An Adventure-Seeker’s Guide to Winter in Pemberton
Whitecap Alpine PC: Reuben Krabbe
When the snow starts stacking deep in the Coast Mountains, Pemberton transforms into a playground for winter adventurers. Just 30 minutes north of Whistler, this small town is packed with big adventure. It’s a vast wilderness playground that draws backcountry tourers, snowmobilers, snowbikers, ice-climbers, heli-skiing and more. There are no lift-lines here, just unlimited untracked potential.
Heli-Skiing and Ski-Touring
Pemberton’s legendary terrain draws skiers and riders from around the world. From the steep chutes of Mount Currie to the endless powder bowls off the Duffey Lake Road, the options are nearly limitless. Guided experiences with local operators like Coast Range Heliskiing, Whistler Heli-Skiing, or Whitecap Alpine offer guided access to untouched terrain and untracked powder that you won’t find on the Resort in nearby Whistler.
Heli-Skiing Operators:
Guided Ski-Touring Operators:
Experienced in the backcountry? For those with the skill and knowledge, Pemberton is home to multitudes of backcountry huts perfect for self-guided touring adventures. Check them out here.
Snowmobiling & Snowbiking
There’s a reason almost every truck in Pemberton is carrying a sled as you drive through town. With zones surrounding the Valley, there’s endless terrain for sledders and snowbikers to challenge themselves, explore or improve. Local operators Broken Boundary and Ride Whistler are your go-to’s for guided snowmobiling and snowbiking tours, clinics, snowmobile skiing and snowmobile ice-fishing. Experience why the Pemberton Ice Cap is a sledders haven.
Self-guiding on your trip to Pemberton? Consider supporting the Pemberton Valley Snowmobile Club, who maintain the Rutherford FSR (the gateway to the Pemberton Icecap)
Ice Fishing and Winter Lakes
When the lakes freeze over, the stillness of the Pemberton Valley offers a quieter kind of adventure. When the conditions align, you can often find the town out on One Mile Lake, enjoying an ice skate. Note: Do your research - never just assume a lake that looks frozen is thick enough to skate on. A general guideline is that 4 inches of clear ice is safe for walking and skating. Only skate on ice that has been publicly declared safe for skating
If you want to enjoy a truly Canadian Experience ‘on the water’, join Pemberton Fish Finder for an ice-fishing tour.
Local tip: Pack a thermos of hot coffee, layers, and patience — it’s as much about the experience as the catch.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing (Hiking)
For those happy to hike, head to Nairn Falls Provincial Park or One Mile Lake Park for scenic snowshoe trails (dependent on snow you may be able to hike - however, cleats are recommended in case of icy conditions!). Joffre Lakes is also open year-round - we recommend packing for any condition! Hiking boots with cleats may be ok, but sometimes a snowshoe is recommended for deeper snow. Winter hiking comes with more risks than Summer - pack extra layers, be prepared for any emergency, know what to do if you injure yourself, and always carry a satellite device. Dress for the conditions and be ready to boot-pack through deep snow (waterproof layers, high boots recommended).
For X-Country skiers, farms, golf courses and nearby trails often open up cross-country skiing loops. Check back for updates as this can be a seasonal thing!
Extra Thrills
You don’t have to be a backcountry enthusiast to enjoy thrills in Pemberton. Hit the shooting range with Whistler Shooting Adventures - perfect for groups, parties, or families looking to try something unique!
Or take to the skies to enjoy a breathtaking helicopter tour with Blackcomb Helicopters. Suitable for everyone, passengers can experience and witness the incredible Coast Mountains backcountry that makes up Whistler and Pemberton without having to venture into it!
Cozy Home Bases
After a big adventure, you want somewhere to rest your weary bones. For out-of-town sledders, Pemberton Valley Lodge offers the perfect base camp with a parking lot designed for big toys. Rest up in their hot tub, stay close to town with all the snacks, and hit the Highway nice and early thanks to their prime location.
For something a little cozier and recuperatory, check out Sweetwater Lane Farm for quick access to the Birkenhead and Duffy regions, Joffre Creek Cabins for prime Duffy Road and Lillooet Lake road access, and Drumkeeran House for family or group stays near Mosquito Lake.