WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

BACKCOUNTRY

As North America’s #1 Resort, Whistler Blackcomb is also your gateway to a vast area of unmarked and un-patrolled backcountry access in the Garibaldi Provincial Park. 

The allure of backcountry skiing and riding has increased over the last few years and many resorts, as well as manufacturers, are filling this demand with innovative products and services. Gathered below are resources to guides, training, gear, and bulletins to make help make your adventure safe and prepare you for avalanche and glacier hazards.

Whistler, Canada

Backcountry Avalanche Advisory

Three day avalanche hazard forecast prepared for the area immediately surrounding Whistler Blackcomb terrain - Which is easily accessible as a day tour from Whistler Blackcomb's boundaries.        
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Whistler, Canada

Uphill Skiing

Uphill skiing is not permitted on Whistler or Blackcomb Mountains, with the exception of the designated Flute Bowl footpath as avalanche conditions allow.

Skiers and snowboarders looking to access the backcountry terrain adjacent to Whistler Blackcomb’s ski area boundaries can do so via the chairlift system or on foot via Singing Pass, accessible from the base of Whistler Mountain.

When the high alpine lifts are closed due to avalanche danger, backcountry skiers and snowboarders should check in with Patrol at the dispatch offices on Whistler or Blackcomb for more information on how to safely access the backcountry.

Whistler, Canada

Backcountry Tickets

  • Price: $61.95 (tax included).
  • Availability of backcountry tickets is assessed daily by Ski Patrol.
  • Proper gear is required to purchase ticket: avalanche transceiver and demonstrated ability to use it, probe, shovel, skins or snowshoes, cell phone.
  • Tickets are sold for a specific lift set to reach the backcountry access points and cannot be used on other lifts.
  • Guests must sign the Backcountry Access Agreement.

Guides & Tours

Whistler, Canada

FREE AVALANCHE AWARENESS TOURS

Free daily Avalanche Awareness Tours are run by the Whistler Blackcomb Ski Patrol in the winter. These half-day tours cover: Safe travel, terrain evaluation, avalanche phenomenon, control measures within boundary, avalanche safety equipment, and rescue techniques. The tour meets at the Avalanche Hut on the top of Solar Coaster and leaves at 12:30 for a 2.5hr tour.

 

BACKCOUNTRY GUIDING

Experience Whistler Blackcomb backcountry with expert guides, tours, and adventures with Extremely Canadian Backcountry Adventures.

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BACKCOUNTRY ESSENTIALS

Every member of your group needs to be wearing a transceiver and have knowledge on how to use it. We recommend you take a course and / or hire a certified ACMG guide via Extremely Canadian. 

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Additionally, all members must carry an avalanche probe and a shovel. Once you've got the basics covered, the additional equipment list gets a little fun.

Every member of your group needs to be wearing a transceiver and have knowledge on how to use it. Additionally, all members must carry an avalanche probe and a shovel.

 

THINGS YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF

  • Understand this winter's snowpack layers
  • Knowledge of recent snowfall and type of snow
  • Know the current Whistler backcountry Avalanche Advisory rating
  • Understand today's weather conditions including snowfall, temperature, and visibility
  • Never travel alone

 

PLAN YOUR TRIP THOROUGHLY

Be prepared to cope with emergencies due to fatigue, equipment failures, weather, and avalanches.

  • Evaluate each member's capacity and ability
  • Check the personal equipment of the party
  • Carry a mobile phone with full battery charge
  • Keep hydrated and nourished throughout the day
  • Understand supply levels of liquid and food for the group
  • Pace the travel speed of the party so that no one becomes exhausted
  • Keep the party together but not too close in avalanche terrain
  • The leader should be experienced in route selection
  • Ensure that there are sufficient tools in the group to repair broken skis, skins, and bindings
  • The leader must be capable of organizing a backcountry avalanche rescue including applying first aid and keeping survivors alive until rescuers arrive
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