My Whistler Bike Park Experience with Marin
As a mid-pack Ontario rider, I spend most of my time glued to the trail, trying to keep the rubber side down. But like many mountain bikers, I’ve always dreamed of heading west to ride the ultimate destination: Whistler Bike Park.
Opening Day at Whistler is called “Whistmas.” While I didn’t make it for Whistmas, my visit might have been even better!
What Is Whistler Bike Park?
Whistler Bike Park is a mountain biking paradise located in stunning British Columbia, Canada. It’s one of the most famous bike parks in the world, offering:
- Over 80 kilometers of lift-accessed trails for all skill levels.
- Beginner-friendly runs for casual riders.
- Technical, expert-only trails for thrill-seekers.
With breathtaking alpine scenery and perfectly maintained trails, Whistler is a bucket-list destination for mountain bikers.
Whistler’s Famous Trails
Whistler is home to iconic trails like A-Line and Dirt Merchant. These are the trails you see in videos featuring top riders like Matt Jones and Mark Matthews.
But don’t worry if you’re not at their level! For average riders, there are plenty of beginner and intermediate trails to explore.
Where to Start?
- Uno Mas: Known for its smooth flow and scenic views, this trail is perfect for riders of all abilities. It’s a great introduction to Whistler’s terrain.
Choosing the Right Bike
Most Ontario trail centers can accommodate a range of bikes. Whistler, however, is best suited for a downhill (DH) bike.
- Why a DH bike? The beefy tires and bigger suspension handle the steep descents and technical terrain much better.
- Renting Options: If you don’t own a DH bike, there are plenty of rental shops in the village. I recommend checking out Black Diamond.
Riding with Marin at Whistler
In July 2024, I got the chance to ride Whistler with the Marin Squad. It was an unforgettable experience with an incredible group of people—from beginners like me to pro riders like Martha Gill and Morgane Such.
The Quake: A DH Bike Built for Fun
During the trip, I had the opportunity to test Marin’s new DH rig, The Quake.
- Performance: It handled every braking bump and made trails like Uno Mas feel as smooth as a carpet.
- Recommendation: If you plan to ride the park, I cannot recommend a DH bike enough. The Quake is a fantastic option.
More Than Just Downhill
Our Whistler adventure wasn’t all about downhill laps. We also explored:
- Neighbourhood singletrack: Perfect for trail bikes like the Marin Alpine Trail.
- Blackcomb trails: Featuring diverse terrain and beautiful views, guided by a transplanted Ontarian.
Keep an eye out for the videos—we captured some incredible moments!
Why You Should Visit Whistler
Ontario is a mountain biker’s paradise with an impressive variety of trail systems. But there’s something magical about Whistler.
- The sheer joy of riding a chairlift to the Top of the World is unmatched.
- Trails like Uno Mas and others offer a mix of challenge and fun for every rider.
Start making plans to visit—you won’t regret it!
Final Thoughts and Thank You
Whistler was an incredible experience, and I’m grateful to Marin for making it happen. From the rides to the camaraderie, it was a weekend to remember.
If you followed along on Instagram, I hope my posts made it feel like you were there with us. Stay tuned for even more videos—we’ve got some great footage coming your way!
