Whistler: Callaghan Valley ATV Tour & Gold Mine Trails

Summary

ATV adventure through Whistler’s wild forests and historic gold mine trails

You’ll get muddy on this intermediate ATV tour in Whistler’s Callaghan Valley—expect bumpy single track trails, old-growth forest air, a peek at NorthAir gold mine history, and plenty of banter with your local guide. It’s three hours roundtrip with gear included—and you’ll probably still feel that wild energy hours later.

What’s the experience like?

Honestly, I almost missed the shuttle because I couldn’t find the Carleton Lodge (it’s right across from the gondola, but my sense of direction is... questionable). Anyway, once I found it, our group piled into the van—everyone already swapping stories about past rides. Our guide, Jamie, had this easy laugh and checked if we’d all driven ATVs before. He handed out full-face helmets and gloves at the base; mine smelled faintly like pine needles and rain. It was drizzling, so they tossed me a rain jacket that was two sizes too big. Didn’t care—I was just glad not to be soaked.

The first few minutes on the single track were a bit nerve-wracking. The mud splattered everywhere, and you could hear nothing but engines and the slap of wet branches against your sleeves. Jamie motioned for us to slow down as we got close to an old wooden sign—NorthAir Mine Site. He told us how people used to pan for gold here, which honestly made me look twice at every shiny rock after that. There was this smell—earthy and metallic—and I kept thinking about how quiet it must have been here before all these machines. We stopped under some massive trees; moss hung off everything, even the handlebars by the end.

I tried asking Jamie how to say “Callaghan” properly (Li laughed when I butchered it), and he said locals just call it “the Callaghan.” Guess there’s no wrong way if you’re covered in mud anyway. The ride back felt faster—maybe because I finally relaxed or maybe because my hands were numb from gripping too hard earlier. Either way, seeing Whistler fade in behind those trees felt weirdly peaceful. Three hours went by in a blur of dirt and laughter.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 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

Top questions

Where does the Whistler ATV tour start?

The tour starts with check-in at Carleton Lodge across from Whistler Village Gondola.

Is pickup included for the Callaghan Valley ATV tour?

Yes, shuttle transfer from Whistler Village to Callaghan Valley base is included.

How long is the ATV tour experience?

The total experience is about 3 hours including transfers, training, and ride time.

Do I need prior ATV experience for this tour?

This tour is designed for guests with previous ATV experience; beginners should consider another option.

What should I wear on the ATV tour?

Wear closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for weather; rain gear is provided if needed.

Are helmets provided on this Whistler ATV ride?

Yes, full face helmets along with gloves and goggles are included for all participants.

Can pregnant women join this ATV adventure?

No, safety regulations do not permit pregnant women to participate as drivers or passengers.

What age or license do I need to drive an ATV?

You must be 19+ with a valid unrestricted driver’s license equivalent to BC Class 5 or 6.

What’s included

Your day includes shuttle pickup from Whistler Village to Callaghan Valley base camp where you’ll get outfitted with a helmet, gloves, goggles—and rain gear if it’s wet out—plus a professional local guide leading you through three hours of riding (including training) before heading back.