Skiing in Whistler With Kids

Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America, located on the west coast of Canada, two hours north of Vancouver. The number one mountain resort in Canada seems to have it all: natural beauty, mountains, fantastic ski terrain, fine dining, shopping, spas, and plenty of accommodation. Whistler consistently ranks among the world’s best ski resorts and has developed into a year round destination for skiing, golfing, biking and other outdoor activities. There are so many reasons to go skiing in Whistler with kids. Read on to find out what you need to know before you go.

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB SKI RESORT

The mountain operations of Whistler and Blackcomb merged in 1997 to form the biggest ski resort in North America, and one of the largest in the world. With a huge average annual snowfall of about 12 metres and mild coastal temperatures, the two mountains have great appeal to skiing enthusiasts. Whistler has something for everyone, from expert/advanced skiing to beginner levels at all ages, as well as a multitude of activities for non-skiers.

Whistler Blackcomb has over 200 marked runs, 8,171 acres of ski-able terrain, 16 alpine bowls, 3 glaciers and 37 ski lifts. It also has the PEAK 2 PEAK gondola which opened in 2008, spanning 1.88 miles between the two mountains (an 11-minute ride). A world class resort for all seasons, Whistler Blackcomb has one of the longest ski and ride seasons in North America, as well as lift accessed mountain biking and alpine hiking in the spring, summer and autumn.

WHISTLER VILLAGE 

Whistler has managed to retain its charm as a village, even during the busy winter season. The heart of Whistler is a pedestrian-only village where you’ll find shops, restaurants, bars and accommodation, all in close proximity to the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The village is a great place to chill for a few hours, either while enjoying some apres-ski or enjoying a meal. There is a range of ski and sports shops as well as other boutiques and shops in Whistler village.

Whistler was a venue for some of the Winter Olympic Games in 2010 and the Olympic Rings in Olympic Celebration Plaza are still there for all to see.

Whistler receives visitors from around the world, of all different ages. Riding the chair lifts and gondolas you’ll hear multiple languages. Whistler is down to earth, yet cosmopolitan at the same time.

SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING FOR KIDS

Whistler Kids (Whistler children’s ski school) offers every level of ski and snowboard instruction for children from 3 – 12 years of age. The Childrens Learning Centre (CLC) on Whistler Mountain features a large skills area and beginner learning zone, as well as catering facilities and an indoor play area. Whistler Kids use the Flaik GPS system to ensure children’s safety by making their location known at all times.

Whistler Kids is the best children’s ski school we’ve come across, one of the reasons we keep returning to Whistler. Instructors are all english speaking, well qualified and most importantly are able to teach kids in a fun and engaging way.

Adventure Camps run each week from Monday – Friday where the children are placed within a small group (maximum 6) with the same instructor all week. A great way to make friends and progress quickly.

On-mountain playgrounds provide a chance to play and a break from skiing or boarding. The Magic Castle on Blackcomb, and the Tree Fort on Whistler are both well used by Whistler Kids, particularly with younger kids.

Once in their teens, kids can enter the Ride Tribe Programme for ages 13 – 18 years. Teen Adventure Camps are also offered.

SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING LESSONS FOR ADULTS

Adult lessons are available at all levels, both on a private and group basis.

MAX4 lessons are a great concept. No more than four people per instructor means you get more of what you want – mileage, attention and value. Beginner lessons start at the base of the mountains and intermediate lessons start in the Alpine.

BEYOND THE SKI SLOPES

There is plenty to do in Whistler in addition to skiing and snowboarding.

The Coca Cola Tube Park on Blackcomb offers more snowy adventure with 300 metres of sliding fun on six lanes with varying degrees of speed and height. Graded like ski runs from green to black. Blacks are very fast..!

Whistler ZipLining offers a variety of tours high in the trees above the snow.

Skating at Olympic Plaza, a free public ice rink in the heart of the village. Skates are available to hire, at a small charge.

Snowshoeing is the easiest way to experience a winter wonderland – if you can walk, you can snowshoe!

Winter Sleigh Rides can be taken along snowy, forested trails with traditional sleigh bells and cozy blankets.

FOOD AND DRINKS IN WHISTLER

Winter sports make you hungry but luckily Whistler has restaurants and cafes to cater for every taste and budget. From pizzas to fine dining, you can find something suitable in Whistler. Some of our favourites include the Mongolie Grill for stir-fry, Earls an American sports diner, Creekbread for amazing pizza and Crepe Montagne for crepes. These are all family-friendly restaurants with friendly, helpful staff.

The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, found in Whister Village, is the most amazing place to visit after a day skiing or snowboarding. We stopped here almost everyday on the way home for a chocolate treat! Amazing apples coated in chocolate, caramel, sweets and more, as well as coated marshmallows and cookies.

Another place worthy of a mention is Cow’s Creamery for the most creamy ice-cream. Its never too cold for ice cream!

They are a couple of fine dining options in Whistler so if you’re planning on hiring a babysitter and heading out without the kids, then dinner at Araxi’s or the Bearfoot Bistro would be memorable.

TOP TIPS FOR SKIING IN WHISTLER WITH KIDS

• Pick up lift tickets and rentals (if applicable) as soon as you arrive so once you’re settled in your accommodation you’re ready to hit the slopes.  Try to avoid collecting equipment and lift tickets in the morning as this is when the queues are at their longest.
• If renting equipment, rent the day of your arrival and keep for the number of days you need them. All hotels and apartments have storage facilities. This way you don’t waste time every morning picking up equipment.
• Enrol children in the five day ski/snowboard Adventure Camps starting on a Monday so that they stay with the same instructor and kids for the entire week.
• Watch the Fire & Ice Show at the base of Whistler Mountain on a Sunday evening at 7pm.
• Eat early to avoid long queues. By 7.30-8.00pm there’s likely to be a wait for a table! Make dinner reservations in advance where possible.
• Whistler Village is compact and easy to walk around, indeed most of the centre is pedestrianised. There is no need for a car during your trip if you don’t fancy driving. Take the Whistler Bus from the airport directly to and from your hotel or accommodation.

FOR MORE OUTDOOR FUN:

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing with Kids

Best Family Hikes Around the World

Have you been skiing in Whistler with kids, or are you planning a ski holiday? Share any comments or questions below.