Whistler Blackcomb (WB) hopes to expand its skiable terrain this weekend with, weather permitting, the opening of Glacier Express on Blackcomb Mountain and Symphony Express on Whistler Mountain, the ski resort said in a release Friday, Dec. 20.
The expansion will bring the total skiable area across both mountains to more than 7,200 acres (2,914 hectares), roughly 88 per cent of WB’s skiable terrain.
With 97 centimetres of snow over the past week and upwards of 96 cm in the alpine forecast from Dec. 22 through Boxing Day, conditions should be optimal for the busy holiday period. During this time, Whistler Blackcomb said its snowmaking team will continue to focus on the lower Creekside zone, with the aim of expanding terrain to 100 per cent, a total of 8,171 acres (3,307 ha.).
Delays in the opening of lifts may occur as ski patrol works to ensure terrain is safe to access. WB reminded guests to keep safety top of mind as terrain expansion continues.
“Ski and ride with a buddy, follow all posted signage and be aware of tree wells when glad skiing,” the release went on.
With crowds expected during the holiday period, ski patrol offered a few additional safety tips:
- Start you ski holiday at a slower pace, and avoid the morning rush by coming up later for a few warm-up laps to build stamina.
- Practise defensive skiing: use rest zones, stop in safe areas, and remember the downhill skier has the right of way.
- Be aware, ski with care and adapt as needed: terrain complexity and conditions will vary throughout the day.
- Be prepared: know the conditions and plan where to meet if separated, share contact details, and save the patrol number: 604-935-5555.
- Dress accordingly: Wear weather-appropriate attire and accessories, including proper goggle lenses for visibility.
- Consider a lesson: sharpen your skills and familiarize yourself with the mountain with a lesson with one of Whistler Blackcomb’s Snow School instructors.
- Know your limits: Call it a day if muscle fatigue and exhaustion are setting in. Consider downloading if you’re tired.
