Whistler Winter Activities for Non-Skiers
Spend a winter day at Whistler Sliding Centre, where the Olympic track offers a different way to experience the season. Ride in a bobsleigh with a trained pilot, try solo skeleton or learn to drive a sled with coaching. You can also explore the venue without riding, subject to permitted access and the track schedule.
Experience Whistler in Winter at the Olympic Track
Looking for things to do in Whistler without skiing? Whistler Sliding Centre offers three winter sliding experiences at its Olympic track: Passenger Bobsleigh, Public Skeleton and Discover Bobsleigh. Choose a ride with a trained pilot, a solo slide or a coached introduction to driving.
You do not need skiing skills to participate. Public sliding has its own requirements, so check the activity details before choosing for yourself or your group. Visitors interested in watching can plan a separate sightseeing visit within permitted access areas.
For an overview across seasons, compare our Olympic track experiences.
Try a Winter Sliding Experience
Passenger Bobsleigh
Take a seat in a shared bobsleigh and experience the ice track with a trained pilot steering. Your visit begins with an orientation, so you can learn what to expect before the ride.
This is a winter option for visitors who want to ride without learning to drive. Participants must be at least 14. Each rider aged 14–15 must ride with an accompanying adult, at a 1:1 ratio.
Public Skeleton
Try the track from a different position: headfirst on your own skeleton sled. Public Skeleton is a solo winter experience, with an orientation and help from the track team before you slide.
Consider this if the individual experience appeals to you more than sharing a bobsleigh. The minimum age is 16. Read the activity’s full requirements and preparation information before deciding whether it suits you.
Learn to Drive With Discover Bobsleigh
Want to make learning a new sport part of your winter visit? Discover Bobsleigh introduces you to the skills involved in piloting a sled. A coach guides the introduction before participants take to the ice in a training bobsleigh, with pilot and passenger/brakeman roles.
The program is open to eligible participants aged 16 and up, with no previous experience required. Check the activity page for role options, requirements and registration information.
Explore the Venue Without Riding
A visit can focus on the Olympic venue itself. Follow the self-guided interpretive route through permitted public areas, learn about the sliding sports and see the track from a visitor’s perspective.
Winter spectating is possible when sliding is scheduled and viewing access is permitted. General public-area access is free, although selected events may charge admission. Check visiting information before travelling; a sightseeing visit does not guarantee that athletes will be on track.
Plan Your Winter Visit
Choose a session before planning the rest of your day. Review your activity’s availability and booking information. Public rides, coached programs and athlete training follow different schedules. A venue opening time does not confirm that your preferred experience is available.
Check requirements for everyone taking part. Minimum age alone does not establish eligibility. Review the relevant height, weight and health requirements, along with accompaniment rules and preparation instructions. If you are unsure, contact the venue before booking.
Dress for outdoor winter conditions. Plan for time outside and choose footwear suitable for potentially slippery walkways. Follow your activity’s clothing instructions. Snow and weather can affect public-area access, so check ahead if anyone in your group has mobility requirements.
Confirm your route and the schedule. The venue is at 4910 Glacier Lane in Whistler, British Columbia, above Whistler Village on Blackcomb Mountain. Consult Hours & Directions for access information and This Week On Track when planning to watch sliding. Contact Guest Services if the information for your intended visit is unclear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to ski?
No. These experiences do not require skiing ability or previous sliding experience. You still need to meet the participation requirements for the activity you choose. Read the relevant activity page before booking.
Can children take part in the winter activities?
Passenger Bobsleigh is for ages 14 and up, with one accompanying adult per rider aged 14–15. Public Skeleton and Discover Bobsleigh have a minimum age of 16. Height, weight and health requirements also apply.
Can I visit without booking a ride?
Yes. You can plan a sightseeing visit during permitted visiting times. Spectating also depends on scheduled sliding and viewing access. Selected events may charge admission.
Are the experiences available throughout winter?
Each program has its own operating dates and available sessions. Check your chosen activity’s information before making plans. Athlete training and sightseeing schedules may differ from public ride availability.
