Whistler ski resort guide
Ski area, apres-ski, things to see & do in Whistler
Overview
Whistler/Blackcomb was the host resort for the 2010 Winter Olympics and for good reason given it's superb infrastructure and impeccable snow record.
Whistler is split in to 2 parts - the main part of the resort is called the "Village" and is totally pedestrianised with direct access to both Blackcomb and Whilster mountains. Whistler Creek is a short drive down the side of Whistler mountain and has no direct access to Blackcomb.
Après-ski
The après-ski in Whistler is very lively with some great bars and clubs and over 140 restaurants and cafes serving up local and international cuisine for all budgets and tastes.
| Key information (whole area) | |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 675m |
| Top lift | 2284m |
| Family | |
| Beginner | |
| Intermediate | |
| Expert | |
| Ski area (acre) | 8100 |
| Longest run | 11 km |
| Off piste | |
| Cross country | 32 km |
| Season | Dec - April |
| Snowboard parks | 5 |
| Heli Skiing | ✔ |
| Summer skiing | ✔ |
| Glacier skiing | ✔ |
| Babysitting | ✔ |
| Creche | ✔ |
| Apres ski | Lively & Fun |
Whistler - Blackcomb Ski Area
Whistler is one of the largest resorts in North America in terms of skiable terrain and is geared more towards the intermediate skier with 55% of the 200 pistes being red. There are 30 beginner slopes and the rest are for advanced skiers and boarders.
Given Whistler bears the brunt of the storms rolling in from the Pacific, it's average annual snowfall is an incredible 410 inches!! The best snow conditions tend to be between late January and mid-February which is also the best time to visit if you are not tied to school holidays as the resort is less crowded.
Beginners
Despite Whistler having a bias towards the intermediate and advanced skiers, there are plenty of beginner slopes and slow-ski areas.
Beginners will have fun on Whiskey Jack and Ego Bowl on Whistler Mountain and those with more confidence who can stop / turn can try the Burnt Stew, a long winding trail that goes around the side of the mountain.
Intermediate
An intermediate's paradise is the best way to describe the skiing on Blackcomb and Whistler mountains with so many on and off-piste routes to choose from.
Advanced
Advanced skiers and boarders can ski in the big steep bowls and on the Blackcomb Glacier.
Other ski holiday activities
- Heli-skiing
- Snowmobile safari
- Snoe shoeing
- Sledging
- Spa and wellness
Families
Whistler has been recognised by "Ski Magazine" as the 5th best place in the world for family holidays and with good reason.
There are a number of on-mountain programs geared towards children including designated ‘Family Zones’ including the The Coca-Cola Tube Park and Magic Castle on Blackcomb and Tree Fort on Whistler.
Whistler - Blackcomb lodging
There is plenty of lodging in Whistler to cater for the thousands of tourists that flock to the resort year after year. There are around 8000 holiday homes for rent including chalets, condos and cabins in the resort.
If you are staying in the Whistler/Blackcomb Village then all the shops, bars and restaurants are within walking distance and the slopes are either on your door step or a very short bus ride away.
Our view on Whistler - Blackcomb resort
A superb resort for all the family at any time of year. a few suggestions...
- When you are on the final approach to the Village, the snow can sometimes be slushy just like spring skiing in the afternoon and makes it difficult to be in control. The best option is to take the gondola back
- A good evening out is to go sledging through the Blackcomb forests followed by a fondue dinner
If you like Whistler-Blackcomb then also worth ckecking out are Ischgl in Austria and Breckenridge.
