The Pemby Pounder  ·  June 20, 2026

Getting
Here

Pemberton is 2 hours 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, and 2 hours 45 minutes from Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Drive from

Downtown Vancouver

2h 15m

via Highway 99 (Sea to Sky)

Drive from

Vancouver Airport (YVR)

2h 45m

via Highway 99 (Sea to Sky)

Drive from

Whistler Village

30 min

a perfect base for race weekend

The drive from Vancouver through Whistler on Highway 99 — the Sea to Sky Highway — is widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world. The winding road takes you past stunning views of the fjords of Howe Sound, through sheer rock faces, past lakes, glaciers, and up into the alpine forests of Whistler. Make sure you stop at one of the many viewpoints along the way.
Trail runners on the Mackenzie trail network near Pemberton BC

© Scott Robarts

Adventure Begins Here

Pemberton,
BC

The area was developed at the turn of the century as a result of forestry and agriculture. The Pemberton Valley lies northwest of the village and is famous for its seed potatoes — giving the area its nickname, "Spud Valley." Pemberton and district hosts world-class activities and recreation including snowmobiling, horseback riding, skiing, golfing, hiking, biking, rafting, jet boating, and gliding.

Pemberton is one of the best places to fish on the west coast — fly or spin fish in spectacular wilderness settings for trout, salmon, and steelhead. From remote alpine lakes to crystal clear mountain rivers, the Pemberton area has an abundance of fishing opportunities. Heli-fishing tours are available out of Pemberton.

Pemberton is an ideal base for exploring natural attractions including Joffre Lakes National Park, Birkenhead Lake, and Nairn Falls Provincial Park. Enjoy the self-guided Pemberton Farm Tour, u-pick farms, local breweries, and organic potato vodka distillery tours.

Visit Tourism Pemberton Big Sky Golf Farmers Market
Staying in Whistler?

Come for the race,
stay for the weekend.

I think it would be quicker to answer with what you can't do in Whistler. It's world renowned as a premier ski resort, but it's gaining recognition as a summer destination as well — and our race date falls right on the cusp of the summer holiday season, so the village is active but not yet at peak crowds.

Zip Trek Ecotours — Canada's longest zipline. Or bungee 160ft over the glacial Cheakamus River.

Whistler Peak Gondola — Ride up for breathtaking alpine views, then cross on the Peak to Peak to Blackcomb Mountain.

Hiking & Biking — World-class trails for every ability level in the Whistler alpine.

Boutique Village — Shops, art galleries, mountain outfitters, and Moguls Coffee House — a local favourite.

Dining — Cozy pubs, lively bars, Thai, Mexican, and five-star restaurants. Something for every budget and appetite.

Scandinave Spa — The perfect post-race recovery. A thermal journey followed by a stroll through the village and dinner on a patio.

Whistler Village summer activities

The Adventure Group

Whistler alpine views summer

Mark Mackay | Tourism Whistler

Plan Your Weekend

Saturday night in Whistler offers endless possibilities — a cozy pub, a lively bar, Thai or Mexican cuisine, or a five-star dining experience. Whatever you're craving, Whistler has it all. And don't be put off by the magnificent hotels and restaurants — there's an abundance of casual eats, bars, and accommodation for every price range. There's a reason people come and never leave!

Visit Tourism Whistler for the full array of activities and accommodation options.