The wait is almost over—Whistler Blackcomb will open for the 2023-24 season at 8:30 a.m. tomorrow morning.
In a release on Nov. 21, the mountain operator gave an idea of what guests can expect.
Lifts running on opening day include Blackcomb Gondola, Excalibur Gondola, Excelerator, Jersey Cream, and Catskinner on Blackcomb Mountain, as well as Whistler Village Gondola, Creekside Gondola, Red Chair, Emerald, and Franz’s Chair on Whistler Mountain.
The available terrain consists of Upper Ego Bowl, Extension/Family Zone, Upper Whiskey Jack, Pig Alley, Orange Peel, Papoose, Lower Pony Trail Bypass/ Cat Track, and Mid Pony Trail Road/ Upper Bear Cub Road on Whistler; and Wishbone, Choker, Easy Out and Lower Catskinner on Blackcomb.
With no natural snow in the valley to speak of, the mountain's hundreds of snow guns are hard at work building an early-season base for skiers and riders.
"Whistler Blackcomb will continue to make snow at every opportunity in the early season and take advantage of ongoing snowfall to expand terrain offerings," the release said.
Ambassadors from the Sqamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre will be on hand for a traditional welcome ceremony at Skiers’ Plaza in Whistler Village. Following that, guests can expect music and DJs, sponsored prizes and giveaways at Whistler Village Base and Blackcomb Base.
"Among the many highlights for the 2023-24 season is the debut of the newly upgraded Fitzsimmons Express chairlift," the release said. "Coming on the heels of last season’s upgrades to Creekside Gondola and Big Red Express, this new lift is yet another significant investment in the guest experience at Whistler Blackcomb and is expected to start spinning in time for the holiday season. Previously a four-person chair, the lift has been replaced with a high speed eight-person chair—the first of its kind across Vail Resorts. It will cut back on wait times, improve uploading efficiency, and serve to significantly support Whistler Mountain Bike Park operations."
WB is also encouraging guests to pick up a pass product before they go off sale on Dec. 3.
Read more about the mountain's early-season prep in last week's Pique cover feature.
