Tips for a Whistler Winter Vacation

Ski & Snowboard Passes

What’s a winter vacation in Whistler without skiing or snowboarding?! While we’ll admit, there’s plenty to do off the mountain, the world-renowned skiing in Whistler takes the cake. If you’re planning on taking advantage of the 8,171 acres of skiing on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, you’ll want to make sure you secure your ski passes before arriving. You of course can wait until you arrive, but booking passes in advance will relieve any sort of stress once you’re in Whistler. There are several passes to choose from, and we’ll break them down for you:

1. Epic Pass – The Epic Pass is a season pass that also allows you to ski unlimited days at a multitude of other resorts. If you’re planning on skiing in other areas this winter, you might want to give this some thought.
2. Whistler Blackcomb Season Pass – If you’re planning an extended vacation in Whistler, the easiest option is purchasing a WB Season Pass. You’ll also receive discounted tickets at select resorts, but the biggest upside to getting a season pass specific to Whistler Blackcomb is the discounts on selected ski/board lessons.
3. Day Pass – You can choose from one to ten days at Whistler Blackcomb with the day pass option, and save money while you’re doing it! You also have the option to choose with or without holiday restrictions, so you can save some money if you aren’t coming during the holiday season.

Ski and Board Rentals

Unless you’re coming to Whistler by car with a specific ski quiver in tow, the simplest option is to rent your skis or boards once you arrive! You’ll save on the hassle of purchasing ski luggage, carting gear through the airport, and paying baggage fees. If you have the ability, we highly recommend bringing your own boots if you have a pair you love. With so many options of where to rent skis or boards from in Whistler, we narrowed it down to our top 3 favourites. These are all locally owned businesses we proudly partner with.

1. Black Tie Ski Rentals – As Whistler’s boutique ski and board rental store, they offer home delivery and you can pre-book your skis here. If you prefer to go to the shop, you can make a reservation in their private fitting lounge. With a great selection of premium skis and boards, you’ll love the tailored service your receive with Black Tie Ski Rentals! Conveniently located in Le Chamois Hotel steps away from the base of Blackcomb Mountain.
2. Fanatyco Whistler – Located in the heart of Whistler village, Fanytyco is one of the longest-standing Whistler ski and bike shops. With their wide selection of ski, board, and boot options, you’ll love your setup just as much as the local skier vibe you’ll get in the shop. This crew lives and breathes the mountain lifestyle, so you’ll likely get some great tips while you’re getting fitted for boots!
3. Coastal Culture – Staying in Creekside? Coastal Culture is our go-to ski and board shop for Creekside guests. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will get you set up on the perfect ski or board for the conditions of the day. Similar to Fanatyco, you’ll be in good hands with the locals who work at Coastal Culture! The shop is conveniently located at the base of Whistler Mountain in Creekside.

Where to Stay

We saved the most important decision in planning for last – Where to stay! We’ve hand-picked accommodations that provide easy access to the slopes and/or slopeside locations. If you’re coming to Whistler in the winter, it’s best to be as close to the lifts as possible to make the most out of the day!

1. Lake Placid Lodge in Creekside – We love Lake Placid Lodge for its prime location in Creekside Village, directly at the base of Whistler Mountain. Step out your door, grab your skis from Coastal Culture, and step onto the Creekside Gondola to be whisked up the mountain. Choose from one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus loft and two-bedroom condos that have been fully renovated! The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, while the outdoor heated pool, hot tub and sauna are perfect for your après ski gatherings.
2. The Aspens on Blackcomb Mountain – The Aspens are true ski-in/out condos located slope side on Blackcomb Mountain with easy access to the new Blackcomb Gondola. We love the slope side location situated above the Upper Village, and they also happen to be within walking (or skiing) distance to Black Tie Ski Rentals. You can choose between one and two-bedroom condos, all of which enjoy an outdoor heated pool and three slope side hot tubs!
3. Village Gate House in Whistler Village – Located in the heart of Whistler Village, Village Gate House is a dream location for couples or small groups of friends wanting to enjoy all Whistler has to offer. You’re within walking distance to the lifts and gondolas at the base of Whistler Mountain, and a stone’s throw away from Fanatyco Ski Shop. Many of our bright and spacious one and two-bedroom + loft multi-level units offer private hot tubs and balconies in addition to full kitchens. Our studios all offer a full kitchen (but no hot tubs). You’ll love the amenities, location, and atmosphere of Village Gate House!