Whistler Blackcomb is a premier ski resort located in Canada's Coast Mountain Range. A short drive from Vancouver, British Columbia, the resort is a major year-round tourism destination.

With a mile of vertical, the most skiable terrain on the continent and incredible backcountry, Whistler Blackcomb has been consistently ranked the No. 1 ski resort by ski industry and travel magazines. Winter 2006/2007 was no exception: renowned as the second snowiest season on record with an impressive 1, 416 centimetres (46.5 feet) of snow. Outside of the Himalayas, the Coast Mountain Range is one of the most heavily glaciated mountain ranges in the world. On Whistler Blackcomb alone, there are three glaciers to choose from: Blackcomb Glacier, Horstman Glacier, and Whistler Glacier.

The twin mountains offer 8,171 acres (3,307 hectares) of skiable terrain, ranging from beginner to expert slopes. Whistler and Blackcomb mountains also boast world-class terrain parks, a Superpipe and Family Zones. The regular ski and snowboard season lasts from mid-November to early June, with glacier skiing running until the end of July.

While winters at Whistler Blackcomb are undeniably amazing, the mountains offer exciting activities year-round. From mid-May to early-October, the groundbreaking Whistler Mountain Bike Park kicks into full gear. The world's best lift-accessed downhill bike park features 200 kilometres of trails for all ability levels. Meanwhile, sightseers can beat the summer heat as they hike in the high alpine, passing colourful wildflowers, glacier-fed lakes, wildlife and mountain peaks as far as the eye can see. Whether winter or summer, visitors young and old will catch a bit of that magical Whistler Blackcomb energy.

Whistler Mountain - since 1966
Blackcomb Mountain - since 1980
Whistler Blackcomb – since 1997

Born for the Games and built on a dream, Whistler celebrated its 40th anniversary, and Blackcomb celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2006. In 1962 Franz Wilhelmsen formed Garibaldi Lifts Limited with a group of Vancouver businessmen. Their dream was to host the 1968 Winter Olympic Games. Roads to the region were extended and, with the construction of a four-person gondola, a double chairlift, two T-bars and a day lodge, Whistler officially opened for skiing in February 1966. Though their Olympic plans never came to fruition, Wilhelmsen and his cohorts pursued their ski area plans.

The resort expanded with additions to Whistler Village and in 1980, Blackcomb Mountain opened with the third greatest vertical in North America at that time. Intrawest Corporation purchased Blackcomb in 1986 and Whistler in 1997, bringing together rival giants to create the mother of all North American ski resorts. Whistler Blackcomb currently boasts 8,171 acres of terrain, the most vertical in North America, 200+ trails and 38 lifts.

As it turns out – Whistler's Olympic dreams have become a reality, albeit more than 40 years later. Whistler Blackcomb is the Official Alpine Skiing Venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

The old mountain adage, "If you don't like the weather, wait five minutes" is certainly applicable at Whistler Blackcomb, but another apt saying would be,"If you don't like the weather in the valley, head up the mountain."

Whistler Blackcomb is located in the Coast Mountains about 50 kilometres (30 miles), as the crow flies, away from the Pacific Ocean. This proximity to the ocean greatly influences the weather, sometimes giving rainy weather in the valley which turns to plentiful powder in the alpine. A low cloud ceiling will often trick skiers and riders into thinking they're in for a grey day, until they pop through the clouds into bluebird skies.

Summer in Whistler is beautiful – temperatures are warm and the resort receives little precipitation. Temperatures can reach above 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) making a ride into the alpine a welcome respite from the heat. Average temperatures in Whistler Valley can range through the summer months from 9 Celsius (48 Fahrenheit) to 27 Celsius (81 Fahrenheit). Average temperatures in the alpine during the summer months can range from minus 1 Celsius (30 Fahrenheit) to 16 Celsius (61 Fahrenheit).

Whistler Blackcomb Snow Report

Five times a day during the winter season, the Whistler Blackcomb Communications Team collects the latest in weather reports from Environment Canada and the Weather Office in the Whistler Alpine. The information is then used to update the TELUS Snow Report (604-932-4211) with all the necessary info on snow fall, temperatures, freezing levels, wind speed/direction and grooming, as well as daily events happening on the mountain. Whistler Blackcomb keeps their guests informed wherever they are, so each day, along with local updates, websites around the world are simultaneously updated with the same information. Whistler Blackcomb Snow Report

Web Cams

Web cams allow guests to see the weather and various events for themselves. Whistler Blackcomb's web cams are located on both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains as well as in the Village and Bike Park. Each camera has a 360-degree view that can be seen by clicking on the arrows at the bottom of the picture. Web Cams

Snowfall

Whistler Blackcomb is blessed with an average of 10.22 metres (402 inches/33.5 feet) per year on the summit, as measured at the Pig Alley Weather Station on Whistler Mountain (elevation 1,660 metres/ 5,445 feet).

Whistler Blackcomb entrusts its Environment Team with the responsibility of spearheading sustainable initiatives with a focus on the areas of Climate Change, Waste Management, Land Use and Water Quality and Conservation. The team also develops programs to educate both employees and the public about how they can make a difference.

The Environment Team's hard work has been recognized by national and international associations. Most recently, Whistler Blackcomb was the only Canadian ski resort to receive an 'A' grade on the Ski Area Environmental Scorecard, issued by Ski Area Citizens' Coalition (SACC). Prior to this award, Whistler Blackcomb earned the 2007 Silver Eagle Award for Fish & Wildlife Habitat Protection for the development of the Symphony Amphitheatre, which opened on December 16, 2006.

Whistler Blackcomb placed habitat protection at the centre of its 2006 Symphony Project, which involved expanding its terrain into an alpine area known as the Piccolo Peak/Symphony Basin. A team of planners and engineers, which included a bear biologist, foresters and mountain planners, developed a minimalist design that kept wildlife habitat intact. Ultimately the project's footprint was reduced from an original estimate of 40 per cent down to less than five per cent. Whistler Blackcomb also received the 2007 BC Tourism Award for Environmentally Responsible Tourism for its work on the Symphony project.

Initiatives

Although Whistler Blackcomb has won 17 awards for its programs since 1998, much more needs to be done to become truly a sustainable operation. The real reward is a sustained and protected mountain environment, and a community that continues to responsibly preserve the natural environment. With the goal of becoming a world leader and educator in conservation, Whistler Blackcomb's initiatives continue to set the standard in environmental responsibility.

Sustainability at Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Blackcomb has completed two large Power Smart projects in partnership with BC Hydro, resulting in over 4.5 million kilowatt hours of power savings annually. This saves enough electricity to power 450 homes in British Columbia for a year. We have changed out more than 11,000 light bulbs to more efficient models and continue to pursue energy saving opportunities.

Through reduction, reuse and recycling measures, we have reduced our waste by more than 60% since 1998. We recycle more than 800,000 beverage containers each year, which represents 74% of the total purchased. We have cut emissions through the purchase of low emission snowmobiles, building retrofits and our employee carpooling program. Our building retrofits have saved over 850 tonnes of emissions and our employee carpooling reduces greenhouse gases by 617,000 kgs per year.

Habitat Improvement Team (HIT)

Mountain-facilitated and community-involved, this environmental team is dedicated to improving the wildlife habitat in the Resort of Whistler. The HIT celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2007, having completed 78 projects to date.

Operation Green Up

Established in 1998, this $1.5 million mountain restoration enhancement program is designed to enhance and restore the mountain ecosysems. Primary objectives include erosion control, applying planting strategies/seed mixes that enhance wildlife populations, enhancing visual appeal, and utilizing native species wherever possible.

Whistler Blackcomb Foundation Environmental Fund

With contributions from both staff donations and the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation, the fund supports community environmental projects as well as providing expertise and resources to see the projects through to successful completion. To date, the WBFEF has raised contributed more than $175,000 to 36 local projects.

Having the right gear is crucial at Whistler Blackcomb. And don't be fooled, it can be as much about sporting the right trend as it is about finding the best fat ski for those super-deep pow days. Thankfully, Whistler Blackcomb's retail and rental selections cover all circumstances.

Convenient locations on the mountain and in the Village boast the latest in excellent hard and soft technology and are manned by locals who know the equipment and better yet, know how to use it. Every ski, snowboard, boot and bike that makes it into Whistler Blackcomb's Retail and Rental shops has been tested and approved by Whistler Blackcomb employees.

The Glacier Shop
The Glacier Shop features the latest in freeride ski equipment and apparel by the most popular brands, including Oakley, Armada, and 4front.

CAN-SKI
CAN-SKI has the largest selection of ski gear in Whistler. CAN-SKI's specialty is boot fitting, and the fit is guaranteed. Look for CAN-SKI in the Creekside Village, in the Deer Lodge and the Crystal Lodge in the main Village, and at the base of Blackcomb Mountain.

Quiksilver
From summer to winter, the Quiksilver store has all the latest gear including DC shoes, Roxy and Quiksilver apparel. Quiksilver is located beside the Village North Can-Ski under the Crystal Lodge.

Westbeach
Featuring the west coast's largest selection of core snowboard, skate and surf gear, Westbeach has your needs covered from mountain to ocean and everything in between. Locations include the Whistler Marketplace as well as a store in Vancouver.

Showcase Snowboards/Burton Woman's Store
Established in 1989, Showcase Snowboards is the oldest and largest snowboard shop in Whistler and the only one of its kind in Canada. Showcase carries everything a snowboarder might desire, including close to 300 boards to rent. The Burton Woman's Store is a new addition to the Showcase store catering to the women of snowboarding, offering women's only gear and apparel.

Salomon @ Whistler
A first in North America, Salomon @ Whistler carries Salomon, Bonfire and Oakley brands. Salomon @ Whistler is located in the Pan Pacific Mountainside.

Mountain Adventure Centre - Premier High Performance Rentals
Renting has never been such an adventure! With locations on the mountain and in the Village, guests can try several models in one day, and head out onto the mountains equipped with the latest gear. Three Mountain Adventure Centres await guests in the Village as well as in the Whistler and Blackcomb alpine. They are located in the Marriott Hotel, Fairmont Chateau and the Westin.

Whistler Kids
Three covenant locations located at the base of each Mountain, Whistler Kids offers children's equipment, outerwear and accessories.

Whistler Blackcomb Outlet Store
Whistler Blackcomb's Outlet Store is located in Squamish and is a great place to get equipment, outerwear, accessories and Whistler Blackcomb logowear at reduced prices.

Whistler Blackcomb High Performance Rentals
With equipment for the entire family, Hi-Pro Rentals are convenient and easy. Locations are all over town, including: the Whistler Village Gondola building, the Carleton Lodge (downstairs), EB High-Pro (upstairs), Blackcomb Daylodge, Blackcomb Base II and Whistler Creekside.

More Information

DID YOU KNOW?
Showcase Snowboards, established in 1989, is the oldest snowboard shop in Whistler and hosts legendary parties each year during Whistler's many events.

Whistler Blackcomb operates 17 restaurants on and at the base of the mountains. A perfect day at Whistler Blackcomb goes a little like this: eat, ski, eat, ski, drink.

1. Start your day off with a delicious hot breakfast buffet at Fresh Tracks
2. Shred through fresh snow all morning on Whistler or Blackcomb mountains.
3. Take a break and sit down for a delicious lunch at one of the on-mountain restaurants.
4. Shred powder, hit the terrain parks, glide over groomed runs or through gladed sections.
5. Rip down the mountain and walk right into an après venue to warm up while grabbing yummy munchies and drinks.

On Whistler Mountain

Roundhouse Lodge - Step off of the Whistler Village Gondola into a market-style eatery, which recently underwent a $250,000 renovation. The Roundhouse, with daily offerings, such as sushi, sandwiches, a variety of soups and more, is also home to Steeps, Paloma's, Pika's, and the Marketplace.

The Chic Pea - A huge sun deck completes this cool cabin serving world-renowned sticky cinnamon buns.

Raven's Nest - This Whistler original located at the Big Red chair offers hearty soups and a sun-drenched patio.

Harmony Hut - Nestled on Little Whistler Peak, the Harmony Hut is the perfect spot to warm up with hot chocolate and a snack.

On Blackcomb Mountain

The Rendezvous - Find delicious market-style dining at the top of Solar Coaster Chair.

Christine's - Featuring a gourmet menu, Christine's offers an exceptional full-service alpine experience.

Glacier Creek - A spectacular lodge with two restaurants: the River Rock Grill and BC Eatery.

Crystal Hut - Perched on Crystal Ridge, this cozy log cabin is famous locally for its decadent Belgian waffles and succulent and hearty lunch specials.

Horstman Hut- At 2,284 metres (7,494 feet) this is the ultimate location for lunch with an incredible setting and alpine deck.

In The Valley

ECBC - This cafe features quick deli-style snacks, and family-friendly apres-ski barbecue.

The Wizard Grill - The Wizard serves up bacon and eggs breakfast, pastrys and stays open for lunch.

18 Below - The place for teens, 18 Below features burgers, fries and pizza.

Dusty's Backside – Located at the Whistler's Creekside base, it's the ideal place to tuck into the delicious breakfast special before heading up the Creekside Gondola.

Apres

Whats better than winding down over a few drinks and food after a long day on the slopes? Apres is a not-to-be-missed tradition in Whistler. Venues are open for lunch and dinner, and offer both child-friendly apres, and adult-only nightlife.

Dusty's Bar & Barbeque in the Creekside - Whistler's original apres-ski bar is the local's first choice for patio days, award winning BBQ, and evening entertainment.

The Garibaldi Lift Company at the base of Whistler - Known to locals as the GLC, it is conveniently located at the base of Whistler Mountain. Warm up in front of the GLC's roaring fire and order up an icy Kokanee beer and some of the signature appies like Sex Cheese, Chicken T&A or a heaping nacho platter.

Merlin's Bar & Grill at the base of Blackcomb - Blackcomb Mountain's apres-ski headquarters - Merlin's boasts the largest outdoor patio in Whistler. The party begins all afternoon and goes well into the night.

For more information on the 90-plus bars, restaurants, bars and nightclubs in Whistler Village, please visit the Tourism Whistler website at whistler.com.

Whistler is nestled in the Coast Mountain Range of British Columbia, Canada, 120 kilometres (75 miles) north of Vancouver, BC, 354 kilometres (218 miles) north of Seattle, WA, USA.

Accommodations

Resort capacity of 115 hotels, condos, bed & breakfasts; 5,800 + rooms, 230 hostel beds and 172 campsites for a total of approximately 24,000 visitors.

Restaurants and Bars - 93

Retail Shops - 200+

Whistler Residents

9,248 permanent residents (2006 Census adjusted)
2,500 seasonal (est.)
9,100 second-home owners (est.)
79% of the people working in Whistler live in Whistler
3,500 - 4,000 (20 – 30%) permanent and seasonal residents live in "employee restricted" housing (houses, town homes and apartments)

Tourism Whistler, which represents businesses in the Whistler community, is an excellent source of information on dining, activities and accommodation in and around Whistler Village. Please visit whistler.com for more information.