Whistler-Blackcomb Ski Resort in May

By Teresa Plowright, About.com Guide

Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort has one of the longest seasons going, with one of the two mountains staying open well into May or longer. (Always check first, though!) The other mountain in the duo typically closes in late April.

Basically, with late-season skiing, guests ski or board on only the top two-thirds of the mountain, where plenty of good snow remains. Both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains have approximately a mile of vertical rise. Lower on the slopes, the snow gets mushy or may even have melted, so guests download on a gondola at the end of the day.

Benefits of late-season skiing include:

• The last lift ride up is at 4 p.m. instead of 3 p.m.*
• Uncrowded slopes
• Excellent deals on lodgings and lift + lodgings packages
• Blue-sky days on the slopes
• Spring weather in the village, with outdoor patios and spring flowers
• Beautiful drive to Whistler-Blackcomb along the Sea to Sky Highway with buds on trees and excellent driving conditions

*Always check destination websites for updates!