Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
An Olympic event waiting in the wings
WhistlerThere are ski mountains ... and then there is Whistler. In a league of its own, the king of ski mountains dwarfs all other North American resorts. At 8,171 skiable acres (3306 ha), it doubles the size of most other destinations on our favorite ski destinations list.
From base to summit, Whistler Blackcomb rises higher than any other chairlift-equipped mountain resort in North America, taking adventurous skiers from northern rain forests to million-year-old glacier-crowned summits. Mother Nature smiles on the mountain each year and blesses her 5,280 foot (1609 m) high slopes with 33 feet (10 m) of pristine white snow.
The village, a blend of urban comfort and old world charm, is a potpourri of international skiers and thrill seekers who come to the area for its scenic skiing, its unbeatable adventure and its renowned dining experiences and nightlife.
Olympic Music
Located 75 miles (120 km) north of Vancouver, Whistler first placed a bid to host the Winter Olympics in 1968, but it would wait another 40 years for that dream to become a reality. Whistler will finally host the games in 2010.
With its ever-expanding array of activities and ski opportunities, Whistler grows better each year. It already claims over 200 trails (and that's just the named ones).
The Symphony Express lift, recently opened, brings skiers to the Symphony Amphitheatre, a longtime favorite backcountry experience previously only accessible to husky telemark skiers willing to make the hike. Now this intermediate and advanced slope, long referred to by locals as the Musical Bumps, Piccolo, Symphony and Flute Bowls, is music to everyone's ears.
Along with magnificent skiing opportunities, boarding prospects and the full-swing après-ski scene, Whistler is the perfect place for family vacations. Sleigh rides, tubing, snowshoeing and drop-in family yoga classes are just some of the things you can schedule in - if you can tear yourself away from the slopes.
If You Go
- Getting there - Whistler is 70 miles (115 km) from Vancouver or 215 miles (340 km) from Seattle. From Vancouver, rent a car or take a shuttle bus.
- Passes - Day passes start at $79 for an adult. Discounts are available for children, seniors and youths. Tots ski for free.
- Accommodation - Whistler has an extensive list of accommodations for every budget.
