Leanna W.
Yelp
Our fragile little Southern Californian bodies braved the cold to try out snowshoeing, and Whistler Olympic Park was the perfect place to do so.
We rented our snowshoes from the main lodge, which also had cross country ski rentals (apparently 90km of cross country trails, whatever that is in miles), snowboards, tobogganing, and so many more wintery things that are completely separate from my understanding of normal outdoor activities. I mean, where else can you find biathlon lessons?
Obviously the surrounding area is gorgeous in winter, a wonderland of quiet white stillness, forests and forests of evergreens, and creek beds lined with powdery snow and ice. There are frequent signs and maps to keep you oriented along the snowshoeing trails, which was great for us noobs. You can do anything from short out-and-back trips to several miles of strenuous trails.
One star docked because I thought the snowshoes were pretty pricey for a rental - a flat rate of $16 regardless of the time you spend with them. They definitely did not seem to be in high demand either as there were dozens of pairs behind the register. Maybe instead do an hourly rate instead? This is in addition to a per-person entry fee to the park. Also, some of the cross county skiers were surprisingly rude when we stepped on their track - I get we were in the wrong, but have a little grace and chill out just a bit.