Whistler

We just got back from spending a few days skiing in Whistler, British Columbia - an extremely beautiful place about 5 hours north of Seattle. For connoisseurs of dramatic alpine topography, skiing in Whistler on a sunny spring day is about as perfect as it gets. I think you'll understand when you see the pictures.

Whistler-Blackcomb is the largest ski area in North America, and it's the best big-mountain skiing experience you can get without flying to Europe or renting a helicopter. It's spread across two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, each of which would be a fine destination resort in its own right. Although they share a base area and lift ticket, for practical purposes the two mountains are almost like separate ski areas: you pick one and stay there all day.

Although the master-planned village is a bit sterile and contrived, the excellent scenery and skiing make up for it. Being in Canada, Whistler also draws a very international crowd - especially from other Commonwealth countries. All the Aussies, Kiwis, Brits, and French Canadians give Whistler a vibe that's pleasantly different from most US resorts (where you're far more likely to find Texans than foreigners).

The mountains there are called the BC Coast Range, which rise straight out of the Pacific Ocean. This means that Whistler gets consistent snow (not as much as we get in WA, but enough) and also lots of clouds and fog. We got lucky and had two great days weather-wise, with even a little early-April powder.

It was a great trip. We're looking forward to going back again next winter, or maybe even this summer - they're open for skiing until July 29th.