Winter Sports and Activities in Whistler, British Columbia

"Wow, what a rush!"
"Let's do that again!"
"That was great!"

These are just some of the phrases you may overhear if you happen to be visiting Whistler, British Columbia during the winter months. One phrase you're almost certain not to hear? "I'm bored!" There truly is no shortage of activities at this posh tourist attraction/winter wonderland. From the run-of-the-mill ski slopes to the borderline-insane frozen waterfall climbing, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.

Let's start with the skiing. Really, that's why 9 out of 10 people go to a ski resort (I suppose the 10th is there just to balance out my made-up statistic?). Ski bunnies of all skill levels have their pick of over 200 ski routes. Those with altitude issues also have their pick of cross-country skiing routes, which are thoughtfully lined with lights for evening treks, water stations, and a "warming hut".

Now, I know what you're saying. "But I like both downhill AND cross-country skiing. Where should I start?" Have no fear, Whistler and I have a solution for you. Why not try telemark skiing (a combination of both disciplines that is somehow tied in to knee movement)? However, if the thought of simple downhill or cross-country skiing bores you, Whistler also offers quite a few variations of skiing. The most notable example is their hybrid sport of skate-skiing, which according to Whistler's tourism website (www.tourismwhistler.com) is "a fusion of skating, skiing, Nordic skiing, and rollerblading-ish." I don't really understand what this means either, but you're welcome to give it a try on my behalf. Let me know how it works out for you!

If you long for the good old days of sledding downhill, but hated lugging that heavy sled back up the hill, Whistler offers a near-weightless solution:tubing. Yes, Whistler offers a tube park (I swear, that's really what it's called) that offers 6 lanes with varying difficulty levels. You can only use tubes belonging to the tube park, so leave your spare tires at home.

A great idea for a family-friendly, animal-friendly activity is dog-sledding. These friendly teams of Alaskan Racing Huskies are often a bigger draw then the beautiful scenery they take you through. Added bonus: you're allowed to give them treats in exchange for the undying devotion only dogs can offer.

In the mood for love? If you've left the kids at home, or just don't have any, Whistler offers a more romantic version of the above option: switch out those devoted doggies for elegant horses, and take the passenger seat on a sleigh instead. Many companies in Whistler offer Central Park-esque sleigh rides that take you by several romantic restaurants or a campfire with hot chocolate.

If you're in the mood to explore, and unlike me you have conquered your Shining-inspired fear of sabotaged Snowcats, why not try a Snowcat tour of the mountains? (Don't worry, I'm sure Jack Nicholson won't cut the wires and then try to kill you with an ax. Once was enough, I think.) The tourism website offers a list of companies that provide a variety of tours to choose from.

Should you want to be prepared for an unlikely but always possible emergency, there are avalanche awareness courses. Requirements include the ability to comfortably maneuver a blue run and the ability to suck the fun out of situations. OK, I made that last one up, but the first is true.

However, if you're more the type to throw caution to wind and cause the aforementioned avalanche, why not do some climbing? Rock climbing, you say? No! The activity of choice for adrenaline-junkies in Whistler is ice climbing. Instead of a solid sheet of rock that has stood for centuries and does not depend on temperature for its survival, climb a sheet of ice that may or may not withstand global warming. That may be the safest idea I've ever heard!

So there you have it, a brief overview of some activities to do when wintering in Whistler. So whether you're the type to say "let's go skiing", "let's go dog-sledding", "let's prepare for an avalanche" or "let's climb some ice", the one thing you'll be sure to say is "let's come back again!"