Whistler & Cypress

A couple of hours before we arrived at Whistler for the celebration of New Years 2011, my wife and I along with our friend were travelling through the winter wonderland of the West Coast of British Columbia.  The road (Duffy Lake) is a long and wide surface surrounded by snow laden trees and stunning sunset vistas ringing a pink hue over the mountain tops. 

Duffy Lake Road

Two hours later, we arrived at a friend’s house and prepared for an evening of good times in weather that caters more to making ice cubes than live outdoor entertainment – minus 14 Celsius (7 Fahrenheit).  An extended intermission at Tapley’s, a long-standing iconic pub in the village, warmed us up as the New Year celebrations were starting to create a buzz throughout the village of Whistler.  Live music and good times with friends and family brought in great things to the start of 2011.

The slopes were calling us on the second day of the New Year.  The rumour that an inversion was creating warmer temperatures at the top of the mountains turned out to be true as we loaded at Creekside and crested to the next chair up into the alpine.  It was ten degrees warmer in the alpine and the Peak Chair was calling us for the view of the West Coast mountains.

The Inukshuk - peak of Whistler Mountain

Black Tusk viewed from the top of Whistler Mountain. 

The sights and snow did not disappoint as we rode through The Saddle on Whistler then took the the Peak to Peak chair over to Blackcomb.  Sunshine with great snow conditions on this side of the valley made it obvious why British Columbia is really the special part of Canada that’s adventure at every step and always raw natural beauty.

Whistler is a resort that defines the word.  The village is a nexus of locals, global tourists, weekend warriors from Vancouver, and a cultural hurricane.  A humorous perspective of the culture showcased itself while shopping with our friend in the village.  There were souvenirs labelled ‘Canadian Souvenir’ and included 3 brown wax candles and holders.  Granted this was available in a grocery store, made in China merchandise with a Canadian souvenir sticker – only in Whistler.

The next day we rode Cypress Mountain which is 30 minutes from our home in Vancouver.  It was another sunny day and great snow conditions.  

Vancouver in the horizon

Lunch spot – Cypress peak

Afternoon sun at the peak

Ya 2011, a great start!

--

The above guest post was written by Neal D, Director of Communications & adventure blogger. You can check out Neal's website here: www.bigtimetours.com