The Fireside Lodge was recommended to my friend and I by a guide on one of Whistlers many attractions - the Ziptrek Ecotour. This place is also briefly mentioned in the Lonely Planet guide to Canada but deserves a stellar review.
I got the impression that in peak season the rates would skyrocket because the facilities provided at about $35 per night were excellent. Firstly, security is obviously a priority for staff who closely monitor access card usage. The dorm rooms (4 beds each) while a touch cramped, are actually cosy and provide heaps of storage. The laundry and bathroom facilities were well above average and were also clean. The kitchen appears to have recently undergone a massive upgrade and are second to none: apart from being spacious, the cupboards and clearly marked and are all stacked with every kitchen item and utensil imaginable. There are plenty of fridges and a huge pantry.
Right next door to the kitchen is a plush lounge room that would be a great place to kick back and enjoy a coffee after a hard day exploring. Or, there is the fully decked out games room.
The Fireside Lodge is only a few minutes by car out of the main centre of Whistler and there is a bus stop only a few hundred metres away if relying on public transport.
The only things that prevent a perfect mark for the Fireside lodge was a squeaky ceiling fan and that the staff on hand dont seem to like answering the phone - trying to make contact to book in didn't happen despite numerous attempts and we only got lodging by actually going there. Wi-Fi is available at a cost of about $11 for 24 hours.
The Fireside Lodge represents outstanding value and is highly recommended by this traveller - it sets a standard for Hostel accommodation in British Columbia.