Whistler is world-renowned for lift-access skiing, but backcountry skiing in Whistler uncovers some of the best terrain.
Whistler's backcountry is a paradise of high alpine terrain: glaciers, frozen lakes and rivers, ridges, wide-open bowls, gladed valleys and epic snowfalls. The snow here is more than deep – it's consistent. In winter, Whistler averages more than 16 snow days a month! Popular backcountry routes include the Spearhead Traverse and the Neve Traverse.
Looking to do an overnight trip? There are more than a dozen backcountry lodges and huts to choose from, along with backcountry ski guides and courses in backcountry skills and avalanche training.
Backcountry Guides and Tours
Trip options are almost unlimited: go for a day or ten, pack a lunch or savour chef-prepared meals, or stay in a snow cave or a luxury heated cabin complete with sauna and masseuse. The two most popular tours are the Spearhead Traverse and the Garibaldi Neve Traverse.
The Spearhead Traverse, often referred to as the Canadian version of the Alps' Haute Route, is typically tackled over 3-5 days. Follow high alpine routes to climb 1,600m/5,249ft over 35km/22mi and cross 14 glaciers. The views are stunning. Some backcountry hardcores have completed the route in a single day.
A more moderate 2-3 day trip is the Garibaldi Neve Traverse. Ski from hut-to-hut through valleys, over lakes and across "the Neve", an ice field that feeds many of the park's glaciers.
Self-guided Tours
Numerous clubs (such as the Whistler chapter of the Alpine Club of Canada, the Vancouver Outdoor Club and the Varsity Outdoor Club) maintain huts and are great sources for local knowledge. Even experienced skiers should consider hiring a local guide when heading into unfamiliar backcountry.
Skiing in Garibaldi Provincial Park
Like the idea of cutting fresh tracks through 194,560ha/80,989ac of unspoiled wilderness? Take a lift to the top of Whistler Blackcomb and traverse into Garibaldi Provincial Park. Snowfall in the area averages 10m/33ft annually, and routes range from a few hours to more than a week. The areas around Black Tusk and Garibaldi Lake are ideal for intermediate skiers, while experts love the extended traverses and steep descents around the McBride Range.
Garibaldi's backcountry is also accessible from trailheads on the perimeter of the park (no lift ticket required). Winter routes are often marked with bright orange poles to simplify navigation.
Skiing in the Callaghan Valley
The Callaghan Valley is home to Powder and Cloudburst mountains, two highlights in an area that receives 11m/36ft of snow each year. A short drive from Whistler, the valley is located in the Coastal snowbelt which can have as much as 2m/7ft more snow than the ski resort. Ski through terrain that includes glaciers, big peaks and long descents that begin with wide turns and end with powder in the trees.
Practical Points
- Access to routes may require four-wheel drive, tire chains or a snowmobile.
- Research, careful planning and avalanche skills training are key to a safe trip.
- Before going into backcountry, check local weather forecasts and avalanche conditions. The Canadian Avalanche Association is a good resource.
- Travel with and know how to use proper equipment. An avalanche transceiver, avalanche probe, metal avalanche shovel, first aid kit and appropriate layers of clothing are necessary.
- Ski with a professional backcountry ski guide or with experienced skiers. Always travel with a group and be prepared with rescue equipment.
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