ATV riding in Whistler: Backcountry trails for experienced riders
Operate your own ATV through Whistler's rugged backcountry
Call of the Wild is an intermediate ATV riding experience in Whistler's Callaghan Valley, about 20 minutes south of the village, where you operate your own off-road buggy on single-track trails and naturally rugged terrain. The 3-hour round trip includes shuttle transport from Carleton Lodge, full safety gear, a training session with your guide, and the ride itself. You'll need a valid driver's license (age 19+), moderate fitness, and previous ATV experience to handle the backcountry terrain.
Step-by-step itinerary
ATV tour in Callaghan Valley
- Check-in at Carleton Lodge
- Meet guide and shuttle to Callaghan Valley
- Receive gear and safety introduction
- Complete short training session
- Ride ATV on backcountry trails
- Return to base and shuttle back
What’s included
- Professional guide leading the ride.
- full-face helmet, goggles and gloves.
- rain gear if needed.
- shuttle transport from Carleton Lodge to Callaghan Valley base and back.
- safety introduction and training session before the ride.
Times
- Monday to Friday 11:00 14:30
Last departure this season: 19 Nov
Another day? ›Before you book
Operated by Canadian Wilderness Adventures
Prices and times updated 10 days ago
Traveler reviews
The experience
What makes this ride different from a beginner tour? You're operating the buggy yourself through terrain that demands it. After meeting your guide at Carleton Lodge (across from the Whistler Village Gondola), you'll shuttle south to the Callaghan Valley base, about 20 minutes away. There you get your full-face helmet, goggles, gloves and any rain gear you need, then your guide walks you through how to operate the machine and the safety protocols before a short training session gets you ready for the actual ride.
The Callaghan Valley is Whistler's most rugged setting for this kind of riding: old growth forest, naturally broken terrain, and the remains of the NorthAir historical gold mine site pass as you work the single-track trails. This is not a guided sightseeing loop where someone else drives. You're making the decisions on the throttle and the line, which is why the intermediate rating matters. The whole experience, including shuttle time both ways, training and ride time, runs 3 hours round trip.
You'll need a full, valid driver's license equivalent to a BC Class 5 or Class 6, and you must be 19 or older. If you're under 25, bring your license to check-in. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory, and the operator runs in all weather: dress for it, though rain gear is provided if you need it. Everyone signs a liability waiver before riding. If you're under 19, a parent or legal guardian signs with you. The guide speaks conversational English, and at least one adult per group of up to seven ATVs must be able to do the same.
Is this one for you?You operate the ATV yourself on single-track backcountry terrain, which suits riders who already know how to handle an off-road machine and want to progress beyond beginner trails. If you've never ridden before, the beginner Whistler Odyssey is the better fit.
Compare the 3 alternatives
Top questions
What's the difference between this tour and the Whistler Odyssey beginner option?
Call of the Wild is aimed at riders with previous ATV experience and takes you into the backcountry single-track terrain of Callaghan Valley. The Whistler Odyssey is a beginner-friendly off-road buggy adventure for those new to the activity.
How much of the 3 hours is actual riding versus shuttle and training?
The 3-hour round trip includes the 20-minute shuttle each way from Carleton Lodge to the Callaghan Valley base, your safety introduction and training session, and your ride time on the trails. The operator does not break out the exact minutes for each part.
Do I need my own ATV experience to book this, or will the training cover it?
This tour is designed for guests with previous ATV experience. The training session covers how to operate the specific buggy and the safety protocols, but it assumes you already know how to ride.
What happens if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. Complimentary rain gear is available at the base, and you should dress appropriately for the conditions. Closed-toe shoes are required regardless of weather.
Can I ride if I'm pregnant?
Safety regulations do not permit pregnant women to ride as a driver or passenger on ATV or buggy tours. Pregnant travelers are welcome on the operator's canoe or Jeep tours instead.
What do I need to bring or have ready before I arrive?
Bring a valid, full driver's license (BC Class 5 or Class 6 equivalent) and wear closed-toe shoes. Meet at Carleton Lodge 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Everyone must sign a liability waiver on arrival. If you're under 19, a parent or legal guardian must sign with you.
ATV riding in Whistler: Backcountry trails for experienced riders
3h · EN
from CA$ 229.95 per group
≈ US$ 167 in your currency
Next, you choose your date and number of travelers and see the final price.