WHISTLER holidays
British Columbia
Canada West Coast
IN A NUTSHELL
WHISTLER BLACKCOMB IS RANKED #1 SKI RESORT IN NORTH AMERICA
Noted for terrain quality, abundance of snow and après-ski scene, Whistler Blackcomb ski resort annually tops the charts as the Premier North American Ski Resort.
Whistler SKI RESORT
Whistler Blackcomb ski resort in British Columbia is North America’s largest and most celebrated ski destination, renowned for its remarkable terrain and vibrant village life. The resort spans two colossal mountains - Whistler and Blackcomb -offering more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, over 200 marked runs, 16 alpine bowls, and 3 glaciers, ensuring endless variety for skiers and snowboarders of every skill level. Modern lifts, including the legendary PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, make navigating this vast playground seamless and efficient.
Dining options are expansive and cater to all tastes. On-mountain, savour everything from gourmet burgers and local tacos at Glacier Creek and Rendezvous Lodge to fine dining with panoramic views at Christine’s on Blackcomb. Whistler Village extends the culinary scene further, with over 170 establishments, including cozy cafés, iconic après spots, and acclaimed restaurants like Teppan Village and Rim Rock Café. Don’t miss the famous waffles at Crystal Hut or cinnamon buns at Chic Pea for authentic mountain treats.
The choice among Whistler hotels is just as diverse - choose from luxurious resorts like the Fairmont Chateau Whistler with mountain-view rooms, family-friendly ski-in/ski-out lodges such as Blackcomb Springs Suites, charming condos, or budget-friendly hotels such as the Listel Whistler. Most lodging options provide easy access to the lifts and village, ensuring convenience and comfort for every budget.
Even if you’re not skiing ever day, Whistler Blackcomb resort promises plenty to do. Explore the pedestrian-friendly Whistler Village for boutique shopping and vibrant nightlife, ride the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola for breathtaking views, or unwind at the Scandinave Spa where you can spend the day. Other popular activities include bobsledding at the Olympic Sliding Centre, ziplining, snowshoeing, snowmobile and dog sled tours, the lively Fire & Ice Show, and family fun at the bubly™ Tube Park and Adventure Zone.
THE SKIING IN Whistler SKI RESORT
What makes Whistler Blackcomb's terrain and sheer size unique among ski resorts in Canada?
Whistler Blackcomb ski resort is by far Canada’s largest ski area, offering an impressive 8,171 acres of skiable terrain across two massive mountains. It features over 200 marked runs with terrain suitable for all skill levels - about 20% beginner, 52.5% intermediate, and 27.5% advanced to expert. The vertical drop reaches up to 5,280 feet on Blackcomb Mountain, and 5,020 feet on Whistler Mountain. The resort includes 16 alpine bowls, 3 glaciers, and a legendary longest run stretching 7 miles!
Whistler Blackcomb is serviced by 37 lifts (including high-speed gondolas and chairlifts) with a combined hourly capacity nearing 70,000 skiers, and it boasts 17 mountain restaurants. The resort receives an average annual snowfall of about 408 inches, contributing to one of North America’s longest ski seasons lasting from late November through mid-May on Blackcomb.
The resort village sits at about 2,214 feet elevation, with diverse dining, shopping, and après-ski options. Whistler Blackcomb also features the famous PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola connecting the two mountains, enhancing access and ski experience.
This blend of vast terrain, modern lift infrastructure, abundant snow, and amenities makes Whistler Blackcomb our top destination in North America for UK skiers.
Whistler Blackcomb is renowned for its wide variety of terrain catering to all skill levels. Here’s how it breaks down for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers:
WHAT IS THE SKIING LIKE AT WHISTLER BLACKCOMB?
Beginners
Whistler Blackcomb is extremely beginner-friendly, offering easy slopes across almost the entire resort.
Dedicated beginner zones are located near the Blackcomb Daylodge (with the Magic Chair) and Whistler’s Olympic Station (mid-station off the Whistler Village Gondola).
There are large, gentle areas with magic carpets and easy chairlifts, monitored slow-skiing zones, and valley runs that are suitable for novices.
Whistler has more green (easier) terrain than Blackcomb. The Fitzsimmons, Garbanzo, and Emerald chairs on Whistler are recommended for learning greens, while Blackcomb’s base with the Magic Chair is ideal for first-timers.
Intermediates
Intermediates are spoilt for choice: more than half the resort is classified as blue runs (“blue squares”), which are steeper than greens but accessible for those progressing from beginner.
The Emerald Zone on Whistler is especially recommended for intermediates, with mellow, family-friendly runs. On Blackcomb, Crystal Ridge (Crystal Chair) and Seventh Heaven are favorites, offering long, groomed blue runs and great views.
With over 200 runs and 55% marked as blue, you can spend days exploring without repeating a run. Some blues in Whistler may feel tougher than those at smaller ski hills—so it’s wise to warm up on greens before progressing.
Advanced/Experts
Whistler Blackcomb is a paradise for advanced skiers, offering everything from deep powder bowls to steep tree runs and technical terrain.
There are many challenging areas: moguls, cliff zones, chutes, and double-black diamond runs on both mountains. Particular highlights include the famous “Couloir” and “Cirque” runs, plus the expansive Harmony and Symphony Bowls on Whistler, and Spanky’s Ladder and Saudan Couloir on Blackcomb.
The variety and scale mean that advanced skiers have endless options, but endurance is key—many of the longest and hardest runs demand excellent fitness.
Is Whistler Blackcomb ski resort good for families?
Whistler Kids Snow School: The resort offers an outstanding children's ski and snowboard school with dedicated instructors, lesson programs for all age groups (including day camps and multi-day sessions), and secure, fun kids’ zones. There are multiple children’s areas—at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and Whistler Mountain's mid-station—featuring magic carpets, enclosed learning zones, and themed play areas like the Tree Fort and Magic Castle.
Family Zones and Activities: Separate family ski areas ensure a relaxed environment for those skiing with children. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, families enjoy the Coca-Cola Tube Park, outdoor skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza, sledding, snowshoeing, and special kids’ snow play zones. The village itself is pedestrian-friendly, with easy access to lifts, amenities, and après-ski spots that welcome kids until late.
Childcare and Clubs: Whistler Blackcomb provides licensed daycare services for young children (18 to 48 months) and club programs for older children and teens, offering a safe, stimulating environment
Whistler Property Map
Our location maps are intended as a helpful guide but are by no means definitive.