High Note Trail Whistler

High Note Trail – Everything YOU need to know

July 21, 2024

ONELIFE

The High Note Trail offers some of Whistler’s most breathtaking views, though it ranks as one of the priciest hikes in the area. This guide will provide you with all the details you need to know about the High Note Trail, helping you determine if the experience justifies the expense.

Located in the stunning surroundings of Whistler, Canada, the High Note Trail is a captivating experience for outdoor aficionados and nature lovers. This trail presents an exceptional expedition through verdant landscapes, over scenic ridges, and around the dramatic contours of Cheakamus Lake, providing hikers with awe-inspiring views of the alpine scenery.

Starting near the top of the Whistler Mountain gondola—a convenient access point just a short ride from Whistler Village—the trail stretches approximately 9.4 kilometers, offering a loop that varies from moderate to challenging. The path winds through diverse environments, from subalpine forests to open meadows, making every step a discovery of new sights and sounds.

One of the most striking features of the High Note Trail is the panoramic vistas it offers. As you ascend higher, the landscape opens up to reveal breathtaking views of the lake below and the rugged peaks that define this region. Each viewpoint presents a perfect opportunity for photographers and nature enthusiasts to capture the majestic beauty of the area.

Ideal for avid hikers or those looking to spend a day immersed in Whistler’s natural grandeur, the High Note Trail promises an unforgettable adventure. With its accessible starting point and the rewarding scenery along the way, this hike invites you to lace up your boots, grab your gear, and embark on a journey through some of the most picturesque terrains Whistler has to offer.

YouTube Video of High Note

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High Note Statistics

Difficulty Rating – Moderate/Hard

Distance – 9.5km

Net Elevation Change – 382 metres (1,253 feet)

Time Needed – 4 Hours

Season – July – October

Dog Friendly – NO

Est. Driving Time from Vancouver – 2 hours

Camping – NO

What to Bring

Bear Spray – A lot of Water – Toilet Paper – Food – Sunscreen – Flash Light – Whistle

Map of High Note Trail & The Hike

The trail map for this hike can be confusing as there are multiple ways to complete the hike with multiple view points. Additionally there are three options to get to 2 different starting points for the hike. Because of this, it can become stressful deciding on what trail direction or what view lookout is best suited for what you desire. To keep it simple and easy. The map above will be the only image referred to in regards to the hike itself as to keep things simple. I will include images below which will help with directions on how to get to Whistler or Blackcomb Gondola which is necessary to get to the start point for this hike (Round House Lodge). The image provided for Blackcomb Gondola is not as likely to be relevant to your situation but is a last case scenario option for many (My girlfriend & I in particular had to use this Gondola when doing the hike).

The Hike

Discussed further down in the ‘How to get to High Note Trail’ section, there are multiple options to complete this hike depending on your starting point. I recommend the 2 most popular and main Hiking Trail options below.

Option 1 – If you are starting the trail at the top of Peak Chair Lift. You will turn right and follow the signs onto the High Note Trail. Scaling the side of Whistler Mountain until you reach the stunning views of Cheakamus Lake. From here you can either cut the hike short cutting through the Half Note Trail or continuing on the High Note Trail and looping into the valley going past Symphony and Harmony Lake.

Option 2 – If you are starting the trail at Round House Lodge I would recommend hiking up Pika’s traverse road until you reach Half Note Trail. Following this trail off to the left it will take you straight to the best viewpoint of the High Note Trail. This option is the best in terms of least amount of hiking whilst seeing all the best parts of this Hike.

More information can be found below on the details for this trails

How to Get to High Note Trail

There are 3 options for where you start the hike dependent upon weather conditions and the time of year you are doing the hike so please read carefully.

Option 1 – Take Whistler Gondola to Round House. Proceeded by taking Peak Chair Lift. Start the Hike at the Peak of Whistler Mountain.

Option 2 – Take Whistler Gondola to Round House. Start the hike here at the Round House.

Option 3 – Take Blackcomb Gondola, Proceeded by the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Starting the hike at Round House.

Option 1 is the most favorable as it provides amazing views with little effort. Minimizing the time spent hiking but not missing out on any beautiful views. This option is only viable if both the Gondola on Whistler Mountain and the Peak chair is operating. The Whistler Mountain Gondola operates throughout majority of the year, the Peak Chair however is only in operation for a short period of time and therefore is the most likely factor in the likelihood of this option. The Whistler Mountain will cost anywhere from $80-$120 for a day pass if you do not hold a season pass. This will allow you to go up the Gondola and come back down (1x use).

All information on when the chairs and Gondolas are open or operating can be found here.

World Summit

If you are lucky enough to have the Peak Chair available. Your Hike will begin at ‘the top of the world summit’ cutting your hiking distance in half. Exit the Peak Chair and turn right to cross the Cloudraker Skybridge, where you can enjoy the stunning views from the Raven’s Eye viewpoint. If you have a fear of heights, you can avoid the Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s Eye viewpoint. Upon exiting the gondola, proceed straight ahead rather than turning right towards the bridge. Skip the right-hand path leading to the inukshuk, and instead take the next right turn. This path bypasses the Skybridge and leads directly to the beginning of the High Note trail.

From there you will follow the High Note Trail along the side of Whistler Mountain through beautiful grassy meadows which can be full of flourishing flowers depending on the time of year. You will follow the side of the mountain looping around to start walking in the direction of Cheakamus Lake. During this part of the trail there is many viewpoints of which you can see the lake and get some stunning images. The main location where you would have seen many famous photos taken is located below. (Circled red in the image below).

From here you can either continue along the High Note trail looping all the way around back to Round House passing Symphony Lake, Harmony Ridge, Harmony Lake and more amazing views. Make sure unless you desire it, stay left on the trail when you come across the first fork in the road as the right side of the trail takes you to Flute Bowl along Musical Bumps Trail. This is is a one-way trail. Apart from this it is one trail all the way back to Round House.

OR

You can take the Half Note Trail cutting through the Mountain. We did this and it is definitely faster but much less popular. It is nice to have such a quiet trail especially when this hike can be so busy during the Summer. Check out our full walkthrough YouTube video here. If you decide to take this trail. It will take you onto Pika’s Traverse Road, this junction is circled below. From here you will want to travel RIGHT as left will take you back up to the top of PEAK CHAIR and you cannot ride this chair down. When you turn right you will follow Pika’s traverse road down to Round House Lodge.

Option 2

If you are going with Option 2 it would be likely because of the fact Peak Chair is not operating. This simply means you will be starting the trail at the Round House Lodge. There are many signs which are easy to follow.

You can either take the left side of the mountain going through Harmony Lake Loop and Harmony Meadows. Or you can take the most popular option from this starting point and hike up Pika’s Traverse road. Same as option 1 but now in reverse you can either cut through Half Note Trail to go straight to the best views of Cheakamus Lake or you can continue straight up Matthews Traverse Road and onto the skybridge. Following the High Note Trail. The same goes for your return back to the gondola for all three options.

Option 3

Option 3 is the same as option 2 but with an additional step. If you have left this hike to the end of the season there is a high chance that Whistler Gondola has closed and your only option (apart from hiking from the bottom of Whistler Mountain) is to take Blackcomb Gondola up which can cost anywhere from $80-$120 for day tickets on the Gondola. After riding the Blackcomb Gondola, you will take the Peak to Peak Gondola which has some of the best 360 degree views of both mountains and the valley you can get. This gondola is included in the day ticket fee. All up these gondolas will take around 25-40 minutes total. Once you’ve taken the Gondola from Blackcomb Mountain and stepped on onto Whistler Mountain the hike begins. With the same directions as Option 1 & Option 2. You will hike up Pika’s Traverse Road until you read a slight almost unnoticeable fork in the road where you can continue on the main road onto Matthews Traverse road or you can take the Half Note Trail. Both will lead you to the beautiful views of Cheakamus Lake.

Facilities at High Note Trail

The facilities along the High Note Trail in Whistler are relatively minimal, as it is a backcountry trail designed for more experienced hikers. However, there are a few amenities and features you can expect:

Trailhead Facilities: At the trailhead near the Peak Chair, you will find restrooms and possibly a small snack bar or food outlet, depending on the season and operational hours.
Signage and Markers: The trail is well-marked with trail markers and signs, particularly at junctions, to help you stay on track.
Rest Areas: There are a few designated rest areas along the trail where you can take a break and enjoy the views. These are usually simple spots with seating or benches.
Viewing Platforms: The Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s Eye viewpoint offer spectacular views and a unique experience, although they are not technically part of the trail itself but are accessible nearby.
Emergency Services: While there are no specific emergency facilities on the trail, the resort’s ski patrol and mountain operations team monitor the area and can assist in emergencies. It’s important to carry a phone with you for this purpose.
Waste Disposal: There are usually waste disposal bins at the trailhead, but it’s a good practice to carry out all your trash to keep the trail clean.
Trail Information Boards: These are often found at the beginning of the trail, providing maps, safety information, and details about the trail conditions.

It’s essential to prepare adequately before embarking on the High Note Trail, including bringing necessary supplies like water, snacks, appropriate clothing, and a map or GPS device.

Bear Safety

It’s crucial to prioritize safety when in bear country, and Whistler, with its beautiful natural surroundings, is no exception. Here are some general bear safety procedures to keep in mind:

Carry Bear Spray:
- Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make sure it’s easily accessible, preferably on your belt or backpack.
Stay Alert:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or walking in wooded areas. Bears can be quiet, and surprise encounters can be dangerous.
Make Noise:
- Make noise while hiking to alert bears to your presence. Clap your hands, talk loudly, or sing. This can help prevent surprising a bear.
Travel in Groups:
- Traveling in groups is safer than going alone. Bears are less likely to approach larger groups.
Secure Food and Garbage:
- Properly store food and garbage in bear-resistant containers or bear lockers. Bears have an excellent sense of smell and are attracted to food odors.
Respect Closures:
- Follow any trail or area closures that are in place due to bear activity. These closures are there to protect both humans and bears.
Do Not Feed Bears:
- Never feed bears intentionally or leave food out for them. Bears that associate humans with food can become dangerous and may need to be euthanized.
Back Away Slowly:
- If you encounter a bear, back away slowly and avoid direct eye contact. Speak in a calm, assertive voice.
Stay Calm:
- In the rare event of a charge, stand your ground. Do not run. Running can trigger a chase response.

Click here – Bear Safety – for more information. And Click here – Black Bear or Grizzly Bear? -for information on a Black bear vs a Grizzly Bear.

Historical Information & Development

The High Note Trail in Whistler, British Columbia, is part of the expansive Whistler Blackcomb resort. Which has a rich history as one of the premier skiing and outdoor recreation destinations in North America.

Development of Whistler Blackcomb: Whistler Mountain opened as a ski resort in 1966, and Blackcomb Mountain followed in 1980. The resort has continually expanded and improved its facilities, including the development of various hiking trails for summer use.
Creation of the High Note Trail: The High Note Trail was established to provide summer visitors with an opportunity to explore the alpine terrain. And enjoy the stunning scenery of the Whistler area. It is designed to offer hikers breathtaking views of Garibaldi Provincial Park and Cheakamus Lake. Showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s Eye: These additions were built to enhance the visitor experience, offering unique vantage points and an adventurous crossing over the Whistler Bowl.

Future Development

The Whistler Blackcomb resort is continuously evolving to improve visitor experiences and adapt to changing environmental and tourism trends. Future development plans for the High Note Trail and the surrounding area may include:

Trail Maintenance and Upgrades. Regular maintenance to ensure trail safety and usability, including potential upgrades to signage, trail markers, and rest areas.
Environmental Initiatives. Efforts to preserve the natural environment, such as erosion control, habitat restoration, and sustainable tourism practices to minimize the impact on the delicate alpine ecosystem.
Enhanced Visitor Facilities. Improvements to facilities at the trailhead and along the trail, such as better restrooms, more rest areas, and additional interpretive signage to educate hikers about the local flora, fauna, and geological features.
Accessibility Improvements. Initiatives to make parts of the trail more accessible to a broader range of visitors, including those with limited mobility.
New Trails and Routes. Development of additional hiking trails or connecting routes to offer more options for exploration and to distribute visitor traffic more evenly across the mountain.
Technological Integration. Use of technology to enhance the hiking experience, such as mobile apps with trail maps, GPS tracking, and real-time updates on trail conditions and weather.
Community and Cultural Projects. Collaborations with local Indigenous communities to incorporate cultural and historical elements into the trail experience, providing hikers with a deeper understanding of the area’s heritage.

The ongoing development and preservation efforts aim to ensure that the High Note Trail remains a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts while protecting the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Whistler region.

FAQ

How long is High Note Trail?

3-5 hours (9.6km Loop)

How Difficult is the Trail?

Moderate (Rated difficult by Whistler Blackcomb compared to their other trails, but relatively easier than other hikes in the Whistler area)

How much does it cost?

You can expect to pay minimum $85/adult if you do not hold a season pass. This will get you a one-day sightseeing lift ticket.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No public toilets on the trail but there are toilets available at the Round House Lodge (start and end of the Hike)

Best time to Go?

Late June/early July to late September. The Trail is closed the rest of the year.

Are Dogs allowed?

Only Guide Dogs and service dogs are allowed

Are Bikes allowed on the Trail?

Bikes are not allowed on the High Note Trail, despite the numerous mountain bike trails on Whistler Mountain.