Discover the top things to do in Pemberton with our essential guide. Ready to explore? Dive into outdoor adventures, indulge in farm-fresh eats, unravel Pemberton’s history, and more. Each recommendation is designed to make your visit truly memorable, catering to foodies, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Key Takeaways
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Pemberton Valley is a haven for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Currie and lush landscapes.
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The region offers a rich culinary scene that includes farm-to-table dining experiences, local breweries and distilleries, and a range of eateries like The Pony Restaurant, embracing Pemberton’s farming heritage.
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Families can enjoy a variety of activities such as U-Pick at North Arm Farm and water sports on beautiful lakes, while thrill-seekers can find adrenaline-pumping experiences like skydiving and paragliding.
Experience the Great Outdoors in Pemberton
Tucked beneath the shadows of Mount Currie, Pemberton Valley serves as a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. The town, a short drive from Whistler, is an untamed paradise, offering a plethora of including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, all under the watchful eyes of the breathtaking mountains.
Whether you’re staying at the Pemberton Valley Lodge or venturing into the Pemberton’s backcountry, the awe-inspiring landscapes never fail to impress. From the stunning views of the provincial park to the vibrant Pemberton’s Farmers Market, every day in Pemberton is ripe with potential for an adventure.
Hiking Adventures
Experiencing Pemberton’s trails offers a unique hiking adventure. With 38 scenic trails, the town caters to all hiking enthusiasts, offering a range of routes suitable for all ages and preferences. The Nairn Falls Provincial Park, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, and Rohr Lake trails are just a few that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
For those seeking a challenge, the Mount Currie trail is a demanding ascent that rewards hikers with sweeping panoramic views. On the other hand, families looking for a more leisurely experience can enjoy the One Mile Lake trail, a flat path that remains accessible even in winter, offering a perfect opportunity for a Whistler day trip.
Mountain Biking Excursions
Mountain bikers find a thrilling playground in Pemberton’s rugged terrain, just off Pemberton Meadows Road. The town offers trails suitable for every level of experience, catering to beginners and advanced riders alike.
Popular trails like Lumpy’s Epic and One Mile Lake Loop provide stunning views of Mount Currie and Green River. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping descents or leisurely rides amidst breathtaking sceneries, Pemberton’s mountain biking trails will leave you captivated.
Horseback Riding Tours
With the highest number of horses per capita in British Columbia, Pemberton- is a prime destination for equestrian activities. The diverse terrain of the Pemberton Valley offers serene trails along the river and leading up to alpine areas like Tenquille Lake, catering to riders of all skill levels and age groups.
Copper Cayuse Outfitters are specialists in backcountry horseback guiding, offering extended treks to remote areas like Birkenhead and Tenquille Lake. From tenting to lodge stays, the company provides various accommodation options during their multi-day mountain rides, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience in the wilderness.
Savor Pemberton’s Culinary Delights
The fertile lands of Pemberton contribute to a rich array of farm-to-table dining experiences, offering delicious local food. The town’s culinary landscape is colored by meats, organic vegetables, and the locally renowned Pemberton potatoes, all of which find their way into delightful dishes at local eateries.
From The Pony Restaurant’s locally sourced menu and stunning Mount Currie views to Backcountry Pizza’s distinct crust pizzas, Barn Nork’s authentic Thai cuisine, and the popular BBQ Yellowtail Roll at Fish & Rice Sushi, Pemberton’s culinary scene is ripe with flavors to savor. To further enhance the gastronomic experience, the town also hosts special events like the Araxi Longtable Dinner and Slow Food Cycle Sunday, providing visitors with an authentic taste of Pemberton’s culture and cuisine.
Farm-Fresh Dining
For farm-fresh dining, North Arm Farm and Mile One Eating House stand as premier destinations in Pemberton. These establishments offer a unique culinary experience, showcasing local ingredients in their diverse and delectable menus.
At North Arm Farm, visitors can engage in U-Pick activities, selecting from a variety of fruits such as strawberries and blueberries when in season. Coupled with a dine-in menu reflecting the local produce and craft markets, North Arm Farm offers a unique farm-to-table experience that will leave you savoring the flavors of Pemberton.
Coffee Breaks and Sweet Treats
For a rejuvenating coffee break, the Mount Currie Coffee Company is a must-visit spot in Pemberton. Visitors can enjoy a selection of coffee options and an array of snack choices, all showcasing locally-sourced ingredients for that fresh and vibrant flavor.
For sweet-toothed visitors, Pemberton’s charming bakeries offer a diverse array of freshly made pastries and delicious espresso beverages. Whether you’re in the mood for a buttery croissant or a hearty muffin, these bakeries promise to satisfy your cravings with their delectable offerings.
Local Breweries and Distilleries
In the realm of beverages, Pemberton stands out. Family-run establishments like The Beer Farmers and Pemberton Distillery are renowned for crafting beverages with locally sourced ingredients.
The Beer Farmers, with their four generations of family farming, specialize in craft beers made from their own farm-grown barley and hops. On the other hand, Pemberton’s Distillery sets itself apart with certified organic and craft spirit production, including the world’s only certified organic potato vodka. These establishments provide a unique taste of Pemberton, one that will linger on your palate long after your visit.
Laughing Crow Organics
Laughing Crow Organics is a charming farm in Pemberton that offers seasonal activities to visitors from June to November. Visitors can enjoy navigating through a beautiful sunflower maze during the summer, and participate in pumpkin picking during the harvest season.
Every weekend in October, the farm organizes wagon rides from 10 am to 4 pm, adding to the festive autumn experience. Whether you’re navigating the sunflower maze or enjoying a wagon ride, a visit to Laughing Crow Organics promises a day filled with fun and laughter.
Water Adventures and Scenic Lakes
Beyond mountains and meadows, Pemberton, BC also hosts some of the most beautiful lakes and rivers in British Columbia. From Mosquito Lake and Ivey Lake, perfect for a refreshing dip, to the family-friendly beach at Birkenhead Lake, the region is a paradise for water-lovers and a great location to use a Pemberton fish finder.
For a unique water adventure, why not try paddleboarding at One Mile Lake or explore the serene waters of Birkenhead Lake with a kayak? And if you’re a fishing enthusiast, Anderson Lake is renowned for its opportunities for water skiing, wakeboarding, and fishing.
One Mile Lake Park
When in Pemberton, a visit to One Mile Lake Park is a must. With milky green waters, scenic views, and opportunities to observe wildlife, the park is a haven for nature lovers.
Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake, engage in some paddleboarding or kayaking, or take a leisurely stroll along the unique wooden path that winds along the lakefront. Complete with benches for relaxation and small beaches for a tranquil escape, One Mile Lake Park offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity.
Lillooet Lake and Green River
For recreational activities, Lillooet Lake serves as an idyllic spot. Known for its tranquil waters, the lake is a hub for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. And don’t forget to pack your fishing gear – rainbow trout, lake trout, and Dolly Varden can be caught in the lake’s clear waters.
For an adrenaline rush, head over to Green River, known for its Class 2-3 rapids. Trust us, navigating the rapids while enjoying stunning mountain views is an experience you wouldn’t want to miss.
And for those seeking a higher level of adventure, the Birkenhead River features Class 3 white water rafting for a more exhilarating experience.
Adrenaline-Pumping Experiences
If you’re ready for a heart-pounding adventure, from soaring through the skies with paragliding adventures to leaping from an airplane with Whistler Skydiving, the town offers adrenaline-pumping activities that are sure to get your heart racing.
If white water rafting is more your speed, navigate the rapids of Green River and Birkenhead River. Or for a unique water adventure, race through Nairn Falls on a jet boat for a splash of adventure. There’s never a dull moment in Pemberton, especially for thrill-seekers.
Paragliding with Cayoosh Expeditions
Offering an exhilarating tandem paragliding experience, Cayoosh Expeditions provides unparalleled views of Pemberton’s mountains and valleys.
Participants in the paragliding experience will:
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Be whisked away to the McKenzie Upper Paragliding Launch site at an altitude of approximately 4,200 feet in a robust 4×4 vehicle
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Experience a tandem paragliding flight that lasts around 20 minutes
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Have ample time to soak in the breathtaking surroundings
Skydiving with Whistler Skydiving
Whistler Skydiving offers a tandem skydive experience, guided by a professional instructor, overlooking the remarkable landscapes of Pemberton Valley from the sky highway of breathtaking views.
During the skydive, participants have the opportunity to witness stunning panoramic views that include Mt. Currie, the localities of Pemberton and Whistler. To capture the exhilarating moments of the skydive, Whistler Skydiving offers a range of photo and video packages, ensuring that participants can relive their experience over and over.
Explore Pemberton’s Rich History and Culture
Delving into Pemberton’s rich history and culture is a must for a full appreciation of the area. The Pemberton Museum and the Pemberton Farmers Market offer the perfect gateway to the town’s past and present, providing a deeper understanding of the area’s heritage.
Pemberton Museum
The Pemberton Museum, showcasing a significant collection of historical artifacts, narrates the rich story of Pemberton Valley’s development and the lives of its early settlers.
The museum also offers educational activities to engage visitors of all ages. Interactive learning experiences include:
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Virtual scavenger hunts
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Folklife interviews
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Coloring sheets
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History-themed puzzles and quizzes
These activities make a visit to the museum both fun and informative.
Pemberton Farmers Market
From June to October, every Friday brings the Pemberton Downtown Barn to life with the Pemberton Farmers Market. Here, local vendors and artisans come together, offering fresh produce, handmade items, and a vibrant snapshot of the region’s culture.
From Blackwater Creek Orchard’s fruits to Devine Gardens’ delicious ice cream sandwiches, the market offers a taste of Pemberton’s rich agricultural heritage.
Summary
From hiking and horseback riding in the great outdoors, savoring farm-fresh dining and locally crafted brews, to diving into adrenaline-pumping activities and immersing in the town’s rich history and culture, Pemberton offers an enriching and diverse experience for every traveler. So pack your bags and set your GPS to Pemberton – your adventure awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Nairn Falls Trail?
The Nairn Falls Trail is a 3 km round trip, and hikers should plan for at least one hour to complete the hike and wear appropriate attire for hiking. Enjoy your outdoor adventure!
What are the three lakes in Pemberton BC?
Joffre Lake Provincial Park in Pemberton, BC features three stunning alpine lakes: Lower Joffre, Middle Joffre, and Upper Joffre Lake. The blue and green waves, courtesy of rock flour in the water, lend the lakes a delightful turquoise color.
What outdoor activities can I do in Pemberton?
In Pemberton, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and water activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking at lakes and rivers. Have a great time exploring the outdoors!
What culinary delights can I savor in Pemberton?
You can savor farm-to-table dining, local cuisine, coffee, sweet treats, craft beers, and spirits in Pemberton. Enjoy a variety of culinary delights while experiencing the local flavors and culture.
What family activities are available in Pemberton?
Families can enjoy U-Pick experiences at North Arm Farm and various seasonal activities at Laughing Crow Organics in Pemberton, making it a great destination for family fun.
