Coast Salish First Nations peoples lived in the Whistler area for thousands of years prior to the arrival of the British Naval officers who surveyed the area in the 1860’s. It is believed these early Europeans coined the name’ Whistler’ because of the distinctive ‘whistling’ of the western hoary marmots that inhabit the area.
While trappers, prospectors and outdoor adventurers enjoyed the majestic terrain for many years, it was not until a highway from Vancouver was completed in 1965 that Whistler blossomed into a recreational wonderland. Garibaldi Whistler Mountain opened in 1966. Whistler was granted the status of the first Resort Municipality in Canada in 1975. The opening of Blackcomb Mountain in 1980 resulted in one of the largest skiing complexes in North America.
In 2010 Vancouver and Whistler proudly and successfully hosted the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Today Whistler is a vibrant hub of sport enthusiasts, artists, restaurants, hotels and shopping. A thrilling destination for tourists and a wondrous place to call home.