Whistler Blackcomb XXS from Whistler Blackcomb on Vimeo.

More than 10 metres (400 inches) of snow fall at Whistler Blackcomb on average each winter, and it’s perfectly reasonable to expect waist-deep powder after a huge dump. But even when the West Coast isn’t getting pounded with fluffy white stuff, the resort’s expanded snowmaking capabilities (thank you, Olympics) mean visitors to Whistler Blackcomb will still enjoy a deep base and extended season. Another Olympic boon? The new Superpipe at Nintendo Terrain Park. Or, of course, you can test your schussing or riding prowess on the Dave Murray Downhill and Women’s Course on Whistler Mountain, where the world’s top speed demons earned their medals in 2010.

Whistler Blackcomb XXS from Whistler Blackcomb on Vimeo.

Lest you think skiing is all there is to do here, hop aboard a snowmobile, snow cat, dog sled or horse-drawn sleigh for a special tour around the alpine landscape. Another option for non-skiers: The Blackcomb Base Adventure Zone — a huge multisport complex — transforms into an eight-lane tubing hill. Or, soak your sore legs after a day on the slopes in the hot Scandinavian baths at the Scandive Spa Whistler.

The Peak 2 Peak Gondola

In 2008, traversing between Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb changed forever with the opening of the record-setting Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The gondy stretches 4.4 kilometres (2.73 miles) from Whistler to Blackcomb, delivering you to a new snow-capped peak in just 11 minutes. It also boasts the world’s longest unsupported span (more than 3 kilometres), and at 436 metres above the valley floor, it is the highest lift of its kind.