Squamish has plenty of things for families to do, but during the long summer, parents may want to head north just for a day.
Whether you're looking to spend time with the kids hiking through less-familiar trails or learning about the natural beauty that can be found throughout the Sea to Sky, Whistler is home to an abundance of activities for kids of all ages.
For kids who love to ride, bring your bike to Whistler's first BMX track, which opened in 2016, and offers a large area and a variety of features for riders of all ages and abilities.
Located in Bayly Park in the Cheakamus Crossing neighbourhood, the track is run by the volunteer-based Whistler BMX Club, which hosts races and events at the track during the summer months.
Kids can ride on dirt jumpers or mountain bikes if they don't have their own BMX bikes, said Whistler BMX president Jody Hallett in an email.
Hallett also noted that helmets are mandatory and protective gear is recommended. Users are asked to abide by the rules posted at the track.
The track is open to the public from dawn to dusk, weather permitting when race events are not taking place.
The schedule for races and events can be found at www.whistlerbmx.com
Once the snow has cleared, go for a hike through the secluded trail around Cheakamus Lake. A local favourite, this trail is one of the easier hikes in Garibaldi Provincial Park, offering stunning views of the lake's turquoise waters and snow-capped mountains in the background.
The trail is well maintained and accessible for hikers of all ages and abilities, making it a perfect place for families to spend the day. On a hot sunny day, hikers can jump in the glacier water to cool down along the way.
The trail runs 16 kilometres round-trip, but beautiful views of the lake can be found just past the 3km mark. If you're looking for a shorter trip, take the Helm Lake trail to the Cheakamus River, and take in the view from the bridge.
Camping is also permitted during the summer months, but the trail is not dog friendly, so furry friends will have to stay at home.
If you're trying to stay dry on a rainy day, head over to the Escape Room and immerse yourself in one of four different scenarios, using real-life props and clues to solve the challenge and escape.
Players get to choose a theme and are locked into a room in groups of two to six people, for 45 minutes to try and solve a series of tasks.
"The rooms are built kind of like movie sets, so there are sound effects and lighting in there," said Whitney Soboll, an employee at the Escape Room. "It's kind of like acting in your own little movie, with lots of challenges along the way."
Soboll recommends the Pirate Ship for kids or beginners. Players begin by being handcuffed in jail and have to get their hands free to find the ultimate treasure.
Sea to Sky locals can visit the Escape Room at a reduced price in May.
An adult must accompany children under 13, and parents are encouraged to join in on the fun.
For full details, visit escapewhistler.com.
For nature lovers, the Whistler Museum is offering a public education program to teach kids about the surrounding forests, wetlands, and animals that call Whistler home.
Grab a Discover Nature Activity Booklet, on sale at the Whistler Museum and Lost Lake during the summer months. The booklet is self-guided and complete with fun activities to teach kids about all of the natural beauty and wonders found in the area.
For July and August, there will be a Discover Nature Station open Tuesdays to Friday from 10 a.m.to 4 p.m. The station will be located by the concession at Lost Lake and will feature demonstrations that families can interact with based on a different theme for each day of operation. There will also be nature walks and other fun activities for the whole family to enjoy.
A local favourite, the Lost Lake trails have something to offer for the whole family, whether you're looking for a short hike, or want to ride through the network of mountain biking trails. Take a dip from one of the docks to cool off in the hot summer months. And don't forget to bring your furry friends along for this one. Dogs are welcome at the dog park, Canine Cove, found 400 metres to the north of Lost Lake beach. They are not allowed on Lost Lake beach, however. Parking isn't available at Lost Lake during the summer months, but a free shuttle frequently runs from Whistler Village, and the lake is easily accessible by the Valley Trail.
Test out your acrobatic moves at the Kiss the Sky Bungee Trampoline, slide your way down the mountain on the Westcoaster Slide, or challenge your friends to a game of mini golf at Whistler's version of a kids amusement park.
Located at the base of the Blackcomb Mountain, the Kids Adventure Zone is home to a wide range of activities varying in price for kids of all ages to enjoy.
Activities are open every day during the summer, weather permitting.
For parents, the Whistler Farmers Market is only a few steps away, where you will find local vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and delicious food.
The Farmers Market is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays from May to October and 2 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays during July and August.
