Ski Whistler Holidays

Get to know the resort

North America's biggest ski resort

Whistler is the best-known ski resort in Canada and one of the world's most famous. The two connected mountain peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb together make up the biggest ski area in North America. The resort boasts an impressive 8,100+ acres of skiable terrain. Plus, the ski-in, ski-out Whistler Village is legendary thanks to its lively après, 90 bars and restaurants and over 200 shops. Plus, it's only a 90-minute transfer from Vancouver Airport, which is why it is a hugely popular destination for ski holidays.

Perfect snow conditions in Whistler

Whistler boasts an enviable location in the Pacific Coast Mountain Range, which means it enjoys a huge amount of snow each year with regular fresh powder. Plus the season is one of the longest, lasting from November to May. The lift system is quick and efficient but the pièce de résistance is the world record-breaking Peak 2 Peak gondola, connecting the two mountains. The views you can enjoy on Whistler ski holidays are worth the trip alone!

An all-round resort

The resort's ideal for a family ski holiday in Whistler as it's a real all-rounder. The ski school and abundance of green runs make it perfect for novices. For more advanced skiers, the high open bowls offer endless possibilities. The ski accommodation in Whistler Village means you can have a quiet night if you like or stay in the heart of Whistler's vibrant atmosphere and buzzing après scene. For non-skiers, there's plenty on offer including snow-tubing, zip lines and spas.

Stats on terrain & runs

Award-winning ski area

Whistler and Blackcomb boast some incredible mountain statistics which is why the resort has won so many awards. The two side-by-side mountains offer over 200 marked runs, 8,171 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls, and 3 glaciers. Thanks to the Peak 2 Peak Gondola - the world’s longest free-span lift - you can experience them both on the same day of your Whistler ski holiday. And if you’re into the backcountry, expect steep chutes, alpine-style bowls and legendary heli-skiing terrain.

Runs for all abilities

One of the highlights of visiting Whistler's ski-in, ski-out resort is that it caters for all abilities. Beginners aren't forgotten, with plenty of green runs to build confidence. There are also some very challenging and exciting black runs for experienced skiers and riders. But where Whistler ski holidays really set themselves apart is the variety of intermediate runs on offer.

• Beginners: 18%
• Intermediate: 55%
• Expert: 27%

Whistler's Neighbourhoods

Whistler Village

This is the true heart of the Whistler ski resort - the hub with access to all lifts and amenities. Friendly Whistler Village is fully pedestrianised and is packed full of shops, lively restaurants and galleries. It's joined to Village North by an overpass (5-10 minute walk) and is a 10-minute walk to the base of Upper Village. The hotels here are the closest to the gondolas, and our favourites are the Crystal Lodge and Suites and the Aava Hotel.

Creekside

This little village is just a 5-minute drive from the main village and makes a charming alternative. It started as a local's mountain in the mid-1960s. The area has been revitalised with its own restaurants and shops, so it has a good balance of village bustle without the crowds. Our favourite hotels here are Evolution and First Tracks Lodge.

Upper Village

Upper Village nestles at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and most accommodation has ski-in access. It’s close to the main Village but feels wonderfully secluded and alpine. If you’re thinking of staying here during your Whistler ski holiday, bear in mind the Upper Village only has access to Blackcomb Mountain and you’ll need to take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola to access Whistler. Our favourite hotels here are the Coast Blackcomb Suites at Whistler and the Fairmont Chateau Whistler.

Village North

Centred around a market plaza and starting just across the street from the main Village, Village North is home to the new Whistler Olympic Plaza which hosts vibrant events throughout the year. The pedestrian overpass means it's easy to get into Whistler Village from here and the shops and restaurants are walkable. Our favourite hotels here are the Delta by Marriott Whistler Village Suites and the Pinnacle International Hotel Whistler.

Lift passes, lessons & gear

Whistler ski lift passes

Your Whistler lift pass is a holiday essential - you can't access the slopes without it! So, buy in advance to save money on in-resort fees and save hassle once you arrive. One lift pass gets you access to both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Simply decide the number of days you'd like to ski or ride during your holiday. You can quickly and easily book lift passes for your whole group online or over the phone with our advisors.

Ski lessons

Whistler boasts excellent ski schools, but it's not just for beginners! A wide range of skill levels could benefit from booking a day or two of ski lessons. The lessons help you to orientate yourself around the enormous ski area of the combined mountains. The instructors will explain all the runs and ski areas to you as well as take you to hidden parts of the mountain. You also enjoy priority lift boarding when you are with an instructor.

Equipment hire

Save time and hassle by hiring ski and snowboard equipment during your holidays in Whistler. When you hire with us, we'll make sure your vouchers and equipment are ready and waiting for when you arrive at the resort. You can choose from three different equipment levels to suit beginners through to experts, from good quality and reliable through to the highest spec and latest season. You can hire your skis, poles or snowboard with us or choose a Whistler ski holiday package including your boots.

Top 5 winter activities

Helicopter sightseeing

The bird's eye views over Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains by helicopter are simply unrivalled. The 12-minute Whistler Explorer flight gives you a breath-taking view of the mountains and the full span of the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The 24-minute BC Explorer Tour takes in the majesty of the Cheakamus Glacier and the famous Garibaldi Provincial Park. The helicopter even lands so you can have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of setting foot on a 12,000-year-old glacier on Rainbow Mountain.

Scandinave Spa

The reputation of this luxurious spa precedes it. Scandinave Spa in Whistler offers a traditional Scandinavian baths experience in the most exquisite setting, nestled on the edge of the Lost Lake Park spruce and cedar forest. Slide into one of the outdoor pools or hot tubs, gaze across the snow-dusted forest canopy and feel your stresses ache away. The extensive facilities include steam rooms, saunas, waterfalls, plunge pools, solariums and outdoor fireplaces.

Medicine trail snowshoe

Another popular activity to try on a ski holiday in Whistler, here you'll walk through a silent, snow-dampened forest full of mystery along a historic trapper's path. Learn traditional knowledge passed down the generations as you go deep into the ancient Callaghan Valley forest. Sample healing teas from native plants and hear the history of the region's traditional medicines as you walk past giant cedars, firs and hemlocks. Finish back at the caboose for a warming snack by the fireside.

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Top 5 winter activities

Safari snowmobile tour

Escape the winter shadows as you meander through an old-growth forest at dusk, then onto the charming Crystal Hut. After a warming treat, step out onto the deck of the rustic alpine cabin and enjoy the views overlooking Whistler Village as the last light of the day slips behind the snow-covered peaks of the Coast Mountain Range. Panoramic mountain grandeur, spectacular sunsets, rich alpenglow and the natural beauty of Whistler will leave you truly speechless.

Dogsledding experience

A real Canadian experience! Let your eager and powerful dog team lead you into a magnificent old-growth forest. During your Whistler ski holidays experience the silence of the forest, broken only by the sound of paws on snow. Join your professional musher in harnessing and staging the dogs, learn the dog sledding commands and how to handle a dog sled. With the history of the Canadian fur trappers thrown in, it'll be an unforgettable winter adventure.

Know before you go

Opening and closing dates

The opening and closing dates vary slightly each year depending on the weather and snowfall, but usually, Whistler Blackcomb opens in mid-November. Whistler Mountain stays open until the end of April on average, with Blackcomb open until the end of May. Last year, Whistler Mountain was open from 17 November to 22 April, while Blackcomb Mountain was open from 23 November to 21 May. The dates for this season are 22 November to 27 May.

When to ski in Whistler

Although Whistler is magical throughout the ski season, we'd recommend getting in early, from mid-November to late December. With abundant early season snowfall (averaging 2.4 meters or about 8 feet in November alone!), smaller crowds, some of the best prices of the season, and a wonderfully festive atmosphere as you get closer to the holidays, it’s easy to see why the early season is such a great time to visit.

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Know before you go

Average snowfall

Whistler Blackcomb consistently offers the most reliable snow conditions, receiving an average of 11.7 metres of snow per year.

• November - 254cm
• December - 211cm
• January - 207cm
• February - 142cm
• March- 232cm
• April - 97cm
• May - 19cm

Unmissable events

• Cornucopia Whistler - 7 to 17 November: An 11-day festival of food and drink with tastings workshops and more.
• Whistler Film Festival - 5 to 8 December: Visit Whistler in early December for Canada's 'coolest' film festival!
• Whistler Pride and Ski Festival - Jan 26 to Feb 2: One of the biggest Pride ski events in North America!