
Host to the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler and nearby Blackcomb boast more vertical feet, more lifts, and more ski terrain than any other ski resort in North America -- many experts call the Whistler complex the continent's premier ski resort. When the snow melts, British Columbia's top outdoor playground turns to mountain biking, golfing, horseback riding and other adventure pursuits.
Skiing
With more than 200 ski trails, 17 alpine bowls, 38 lifts (and four glaciers), the range of ski options should please anyone from novice to expert. Strap on a snowboard and crush some powder at one of six parks. Adventurous types who want to explore the backcountry and cross-country paths can try the Olympic Park competition. Helicopter rides are the way to get to Rainbow Mountain, a more isolated, less crowded spot for skiing.
Things to Do
In the warm weather, mountain-biking enthusiasts come from all over the world to test themselves on the challenging trails at Bike Park. Less adventurous bikers can cycle through the 19-mile Valley Trail, which links parks, neighborhoods and playgrounds around Whistler Village. You can even sail through a temperate rain forest on a zip-line ride. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola ride between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains gives you a skier's-eye view of the countryside without the effort.
Eating and Drinking
Locals love the simple, homemade fare at Ingrid's Village Cafe, where you can warm up after outdoor activities with a large bowl of clam chowder. When the weather's fine, sip a beer on the patio at the Brewhouse at Whistler and munch on a plate of wood-fired pizza. Game and fish are the culinary stars at the award-winning Rimrock Cafe, but start with a plate of oysters, either broiled and drenched in béchamel sauce or served raw with champagne.
Nightlife and Entertainment
After a day on the slopes, it's après ski time -- an opportunity to relax with a drink next to a warm fireplace. Locals like Garibaldi Lift Company, which plays the latest ski and snowboarding videos and features reggae and house music at night. Mallard Bar, an extremely civilized après ski bar -- think cigars and martinis -- is tucked inside the Chateau Whistler Resort. At night, a young and lively crowd is drawn to Maxx Fish's dark, music-filled space.
American Airlines flights to Whistler let you fully explore the beautiful Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. With a great number of things to do in Whistler, it's considered one of the top mountain resorts in North America. There's skiing and snowboarding in the winter, of course, but there's also rafting, hiking and more in the warmer months. And the spas can be enjoyed year-round!
With two absolutely majestic mountains, the most famous activities in Whistler have to be skiing and snowboarding. Whistler Blackcomb offers over 8,000 acres of slopes along with 16 alpine bowls and even three glaciers! It's got all the best of a traditional big mountain experience plus features such as half-pipes to help you learn new tricks. Choose from more than 200 marked trails, with plenty of options for all levels of experience. The best part of any run you choose, however, is almost sure to be the gorgeous views. The more adventurous might even opt to try heli-skiing or snowboarding (talk about the ultimate ski lift!). If sightseeing is more your speed, we recommend a gondola ride -- specifically the Peak 2 Peak Gondola that connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. There are even gondolas with glass bottoms that afford a truly unique viewpoint! Want to go even more relaxed while you view the scenery? Try the Snowcat Tour With Candlelit Fondue Dinner, which takes you up Blackcomb in a luxurious, fully heated snowcat and then rewards you at the top with a romantic dinner.
If you're visiting during the summer, don't worry that you'll run out of things to do in Whistler! Once the powder melts, you'll be able to truly appreciate the splendor of the mountainside. Go hiking, biking or four-wheeling. There's even a Zipline Adventure in Whistler that lets you see the breathtaking scenery from the treetops! And this is the perfect place for whitewater rafting. The rivers here run quite fast when the snow melts, so hang on to your paddle in the Class III and IV rapids. If you want to do more rubbernecking than paddling, though, there are some Class I and II rapids that you'll love.
And if you're in search of activities in Whistler to pamper yourself, you're in luck! There is a plethora of spas and wellness centers ready and waiting to massage your sore muscles after a day on the slopes or just help you relax during a well-deserved vacation. Best of all, they're something you can enjoy no matter what time of year you visit!
We've made it easy to fly to Whistler so you can discover all the best this beautiful British Columbia destination has to offer. Browse our flights and plan your trip today!
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Prices shown are round-trip fares, includes taxes and carrier-imposed fees. |
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Washington Dulles
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$487 |
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Washington Dulles
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$528 |
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Washington Dulles
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$361 |
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