High Note Trail and Matthew's Traverse — Attraction in Whistler Resort Municipality

We loved the High Note trail. We chose to go on the Half Note, which starts at the same place but doesn't take quite as long.

The views along this trail were spectacular, so please do yourself a favour and take it!

It is a difficult trail, so be prepared. There are many steep portions. More information can be found below.

It took us about 3 hours to hike the half note, but keep in mind that I am a photographer and I averaged a short photo stop about every 2-4 minutes.

I found the most spectacular views to be on the south-facing side of the mountain, with views of Black Tusk Mountain, Cheakamus Lake, and essentially every other mountain and glacier in the area. This side of the mountain also had several wildflower fields and shallow creeks flowing across the trail. We saw a few marmuts on this side as well.

Some trail info, taken from the guide:

Half Note: 3.2 km, 75 minutes, 136 m elevation change. A shortened route from the High Note Trail, which connects with Pika's Traverse back to the Roundhouse Lodge. You can also loop back to the starting point around the Peak Express.

High Note: 9.4 km, 4 hours, 420 m elevation change. Apparently, this is the best hiking experience on Whistler Mtn, identified as a "signature" trail with "world-class alpine hiking." Along with what I mentioned above, there are beautiful views, and a rugged terrain mellows into a rolling course. Loop back to the Roundhouse Lodge by heading north at the trail junction away from Flute summit and Singing Pass. You can also loop back to the starting point around the Peak Express.

Matthew's Traverse: 0.9 km, 45 minutes, 82 m elevation change. Enjoy panoramic views along this mtn road to the summit of Whistler Mtn.

The above 3 trails are listed as "black", meaning the most difficult. There are steep inclines and declines over narrow trails with loose footing. High time commitment and effort are needed, along with hiking footwear and provisions.

There are other, less difficult trails that range from 0.6 km (10 min) to 1.9 km (90...

My fiance and I did this hike today and loved it! Definitely a good challenge with unreal views and our knees/legs are a tad sore! we purchased our lift tickets ahead of time, picked them up promptly at 9am, rode the Blackcomb Gondola up at 930am, peak to peak at 1015am and made it to The Peak gondola on the Whistler side at 11am (first ride up, open Fri-Sun) to start the hike at 1110am! we'd recommend doing something similar, given it was already packed and many others had the same plan ;) the hike itself starts off downwards over some rocky terrain (poles recommended!) and eventually flattens out into a beautiful valley with lots of views of the surrounding mountains and river/lake. around 2.5km (and at least once per km) it gets a little steep and strenuous, but overall we found the entire hike a rather good mix of ascent, descent, flatter portions with the occasional switchback for good measure. you're open to the sun and the elements the entire time, so we'd recommend a good hat, poles, good shoes and lots of water. we saw many families with younger children doing this hike and they all looked like they were having a blast! we completed the route in 3hours with a short lunch break and lots of stops for pictures. don't miss this hike, it's been our favorite part of...

The High Note Trail and Matthew's Traverse on Whistler Mountain offer an unforgettable hiking experience. The High Note Trail starts from the top of the Peak Express Chairlift, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Cheakamus Lake and surrounding peaks. It's a moderately challenging trail, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Matthew's Traverse connects seamlessly, providing a mix of alpine terrain and wildflower meadows.

Many hikers praise the trail's well-maintained paths and clear signage, making it accessible even for less experienced hikers. A common highlight is the stunning sight of Whistler's iconic landscape, particularly during sunrise or sunset.

After a long hike, consider visiting Purebread for a variety of delicious baked goods, or stop by the Whistler Village Starbucks for a well-deserved coffee. For a more substantial meal, The Old Spaghetti Factory offers hearty dishes perfect for refueling. Don't forget to check out the Whistler Blackcomb retail store for any last-minute gear or souvenirs. This trail duo is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast...