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Here are common questions and answers relating to Whistler...

Snow Skiing Questions

The following questions were posted in Yahoo's 'Snow Skiing' category:

How do green and blue runs at whistler compare to green and blue runs at snowmass with respect to difficulty?

Full question:

We have been to Whistler before and are considering going to Snowmass this year. My wife is a beginning skier and is worried that Snowmass does not have many green runs. I herd that blue runs at Snowmass are about the same dificulty as green at Whistler.

Best answer:

You can expect very similar in levels of difficulty. If you ski Big Burn at Snowmass you can likely ski much of the "blues" at Whistler BC. With the excellent Whistler village at the base of mountains, it is an excellent destination ski resort.

How do the intermediate runs a Whistler compare to the runs at Breckenridge in difficulty?

Full question:

I have only skied whistler and ive been there about 7 or 8 times now. And this year I'm traveling up to Breckenridge, and I just want to make sure I don't go out of my element.

Best answer:

Breckenridge has tons of great intermediate skiing. Peaks 7, 8, 9, and 10 all have intermediate terrain. I'd recommend Northstar and Claimjumper on Peak 8 for more privacy. But, I'd spend most of my time on Peak 9 moving back and forth from Columbia and Sundown, and then heading over to Peerless and Volunteer for a bit more of a bumpy challenge (still pretty mild here). I think you're sure to find the town of Breckenridge, the mountain, and the locals much more inviting than Whistler. Since you're planning a trip to Breck, you might check out my blog. I cover a pretty broad range of information about Breckenridge: http://www.breckenridge-lodging.org/blog/ Have fun!

How much is a guide to hire at Whistler?

Full question:

I am wondering how much a guide is at Whistler/Blackcomb to go in the backcountry. Ballpark answers are fine, but close to exact would be appreciated. Thanks

Best answer:

It depends on when you want to go and for how long. Here is a link of their official website: http://www.whistler.com/ski_school/ Ball park is around 200$

How is the skiing in Whistler at the end of Nov, beginning of Dec?

Full question:

Im off to Whistler shortly but as its the very beginning of season just wondering how much of the mountain is open? Is there snow near the base? Im a beginner and a bit nervous of having to hit the high slopes right off!

Best answer:

You'll be fine - even the high slopes are good for beginners and the safety and piste grooming is excellent. Also as it is off season it will be quiet so you won't be bothered by naughty fast skiers like me. Have fun - learning to ski is the best fun you'll ever have.....and I'm so envious that you are going - wish I was

What is the best skis for heli skiing, say at Whistler Mountain?

Full question:

I need to know the best deep snow skis, because now is the time to buy. I am going into heli skiing, at Whistler, and would like to know the best ski for the deep snow, and regular trails.

Best answer:

Check with your heli outfit. Most provide suitable skis for there clients.

How would skiing be at Whistler mid April?

Full question:

Thinking about Whistler or somewhere in North America for a mid April ski trip. What should I expect in terms of conditions?

Best answer:

I have skied in Whistler/Blackhomb the past two seasons and my cousin was doing a gap year out there recently, and both thoroughly enjoyed it. I found that the snow was very good early on in the season but started to disappear later. However, when my cousin came back she said that there was a big dump around March which lasted a while. The locals there are convinced that Whistler has one of the longer seasons but I would be cautious as Whistler is situated near the coast which means there is a chance of rain but if cold enough that should be snow! I think you will definitely love Whistler but the time your going is not ideal so Whistler should be as good as any.

Questions from Other Categories

The following questions were posted in various Yahoo's categories other than 'Snow Skiing' - hopefully they are relevant:

How do i find long term accomodation in whistler?

Full question:

looking for around 300 or 400 pound per month including bills. am i crazy? should i look outside of whistler? im planning to move for a couple of months. is it easy to get to whistler from just outside?

Best answer:

My friends rent out each room in their basement suite in Whistler for $700 each. So for 300-400 pounds you could deff do that, I do not think you will get your own place for that amount though. alot of people in Whistler rent rooms in houses/suites and then pair up with bunkbeds and split the room rental. Check out Craigslist.com, search for rentals in the vancouver and Whistler sections. There is also a Whistler news paper, i forget what it is called but it starts with a P and I know they have an online site aswell, which has a classifieds section that includes rentals. :)

What is the best way to get from Vancouver, Canada to Whistler, Canada?

Full question:

I'm planning a budget ski trip to Whistler. I was wondering what the cheapest option to get from Vancouver to Whistler would be. Also any links with information on Vancouver, Whistler, and the best way to do both would be great.

Best answer:

You can take Pacific Coach Lines bus service directly from downtown Vancouver or YVR airport.

When should we arrive in Whistler to secure accomodation for the snow season?

Full question:

We are moving to Canada from Australia at the end of the year. We are wanting to go to Whistler. What month should we plan to arrive to assure that we will be able to get a job and accomdation? Work starts in December.

Best answer:

With the 2010 Olympics coming, I'd advise that you should give up your Australian winter and be here as soon as you can, finding jobs that will continue through the winter season. Everyone and their puppies will be looking to work at Whistler this year; it might be wiser to look for ski/board employment at another resort for your first season here, depends on how good you are and on how ballsy you are!

What is the drinking age in Whistler and Vancouver Canada?

Full question:

I've been looking at sites and haven't found a forsure answer on what the drinking age is in Whistler and Vancouver Canada. Also if neither are 18, then where to them is the closest city with an 18 drinking age?

Best answer:

Drinking age is set by each Province, not by city. The drinking age in BC is 19. Alberta's drinking age is 18, so the closest city would be Banff or Calgary - depending on your definition of city.

Taking greyhound to whistler, is a snowboard classified as an oversized baggage?

Full question:

im planning to take greyhound to go to whistler. is a snowboard classified as an oversized baggage?

Best answer:

Greyhound states that if the total exterior dimensions (height + length + width) exceeds 158 cm (62") than it is oversized. I could only assume that your board is probably at least 150 cm long, so it most definitely would be.

What is the best way to get from Vancouver Airport to Whistler late at night?

Full question:

The last shuttle I could find runs at 10pm which is to late. Originally I had scheduled to ride Perimeter Transportation, but they went out of business last week. Now I am arriving to whistler at 10:45 pm on December 26th with no way to get to whistler. Should I take a cab for $240?

Best answer:

"Hi".....Pacific Coach lines (PCL) has now taken over that route. You can contact them them here........ http://www.pacificcoach.com/ *NOTE*.......If I am reading their sked correctly it looks as if their last departure from YVR to Whistler is 11.00 PM...you have to call and perhaps they'll wait a few minutes for you! Also Greyhound leaves from the terminal in the downtown area on Main and Hastings ( Bus Depot) and here's their site .... http://www.greyhound.ca/ From Vancouver Airport you can get downtown by using the "Airporter" which is a shuttle service for $12.00 and what I am suggesting is that you stay a few hours at the YMCA and then hustle over to the Bus terminal and either get Greyhound or PCL and head to Whistler real early in the morning as both leave from the Bus depot ! Here's the "Airporter" service..... http://www.yvrairporter.com/ Heres the YMCA....... YMCA Of Greater Vancouver Association Services (604) 681-9622 200-1166 Alberni Street Vancouver, BC V6E3Z3 Just my" considered opinion" as I live in Vancouver and have travelled the "Sea to Sky" many times but ,going to Whistler in a cab with someone you're not sure of as concerns their driving skills , at night and on that road is folly ...period ! Hope that helps ya and a "Merry Christmas"! *S* (Michael C...)

What's it really like doing a working holiday in whistler?

Full question:

I'm planning to do a working holiday in whistler and have gotten a little worried when I saw the position video's on the website, the staff don't exactly look over the moon. What's it really like working in whistler on holiday? What are the better jobs to go for? Any other thoughts you guys would like to share? Cheers

Best answer:

The party atmosphere is awesome. It's fun times, if you can get a job. There are so many backpackers from all over the world competing for the same jobs. Most are from UK, Japan and Australia. You are better off being a waiter because tips is big. Don't be surprise if you live in a two bedroom apartment with six people. There is a huge housing shortage there. Money is okay, and you should earn enough to survive and have a night out once in a while.

How to get from Whistler to Pacific Coliseum, and Canada Hockey Place during the Olympics? Have Car?

Full question:

Is there a place I can drive to and then get a bus as it looks like there is no parking at events, and the olympic site doesnt offer much info on how to get from Whistler to events, or places to go. Thanks

Best answer:

Old Lady is right but she forgot to add that you will not even be allowed to drive up to Whistler! If you do not live in Whistler or aren't driving an olympic vehicle, you HAVE to take the public transportation. If you are just coming here for the events, I would not suggest renting a car. It will end up being more trouble and money than it's worth. Not to mention they are going to be shutting down quite a few streets which might throw some of the mapquest dependents off a bit.

What is the best way to find a roommate or roommates for next season in whistler?

Full question:

I'm planning to spend about 3-5 monts in Whistler in early 2011 and I'm looking for a roommate.

Best answer:

well, probably not in the Y!A snowboard section..in case you haven't noticed, there's not a whole hell of a lot of traffic here... try asking people you know, or if that doesn't work, joining a snowboarding forum online and just asking people if they'd want to join... but i must ask...didn't your mother ever tell you not to bunk with strangers?

What is the best way to get from Vancouver Downtown to Whistler?

Full question:

I will be staying in Vancouver for 4 days and was thinking of going to Whistler to ski. What is the best way to get there from Downtown?

Best answer:

Helicopter. No, really, because of the Olympics, construction on the way to Whistler is horrendous.

Where can I get the deer whistler or some tool that will help keep deer out of my path whilst driving?

Full question:

I have hit 2 deer in the last 6 months. Not one to get into accidents. Haven't had one in 16 years aside from these 2 deer. Was going the speed limit, pretty defensive but there they were. Just appeared. I am paranoid this is going to happen again. I have heard of the whistler. Where could I get it online? Are there other solutions I am not aware of? Thank you.

Best answer:

Contrary to what some have said above DEER WHISTLES DO WORK! But not perfectly. They are better than nothing! What I am talking about is the low cost whistles that produce an inaudible whistle above the frequency of human hearing. They produce this sound by the air from the car moving rushing through them. I used to work for a company that did trucking at night. We had several collisions with deer. There are deer whistles that can easily be installed on autos or trucks. They should be available at almost any auto parts store. I do recommend them. However, a word of caution--they will stop deer dead in their tracks. They do not cause deer to run away! So if a deer is in front of you, he will probably remain in front of you--frozen. However, this is better than the alternative, which is the deer getting scared by the head lights and jumping and thrashing around in a panic. If the deer freezes in his tracks, you can usually maneuver around him. The worst is if he comes through the windshield--people have been kicked to death after a collision with a deer and it came through the windshield. Watch for green grass along side of the road. Deer have to have some green stuff to eat, otherwise they will starve. The grass along side highways tends to stay green even in wintern hence it brings the deer close to the highway. Areas with green grass along them are areas to use caution. Slow down along these areas whether you have deer whistles or not. Once in a while you will have to run a wire through the whistles to make sure that air can freely move through them. It is easy for them to get clogged. Remember that they are not 100% effective so use caution. But, I highly recommend them.

I am thinking of snow boarding at Whistler for 3 months in the winter. Where is the best place to stay?

Full question:

I would like to find some options. 3 girls and a few pets. Would a lease maybe be my best bet? Should I just stay in Vancouver and do the drive everyday? All opinions would be greatly appreciated. Also what is the drive time from Vancouver to Whistler?

Best answer:

on the mountain

How is the Olympics 2010 going to affect doing a season in Whistler?

Full question:

How is the Olympics 2010 going to affect doing a season in Whistler?

Best answer:

A lot. It's gonna be packed.

What's the best month of the year to go snowboarding in Whistler, Canada?

Full question:

I am planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to go boarding in Whistler. We are looking for great snow and good weather (blue skies?). Any help would be grately appreciated.

Best answer:

In most north american resorts the best snow and conditions are in Feb. and March. Sometimes spring sking can be good with great blue skies but you can't count on the snow levels. So you have a choice. Go for great snow and the chance of blue skies or go for great skies and the chance of decent snow. My choice would be early march. Good luck with that.

Will I be able to drive from Vancouver to Whistler during the 2010 winter Olympics?

Full question:

I want to go to some events in whistler and in Vancouver, can i drive up or will i have to take a bus

Best answer:

Yes, but it could take a while!

Whats the chance of Whistler getting the winter olympics again any time soon?

Full question:

I went to Vancouver and Whistler in 2007 and thought it was amazing. I want to go next year for the olympics but can't because of money and stuff so when will it be there next if at all? Anyone know?

Best answer:

Hi. Here is a list of all the Winter Olympics since 1924... 1924 Chamonix, France 1928 St. Moritz, Switzerland 1932 Lake Placid, United States 1936 Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany 1940 St. Moritz, Switzerland (cancelled due to WWII) 1944 Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy (cancelled due to WWII) 1948 St. Moritz, Switzerland 1952 Oslo, Norway 1956 Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy 1960 Squaw Valley, United States 1964 Innsbruck, Austria 1968 Grenoble, France 1972 Sapporo, Japan 1976 Innsbruck, Austria 1980 Lake Placid, United States 1984 Sarajevo, Yugoslavia (until 1988) 1988 Calgary, Canada 1992 Albertville, France 1994 Lillehammer, Norway 1998 Nagano, Japan 2002 Salt Lake City, United States 2006 Torino, Italy 2010 Vancouver, Canada 2014 Sochi, Russia As you can see, the chances of Whistler/Vancouver getting the Winter Olympics again is very unlikely. What I suggest, if you like Whistler that much, is to plan, save and organize yourself to visit and spend more time in Whistler. There's always something going on in Whistler, so you won't miss out on the fun.

What is the Sea to Sky highway from Vanvcouver to Whistler like?

Full question:

I have seen comments that it is still under construction, will it still be at the end of August 2007? I have also heard it is not a good highway to drive the first time....is it scary, are there big cliff drops with no railing? I am afraid of heights, but I love scenic views. We are planning on renting a car and going from Whistler to the Horseshoe Bay Ferry in Vancouver via this highway, and then to go over to Vancouver Island, is this the best route? I am trying to create a "loop" as much as possible. I am trying to book a kayak trip that meets in Duncan, so I figured drive down from Nanaimo to Duncan, stay the night, then after the kayak trip go to Victoria area for a couple of days and back on that ferry to the other one in Vancouver that is closer to the airport.

Best answer:

The current construction is planned to go on all summer. The advisories say until October. The route is undergoing major upgrades for the 2010 Winter Olympics. So, I imagine there will always be construction for the next couple years. That bad? Well relatively speaking, it isn't. I have been around BC and there are a lot worse. Like the road past Whistler will make your heart stop, but is very scenic too. The thing about Sea to Sky is it is too close to Vancouver and is traveled more than other areas and gets more complaints. Just drive within the speed limit and you will be fine. Add extra caution if road conditions are less the perfect. (Night, rain, etc.) I don't recall the drive as ever being scary. Yes, there are great views along the way, especially if you aren't use to coastal terrain. The type of things us locals take for granted. Horseshoe bay is fine. It is the easier ferry for you to get to and avoid a drive through Vancouver. But also depends on your plans on the Island. Where are you going? I live on Central Vancouver Island and take that ferry normally. However, it does get busy summers. Very busy. I suggest making a reservation. Otherwise you may have a several ferry wait. This route has fewer ferries each day. There are a lot more that go to Victoria.

Where can I get a condo in Whistler for Cheap?

Full question:

I'm looking to go to whistler in January and want to pre-book early. I need a nice condo for 6 people. Where should I start looking? Everywhere so far seems very over priced.

Best answer:

Hahahahaha! The words cheap and Whistler shouldn't be put in the same sentence. If you're looking for lower cost accommodation, try Squamish. It's less than an hour away, and is still fairly reasonable.

What transport available from Horseshoe Bay to Whistler BC?

Full question:

Arriving from Nanaimo by ferry after visit to Victoria and need to get to Whistler from the ferry drop-off point at Horseshoe Bay north Vancouver. What transport would be best to complete our journey? Three with luggage. Would it be possible to rent a car near that terminal? This may be on a Friday or Saturday. Thank you Lilly

Best answer:

No car rentals in Horseshoe Bay. There are, however, a few places in North Vancouver around Capilano Rd & Marine Dr, and it would be about a 15 minute taxi ride to get to one of those from the ferry terminal. There's a taxi stand directly in front of where passengers come out of the terminal so there's no problem getting one. There are a couple of different buses going to Whistler, which are given on the Whistler Blackcomb site. It's not clear if they come right into Horseshoe Bay or merely stop on the highway above it, which is quite a hike on foot with luggage from the ferry terminal, or come right into Horseshoe Bay. You'll have to check those bus routes and the best alternative might be to take a taxi to the nearest place a bus stops. If you do that, get a very good description of where the bus stops. It will just be a roadside stop, no bus station, so you won't want to hang around there long. And of course, North Shore Taxi drivers are probably familiar with the bus stop locations.

What is the easiest black run at whistler mountain biking?

Full question:

I'm just curious what is the easiest black diamond run at whistler mountain bike park since im a beginner sorta and I am ready to take the step up to blacks so what would be the easiest for a first time black run?

Best answer:

Monkey Hands, give that a go, I would say it should have been marked as a blue but it is black. Have fun!

What is the cheapest way to get to Whistler 2010 from the UK?

Full question:

Am doing half a ski season in whistler 2010, from November 17 to March 1st. Is it cheaper to fly to Vancouver, or is it cheaper to fly to Seattle and then take a bus to whistler? Regards, Jamie

Best answer:

Hard to tell. Chances are good that it's cheaper to fly to Seattle, but that leaves you with at least 6 hours of bus travel and more complication in working out schedules. Just check out the prices and times of the bus travel and watch the airfare prices to both cities so you'll know when a good deal shows up.

What is the legal drinking age for US Citizens in Whistler?

Full question:

Hi, My friends and I want to go to Whistler in Canada soon. I just turned 19 and I was wondering if I could legally drink and go in the bars and clubs there because I heard that the laws recently changed for US Citizens drinking alcohol.

Best answer:

According to this website, the legal drinking age in Canada is either 18 or 19, depending on which province you're in... http://www.ccsa.ca/CCSA/EN/Topics/Legislation/LegalDrinkingAgeByProvCan.htm I haven't found any website that says Americans have to go by the American legal drinking age... In fact, this website, designed for Americans traveling to Canada, discusses the drinking age in each province and makes no mention of Americans having to be 21 years of age to drink in Canada... http://wikitravel.org/en/Canada

Will whistler darts work with a Nerf Maverick?

Full question:

I bought a Nerf Maverick and a pack of whistler darts for a game of Humans vs Zombies. The packaging says it works with suction darts, but no mention of whistlers. Should I be worried?

Best answer:

No need to worry about Nerf's recommendations... any type of dart works in the Maverick. The darts just need to pushed in a little harder so that they don't snag on the barrel. Whistler darts actually work the best in terms of range.

How do I get a job in whistler for my gap year?

Full question:

Im taking a gap year and want to work at a ski resort this winter, where do I go to apply for a job at whistler? also another question... Are there jobs for gap year in places such as germany or sweden? are they available for non EU residents that dont speak swedish or german?

Best answer:

you need the gcse if you dont you have no chance of getting in why eaven bother.

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