Whistler Blackcomb Peak to Peak Gondola with mountain views

Whistler Blackcomb Named Best Ski Resort in North America

7 min read

The results are in: Whistler Blackcomb has once again been crowned North America's #1 ski resort by Condé Nast Traveller in the prestigious 2024 UK Readers' Choice Awards. This impressive recognition reaffirms what many ski enthusiasts already know — Whistler offers an unmatched mountain experience that continues to set the gold standard for ski destinations worldwide.

Why Whistler Blackcomb Stands Above the Rest

With over 8,100 acres of skiable terrain — the largest in North America — Whistler Blackcomb offers a truly remarkable skiing and riding experience. What sets this world-class destination apart is not just its impressive size, but the incredible diversity of terrain that caters to every skill level.

Panoramic view of Whistler Olympic Peak
Whistler Village at night with beautiful lights

From gentle slopes perfect for beginners to heart-pounding steeps, cliffs, and chutes for the most advanced skiers, there's something for everyone across the two magnificent mountains. Add to this an impressive 1,609 meters of vertical terrain, 16 alpine bowls, and three glaciers, and you have a skiing paradise that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Beyond the exceptional terrain, visitors benefit from:

  • Modern infrastructure: An efficient network of 26 lifts, including the engineering marvel that is the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola connecting both mountains
  • Reliable snow conditions: An average annual snowfall of 11.7 meters (38.4 feet)
  • World-class terrain parks: Five innovative parks with features for all skill levels
  • Extensive backcountry access: Opportunities for guided adventures beyond the resort boundaries

The Whistler Village Experience

While the mountains themselves are spectacular, a significant part of Whistler's charm is the pedestrian-only village that sits at their base. Whistler Village offers a European-inspired alpine atmosphere with cobblestone walkways, charming architecture, and an incredible selection of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

"From the moment you arrive in Whistler Village, nestled at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, it's apparent that this is a resort village unlike any other you've ever experienced." — Whistler Tourism

After a day on the slopes, you can explore over 200 retail shops, indulge in world-class dining at more than 90 restaurants and bars, or simply relax in one of the many spas. The vibrant après-ski scene at establishments like the Garibaldi Lift Company (GLC) — consistently ranked as North America's #1 après-ski bar — provides the perfect ending to an exhilarating day on the mountain.

Where to Stay: Finding Your Perfect Whistler Accommodation

For visitors planning their Whistler vacation, choosing the right accommodation is crucial to making the most of your mountain experience. Whistler Village and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of lodging options to suit every preference and budget.

Ace Cascade Lodge: Your Home in Whistler Village

Located in the heart of Whistler Village, Ace Cascade Lodge offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and luxury for your mountain getaway. Our prime location puts you just steps away from both the Whistler and Blackcomb gondolas, providing easy access to North America's best skiing.

Our beautifully appointed rooms and suites feature cozy fireplaces, spacious accommodations, and stunning mountain views. Whether you're visiting for a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or an adventure with friends, Ace Cascade Lodge provides the ideal base for exploring all that Whistler has to offer.

Why Choose Ace Cascade Lodge for Your Whistler Stay:

  • Prime village location with easy access to gondolas
  • Luxurious rooms and suites with mountain views
  • In-room fireplaces and modern amenities
  • On-site dining and spa facilities
  • Ski and snowboard storage
  • Concierge services to help plan your perfect Whistler experience

The Best Locations to Stay in Whistler

While Ace Cascade Lodge offers an exceptional experience in the heart of Whistler Village, it's worth exploring all the distinct neighborhoods that make up this world-class destination:

  1. Whistler Village: The heart of the resort, offering pedestrian-only streets filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Staying here puts you steps from the gondolas and at the center of Whistler's vibrant energy.
  2. Upper Village: Located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, this area offers a sense of alpine seclusion while still being just a short walk from the main Village.
  3. Village North: Centered around a market plaza and home to the Whistler Olympic Plaza, this area is an easy stroll to the Village.
  4. Whistler Creekside: A charming alternative to the main Village, Creekside has its own shops, restaurants, and gondola access.

Beyond the Slopes: Year-Round Activities

While Whistler is primarily known for its exceptional winter sports, the resort has evolved into a true year-round destination. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities throughout the seasons:

Winter Activities

  • Snowshoeing through pristine alpine forests
  • Ice skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza
  • Exhilarating zipline tours through the snow-covered canopy
  • Heli-skiing and cat-skiing for the ultimate backcountry experience
  • Relaxing at Scandinave Spa's outdoor baths

Summer Adventures

  • World-class mountain biking at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park
  • Championship golf courses with breathtaking mountain backdrops
  • Hiking extensive alpine trail networks
  • Watersports on pristine lakes and rivers
  • Summer festivals and cultural events

Planning Your Whistler Vacation

Ready to experience North America's #1 ski resort for yourself? Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect Whistler vacation:

  • Book early: As a premier destination, accommodation in Whistler fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Secure your stay at Ace Cascade Lodge well in advance.
  • Consider timing: While peak winter season (December to February) offers optimal snow conditions, shoulder seasons can provide great value with fewer crowds.
  • Pre-book activities: Popular experiences like ski lessons, restaurant reservations, and spa treatments should be booked ahead of time.
  • Transportation: Whistler is easily accessible from Vancouver International Airport (YVR), with shuttle services and car rentals available.

Experience the Best of Whistler with Ace Cascade Lodge

Whistler Blackcomb's recognition as North America's #1 ski resort is well-deserved, offering an unparalleled combination of exceptional terrain, world-class facilities, and a charming village atmosphere. At Ace Cascade Lodge, we're proud to be part of this remarkable destination, providing our guests with luxurious accommodations and personalized service to make their Whistler experience truly unforgettable.

Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to your favorite mountain playground, we invite you to discover why Whistler continues to stand above the rest — and why Ace Cascade Lodge is the perfect home base for your adventures.

Book Your Whistler Getaway Today

Secure your stay at Ace Cascade Lodge and experience the best of North America's #1 ski resort. Our central location, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service ensure an unforgettable mountain vacation.

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