Whistler is known as North America's best ski resort (see article below for why even beginners like Whistler). But it is also a great place to visit in the shoulder season of May and June. In fact, there is more to do at this time of the year than in the winter. In the past, I have managed to get in 18 holes of golf at the Whistler Golf Course, go zip trekking , try downhill mountain biking and even take a few runs on skis. But this year spring we decided to concentrate on skiing. Click www.whistler.com . for more info. Click Spring Skiing for more images of our most recent family trip in May 2009.
Vancouver in the spring can't be beat with its flowers in bloom. On our most
recent trip in May 2009, we skied at Whistler and saw some attractions that
Vancouver is known for. The aquarium is well worth a visit with its various
displays and shows. We also enjoyed the Capilano Suspension Bridge and
Vancouver Art Gallery. Also a hidden gem is the UBC Botanical Gardens. Our
only complaint was that we had so little time. Vancouver also has great
walking and biking trails. The scene on the right is near the trails that
lead to the seawall and stretch for many kilometers along the ocean. Click
Vancouver for
more images and information
Victoria, B.C. is also spectacular in the spring and is just a short ferry ride from Vancouver. On our most recent visit in May, 2009 we were awestruck with Butchart Gardens and the Royal B.C. museum with its Treasures exhibit from the British Museum in London. At Butchart Gardens the tulips were at their peak and we happened to be there on a perfect spring day. The photo on the left is from the Italian Garden. Also if you want some exercise you can go running or biking on many kilometers of trails. Victoria has been ranked as one of Canada's fittest cities so don't leave your sneakers behind when you visit. Click Victoria for more images and information.
Whistler Mountain has been rated as one of the top ski areas in North America for many years and for good reason. It has great terrain, good snow and loads of variety. Not to mention a Euro-style village and 2 Big Mountains. Our family likes the options from easy beginner terrain to gnarly chutes and powdery bowls. With 200 runs you can always find what you are looking for. And of course it is seeing new developments with the developments for the 2010 Winter Olympics. For a feature write up on how beginners can tackle Whistler click here. For more information check out Whistler's Web page.
Who would have expected bears liked golf courses? But at Whistler, expect the unexpected. We saw this black bear munching on the rough on our first hole at the Whistler Golf Course and it was a highlight all on its own. This 18 hole layout was designed by Arnold Palmer, and features nine lakes fed by winding streams, towering trees and of course the backdrop of mountains and glaciers. The course measures 6168 yards off the regular tees and 6678 yards off the championship ones. Click GOLF for more pictures of the course and see www.golfwhistler.com for more information.
For those in the market for a thrilling way to see what lies between
Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain then try Zip Trekking. The lines span up to
1100 feet and all traverse Fitzsimmons Creek. Safety is front and centre for
this operation and although you can rocket along at 60 km an hour, the ride
feels very safe. Five zips are connected by elevated board walks which
extend up to 80 feet into the tree canopy. The guides do a great job of
explaining the ecosystem and the importance of sustainability in general.
See www.ziptrek.com for more details.
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