Whistler | Skiing in Olympic Backcountry
Just north of Vancouver sits a beautiful ski resort in the middle of the Canadian wilderness. Don’t let Whistler’s rustic sensibilities fool you, though – this backcountry ski haven hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics. Since then, Whistler Ski Resort has developed a unique sense of community both on and off the slopes that carries through its myriad of fantastic winter offerings. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adrenaline junkie, there are plenty of things to do in Whistler that will satisfy your cravings.
A Skiing Community Like No Other
At the center of this skiing community lies Whistler Village, a quaint little town that packs more than its fair share of fantastic experiences. The village serves as a great base of operations during your stay, with plenty of ski shops, bars, and restaurants to keep you occupied. While you stroll about town, be sure to check out Whistler Olympic Plaza to see some of the many mementos left here by world-class athletes.
For more a more tangible Olympic experience, head to the Whistler Sliding Centre, which hosted luge, skeleton, and bobsled events during the games. For a fee, you can find yourself careening down these same tracks in what is sure to be a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Those looking to add a bit of local culture to their vacation should also be sure to check out the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. This museum not only gives you a chance to come in from the cold, but also gives you a chance to explore that art, culture, and history of the Squamish and Lil’wat First Nation tribes. Also worth exploring? The recently opened Audain Art Museum, also located in Whistler Village. Both museums give Whistler a unique voice and are sure to leave you feeling mentally stimulated.
Backcountry Experiences
Whistler has plenty of traditional skiing experiences available, including world-class skiing at Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. For those planning on skiing in Canada, this area is sure to delight all ages, as it is one of the best ski resorts in North America. Note also that the resort is home to several terrain parks that make fantastic excursions for skilled skiers and snowboarders.
What really sets Whistler apart from other Canada ski resorts, are the amazing backcountry experiences that are available in the area. Taking one of these excursions allows you to get away from the crowded slopes and feel like you’re having an adventure in the middle of untouched wilderness. There are a number of ways to access the backcountry (all of which involve guides and safety precautions), including cross country skiing, taking a snowcat, or chartering a helicopter. Which option you take depends on your experience and preferred comfort level, but all of them are sure to make your Whistler trip one you’ll never forget.
Out of Season
Whistler has far more to offer than it might appear at first glance, and it should be on your list of things to do in Canada. While its slopes and backcountry tours are certainly appealing, Whistler offers a diverse array of hiking trails as well. These trails include sights such as Alexander Falls, a beautiful natural landmark, as well as the Whistler Train Wreck, an abandoned train in the woods that has since been decorated by local artists. Brandywine Falls Provincial Park is another great adventure in the making, with plenty of waterfalls, scenic river views, and plenty of picnic spots.
Header photo by SusuMa on Pixabay.
