Whistler Mountain, Canada (Eng, part 2 ski area)

here you are the second part...

the first part (how and when to get there, skipass and info) here

qui invece per la versione Italiana

Runs and ski area

Peak to Peak, forget it if you suffer from vertigo!

The Whistler Blackcomb ski area is considered the largest of North America (its website offers a comparison with the other "bigs" Vail, Aspen, Mammoth and others), and probably it’s true ... However, in Europe there are several ski resorts of the same size (and even much bigger), so what’s most impressive here are the beautiful winter landscapes, large snow covered pine trees, the long runs in the woods, and the snow always powdery and soft (it is very rare to be able to see all these things in one place in Europe!).
The area can be divided into two parts.
Having behind the city of Whistler, on the left there are the slopes of Blackcomb, on the right the tracks of Whistler Mountain, which can be further divided in the slopes leading to the town and those going down to Whistler Creek.
The stunning Peak to Peak gondola (cable car) connects the two areas at heights. Built for the 2010 Olympics, the lift has become a real tourist attraction. DO NOT take it if you suffer from vertigo (I mean it!).
The tracks are numerous and, as you'll see, it's really difficult to make a list of the most beautiful ones... in any case, here are my favorites.

Whistler - Blackomb ski area: in violet my favourite runs

Blackcomb

In the past, this resort was separated from Whistler. It is also the one that has the longest season, with a lift opening up directly on a glacier. It has a beautiful sun exposure.

7th Heaven: all this intermediate tracks (there are at least three) are breathtaking and sunny. After a first part exposed on a beautiful plateau, they all wind up through woods before ending at the chairlift departure of the same name.

That's me... happy... 7th Heaven of course

Rock’n Roll/Backstage Pass: right, despite the name we’re speaking of runs. Take the old chairlift Crystal (which has been restored to achieve a "vintage" look), stop for a quick meal (or beer) in the small and nice Crystal Lodge at the arrival station and then throw yourself onto one of these two beautiful tracks in the woods.

Whistler

This area is bigger with many different runs. 

Peak to Creek: this is the first track I've done and, perhaps for this reason, it will always be in my heart. From the 2,200-meter high peak of Whistler to Whistler Creek (650m), a unique run that starts on the crest of the mountain and then dive into the woods. Almost deserted, it’s a real paradise, with constantly changing inclination and an incredible setting. To date, it is the number one track in the world to me (wasn’t it clear enough?).

Heaven's gate: Peak to Creek starts here

Dave Murray: is the downhill run of the 2010 Games ... and it shows! A fantastic black run which alternates steep slopes to milder parts. Unfortunately the first part is often not groomed, but the problem can become a great opportunity if you do this track after a snowfall. 

Olympic run: Dave Murray...

Diamonds: these are the tracks characterized by steep and bumps. From the top of Mount Whistler there are several tracks like these. Put yourselves to the test in those that inspire you the most (more diamonds means more difficulty). Not recommended for the faint of heart ...

One nice Double Diamonds...

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