Ski
Whistler and Blackcomb mountains are world-famous for their terrain and snow conditions. Between the two mountains, there are more than 200 maintained ski trails. According to British Columbia's official tourism site, snow accumulation averages about 33 feet in this area. Skiing Magazine has named Whistler the best North American ski resort for 12 years straight. Whistler/Blackcomb presents more skiable terrain (more than 8,000 acres) than any other resort on the continent, including more than 17 bowls and four glaciers. Whistler is host of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Other Winter Activities
There are many other winter activities including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing and dog sledding in Whistler. Those looking for the extraordinary may charter a snowcat or helicopter for heliskiing in the backcountry or just take a heli-sightseeing tour. Helicopter operators are found in Pemberton, just a half-hour shuttle ride from Whistler. To speak to a travel counselor from Tourism BC, call 1-800-435-5622.
Hike
Once the snow melts off the mountainsides by late June, there are many trails revealed in the Whistler area for walkers, hikers and backpackers to enjoy. Views from some of these trails include snowcapped peaks, glaciers, valleys and alpine flowers. For an easy hike try Lost Lake Trail or Cheakamus Lake Trail, which goes through old-growth forest to the edge of a glacial lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park. Or try Ancient Cedars Trail, which provides some intermediate terrain and many opportunities to pick blueberries.
Whistler Mountain Trails is a network of six trails on Whistler Mountain, ranging in length from half a mile to 13 miles. Nearby Garibaldi Provincial Park has more than 50 miles of trails, allowing for opportunities for overnight excursions. You may also take a guided hike from the top of the Whistler Gondola. Call the central reservations center at 1-888-403-4727 for more information.
Adventure Tours
Take a tour on the wild side by taking a Ziptrek Ecotour. At Ziptrek Ecotours there are five zip-line cables that you can ride while learning about the natural habitat and ecology from naturalist guides. As you careen down these cables 160 feet above Fitzsimmons Creek and the valley where the village of Whistler is settled, you will be amazed by the stunning view. Call 1-866-935-0001 for more information.
At Whistler's Adventure Zone you can rock climb, luge down the Westcoaster track, jump on bungee trampolines or fly through the air on the Great Canadian Trapeze. Or bungee jump into the 160-foot gorge at Whistler Bungee. Call 604-938-9333 for more information.
