WHISTLER - Vancouver and Victoria - page 174

Backroads Whistler (604/932-3111, www.backroadswhistler.com ) runs a variety of
tours, ranging from an easy ride along the valley floor to hard-core downhill riding.
If you didn't bring a bike, not to worry—they're available for rent. Rental rates start
at around $18 per hour, $50-135 per day with the following companies: Garbanzo Bike
& Bean (Carleton Lodge, base of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, 604/905-2076),
Spicy Sports (Rainbow Building, Gateway Loop, 604/905-2777), Sportstop (4154 Vil-
lage Green, 604/932-5495), Whistler Bike Co. (4205 Village Sq., 604/938-9511), and
Wild Willies (4321 Village Gate Blvd., 604/938-8036).
Water Sports
Sunbathers head for the public beaches along the shores of Alta Lake. Watching all the
windsurfers whipping across the water or beginners repeatedly taking a plunge is a good
source of summer entertainment. Wayside Park at the south end of the lake has a beach,
a canoe launch, an offshore pontoon, a grassy area with picnic tables, and hiking/bik-
ing trails. At Alta Lake, Lakeside Park Water Sports (604/932-3111) rents canoes and
kayaksfor$15perpersonperhourorstand-uppaddleboardsfor$25perhour.Youcanalso
travel by canoe along the smooth flowing River of Golden Dreams for $69 ($99 guided)
including return transportation by road.