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.

 

Patrol - Emergency

For on hill emergencies only

604-935-5555
 
Avalanche 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.

Please refer to Avalanche Canada for the most updated Backcountry and Avalanche Report. Daily avalanche forecasts are due to start on Wednesday, November 25, 2020.
View Advisory , opens in a new window
Whistler, Canada
2020.21 Winter Price: TBD

Backcountry Tickets

  • Availability of backcountry tickets is assessed daily by Ski Patrol.
  • Proper gear is required to purchase ticket. Skis, snowboard or split board are required as well as; an 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.
Whistler Blackcomb Backcountry

Uphill Travel

Uphill travel within the Whistler Blackcomb ski area boundary is only permitted on designated routes, marked with signage. Please respect all on-mountain signage.
Whistler Blackcomb Backcountry

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.

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.

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

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