's one of the more expensive modes of public transportation, there's no denying that it's one of—if not the most effective way to explore the town at your own pace. Unlike buses, taxis don't travel on specific routes, though you may find that a good number of them mostly move within the same areas. The meters here start at C$3.20 so expect to pay a lot when you get a taxi in Whistler.
Source: Flickr.com/ La Citta Vita
Taking The Bus
Of course, there's also the option of taking the bus. Undoubtedly the easiest way to get around, Whistler offers nine bus routes that can take you to all sorts of places within the town. It's also a more affordable way to commute instead of taking a taxi or renting your own car. Whistler's bus fare is only C$2.50 for a single ride for adults while children aged five and under can ride for free. For your convenience, you can always get a day pass for only C$7.00 or a sheet of ten single-ride tickets that only costs C$22.50. Not bad, right?
Renting a Car
Renting your own car may be the most expensive way to get around in Whistler but it does come with a lot of perks. Firstly, you can travel at your own pace. Since you're driving your own rented car, you don't have to buy tickets, wait for the next bus, or fight others to get a taxi. Secondly, since Whistler is such a beautiful place, going for a drive is one of the best things to do around here. If you're
not into skiing or other winter sports, this is a great way to spend the day in the town.
Cycling Throughout Whistler
Speaking of exploring Whistler, traveling by car isn't the only way to see the amazing views this area has to offer. You can also rent or ride your own bike. The town has a ton of bike shops where you can buy your own bicycle or rent for a couple of hours to a few days. Once you get yours, it's smooth sailing from here on in. At times, when you've gotten so tired that you'd prefer to take the bus to get back, there are a few that come with bike racks so you can ride and still bring your bike along.
And finally, when all else fails, there's always the option of using a transportation app. Fortunately, Whistler isn't so far off that these programs don't work here. You can easily use ride-hailing apps, journey-planning programs, and more in order to get to your destination on time. They also often serve as the best alternatives for when Whistler's public transit gets too overcrowded during rush hours. So even before you go to Whistler, make sure you download the transportation apps that you're sure will help you to get around here.
From buses that travel throughout the town to taxis and rideshares you can get from anywhere, Whistler's public transport is a lot more efficient than you might think. No matter your destination, you'll find it easy to get there no matter what!
