Whistler-Blackcomb is a two-mountain top-rated ski resort that has a young hip image, but is also terrific for families.Location is 1-1/2 hours from Vancouver BC, via the scenic "Sea to Sky" highway: read more about Whistler-Blackcomb, site of the 2010 Olympics.
Below are some of the best features for families.
1. Huge Terrain Means Uncrowded Areas
The Whistler-Blackcomb mountains have over two hundred trails, 8000 acres of terrain, a mile of vertical drop on each mountain, thirty-eight lifts... So even on busy days, there's a lot of mountain for people to spread out on and enjoy.
2. Ski in May
By mid-April, most ski resorts have closed, but at Whistler-Blackcomb the extensive top sections of the mountains stay open even when spring is in full swing (think golf swing) down at the base. Blackcomb typically stays open until mid-May, and Whistler even later. The drive up on the Sea to Sky highway is scenic, with perfect road conditions; the lifts have no lineups; the weather's enjoyable.
3. Whistler Blackcomb Peak 2 Peak Gondola
The two giant Whistler and Blackcomb mountains are now joined by a showpiece gondola. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola stretches 2.73 miles with only two towers on each mountain -- which makes for a spectacular ride. The Peak 2 Peak operates in summer season too, for hikers and tourists.
4. Speaking of Gondolas...
Whistler-Blackcomb has many! If conditions are unusually cold or snowy, gondolas make a nice shelter from the elements. Nice for famiies! The spectacular Peak 2 Peak ride takes about 20 minutes, with restaurants at each departure point.5. "Family Zones" and "Go-Slow" Areas
Both Whistler and Blackcomb mountains have extensive Slow Zones. (The flag in the photo says "Family Zone").
6. Olympic Station: Good Family Area
On Whistler Mountain, many green runs from the Roundhouse end up at Olympic Station; these areas have "Family" and "Go Slow" zones. Feed kids easily at the outdoor snack bar, then ride back up to Roundhouse in a gondola built for six. Typically, line-ups are minimal on Whistler-Blackcomb.7. Easy Learning Zones for Little Kids
Near the Whistler Kids Children's Learning Centre at Olympic Station is an easy place for little kids to try skiing, with a pint-sized rope-tow. Blackcomb has a similar area by its Whistler Kids Centre at the mountain base.8. Children's Adventure Park on Blackcomb Mountain
Kids love to zoom through this adventure area on Blackcomb mountain, with short runs through an enchanted forest, and even a ski-through castle.9. Big Easy Terrain Garden
Kids and novices of all ages can try out skills in this kindler, gentler terrain park located on Blackcomb, and reached by the Green run Easy Out. There's a small-size 50-50 box, snake-run, and nice rollers at the end.
