Whistler Blackcomb is a ski resort in the mountains of British Columbia, Canada. It is the largest ski resort in Canada and North America, and one of the largest in the world. It boasts over 200 runs and 20,000 acres of skiable terrain.
The best time to plan a weekend or skiing holiday in Whistler Blackcomb is in winter (between December and April). During this period, snow conditions are generally the best and the mountains are open every day. The resort offers winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tobogganing, skating and cross-country skiing.
How to get to Whistler Blackcomb from US and European capitals
The nearest airports to Whistler Blackcomb are Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Calgary International Airport (YYC).
There are several ways to get from the airport to Whistler Blackcomb. You can take a taxi, bus or private shuttle. If you hire a car, it will take you around two hours to drive from Vancouver and three hours from Calgary.
What type of skiing should you choose?
The best skiing at Whistler Blackcomb depends on your skills and interests. If you're a beginner, you should concentrate on downhill skiing. If you're more experienced, you can try off-piste skiing or ski touring.
Downhill skiing
Downhill skiing is the most common form of skiing. It consists of skiing on marked runs. The pistes at Whistler Blackcomb vary in difficulty, so there's something for everyone.
Off-piste skiing
Off-piste skiing involves skiing off the marked runs. It's an activity that requires more performance than on-piste skiing, but it's also much more rewarding. Off-piste skiing offers the opportunity to explore new slopes and have a more unique skiing experience.
Ski touring
Ski touring involves carrying your skis to the top of a slope and then skiing down. It's a very physical activity, but it's also very rewarding.
Whistler Blackcomb for off-piste skiing and freeriding
Whistler Blackcomb is a world-renowned destination for backcountry skiing and freeriding. The resort offers a terrain with many couloirs and slopes to explore. Off-piste skiers and snowboarders have guides and passes to explore the mountains in complete safety.
The best runs at Whistler Blackcomb
Discover some of Whistler Blackcomb's best descents.
The Corridor Extreme
This descent is an extraordinary experience. It is located in the Extreme couloir, which is a steep, narrow slope. The descent is long and challenging, but also very rewarding.
The Gully
This is another great off-piste descent. It's located in the Gully, which is a wide, open slope. The descent is easier than The Couloir Extreme, but just as enjoyable.
The Chutes
This descent is a series of three couloirs, which are located in the area of The Chutes. The couloirs are steep and narrow, and offer a rich off-piste skiing experience.
The Face
This descent is a long, steep slope that offers breathtaking views of the mountains. The descent can be challenging, but satisfying once you reach the foot of the slopes.
The Peak
This descent is located at the top of Whistler Mountain. It offers incredible views of the mountains and valley.
The best ski tours in and around Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler Blackcomb also offers a number of ski tours, allowing skiers and snowboarders to explore the mountains off the marked trails. Discover some of Whistler Blackcomb's best ski tours.
Whistler Bowl
The Whistler Bowl area hike offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valley.
Blackcomb Glacier
This hike is located on the Blackcomb glacier. It's long, but it offers a unique off-piste skiing experience that you should try out at least once.
Harmony Ridge
The Harmony Ridge area is easier to hike than Whistler Bowl or Blackcomb Glacier. You can enjoy magnificent mountain views from the summit.
Symphony Ridge
This hike is located in the Symphony Ridge zone, and is easier to access than the other zones, as well as offering breathtaking views over the valley.
Accommodation for skiers in Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler Blackcomb has a wide range of accommodation for off-piste skiers, at all price points. You can find hotels, condos, chalets and campsites.
Hotels in Whistler
There are many hotels in Whistler Blackcomb that are suitable for off-piste skiers. These hotels are usually located close to the slopes, making it easy to get to the lifts. They offer services and facilities for off-piste skiers. These include ski lockers, drying rooms and showers.
Condos in Whistler
Condos are a popular accommodation option for skiers at Whistler Blackcomb. They are upmarket accommodation with communal areas. Condos are generally more spacious than hotels, and offer more privacy. They are also often located close to the slopes, making it easier to get to the lifts.
Cottages in Whistler
Chalets are an even more spacious and luxurious accommodation option for off-piste skiers at Whistler Blackcomb. They are usually located in more secluded areas, giving backcountry skiers access to unmarked slopes. The accommodation has everything off-piste skiers need, including fully equipped kitchens, large bathrooms and ski garages.
Campings in Whistler
Hiring an RV for a road-trip is an integral part of the North American dream. There are RVs of all sizes and at all prices for adventures in the USA and Canada. It's a more economical accommodation option for skiers.
Campsites are generally located close to the slopes, making it easier to get to the ski lifts. They also offer access to nature, which is perfect for off-piste skiers who like to explore the mountains. Make sure you hire a four-season RV, so you don't suffer from the cold.
What to do in the evening in Whistler Blackcomb?
Whistler Blackcomb is a lively resort with plenty to do in the evenings. You can relax in one of the many bars and restaurants, go to the cinema, go shopping or take in a concert.
Bars and restaurants in Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb has dozens of bars and restaurants, serving cuisine from all over the world. You can find fine dining restaurants, burger bars, pizzerias and everything in between.
Cinemas in Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb has two cinemas, offering both recent and classic films. The cinemas are a great way to unwind after a day of skiing or hiking.
Shopping in Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb has many shops selling clothing, souvenirs, ski and snowboard equipment and much more. You can find luxury boutiques or pick up souvenirs at the best prices in specialist shops.
Concerts in Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb hosts numerous concerts throughout the year. Concerts are a great way to enjoy yourself after a day of skiing or hiking.
In conclusion, Whistler Blackcomb is an exceptional destination for a complete skiing holiday. Whether you're a beginner, experienced skier or snowboarder, you'll find Whistler Blackcomb has the conditions and activities to suit you.
There are specialist ski tour operators such as PowderWeGo operating in Whistler Blackcomb. These agencies can help you plan and organise your holiday from start to finish.
I hope this article has inspired you to visit Whistler Blackcomb and enjoy a skiing experience like no other!