Introduction
While Whistler is renowned for excellent winter skiing it offers plenty of active pursuits all year around.
History
Whistler Blackcomb hosted the Winter Olympic Games from 12-28 February 2010 and the para-lympic Winter Games from 12-21 March 2010. During the Olympics more than 90 per cent of the mountain was open to skiers.
The C$105 million Sliding Center, home to one of the fatest bobsleigh, luge and skeleton tracks in the world is complete. The 1700 metre track can be easily seen from the slopes of Whistler mountain.
Features
Think of Whistler and some of the finest skiing in North America comes to mind. It's got consistent snowfall and glamorous apre's-ski. But here's the surprise - the Canadian town isn't just about skiing, it's a place for year-round fun. So even non-skiers can plan Whistler vacations. For adventure lovers, there's no shortage of sports and activities to get the heart racing. But families travelling with young children will also find plenty on offer beyond the ski slopes. Every adventure is framed by breathtakingly beautiful mountains.
Whistler, 123 kilometres north of Vancouver in British Columbia, is home to a handful of award-winning golf courses. With spectacular backdrops of snow-capped mountains and glacial lakes, it is often considered one of the top golf resorts in Canada.
When spring comes to Whistler and the snow begins to melt, the conditions are ideal for fishing, Trout, salmon and steel head can be all reeled in. There;s more adventure to be had out on the water. Thrill-seekers on Whistler vacations will enjoy the buzz of white water rafting. Green river, a short drive from Whistler has a reputation for offering a roller coater of a ride. Those who dare to take their eyes off the river will be rewarded with a stunning view of the jagged peaks of Garibaldi Park. Less challenging trips on smooth water rafting tours also journey through mountain scenery.
Mountain-bikers plan Whistler vacations for thrill. There are hundreds of trails that wind through Whistler Valley - and access to them is free. Mountain bikes as well as cruiser bikes for a more comfortable ride are available for rent. The 30 kilometre Valley Trail is ideal for beginners and children. serious bikers will want to head straight to the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, which has more than 200 kilometres of lift-services trails and mountain pathways as well as two jump=park areas.
Moving away from the world of adventure sports, a more peaceful way to enjoy the mountains is on a bear-watching tour. Whistler is a black bear country and after hibernating through the winter the bears emerge in spring. The best time to see them is in the summer, when the bear families go in search of food with their young ones.
Tips and comments
The sheer size and spectacle of Whistler Blackcomb's slopes, combined with a lively village which has plenty to offer non-skiers, draw consistently large crowds, a huge number of repeat visitors, plus the well-heeled and famous.
If you are planning Whistler vacations in the summers, Whistler's Lost Lake is ideal for picnics or swimming. Non-skiers can make Whistler vacations a memorable event by tobogganing via helicopter for outstanding views.
