The wonder of Whistler

Though I personally prefer white diamonds, my husband opts for the black diamonds and has converted me into a ski bunny with the lure of cute winter accessories (I have an obsession with winter hats!) and fun trips. It worked.

Our first taste of west coast skiing happened at Lake Tahoe last February. After that trip, we knew we’d be back at it again, but where? We decided on Whistler in Vancouver, B.C., which ended up being a bad mistake because now we’re officially s.p.o.i.l.e.d. Big time.

Some fast facts about the 2010 Winter Olympics host: 200+ trails on 8,171 acres with 37 lifts, and the longest trail is 7 miles long.

In a couple of photos…

 Our first layover was in Chicago before heading to Vancouver. Really nice airport, but I’m mad at myself for passing up an opportunity to eat a deep dish pizza. In my defense, it was only 9 a.m., but still!

 After grabbing our rental car in Vancouver, our first priority was food! We pulled over at the first available restaurant. We lucked out.

All you can eat sushi and Mongolian barbecue. Our bellies thanked us.

Whistler is only a 2-hour drive from the city, and we were in for a scenic treat.
Lions Gate Bridge

B.C. Hwy 99 is nicknamed the Sea to Sky Highway. We thought it was fitting.

 Studying the trails maps in front a fire.

Jay and I woke up early every morning so that we’d be the first ones on the lifts. At times, it felt like we had the mountain to ourselves. Bliss!

 It’s a little unnerving to ski downhill when all you see are mountaintops below you. I had a couple of tumbles, but I never fell off the mountain, which was my initial fear. :)

 Inuksuk landmark at Whistler Peak (elevation: 7,160 feet).

The view after we skied Blackcomb Glacier.

Vacation diet strikes again! Gooey cinnamon bun from the Chick Pea on Whistler.

At right, we took the “Peak 2 Peak” gondola back over to Blackcomb Mountain. It literally connects the two mountains and runs 1,430 feet above the ground (at its highest point) and free spans for 1.88 miles long. How’s that for crazy?!

Whistler Olympic Park

A mocha and butter and cinnamon crepes from Hot Buns Bakery makes me a happy girl.

We were sad to leave Whistler (Jay is already asking when can we go back) but were excited to explore Vancouver for the next day and a half. The views on the way into town made us stop several times.

More to come!