But, it’s true that this mountain town has a reputation for being… pricey. Luxury chalets, ski trips, and big-ticket adventures are often part of the conversation and for backpacker-style travellers, these things are out of the question (we get you).

But come late summer or fall, Whistler shows off more of another side—laid-back, trail-laced, less crowded, and full of ways to explore without overspending. The jagged peaks and glassy alpine lakes look like they belong on a postcard, and the trailheads start right off the village streets. By day, you’ve got hikes, bike paths, and swims that cost nothing more than your fitness and energy. (When travelling in spaces like these, physical strength is priceless so don’t take that for granted!) By night, Whistler hums with backpackers, buskers, and patio chatter—plus plenty of spots where you can keep food and drinks cheap if you know where to look.

During the shoulder season, the weather’s a toss-up—bluebird skies or mist coming in over the mountains—but that’s part of the charm. Aim for coziness when the temperatures drop or go for a full adventure when the sky is clear. For backpackers, Whistler is equal parts a place for adventurous travellers and a hangout for downtime without breaking the bank. Here’s what to plan for.

Working up an appetite without racking up costs

For those who refuse to let a small budget keep them from having amazing adventures, maximizing time outdoors is the way to go. Canada is so full of gorgeous landscapes, and even if you’re not “outdoorsy,” you and your friends can still enjoy a basic walk, picnic, or short bike ride with a view. 

Whistler is the place to spend sunrise until sunset, enjoying what nature has to offer. Seriously, its lakes, peaks, and hiking trails will make you want to cancel your return ticket. Don’t fret for one minute about not being able to afford expensive tours or rentals—none of us can do it all anyway! Instead, spend your days in any of these spots:

• The Valley Trail

  If you’re a runner or looking for an active day to walk or cycle with travel friends, Whistler’s Valley Trail is where you want to be. The trail is 40 kilometres of paved pathway that winds through forests, lakes, and neighbourhoods. It’s free, easy to hop on from the village, and perfect for an active afternoon outside. If it’s hot in late summer, wander until you find a lake to jump into.

• Train Wreck Trail

  Hikeable from the HI Whistler hostel, this short forest trail leads to brightly graffiti-covered boxcars scattered in the woods—relics of a 1950s train derailment. A suspension bridge over the Cheakamus River makes the walk as scenic as it is quirky. You’ll appreciate the scents of pine trees, sounds of rushing water, photo ops of the abandoned train, and the satisfaction of being on a truly original Canadian hiking route.  

• Lost Lake

  Lost Lake is a short walk from the village, so if you and other backpackers are without a car, this is a top go-to spot for you. It’s basically Whistler’s backyard swimming hole. The sandy beach and grassy park fill with sunbathers on warm days, and the surrounding trails offer easy loops for hiking, running, or biking. Bring a picnic, a cold beverage, iced coffee, and a book, and this is one solid day spent in Whistler. 

• Brandywine Falls

  Located halfway between Squamish and Whistler, Brandywine Falls is a major draw in the area (yes, you’ll likely need a car for this one). This is one of *the* spots to see with its 70-metre waterfall that plunges dramatically into a canyon. Plan for a little hike and extra time at the base of the waterfall. This place is special, and you won’t want to feel rushed!

• Green Lake

  This glacial lake is impossible to miss with its shockingly turquoise water (hence its name). Because it’s fairly big, it’s colder than the others nearby, but it's worth a stop for the mountain reflections, lakeside trails, water sports, or a picnic with friends in nature and away from the main village buzz. Jump in if you can brave chilly water!

Choose your own adventure: The DIY pub crawl

After being outside all day, you’ll want to satiate your appetite and cheers a cold one with friends. But cheap is the magic word here. This list below (with notes on deals) is a way to build your own Whistler pub crawl… without paying crazy tabs.

• Cheaky’s Cafe

  This one is right inside HI Whistler! Saturday is the day to go here, as you can expect deals all day. From $4 beers, $7 cocktails, $9 nachos, $12 Fireball shots, we know what you want, and that’s why we serve it!
   

• Pizzeria Antico 

  From 3-5 pm, all B.C. craft beers are on special for $5, and you can get 50% off margherita pizzas. Yes. We know.
   

• Hunter Gather 

  Happy hour just sounds better when it’s plural. Your happy hours here are from 3-5 pm and 8-10 pm, where you can plan for $5 select beers and 25% select dishes. All day for HI Members!
   

• Table 19 

  Picture this: After a day of exploring some of the prettiest spots outdoors in and around Whistler, you settle in for a late lunch with friends, and pizzas are half price. And from 3-5 pm, wine and beer are $7.50.
   

• El Furniture Warehouse 

  Dive pubs are always a go on a backpacker pub crawl. Drinks here can cost $4-6.
   

• Amsterdam Cafe & Pub

  Monday to Thursday from 12-3 pm, you can get a pilsner jug and nachos for $40, pitchers for $17, or a lager and a sandwich for $28. Also watch for the daily specials!
   

• Mexican Corner

  From 3-4:30 pm, Mexican Corner offers $9 margaritas, $5 Modelo Especial, and $6 tequila shots. Plus, it’s a really cute restaurant and the food is soooo good!
   

• Forecast Coffee 

  This is a pretty well-known coffee shop, so if you need a little pick-me-up after the trails, this is your place! Happy hour is daily from 3-5 pm.
   

• Dubh Linn Gate 

  Here, backpackers will strike gold for all the favourites on a Whistler trip: B.C. craft beers, cheap mixed drinks, and wine from 5-7 pm six days a week. More importantly, there’s live music and daily food specials too! This is your apres apres ski place come winter. 
   

• HandleBar Pizza 

  Great pizza, B.C. craft beer, a fun energy, and bagels—an underrated Canadian treat!

Enjoy Whistler, have fun while saving your hard-earned cash, and don’t do anything we wouldn’t do!