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68 reviews for Whistler Blackcomb
All Reviews
Whistler Blackcomb
8/19/2010
Some day I will have a place in Whistler...some day!
I would live here if I could. I love whistler. How lucky am I to live in Vancouver and have whistler only a 1.5 hr drive away from my door??!! You will never get bored in Whistler. The terrain is constantly changing and always a challenge. Since the opening of the peak to peak gondola, the mountain has been forever changed! In 11 mins you can hop over to the next mountain if the weather sucks.
My husband and I will always be regulars at Whistler Blackcomb.
Whistler Blackcomb
8/18/2010
I love Whistler, after having come here just this past weekend for the first time. I had no idea it would be this fun. We opted for the Peak2Peak, which was really fun. The gondola up the side of the mountain is pretty toasty, but the P2P itself and, more importantly, the PEAK CHAIR (my favorite part about Whistler) are amazing.
I really can't get over the peak chair, though, because it brings you up to the top of Whistler where you're surrounded on all sides by snowy mountain tops while wearing a t-shirt and shorts. Wonderful. I really wish we had more time and the appropriate shoes, because hiking seems like it'd be a great experience.
Listed in: Out and About Vancouver, eh?
Whistler Blackcomb
6/23/2010
Five powdery stars
Find me and my Salomon 2-planks in 7th Heaven and the mighty Avalanche Bowl just to the east. It's "in-bounds" when the conditions permit.
Fast lifts, minimal lines on weekdays, and almost 8200 acres of fun leaves me with the feeling of...
H E A V E N !
Listed in: Whistler Baby!
Whistler Blackcomb
8/25/2010
I did my first ever guided downhill biking in 2009 with Bike-Ski Guide Ken Doraty - he was the best guide! He was patient, funny and approachable, and an amazing instructor. I had a lot of fun while learning and trying not to eat it! we did a four hour ride and it was fantastic.. i will definitely go there again. my next stop is tahoe! wish me luck!
Whistler Blackcomb
5/14/2010
3 photos
This place is my heaven. It's not comparable to Tahoe, CA. Whistler/Blackcomb is way beyond. The air is FRESH. The weather can get a bit crazy at the peak, but what can you not expect? Sometimes the snow will feel as if they're needles against your body, other times the snow fog is so heavy you can't see 5-6 feet in front of you, and one of the best moments is when you can see in front of you with light snow falling down as your gliding down the side of the mountain. This is what mother nature brings you. The atmosphere so relaxing. If it was not for school, I'd pick up and move back to Whistler so it can just be me, my skis and the mountains.
I'd advise you to learn how to ski/snowboard whatever snow sport you may do, pack up your things, and fly/drive right on over. You will not regret it. It's a trip worth your wild.
Whistler Blackcomb
4/5/2010
If I were to be swallowed by an avalanche and die at a ski resort, and then slip into purgatory (forced to roam the slopes until The Rapture) I would want it to be at Whistler/Blackcomb.
As a ski ghost, I think that I would protect people from coyotes in the alpine areas and soften their falls on the icy patches near the base. Also, if someone dropped their glove on the lift, I would bring it to the top before they got there, then they would be like, "whoa, where did that come from?" And when my powers got strong enough, I would protect people from avalanches and guide them to the bottom when it's really foggy.
Whistler Blackcomb
4/29/2010
7 Check-ins Here
I've been coming here for the past twenty years to ski. I moved here two years ago and I don't think I'll ever leave. I'm not the first one to do this.
If you've never skied/snowboarded on a real mountain - you won't understand why. Come for the mountains, the view and the fresh air. Take a ski/snowboard lesson and find out why.
Whistler Blackcomb
4/21/2010
Is Disneyland REALLY the happiest place on Earth because I can't think of anywhere I'd rather be than Whistler (and heck - it's even cheaper if what you compare it to is Disneyland). :)
The skiing is awesome, the people are great and once you've been there a few time you settle into a nice routine that involved hitting the slopes int eh day and the GLC or the Brewhouse at night.
For those who don't ski or mountain bike, well - you should but if you don't want to - there's still lots of great stuff to do. And if you have $6,000,000 for a house I hear it's a great place to live too. :)
Whistler Blackcomb
3/28/2010
You've seen it on the telly, now experience the urm... wettest and possibly foggiest ride of your life!
On a sunny blue- sky day; this resort deserves 5 million stars. With lots of amazing piste and off- piste runs for almost all levels of skiers and snowboarders, Whistler and Blackcomb literally have something for everyone- parks, long wide lush cruisers, steep steep chutes and bowls galore.
However it's proximity to the coast means that spring skiing suck... BIG TIME- we are talking about minusing over 4 millions stars here! The snow quality is terrible below mid- mountain and in march, white- outs and very variable conditions (one minute you can't see your fingers the second it is blasting with sun) is common. This means that although there is masses of terrain, everyone actually only skies the top 1/2 of the mountain.
In the summer there is fab hiking and though I don't mountain bike myself, I hear the biking is fantastic too!
Whistler was conceived for the Olympics and it has now fulfilled it's ambition, leaving us a great legacy to play with too!
And their chicken tenders and chips ain't half bad either.
Whistler Blackcomb
1/12/2010
1 photo
Whistler is such a beautiful resort and it snowed the first two days we were there so I really wanted to take advantage of it and go snowboarding but I was a little gun-shy after fracturing my tail bone in Mammoth last year.
I figured the best way to gain a little confidence and play it safe would be to take a lesson so I could refresh my memory of the basics and get used to being on a board again. The ski school was just steps away from our hotel so armed with a pair of heavily padded hockey shorts on underneath my clothes, I signed myself up for a beginner's group lesson and joined everyone out front.
There are a variety of lessons you can choose from ranging from private lessons, half day lessons, group lessons. I chose the the full day group lesson with the lift ticket incorporated (I don't think there's a half day option when you sign up for a group lesson any way). When you sign up for the class, the give you a voucher to the rental store and you can get a helmet and wrist guards to rent for free. The lesson began at 9:45 a.m. and we had 6 people in our group, everyone pretty much all beginners.
My instructor Andrew was very thorough and really focused on the basics, having us practice everything he taught at least 2-3 times each. Even though it was a group lesson, he did work one on one with almost everyone and made sure to point out what might help improve our skills in the specific challenges we were all having. He adjusted my bindings for me after observing my stance and I really appreciated it because I felt much more comfortable and felt like I improved afterward.
For novices or those who are a little rusty and want some review, I would totally recommend the snowboarding lessons at Whistler. The cost of the lesson with the lift ticket itself is quite a deal because it isn't much more than the cost of the ticket itself and the school seems to have organization and method down to a tee. I appreciated the thoroughness of my instructor as well as all the extra pointers he gave everyone and the lesson itself made me feel a lot better about being in the snow again.
Photos and more can be found here on my favorite blog- http://www.alamodejour...
Listed in: Good times in Whistler, BC
Whistler Blackcomb
4/10/2010
My love for Whistler has been rekindled.
I just came back after a few days of PRISTINE skiing up at WhistlerBlackcomb, and I absolutely loved my stay. I haven't been here in a while, and the last time that I came for spring skiing nearly all of the snow had melted and I was forced to do green runs at the top of the mountain. This year, having been one of the best snow seasons at Whistler to date, I was blown away by just how amazing Whistler really is. There was the perfect amount of powder and ice to create an awesomely fun vacation. Thank you, Whistler. I'll definitely be seeing you next year.
Whistler Blackcomb
5/18/2010
I have been coming to this mountain since i have been born. Thrown into Kids ski camp and progressed into one of the first people to snowboard on this mountain, to teaching, and downhill racing. You can do it all if you live in or near Whistler!
It is in my blood and soul, and has never left. Over my life time i have gotten to explore many other mountains in Canada, and i have to say that nothing compares to the efficiency or runs of Blackcomb mountain.
I am a Blackcomb girl mainly because i snowboard. I find Whistler has one to many F#$* me parts that flatten out and leave you having to drag yourself and your board to a part that slopes down again. Skiers, don't fret, both mountains are amazing.
You used to have to choose which mountain you wanted to ride on, now you can do both! and do it all in the same day with the new 11 minute gondola ride that connects one peak to the other.
I have never had an unsafe moment. We lost my brother in white out conditions one time and a ski patroller found him and us.. don't ask me how! Concussions were treated with the utmost proffessionalism over the years as well.
My other favorite part is having a hot chocolate or lunch at one of many spots, and then also doing apres ski at the bottom.
I really think i should move to Whistler.. i love it that much.
Listed in: Summer Fun
Whistler Blackcomb
1/11/2010
4 photos
As the dates for the Winter Olympics 2010 lurch ever closer, I am reminded of just what an absolutely beautiful place the Whistler Mountain Resort and Village is! Located about 2 hours north of Vancouver, B.C., it is well worth a trip to see such majesty.
Now I came up on a day trip out of Vancouver and the ride up was wonderfully scenic. Passing through Squamish was great-very cool place. Finally, you arrive and it is pristine and breath-taking beyond words. The air is so fresh and forest-y.
The closest thing I can compare it to is an Swiss alpine village. My son and I immediately made a bee-line for the gondola ride-despite my fear of heights-and the views are amazing. Dress warmly-even in the summer-it is nippy. The gondola ascends over the Fitzsimmons Valley and also connects the Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain runs. The Canadian flag posted at the top is a great photo spot and there were several "grizzly bear warning" signs that kind of spooked us out. At the gondola drop, there is a restaurant located there but my son had a hankering for the Old Spaghetti Factory back in the Village, so back down we went. That brisk mountain air makes you VERY hungry!
Whistler Village is just a quick 5 minute walk from the gondola entrance and the entire Village is pedestrian-friendly. Very easy to walk around and browse. You name it-they got it here. Hotels, spa's,
the two mountains with skiing and snowboarding, golf courses, tons of shops, bars and restaurants. Nice hiking trails with many amenities such as restrooms, picnic area's and benches. Everything is clean and immaculate-very well maintained grounds and a total European feel to it.
So if you ever have an extra day to kill in Vancouver-get up to Whistler.
Looking for a romantic, year-round spot to vacation at-this is the place. Even if you don't ski or snowboard, it is so scenic and pretty-you won't feel left out of all the action. There is a reason that Whistler is rated #1 Resort destination in North America. Coming up next month, I'm sure the Winter Olympics will give the world plenty more television opportunities to check out just how special it really is!
Whistler Blackcomb
2/11/2010
1 photo
It is the best ski/snowboard resort in the North American continent.
I don't know where to start. The sheer size of this place makes it amazing, and the fact that the resort takes time to develop new areas with all skill levels in mind means its fun for everyone. The new Peak to Peak chair makes the 2 mountains really feel like one big playground. Its hard to get bored or run out of areas to ski in, being able to ski from literally the peak to base is another plus.
I will admit to almost shedding a tear while standing a top one of the powered snow bowls---- blue skies, amazing views, fresh snow and not another soul in sight, will do that you know.....
Whistler Blackcomb
10/9/2009
9 photos
I would like to dedicate review number 900 to my favourite ski resort in the world, Whistler / Blackcomb. I had the great privilege to ski here a couple of ski seasons ago when I visited with some friends from the UK
The main downside for us Brits is the long 12 hour flight from the UK and subsequent jetlag but the limousine transfer (cheapest transfer option for a group our size, believe it or not) and stunning views along the Sea to Sky Highway made it a great start to the holiday. It was also nice that it was a relatively quick transfer time at 2 hours rather than 4 hours to places like Banff / Lake Louise and also that the road was straight rather than a winding path up the mountainside as in a lot of European resorts.
We stayed in the Blackcomb Benchlands area, which may seem a bit of a way out of town on the map but don't fear - there 's a frighteningly efficient free shuttle bus service which runs every 10 minutes religiously. It never failed to arrive on time during our stay
Whistler main village and Village North are one combined area - very well planned and well laid out with lots of retail therapy available as well as cuisine from all over the world. It has been developed since the 1980s and the organised structure to town reflects this, unlike some of the haphazard European ski resorts. There are cinemas, supermarkets and internet cafes in town
All the trees in town looked lovely decorated with lights. We didn't have time to enjoy the many off-piste distractions like the many spas, a tube park, Ziptrek, forest walks, snowmobiling, helicopter rides, bungee jumps, etc. There's a free Fire and Ice show every Sunday evening at the gondola base. Upper Village is smaller but Whistler main resort is easily accessible by shuttle.
The 2 mountains offer every conceivable type terrain of skiing you would want. We had intended to try cat-skiing but with the record breaking snowfall in Whistler that year, we found an abundance of fresh powder everywhere in the main ski area. The terrain parks are well organised with signs marking the size of jumps/rails/boxes, making it a lot safer for us terrain park novices. The queues were civilised and well organised with single person lines making sure that all the lifts are always used to full capacity. We were there over Martin Luther weekend, one of the American bank holiday weekends and never had to queue more than 10 minutes even over this busy period and most of the time, the queues were mainly walk-on. The main lack of capacity we found was in the restaurants and booking is essential.
Another lovely touch is the ability to easily access and ski the off-piste Blackcomb glacier, which is technically back-country, making us all feel like proper intrepid adventurers! We just went through the marked gate and carried our skis like proper off pisters, negotiated the slightly scary ridge across Blowhole and were rewarded with a wide expanse of powder to play on and whoop our way down back to civilisation
We also found the ski school instruction to be excellent with English speaking instructors and smaller classes leading to more progress. Our instructor for the free lesson we received with our chalet booking was excellent and we booked private lessons with her. This enabled us to tailor the lesson to our needs exactly.
Whistler is very proud to have won the 2010 Winter Olympics and all over the resort, there were lots of reminders as the resort gears up. There is a lot of development at Creekside base, the finishing area for the downhill events - we couldn't resist a blast down the men's downhill and ladies super G courses. There is also a lot of work along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to upgrade it, which can lead to delays but the road works have been suspended over the winter.
It's been a dream to ski Whistler for a long time and it lived up to its promise. It certainly matches the French super-resorts like The Three Vallets, Tignes/Val d'Isere and Les Arcs/La Plagne.
I wish the Whistler/Blackcomb all the best for the forthcoming Olympics in 2010
Whistler Blackcomb
2/1/2010
The best resort I have ever been to in terms of size, service, amenities, scenic views, and snow.
The view as you ski down was breathtaking. Definitely a must-place-to-visit if you ski/ride. The resorts have two huge mountains and really long trails.... If you go up, it will take you at least about an hour to ski all the way down - and that's if you are at least an intermediate.
The village is full of all sorts of shops, bars/restaurants and even mini markets. I went right after New Year and the village was still decorated and just beautiful. There were competitions and other events such as fireworks as well. Also, if you stayed at the hotel there, you can just ski right into the entrance of the hotel. Amazing!
I was a little disappointed about the glass floor on the gondola because it is not all the floors, but only the middle area and it was fenced off. It was still a little exciting to see down, but it would have been off-the-chain to actually be stepping on glass floor.
Whistler Blackcomb
1/25/2010
I was here for a week and it was super duper awesome!
Whistler.. How i miss you... This place is for Disneyland for snow-loving adults.
Awesome snow? check
Awesome trails? check
Awesome Gladed trails? check
Awesome Park? check
Awesome food? check
Alcohol and partying? check check check
Are you beginning to sense a pattern....?
The bowls and trails here will BLOW YOUR MIND.
I wouldn't make a trip out here unless you have some level of proficiency so you can take advantage of the awesome runs here but...! All i know is i need to/will come back here!
Whistler Blackcomb
1/23/2010
World-class skiing at the top of my list.
Jackson Hole, Park City, and others are up there. But nothing's quite like Whistler. And though Davos, Killington, and Steamboat are enjoyable in their own ways too, Whistler has more reasons for more return visits. Big mountains. Big choices. Great apres-ski. And lots more (read the other 5* reviews).
Whistler Blackcomb
11/17/2009
I love my yearly trip to Whistler so much! Maybe 'yearly' is a bit of a stretch since this is only my 3rd season snowboarding but, no place else I've visited even comes close to this place. The 'Peak to Creek' run makes every other trail seem like a tiny suburban driveway in comparison. This and most of the runs are so long in comparison to anything we have going on California/Nevada that it's easy to get completely spoiled by Whistler Mountain.
Then there's the town- not a sleepy resort town with 3 restaurants to choose from, this town has a jaw dropping array of restaurants and... dare I say... clubs!? Who knew skiers/snowboarders went clubbing? Nobody if you're used to going to Tahoe where the clubs are cliches that play Top 40. Whistler on the other hand gets top tier DJs performing constantly and I've been continually shocked at the big names I've seen spin up there.
The mountain is great, the apres are great, the late night scene is great... really, what's not to love?! If other resorts are aiming to compete, they are coming up embarrassingly short. This place is in a class all it's own.
Whistler Blackcomb
3/22/2010
1 photo
Amazing! I love this place. The mountain is huge, there are so many trail to choose from, and the view at the top is gorgeous.
Coming from the Village you pick either the Blackcomb or whistler gondola. I prefer Blackcomb side because there were less people and I think whistler side had more skiers. There are a lot of people at the gondolas but it was fast and the wait wasn't at all bad. Once you get up there and you're going through the trails it's literally you against the mountain. Yes it really was that big of a mountain. Like I said before, there are many trails to choose from and trails range from intermediate to advance. If you start from just the middle of the mountain and board down to the gondola you will be exhausted. The trails are ridiculously long, I loved it. I had to stop and catch my breath throughout the runs. The trails were really wide unless you're on the backside. If you don't like narrow trails and the fear of falling off the mountain then I don't suggest going to the backside. If you do ride the back make sure you catch speed because there were some treacherous flat areas. Snow everywhere, tress everywhere, snow on trees, what more do you want? One thing only! The snow, it's wet snow. Yes snow is made from water and therefore it's wet, I get it. I mean the snow was wet where it hits you and it will eventually melt into your clothes and whatnot. Dry snow, like in Utah, doesn't stick to you. You can brush off dry snow. Wet snow, dry snow, abdominal snow mans, I don't care I still love this place.
Tip: Purchase your lift tickets at the 7-Eleven stores in Vancouver. It's cheaper!
Whistler Blackcomb
2/18/2010
AMAZING!
Need more be said?
Whistler Blackcomb
1/6/2010
Best skiing anywhere!
The folks at Whistler/Blackcomb have really pulled up their socks! We rented yesterday (for convenience sake) and it couldn't have been any easier! Helpful attendants all the way through.
Mountains were groomed well I though although I heard from a few locals that consistency has been a problem this season. Definitely recommend heading up mid-week if you can. We had runs to ourselves throughout the day and snow conditions were awesome! Love it here! Wish I could live in Whistler!!
Whistler Blackcomb
6/27/2010
there is just no comparison!! whistler is one of the best places to board....the powder is just amazing
Whistler Blackcomb
9/24/2009
I have been skiing Blackcomb since it opened, it was the first fall line mountain developed in the North American style, before that I skied Whistler Mountain since Blackcomb opened in the hundreds of days I have been up there over the years I ski Blackcomb, if I want side hill I'll go to France or Austria. These mountains will please anyone who gets off the main drags and looks around a bit. They improve the infrastructure every year and now the Olympics will leave a legacy for us for years to come.
Was 1.5 hours from the bridge now its less.
Whistler Blackcomb
5/24/2009
The running reputation of the resort is that it is the largest in North America. There is no denying this. Words like BIG or IMMENSE completely miss the mark altogether. There are two mountains that comprise the resort and each alone is beyond human comprehension. I guess if you multiply HUGE, GIGANTIC and MASSIVE together, you'd fall somewhere near the actual size of each mountain.
Let me point out that this review is being written in late May. The officer at the US/Canada border did a double take when I explained to him that I was visiting Canada to snowboard. In May. He didn't believe me.
Believe it, you can ride until June. That's how awesome this place is. My buddy and I showed up in 70+ degree weather and were among an army of riders, skiers and all sorts of people ready to attack the mountain. In May. Do you understand what I'm telling you?!
Since I'm a newbie to snowboarding, the trails at the top of the mountains felt a rank higher than I would have imagined. Greens rode like blues and blues looked like blacks. A local later confirmed that the really easy trails were closer to the base of the mountain and the higher the trail was on the mountain, the more difficult they were.
So let me pass along some advice - if you're looking to ride in May, please have some skills otherwise be prepared to "falling leaf" your way all the way down the "green" trails while the locals shred shop all around you.
Don't worry rookies, it's still completely worth it.
Try the poutine at the Roundhouse Lodge.
Whistler Blackcomb
4/1/2009
Ahh. So this is the true reason I came to Canada. Not for romping around and eating all of Vancouver, though that came as an added bonus.
This place is breathtaking. Standing on the top of the mountain, I realized that I have never truly experienced snowboarding until this moment. I think I was somewhere in between crying and peeing in my pants (umm because of the windy lifts and cold weather and high altitude, of course).
I think the best part of the mountain is that you can go for a whole run and not see a single person. All you see is powder, powder, trees, and mountain after mountain. It makes you wonder if you are indeed alone on the planet. or just the mountain.
It's a good idea to ask someone which runs to go down, if you are boarding. A lot of the runs are designed for skiiers (blahgh) as unfortunately, the ratio is more like 10:1 for skiiers to snowboarders. No worries though, the mountain is so big, you probably won't come in contact with one, for a long, long time, unless you are on the green runs with all the n00bs like i was in the beginning. They told me it was a good idea to start with green and work your way up, as the conditions and runs may not be the same as what your neighborhood ski resort.
Sticking to the mid mountain blues is a good way to go as some of the green ones are way too flat to pick up any momentum, those are usually the ones hugging the boundaries, and more for cross country type of skiing.
The peak to peak gondola ride is also fantastic. It takes you from the peak of blackcomb to whistler in one swoop. With both mountains available for exploring and conquering, the 8 hours that the lifts are opened seems too short for how big the mountain is...
Listed in: Canuck
Whistler Blackcomb
1/21/2010
I find myself a bit bias while reviewing Whistler and blackcomb mountains on account of the fact that I've never skied anywhere else.
So instead of telling you how fantastic they both are (Because they really truly are.) I'm going to tell you why i like the one more than the other.
So lets start with Blackcomb the newer of the two mountains. There are many more "Runs" here in the sense that there are trees on both sides of your snow. I see it like this, to get from point A to point B on Blackcomb you can take route 1 through 5. The runs have really already been set out for you and by the mid-end of the day you have to search for snow that hasn't already been pushed to the bottom of the run due to snowboarders. So if you enjoy Skiing next to trees, being frustrated by snowboarders and having to find runs no one else goes on so you can have decent snow all day long, take a lift up to Blackcomb.
Now whistler is everything i dont like about Blackcomb erased. The runs are wider and allow you to go where you please, there is more good ski able terrain, the further away from the main lifts you get the less idiots there are, and there always seems to be less snowboarders. What i love so much about Whistler mountain is that you take the lift to the top and ski down in whichever way you choose, there is no "You must take route 1,2 or 4 because route 3 and 5 are black diamond and more effort than actual fun to go down." If you dont like the bit of terrain you're going down just point yourself to the left or right and you're back to enjoying yourself soon enough. So if you like fresh powder throughout the day, (Based on the fact that it's snowed and you're good enough to get to it) wide open terrain that lets you experiment, and the feeling that you left those unsavory snowboarding characters back on Blackcomb, please go to Whistler instead.
HOWEVER the mountains are literally connected to each other via large fast gondola (Peak to Peak) So it really doesn't matter which one you start on.
Oh and another thing, Terrain parks. Who the hell comes to an internationally famous mountain only to then go somewhere that EVERY BLOODY MOUNTAIN HAS. People come to whistler because some of the best skiing (and Snowboarding) in the world in there. You can not find the skiing experience that Whistler and Blackcomb have to offer anywhere else.
Going to the terrain park on either Whistler or Blackcomb is like slapping the mountain in the face and saying "Thanks for the beautiful views, mass amount of use able landscape and carefully crafted runs designed to cater to my every want and skiing need, But i'd rather slide on some metal and smash my teeth on a rail."
Whistler Blackcomb
3/2/2010
Lifetime best skiing. The conditions are impeccable, the view is unbelievable, and it's a great place to ski with people of varying abilities because the conditions make it really doable. I especially recommend the trails under Jersey Cream Express, and I suggest skiing while the Olympics are on, on a weekday, when it's 50 degrees and sunny out, the snow somehow isn't slushy, and the slopes belong entirely to you. Too late? Guess I lucked out...
Listed in: Top of the Top
Whistler Blackcomb
1/23/2009
Any body who is an avid skier or snowboarder should pay a visit to Whistler/Blackcomb at least once in their life time. Even if you are not into skiing or snowboarding, at least take the gondola up to the top of the mountain for a breathtaking view.
I was here about 4 years ago. It was much cheaper to fly into Seattle, rent a car and drive to W/B. Don't forget your passports and have it with you as you drive through the border. Otherwise, you'll get called in for questioning.
We stopped by a 7/11 because they had a 2 day pass with access to both resorts at a much cheaper price than the resorts. It was heaven. Like that cliche 'kids in a candy store."
Even though there was not as much snow as we had anticipated the year that we went, we still got to explore much of the 2 mountains.
I would come back here again...after I go to Park City Utah and the swiss alps...
Whistler Blackcomb
2/25/2010
5 photos
Best. Resort. Ever. A run from the top of Blackcomb Glacier took us an hour. Seriously, an hour. It snowed 4 ft in 1 day, amazing. Talk about a big mountain, nothing in New England comes close. Hope you're not afraid of heights! Glass bottomed gondolas on the Peak-to-Peak? Oh yes, once every 11 minutes. I still dream about the drive up the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver. Awe inspiring.
Whistler Blackcomb
2/18/2010
Great view, amazing mountains. I love the Peak to Peak! It's a shame it's not sunny and clear more often. But then I guess it wouldn't have as much snow for the winter sports.
Listed in: Whistler for the Anti-snow…
Whistler Blackcomb
2/6/2009
Thus far, I agree....the best ski resort I've been to. And I usually go to the ones in Lake Tahoe.
I feel like I need to toss up a yodalay when i'm up at the top of the mountain. i'm so glad I got to chill here for 3 days snowboarding. Although 2 days was enough, 3 just made it entirely memorable. The mountain is indeed huge and YES, it's true. Green's at Whistler are Blues at Tahoe. I dared not try the black seeing that I value my life and wanted to board the airplane back without crutches.
Also, the people at the resort were all very friendly and it's clear that everyone there is having a good time and enjoying the sight as well as the sport. I love how it takes about 45 minutes average just to go down one mountain. And another great thing is the moguls tend to be on flatter areas which allowed me to practice my skills on the moguls boarding down. How'd that go? great. I'm a pro at boarding down moguls now. It definitely helped goin with Skiiers and it was pretty fun.
One big difference they got up here compared to Tahoe is the lifts have the thing that lets your feet rest with the skiis or board. This definitely helps alleviate the soreness and makes the trip on the lift easier.
Tahoe, take some notes.
I still needa check out Utah and Colorado for their ski resorts. we'll see how long Whistler stays on top...but you know now, Olymipics 2010 is gonna b here.
Whistler Blackcomb
4/13/2009
Please don't compare Whistler to those puny California snow resorts! They are not worthy.....
By far the BEST Ski/Snowboarding resort I've been to. Can you say 10 minute Gondola ride? How about 3 more lifts after that to get to the peak?
The town:
Unlike most resorts I've been to...people actually live here. I see people walking their dogs and shopping for groceries at a consistent level. Makes me want to live here *sigh*.
The park:
There's Blackcomb and Whistler. Unfortunately the park was so big I didn't get a chance to experience the Blackcomb side...which might give me an excuse to come back next year! The Gondola ride up was 10 minutes long! It only took us about 3/5 the way. 3 more jump lifts will take you to the peak of Whistler where you'll face multiple diamond/intermediate trails. Want the full experience? Take the peak to peak gondola. It took me 4 hours to do 1.5 runs (took a lift up again at the halfway mark). At full speed might still take 30 minutes to get to the bottom from peak. Definitely a world class resort!
The people:
Huge mix of people from all over the world. Noticeably from England, France, Eastern Canada, Japan and Australia. I didn't meet a single person there who came from the US. Overall a very friendly resort though I noticed the English tourist are use to pushing and shoving....even when there is no line...
I didn't see a single person practicing how to ski or snowboard. Unlike other parks where you'd have a bunch of people sitting around this park is filled with intermediate to expert skiers/boarders. A great park to practice your skills. Overall an amazing experience. This will be kept in my favorite destinations list.
Whistler Blackcomb
12/23/2008
I'm not a resort guy, but Whistler is Whistler and you have to go.
The mountains are huge. Epicly huge. And the sheer number of people make it feel a whole lot smaller.
Guest relations doesn't do much either. We booked a bunch of stuff way in advance (only way I can get time off work) and no one knew where any of our reservations were (!!!) when we got here. Their marketing material talk about how huge the place is and how Intrawest can book anywhere.
Then when their is an issue, the staff says how big the place is and how you can still go anywhere even if they don't know where it is you should be going.
Truth be told, the Whistler mountain is a 4. Huge, fun, and gets ski'd out by 1pm by the hordes of people (which I am one of this week), and the staff is a 2, only because after a good jolt of the cattle prod, they are helpful.
On the Blackcomb side, its all good, easily 5+ stars!
I'd rather head to Cypress and I'm glad all the snowboarding will be held there so when I'm back in 2010, it won't be at a resort.
Listed in: Shred the GNAR!!, Whistler, BC: because you just…
Whistler Blackcomb
8/6/2008
Getting here is a bitch, but Whistler/Blackcomb is the best ski resort in North America imho (taking into consideration size, conditions, and value).
Over the years I've visited three times, the most recent being 2003. In 2002 I spent 4 days straight taking their snowboarding classes and went from a beginner to a solid intermediate seemingly overnight.
Snow quality around Christmas and New Years does vary and wasn't great on at least one occasion, target later in the winter for better snow. The exchange rate is typically favorable, though recently of course the dollar is as good as toilette paper.
The ski village at the base is excellent and has all you need, restaurants, nightlife, and solid hotels. I've had so much fun skiing and boarding on these two mountains they hold a special place in my heart.
Whistler Blackcomb
8/14/2008
Hands-down, my favorite mountain!
I've been during summer and winter seasons. It's a must see if you're in British Columbia - easily accessible by car, train, or bus.
Oh yes. I'll be there in 2010!!
Whistler Blackcomb
8/7/2008
#200 review and I could think of no better place.
Here's the quick review: Go. Go if you're good. Go if you're bad. Go for summer hiking and biking. Go for winter for skiing and snowboarding. Go if you love shopping. Go if you love food. Just...go.
The first time I went to Whistler was early 2001. I had never snowboarded before and by the end of the full-day "Ride Tribe" class I was connecting turns. I was so pumped I went home and bought boots and bindings because I was so going to start snowboarding.
The second time I went to Whistler was late 2004. I hadn't stepped on a snowboard since the first time I went to Whistler. I was totally planning to snowboard between my Whistler visits, I just didn't find the time. So it was basically back to basics. Not completely, I made it to Group 2 the first day and Group 3 the next, but that isn't saying much. I went home and new I was going to go back to Whistler and work a season after I graduated college.
The third time I went to Whistler was October 2006. With my car loaded up and SWAP visa in hand, I was ready to start my six months in Whistler. I got hired on the spot at the job fair as a Lead Hand, got employee housing by getting to the housing office at 4am the day of the excess room giveaway. I then got appendicitis (I don't think this was related). I met some of the greatest people in the world that winter. I am still extremely close to more people from Whistler (who are now scattered across the world) than from college. I highly recommend working a winter here if there is anyway possible.
Living in Whistler means living the mountains. I went from being an -- less face it -- awful snowboarder to a pretty damn good snowboarder AND skiier. Between the two mountains, every desire can be met. Beginners and advanced skiiers and boarders should head over to Whistler while intermediates should explore the glories of Blackcomb. Blackcomb is also the mountain with the beginner, advance and "extreme" parks.
I would recommend getting a lesson the first time you go to Whistler/Blackcomb so you can better learn the mountain. It's so big that after 45+ days I barely scratch the surface. Secret trails are everywhere, but unless you are a really good skiier or boarder I would say to keep on the beaten track. I found myself on a triple diamond when I was searching for the last of the powder one day.
OK, so this isn't the most complete review ever. I don't know how it could be. The mountain encompasses a huge part of my life. It also encompasses a huge part of the world. Be safe on HWY 99, be safe on the Mountain and you'll have the time of your life.
Oh, and since this wasn't the greatest review ever, please PM me if you have any questions about this amazing place.
Last and not least -- to do Whistler/Blackcomb properly you must do a duel mountain. Ask a local what that is. All I'm saying is, start at Dusty's and don't forget to make it up to Horstman Hut and Crystal Hut as they close earlier.
Listed in: Active Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb
8/6/2008
Um yes please. Our high school field trip was to these mountains. We had a great time in their village. I remember a few things about this trip getting Cuban cigars, buying booze or trying to ( we were 16 at the time), first time I tried Mongolian BBQ, first time I visited LUSH (the store not your friend), first time I ran up a flight of stairs to the top of a building after watching your best friend kiss your best guy friend. Oh the memories. Good thing she is still my best friend.
To be honest I know the mountains are pretty jainormous but I don't remember skiing! I remember everything but skiing so I'm guessing the weather was horrible or I was just acting like a little high school girl.
Whistler Blackcomb
8/27/2008
4 photos
Most will rave about the skiing, but my rave is about visiting Whistler in the summer. Several times I had to pick my jaw up from the floor of the gondola.
The Mountain Bike Park is built for full suspension bikes. You see guys (and some gals) wearing full body armor, riding, jumping and careening down the mountain doing crazy stunts. Ramps, rails, jumps, teeter-totters - complete insanity. And lets just say the docs in town have full employment. These trails aren't for the weak of heart.
We were smart and did all of our biking on the trails surrounding the many lakes. I left the Mountain Bike Park for the experts/weekend warriors.
We paid for a hiking lift ticket several times to ride the gondolas and the views are reminiscent of Europe with lots of little lakes. We regularly saws bears from the gondolas (~ 50 live on the mountain) which thrilled the kids. There are also a few childrens' areas (forts, the castle, play structures) scattered on the mountain. Hiking was nice because the base elevation in the village is around 2,000 feet. Top of the mountains is around 7,000 feet, so I didn't feel affected by the elevation gain as much as I do in the Sierras.
Factor in all of the summertime activities (ATV rides, hiking, Adventure Zone), the stunning views and the universally nice staff and this is just about as good as it gets.
Listed in: Whistler-in Dixie
Whistler Blackcomb
1/22/2010
Whistler Blackcomb has to be one of the most beautiful resorts I have evvvvveeerr been to! This review will be incomplete since I did not get to go snowboarding here after lugging it onto an airplane with me, but I promise to come back and edit this review! The Sea-to-Sky Highway was just amazing and made it very easy to get to the mountains. Whistler Village is amazing ... and cute! This place has everything you need! Food, Shopping, Lodging...everything! All the gift shops in the village had a ton of 2010 Olympics souvenirs which was awesome. Got a ton of Quatchi mascot stuff :). This place is a must go! I have made a vow to visit this place once a year...maybe twice - once in the summer and once in the winter. You really feel like one with nature, lol. The views are just breathtaking and the snow is just the best you will ever run into in North America!
