Winter Peak 2 Peak
So things are starting to come together for your trip to Whistler - how exciting!
Next thing to consider? Transportation. How are you getting up the Sea to Sky? From the airport, the drive will take no longer than 3 hours and from the city, you’re looking at under 2 hours.
Car Rental
As a major international airport and a major city, YVR and Vancouver have plenty of car rental options. Some things to consider when renting a car and if it’s the right choice for you.
Winter or Summer? How much will you be using a car?
Most people visiting in winter are just in town for the skiing. With most accommodation either walking distance to the mountain or a short free bus away, the car may get little use.
In Summer however, you may want a car to have the freedom to adventure on a daily basis. Yes Whistler has lots to offer in the immediate vicinity but there is also a lot more to explore, like hikes, waterfalls, & day trips that may mean you want a car.
Car Safety in Winter
This side of things is also important to consider!
Winter Tires
It is the law to have winter appropriate tires on your car when driving north of Squamish from October 1st to April 30th?? From my own experience, car rental companies are not the best for being able to provide this, or they will charge a lot extra. Even with winter tires, driving in snowy conditions is quite difficult and I would only recommend to do so if you a a confident driver, or have prior experience.
Sea To Sky
Whilst a beautiful highway, it unfortunately is a dangerous highway with fast drivers and lots of bends. My advice? Avoid driving it if it is not necessary. Besides, how will you be able to look at the amazing views!
Bus
The most obvious, and most popular option, is the bus. There are 3 companies that operate on the Sea to Sky.
Skylynx
Routes
YVR to Whistler/Whistler to YVR
Vancouver Downtown to Whistler/Whistler to Vancouver Downtown.
Typically, both routes stop in Squamish but they do offer an express service which is direct.
Skylynx offer a reasonably regular service up and down the corridor throughout the day. They are a reliable operator that will get you from A to B.
Drop off In Whistler
Whistler Village Gate/Creekside - centralised Whistler village location as well as some of the larger hotels.
**Note: Schedule does not run late into the evening northbound. It is often the last bus has left before some big European flights have landed.
Epic Rides
Routes
Downtown Vancouver to Whistler/Whistler to Downtown Vancouver
No stop in Squamish.
Epic Rides do not run from the airport, only downtown Vancouver. It is possible to get a train into down town and pick up this bus but it does take more time!
Drop off
Creekside/Whistler Village Gate
Whistler Connections
Routes
YVR to Whistler/Whistler to YVR
Vancouver Downtown to Whistler/Whistler to Vancouver Downtown (*Winter Only*)
For a seamless, comfortable experience, Whistler Connections is by far the best option from the airport. Whistler Connections will take your flight details and track your flight to make sure that you will leave YVR on a bus within 60 minutes of you checking with them in Winter and 90 minutes in the Summer. The shuttle’s are smaller and more comfortable than the big coaches and the team are all lovely locals based in Whistler.
Drop Off
Creekside & Whistler Village Gate; any property around Whistler for additional fee.
Private Transfer
There are also so many options for a private transfer. This might work better for you if you are a big family, or can even work out more cost efficient for large groups.
You can hire anything from a small two seater to 32 seater mini buses.
Message me for more details on this and I can send you some options best suited to your needs.
Seaplane (Summer Only)
For a truly unique journey to Whistler, you could take a trip of a lifetime with Harbour Air! Summer only (as our main lake freezes over in Winter). Great opportunity to see all the mountains that surround the town of Whistler.
Route
Vancouver Airport South Terminal to Green Lake Whistler & Vancouver Downtown to Green Lake Whistler.