Whistler Blackcomb talks a big game. The largest ski resort in North America has 8171 acres with few other resorts even coming close. It’s one thing having the most terrain but it’s another when that terrain also delivers on pitch, vertical and powder.
First things first. Snow. If last season is anything to go by (12.73metres of snowfall) then they clearly have that covered. Spring skiing is also a no brainer, traditionally the mountains get more snow in March than any other month with over three metres of snow in March this year alone.
You’d expect a lot of bang for your Whistler Blackcomb buck when you’re boasting 8000 + acres accessed by 36 lifts plus the famed Peak 2 Peak Gondola (the longest and highest lift in the world). Well then, how does over 200 marked trail runs suit you? Add 1500 + metres of vertical on Whistler mountain and 1600 + on Blackcomb and your thighs could be burning for days. Especially if they take on the 11 kilometer Peak to Creek run at the end of the day.
Terrain park rats will love the choice of 5 terrain parks and a super pipe and the plethora of big names that hit them up including Australia’s own Russ Henshaw and Anna Segal. Just saying.
Beginners can access almost 20% of the mountains, intermediates around 50% and the rest is for the advanced to expert. With 8000+ acres that’s a lot of terrain for every level of skier and boarder.
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- Pic by David McColm
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- Pic by Ollie Jones
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- Pic by Robin O’Neill
Try Blue Line run for spectacular high altitude views of the Spearhead Range, for backcountry style powder head to Lakeside Bowl, for extreme fear factor try Spanky’s Ladder. Those who love the side and backcountry will salivate at all that Whistler Blackcomb has to offer, grab a guide and head into some of North America’s most coveted off piste glacial and tree skiing. If you’re cashed up grab a helicopter and go heli skiing or take a more languid pace with a day of cat skiing with friends.
Now that you’re well and truly exhausted head to one of 18 on mountain restaurants for ski in ski out cuisine or soak your weary legs into the hot and cold tubs of the Scandinave Spa deep in the forest.
Trust us, 8000+ acres is a lot when the terrain comes with as much variety as Whistler.
WHISTLER FROM $1440 PER PERSON
Travelplan Ski have a package deal for a group of four people from AU$1440 per person staying for seven nights at Tantalus Lodge in a two bedroom condo with a 6 day lift pass each and return transfers from Vancouver. Check out their Whistler Deals here.
