The RBC GranFondo Whistler returns on September 12, 2026, bringing thousands of cyclists together for one of British Columbia’s most iconic road cycling events. This award-winning ride takes participants from Vancouver to Whistler along the world-famous Sea to Sky Highway, pairing coastal views, mountain climbs, forested stretches, and an unforgettable finish in Whistler Village.

Now in its 17th year, RBC GranFondo Whistler has become much more than a bike ride. It is a full cycling celebration, with package pickup and the VeloSpoke Expo in Vancouver, a traffic-free ride along one of Canada’s most scenic routes, and a lively finish-line atmosphere in Whistler. Whether you are taking on the classic Gran Fondo, pushing yourself with the Forte, or choosing the shorter Medio distance, the event offers a challenge for a wide range of riders.

Choose Your Challenge

RBC GranFondo Whistler offers multiple distance options so riders can choose the experience that best fits their goals.

Gran Fondo – 122 km
The classic Sea to Sky ride from Vancouver to Whistler. This is the signature event, offering a challenging but rewarding point-to-point ride through one of the most beautiful corridors in British Columbia.

Forte – 152 km
For riders looking to push themselves further, the Forte adds extra distance and elevation for a bigger endurance challenge before finishing in Whistler.

Medio – 55 km
A shorter option for riders who still want to experience the energy of GranFondo weekend, with beautiful scenery and a more approachable distance.

No matter which distance you choose, the reward is the same: crossing the finish line in Whistler and celebrating with fellow riders, friends, family, and supporters in the mountains.

2026 Event Highlights

The main ride takes place on Saturday, September 12, 2026, but the experience begins before riders even reach the start line.

September 7: Rider Guide released
September 11: VeloSpoke Expo and package pickup at Canada Place Convention Centre in Vancouver
September 12: RBC GranFondo Whistler ride from Vancouver to Whistler
September 12: Post-race celebrations at Whistler Olympic Plaza
September 13: Sunday Slow Down in Whistler

The post-race celebration at Whistler Olympic Plaza is a highlight of the weekend, with refreshments, live entertainment, a beer garden, family-friendly activities, and a chance to celebrate the ride in the heart of Whistler Village. The awards ceremony is scheduled for 1 PM, where spectators can cheer on top riders as they receive their medals and prize money.

Stay, Recover, and Celebrate in Whistler

After a ride like the RBC GranFondo Whistler, there is no need to rush home. Whistler is the perfect place to recover, refuel, and turn race day into a full mountain weekend.

Spend the afternoon celebrating at Whistler Olympic Plaza, then enjoy dinner in the Village, a soak in the hot tub, or a relaxed evening with friends. On Sunday, take it slow with a gentle walk through the Village, a visit to the Audain Art Museum, a spa treatment, or a scenic ride on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola.

For riders travelling with family or friends, GranFondo weekend is also a great excuse to enjoy Whistler’s late-summer atmosphere. While cyclists take on the Sea to Sky, supporters can explore the Village, visit local cafés and patios, browse shops, walk the Valley Trail, or cheer riders across the finish line.

Getting Around During GranFondo Weekend

Because the RBC GranFondo Whistler uses the Sea to Sky Highway and finishes in Whistler Village, guests should plan ahead for traffic impacts and travel delays on event day. Once you are in Whistler, the best way to get around is on foot, by bike, or using the Valley Trail.

Visitors are encouraged to walk or ride to and from the Village, allow extra travel time, and use shuttle services if travelling between Whistler, Vancouver, or the airport. Free Whistler Transit is expected until 6 PM on event day, though delays are likely during event hours.

Where to Stay: Crystal Lodge

Make Crystal Lodge your home base for RBC GranFondo Whistler 2026. Located in the heart of Whistler Village, our hotel puts you close to the finish-line celebrations at Whistler Olympic Plaza, Village restaurants, patios, shops, cafés, and everything you need for a comfortable post-ride recovery.

After crossing the finish line, you can walk back to the hotel, store your bike, relax by the outdoor pool and hot tub, and enjoy Whistler without needing to drive. With a central Village location and easy access to the Valley Trail, Crystal Lodge is a convenient choice for riders, support crews, families, and spectators.

Why stay at Crystal Lodge for GranFondo weekend?

• Central Whistler Village location
• Easy walk to Whistler Olympic Plaza
• Close to restaurants, cafés, shops, and patios
• Convenient access to the Valley Trail
• Complimentary bike valet for hotel guests
• Outdoor heated pool and hot tub for post-ride recovery
• Comfortable rooms steps from the finish-line atmosphere

RBC GranFondo Whistler is one of the biggest cycling weekends of the year, so booking early is recommended.

To plan your GranFondo Whistler stay, contact our friendly Reservations Team at 1.800.667.3363 or email [email protected].