The first day of a ski vacation is awesome. Or at least it should be. Whether you’re a newcomer to the sport, or have been skiing for years, we’ve got tips to make this year at Whistler your best one yet.
Stay and Play
Book early and stay in a vacation rental with easy access to the lift. Blackcomb Peaks offers 90 ski-in ski-out Whistler rentals from one- to four bedrooms in a variety of styles and locations. Rentals come fully equipped with free high-speed wireless internet and digital cable, plus all the amenities to make for a spectacular ski vacation.
Pack Like a Pro
Dress in layers and start with a good thermal base. Bring a mask to keep your face warm. Gloves are a given, as is a helmet, goggles, waterproof outerwear and ski socks. Hand warmers are great, too. Don’t forget the sunglasses and a swimsuit. That’s right. You’ll want to pack a swimsuit as many of our accommodations have hot tubs and heated pools. If you forget something, no worries. Whistler Village has 200 shops so you’re sure to find what you need.
Get in Tune
Does your gear still fit? Does it need a little tuneup, or a major repair? Give your skis a wax job. Check the boot buckles and binding straps. Make sure your boots still fit. Be sure to check all that out before packing for your trip. You don’t want to waste slope time at the ski shop. If you prefer to rent equipment, Blackcomb Peaks has a partnership with Black Tie Ski Rentals, which will deliver ski and snowboard gear right to your vacation rental. Reserve your gear ahead of time.
Shape Up
A day on the slopes is a serious workout. Get your body in shape before your trip. Eat a healthy diet. Start an exercise regime. Go to yoga for stretching and get in cardio training a few times a week in the months leading up to your Whistler vacation. The main thing is moving your body so you don’t stiffen up on your first ski day.
Pick Up Lift Tickets Early
If you haven’t already received lift tickets in the mail, pick them up the day before you plan to ski. No reason to stand in line the next morning when you’d rather be on the slopes. The same goes for those gear rentals.
Insider’s Lift Tips
The Whistler Village Gondola can have a long line. Consider Fitzsimmons and Garbanzo chairs instead. Many of our vacation rentals will lead you to the Upper Village.
Hit the Trails
Use a Whistler trail map to prepare for the trails beforehand. According to The Whistler Insider, 35 percent of the 200 plus runs of Whistler Blackcomb are marked green for beginners. There are plenty of runs for intermediate and expert skiers, as well. Locals recommend taking the Expressway from the Rendezvous for great runs at Raptor’s Ride, and other spots on the front side of 7th Heaven. The Blue Line also gets a lot of shout-outs.
How to Apres
Apres is the celebration at the end of your day on the mountain. It’s where you gather with others, refuel and toast the day. There are dozens of diverse Whistler bars and restaurants where you can sit on a deck or by a fire, soak up the scenery and enjoy a brew. Or, just walk through the Village and you’re sure to find a favorite hangout.
Book a Spa Day
Work out those muscles after skiing all day by booking a treatment at one of Whistler’s many spas. It’s a great way to relax and rejuvenate. Soak in an outdoor bath and work out the tension in your muscles with a massage. We recommend the Scandinave Spa!