Whistler’s Culture, Coffee Spots and Iconic Ski Runs Highlight Its Winter Appeal

Whistler’s charm extends far beyond its slopes. Boosted by its role as a host venue during the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, the resort town offers an impressive mix of restaurants, cultural attractions and major events at the base of the mountain.

Named after the twin peaks towering above it, Whistler Blackcomb has long been a bucket‑list destination for skiers worldwide including freeskiing pioneer Mike Douglas, often dubbed “the godfather of freeskiing.” Douglas first arrived from Vancouver Island at age 18, when Whistler and Blackcomb were still separate resorts and the local population hovered around 3,000. Within two years, he had earned spots on both the BC and Canadian freestyle teams, cementing his place at the forefront of ski culture.

Rockit Coffee Co: A Local Favourite
For skiers looking to fuel up before hitting the slopes, Douglas recommends Rockit Coffee Co, located at the base of the Creekside Gondola, one of the resort’s original lifts and the endpoint of his favourite run, Peak to Creek. Situated in Whistler Creekside, 4.2km south of the main village, Rockit is accessible by ski and lift.

“It’s my go‑to coffee shop these days,” Douglas says.

Rockit’s appeal lies in its retro‑music vibe and cosy atmosphere. The café is decorated with 1970s‑style posters, quirky art pieces and a wall stacked with vintage speakers. Visitors can warm up by the wood stove, perch on window stools or relax in an egg‑shaped capsule chair.

Douglas notes that Creekside offers a more local feel than the main village — and he often bikes there himself. “Now that I’ve got an e‑bike, I’ve been using that to go skiing sometimes. I’ll ride over to Rockit and just lock it up, riding wearing my ski boots!”

Peak to Creek: A Whistler Classic
The legendary Peak to Creek run begins atop Whistler Peak, offering sweeping 180‑degree views of the southern Coast Mountains before winding all the way down to the Creekside Gondola. Douglas calls it “a classic.”

The run is exhilarating in ideal snow conditions but becomes significantly more challenging when not fully groomed which is common. “It can get pretty gnarly down at the bottom there!” Douglas says. “It’s a good all‑rounder, a big challenge and something people often want to try by the end of the week.”

Fortunately, the run ends beside Dusty’s, a beloved après‑ski spot known for its beers and hearty BBQ plates. “The pulled‑pork sandwich is always a fave there,” Douglas adds.