Whistler Blackcomb: The Pinnacle of North American Skiing

Whistler isn’t just a ski resort, it’s an experience that redefines the sport. Towering peaks, vast bowls, and a village that never sleeps make Whistler Blackcomb the undisputed heavyweight of North American skiing. Whether you’re dropping into Spanky’s Ladder, cruising the Peak to Creek, or watching the sunset from the GLC patio, Whistler delivers one thing above all else: scale. It’s skiing on an epic canvas where everything feels possible.

Quick Stats

Location: Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
Elevation: 2,214 ft base / 7,494 ft summit (Whistler) / 7,494 ft summit (Blackcomb)
Vertical Drop: 5,280 ft (the most in North America)
Skiable Terrain: 8,171 acres
Annual Snowfall: ~400 inches
Number of Runs: 200+
Lifts: 37 (including the record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola)
Vibe Check: Global, electric, and endlessly inspiring

The Vibe

Whistler Blackcomb is the ski world’s big stage. It’s a place where locals, pros, and travelers from around the world share one simple goal—to chase the best turns of their lives. The scale is mind-bending: two full mountains connected by the world’s longest unsupported gondola span, with terrain ranging from mellow family zones to backcountry-access steeps that demand total respect. Off the mountain, Whistler Village hums with energy: après bars, five-star dining, and that unmistakable sense that you’re somewhere special.

Must-Ride Runs

🟢 Greens

Green Line (Blackcomb) – long, scenic, and perfect for soaking up the views.
Ego Bowl (Whistler) – wide, sunlit run ideal for families and cruisers.

🟦 Blues

Ridge Runner (Blackcomb) – classic intermediate line with fast flow.
Sun Bowl (Whistler) – natural halfpipe feel, perfect after a fresh snow.
Peak to Creek (Whistler) – 7 miles of leg-burning perfection from summit to valley.

♦︎ Blacks

Spanky’s Ladder (Blackcomb) – legendary hike-to terrain with deep powder and high consequence.
Couloir Extreme (Blackcomb) – iconic chute that tests even advanced skiers.
Whistler Bowl – high alpine powder field that’s pure freedom on a bluebird day.
Après + Town Stays

Après at Whistler is in a league of its own—global, electric, and full of stories. From high-end champagne decks to rowdy mountain bars, it’s where every skier ends up eventually.

Garibaldi Lift Co. (GLC) – Slopeside legend with beers, nachos, and prime people-watching.
Dusty’s Bar & BBQ – Creekside classic with live bands and the best ribs in town.
Merlin’s Bar & Grill – rowdy Blackcomb hangout with a true locals’ vibe.
Bar Oso – intimate tapas and cocktails for the refined après crowd.
The Longhorn Saloon – Whistler’s party epicenter—outdoor DJ sets, buckets of beer, and high energy.
Nita Lake Lodge – lakeside serenity just outside the main village.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler – luxury alpine perfection with ski-in convenience.

Travel Tips

Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and drive two hours north along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99)—arguably the most beautiful approach to any ski resort in the world. Once in Whistler, ditch the car—the village is fully walkable. December through February bring the deepest snow, while April delivers legendary spring skiing and vibrant après. For experts, hire a guide to explore the backcountry zones off Blackcomb Glacier—this is where Whistler really flexes its muscle.

Fun Facts

Whistler and Blackcomb merged in 1997, creating the largest ski resort in North America.
The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola spans 2.7 miles and sits 1,427 feet above the valley floor.
Hosted the 2010 Winter Olympic alpine events.
Whistler Village was purpose-built in the 1980s and remains one of the world’s best-designed ski towns.
The name “Whistler” comes from the whistling sound of the hoary marmot, native to the region.

Why It Made Our Top 50 List

Whistler Blackcomb made the list because it’s everything skiing should be—limitless, breathtaking, and alive with possibility. It’s the kind of place that spoils you for everywhere else. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned charger, Whistler doesn’t just meet expectations, it redefines them.