Whistler Blackcomb is consistently Ranked the No.1 Ski Resort in North America
Whistler Blackcomb has more terrain than anywhere else in North America with 8.171 acres. During Games time, Whistler Blackcomb will be over 90 per cent open for skiers and riders to enjoy. That’s still more terrain than any other ski resort in North America!
more stories...
Though Whistler is most well known for its epic skiing and snowboarding, Whistler was first a summer holiday destination. Though the fishing resort that Myrtle and Alex Philips opened in 1914 is no longer present, the summer appeal of Whistler has never diminished.
The expression “I came to Whistler for the winter but stayed for the summer” is a popular quote of many locals. From the world renowned Whistler Mountain Bike Park, to the alpine hiking and sightseeing accessible via the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola and a plethora of other activities in Whistler valley to participate in, summer in Whistler can’t really be considered the “off season” any longer.
Air Dome Practice those backflips indoors before hitting the dirt. The Air Dome is a 10,000 square foot covered indoor mountain bike training facility with a huge foam pit, ramps, and a quarter pipe and half pipe. The Air Dome is located in Lot 8 on Blackcomb Mountain. More Information
Alpine Sightseeing Head up Whistler or Blackcomb to sightsee at 2,284 metres (7,494 feet) there's no better way to experience the resort than to see it from the alpine. Indulge in an array of refreshments at the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler and the Horstman Hut on Blackcomb, and enjoy fantastic views of the Coast Mountain Range from the decks and walking trails. More Information
ATV Tours For those looking for an alternative way of checking out the mountain scenery or those who simply want to rip it up outdoors, professional guides show ATV riders the ropes. No experience is necessary. More Information
Bear and Wildlife Viewing Rising above Whistler Village are the vast coastal hemlock-cedar forests of the Whistler Blackcomb ski area. These forests, interspersed with ski trails, provide diverse food and shelter for some 50 black bears. Experience the wildlife, vegetation, glaciers and rainforests of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains while learning how conservation and enhancement initiatives help to sustain healthy bear populations. Guests will traverse through the mountain amongst old growth, coastal, hemlock-cedar forests, visiting active bear dens, daybeds and feeding sites. More Information
Blackcomb Base Adventure Zone Tons of fun for kids of all ages, the Blackcomb Base Adventure Zone is located in Whistler's Upper Village and features mini golf, a climbing wall, a maze and much more. Nestled at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, the Adventure Zone is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays. The fun kicks off mid-June and ends in early-September. More Information
Downhill Mountain Biking The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is the No. 1 lift accessed downhill park in the world, offering 250+ kilometres of lift-serviced descending trails for thrill seekers of all levels. The world-class Bike Park crew is constantly setting new boundaries with its design innovation. Trails are labeled by level of difficulty from green runs for beginners to blue and black diamond trails in the main bike park. Trails range from gentle banked cruisers through the Coastal forest to tight and twisty single track - perfect for intermediate riders. For more advanced gravity junkies, there are steep rock faces, gnarly root-strewn lines, drop-offs of all descriptions and more. More information
Farmers' Market Sundays Whistler's picturesque and bustling Farmers' Market takes place every Sunday during the summer from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Upper Village. The market features a wide variety of fresh, organic and locally grown produce plus an array of arts, crafts and jewelry created by artisans in Whistler's own backyard.
Glacier Skiing and Snowboarding With the longest snow season in North America, skiers and snowboarders can put on a t-shirt, grab some sunscreen and their boards, and head up to more than 2,000 metres (7,000 feet) at the top of Blackcomb Mountain's Horstman Glacier. A 45-minute trip up over the flora and fauna of Blackcomb delivers stunning views along the way. The Horstman Hut is open for lunch and refreshments with epic views of the Coast Mountain Range from its deck. More Information
Glacier Walks and Hikes Take a walk on the glacial snow and ice atop Whistler or Blackcomb Mountain. Outfitted with boots, crampons and an ice axe, you will learn how to walk using glacier equipment and take a tour around Whistler Blackcomb's three ancient glaciers.
Guided Mountain Bike Tours Experience the ultimate in Whistler Mountain bike adventures. Start at the very top of Whistler Mountain and descend more than 1,500 vertical metres (5,000 ft) back to Whistler Village with an experienced guide. Get away from the crowds and experience the natural beauty and scenery of Whistler Mountain. There are a variety of routes to match your ability and excitement level.
Harmony Alpine Tea House Nestled on Little Whistler Peak, tea and scones at the Harmony Hut is the perfect break in your day. Relax and enjoy various refreshments while taking in the views of the beautiful Coast Mountain Range. The Tea House is accessible via a 20-minute walk from the top of the Peak Chair.
Hiking Tours Hiking at Whistler Blackcomb is even better when experienced with a true Whistler local. Complimentary guided tours will navigate Whistler Mountain's vast alpine environment. Tours depart daily at 11:30 a.m. from the Guest Satisfaction Centre at the top of Whistler Mountain.
High Note Trail Cheakamus Lake is a cold glacial-fed lake surrounded by the breathtaking Coast Mountain range. The High Note Trail begins from the top of the Peak Chair on Whistler Mountain, offering spectacular views of the brilliant blue lake. Linking up with the Singing Pass trail, hikers can make their way back to the Roundhouse Lodge or continue on down to Whistler Village. This trail is not to be missed as it is guaranteed to give hikers some of the best views in North America. More Information
Mountain Top BBQ Sunsets at 6,000 feet are rarely experienced in such comfort as the Mountain Top BBQs on Whistler Mountain. A comfortable gondola ride up and down, ideal for strollers and wheelchairs, provides a scenic trip up Whistler to the Roundhouse Lodge where a BBQ dinner is served on Friday and Saturday evenings. Lazy, mellow evenings looking out onto BC's spectacular Coastal Mountains will inspire and rejuvenate. More Information
Painting on the Peak The third annual Painting on the Peak event runs during the summer at the top of Whistler Mountain and includes an outdoor workshop on Whistler Mountain with acclaimed BC artists. This exciting one-of-a kind event celebrates prominent artists in a breathtaking mountain setting. The itinerary includes a welcome breakfast, a gondola ride to the Roundhouse on Whistler
Mountain, an opportunity to observe and learn how artists capture light and colour, and a leisurely luncheon buffet while the artists answer questions. The perfect ending to the day includes a private reception and exhibition of the artists work in the Adele Campbell Fine Art Gallery.
Peak Interpretive Loop After soaring to 2,182 metres (7,160 ft.) above sea level via the Peak Chair, sightseers are treated to 360-degree views of snowcapped peaks, ancient volcanoes and majestic glaciers. The Peak Interpretive Loop is accessible from the top of the Peak Chair and offers amazing views. With interpretive signage along the way, it's a great opportunity to learn about Whistler Mountain's unique ecology. More Information
Rap Jumping Experience the rush of rap jumping off the top of Whistler Peak, 1,500 metres (5,000 ft) above the valley floor. Rap jumping is face-forward rappelling whereby you lower yourself over a dramatic rock face. Guaranteed to get the adrenaline pumping.
Steeps Restaurant on Sundays Every Sunday, dine at more than 6,000 feet and enjoy a menu focusing mainly on local foods from British Columbia. Steeps Restaurant is located in the Roundhouse Lodge. For reserve, please call604 905-2379. Lift tickets must be purchased from Guest Relations separately.
Summer Glacier Camps From the beginning of June to late July, Blackcomb Mountain's Horstman Glacier is alive with skiers and snowboarders searching for endless winter. More Information
Via Ferrata is Italian for "iron way". Designed for anybody of reasonable fitness level, it combines a trek over one of Whistler's ancient glaciers and rock climbing. Via Ferrata Ascents includes a four-hour excursion to the summit of Whistler Peak via a series of metal ladder rungs.
Yoga and Hiking Retreat This exclusive three-day retreat breaks away from the classic spa vacation. If you're feeling out of balance, leave the BlackBerry at home and experience the magic of a warm Whistler summer. All-inclusive yoga with Colleen Felgate, guided outdoor activities, delicious meals, spa experience, wellness gift basket, and two nights luxurious accommodation.
Every summer, the biggest names in mountain biking descend upon Whistler to hit the Whistler Mountain Bike Park during one of the world's premier mountain bike festivals, Kokanee Crankworx. Athletes from all over the globe flock to the festival to try their hand at some of the most innovative and challenging courses in the industry, while fans rush to watch the dirt and mud fly as heroes are crowned.
The nine-day event will take place August 7-15, 2010 and features ground breaking events, such as the women's only freeride competition and giant slalom, as well as its marquee event, the Slopestyle and Air DH competition. The long daylight hours and hot summer weather mean more time to take in the live music, riding demonstrations and smokin' competition, not to mention a few rip roarin' parties.
For more information on Kokanee Crankworx, visit www.crankworx.com
