Located in the rugged heart of British Columbia, tucked in the center of countless pinetrees and snow-topped peaks, sits Whistler. If you’re someone who appreciates untamed beauty along with some adrenaline-pumping action, we have the perfect solution for you!
There’s no doubt tons to do in Whistler, but some of the most fun you can have here is discovering this winter wonderland by snowmobile. I’ve had the opportunity to try them out to bring you a carefully-curated list of the 3 top Whistler snowmobiling tours.
Each one will satisfy your hunger for adventure and take you on a ride you’re sure to want to repeat!
Best Snowmobile Tours in Whistler
| Whistler Wilderness Run Snowmobile Tour | Callaghan Cruiser Snowmobile Tour | 2 Hour Wilderness Adventure Snowmobile Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Adventure Tour | Best Backcountry Tour | Best Value Tour | |
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| Location: | Carleton Lodge, 4280 Mountain Square #17, Whistler | Carleton Lodge, 4280 Mountain Square #17, Whistler | Blackcomb Snowmobile Base Operations, Whistler |
| Start: | 8:00 AM, 2:30 PM | 9:30 AM, 1:00 PM | 9:00 AM |
| Duration: | 3 hours | 3 hours | 2 hours |
| Includes: | 3-hour snowmobile tour, professional guide, use of helmet, gloves, and goggles, GST tax | 3-hour snowmobile tour, professional guide, use of helmet, gloves, and goggles, free for kids ages 5 to 12 | Hot drink and snack, professional local guide, use of winter gear (jacket, snow pants, boots, gloves, helmet, goggles) |
Quick Answer: The 3 Best Rated Whistler Snowmobiling Tours For 2024
Whistler Snowmobile Tour Reviews
1. Whistler Wilderness Run Snowmobile Tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departure: Carleton Lodge, 4280 Mountain Square #17, Whistler
- Departure Time: 8:00 AM, 2:30 PM
- Includes: 3-hour snowmobile tour, professional guide, use of helmet, gloves, and goggles, GST tax
Let’s start things off on the right foot with what was easily the highlight of my first time to BC! The Whistler Wilderness Run Snowmobile Tour is a 3-hour experience that’s easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules and more than worth checking out!
With professional guides to lead the way, you’ll be able to see Whistler in a way few get the chance to. hether you’re looking for an activity to do by yourself, with your significant other, or with the entire family, this should be at the top of your list.
You’ll start out by meeting your friendly guide at the Carleton Lodge, where they’ll answer any questions you may have and get you comfortable with using the snowmobiles.
They did a fantastic job at explaining what each function of the vehicles are for, how to drive them safely, and will keep an eye on the group the whole time.
After your safety briefing, it’s time to set off on a race across frozen lakes, with breathtaking vistas of the Coastal Mountain Range, and you may even see some critters, too!
For this tour, keep in mind that all children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by adults though this is rated as “Intermediate”. That means that it’s ideal for those who have a bit of experience riding, at the very minimum.
If you’re going to take any advice at all from me, please go ahead and upgrade to the Yukon breakfast option! You’ll get to try a quintessentially Canadian breakfast, where you’ll fuel up on some Canadian bacon, hearty potatoes, eggs, and pancakes drenched in real maple syrup.
As you enjoy the tasty meal, you’ll sit nice and warm in a rustic cabin while enjoying the great company and fantastic views!
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
2. Callaghan Cruiser Snowmobile Tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Departure: Carleton Lodge, 4280 Mountain Square #17, Whistler
- Departure Time: 9:30 AM, 1:00 PM
- Includes: 3-hour snowmobile tour, professional guide, use of helmet, gloves, and goggles, free for kids ages 5 to 12
This next tour really opened my eyes to not only the insane vastness of the wilderness here, but the interesting history behind Whistler. It’s perfect if you have a few hours free in your day and want to see the parts of the region that most tourists don’t get the chance to see!
The Callaghan Cruiser Snowmobile Tour seamlessly combines fun and adventure with education and exploration, thanks to a knowledgeable local guide who took us under their wing!
For me, any time there’s the chance to go snowmobiling, it’s a “yes”! However, one of the coolest places I’ve ever had the chance to ride around has been on this tour.
Not only was the snow perfectly powdery and fun to ride around in, the views just couldn’t be beat, with the towering, snow-covered peaks looking down on us from a distance. Right in the center of the Callaghan Valley, you’ll cruise around the trails with your guide after a safety briefing.
They even let you use snow pants, helmets, goggles, gloves, etc, if you need them. Oh, and if you’re bringing younger kids along, they even let them ride for free if they’re between the ages of 5 and 12!
As the forested landscape unfolds before you, you’ll come to the NorthAir gold mine, which is reason enough to go on this journey.
This abandoned gold mine site has plenty of interesting (and creepy!) stories surrounding it, after it was closed down in the 1980s. Here, countless people set out to make a fortune, extracting literal tons of gold from the rich land.
As you ride back to Whistler Village, keep your eyes peeled for any wildlife that may make an appearance! The guides are great at spotting these guys, allowing you to stop and take photos if you’re safe and far enough away from them.
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
3. 2 Hour Wilderness Adventure Snowmobile Tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Departure: Blackcomb Snowmobile Base Operations, Whistler
- Departure Time: 9:00 AM
- Includes: Hot drink and snack, professional local guide, use of winter gear (jacket, snow pants, boots, gloves, helmet, goggles)
Have the other two tours caught your attention, but you’re looking for something a bit more brief? Not to worry, because we have you covered with the 2 Hour Wilderness Adventure Snowmobile Tour!
This excursion really opens up the region to explorers who aren’t afraid of a little bit of snow, and want to see Whistler from a unique perspective!
Starting out at 9:00 am, you’ll be back by lunchtime, having experienced one of the most beautiful places on the planet! Start off by meeting your guide at the base location, where they’ll give you a comprehensive safety briefing and answer any questions you may have.
While Whistler Village is certainly charming, if you’re an adrenaline junkie, you’ll enjoy exploring the back-country terrain that few get to see!
With your guide leading the way, you’ll head straight into the heart of the Brandywine Valley on groomed trails that are perfect for complete newbies and advanced riders, alike.
I found this to be one of the more serene, “low-key” tours of its kind, making it more optimal for riders who haven’t quite found their confidence on a snowmobile yet.
Take in breathtaking views, scenic trails, and neverending lookout points as your tour guide tells you interesting facts, historical accounts, and funny anecdotes along the way.
They also provide the necessary winter gear to make sure you’re safe and comfortable throughout the entire time. They even provide hot drinks and snacks, so you won’t get chilly or hungry!
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
FAQs About Whistler Snowmobile Tours
Q: What should I wear snowmobiling?
A: We recommend wearing warm winter clothing, like ski pants and jackets, gloves, goggles, and boots. Keep in mind most tour operators will either let you borrow gear or rent it to you. They almost always provide helmets, googles and boots.
Q: How long are snowmobile tours?
A: Most snowmobile tours are from 2 to 3 hours. While that may not sound that long, it can be tiring being on a snowmobile if you are not used to it.
Q: How much does a snowmobile tour cost?
A: Typical cost for guided snowmobile tours is $180 on the low end for a 2 hour tour to $270 for a 3 hour tour with all the needed gear.
Q: Do I need experience to go on a snowmobiling tour?
A: In general no as most tours are designed for beginners or people that have never riden a snowmobile. As long as you follow directions you should be fine!
Q: Do I need all my own gear to go snowmobiling?
A: No you don’t but we would recommend having your own jackets, pants and gloves. While most tour operators have them, they may not fit well or be that warm. They will almost always provide a helmet and goggles.
Tips For Snowmobiling
- Get the gear: Before you even hop on your sled make sure you have all the right gear. Your tour operator should provide all the necessary gear. This includes warm and waterproof clothing, gloves, a helmet and goggles. The weather is unpredictable so you need to be prepared for anything.
- Learn the controls: Before even starting the engine, take some time getting familiar with the controls. Your tour guide should go over the operation with you first. Most snowmobiles have handlebars that control the throttle and brakes. Make sure you know which control does what before you start riding.
- Start slow: When you first start riding, take it slow and get a feel for the snowmobile. Start with gentle turns and gradual acceleration and gradually build up your speed as you get more comfortable.
- Use your body weight: Snowmobiles are like motorcycles, they responsive to shifting body weight, so use your body to control the sled. Lean into turns to maintain balance and use your body weight to help steer the snowmobile when needed.
- Watch your speed: Snowmobiles are fast but it’s important ride at a speed that you are comfortable with. Keep an eye out for hazards like rocks, trees and other snowmobiles and always ride at a safe speed for the conditions.
- Respect the environment: You will be exploring some of the most beautiful and fragile natural landscapes in the world. Be sure to stay on designated trails unless your guide gives you permission.
- Have fun: Finally, remember that snowmobiling is all about having fun and experiencing the thrill of adventure. Embrace the rush of adrenaline, take in the stunning scenery and enjoy the ride!
Sites Seen
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Value
The Whistler Wilderness Run Tour is our Editors Choice for the best Whistler snowmobile tour.
