It’s Time: Whistler Blackcomb Opening Day

Tick, tick, tock – it’s time! At 8:15 AM on Thursday, November 24 the lifts start spinning on Whistler Blackcomb. The early season dishes up 125 skiable acres on Blackcomb and 116 on Whistler, and that’s just to start as the triple-dip La Niña weather pattern keeps delivering.

“It is always exciting seeing lifts spinning again as skiers and riders return to these incredible mountains for another season,” said Whistler Blackcomb VP & COO, Geoff Buchheister. “Whistler Blackcomb is grateful to operate on the shared unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and Lilwat7úl (Lil’wat Nation). It is a privilege to live, work, learn and play on these beautiful lands.

I am extremely grateful to the amazing team here at Whistler Blackcomb – they have worked tirelessly in preparation for the season to start, and I know everyone who joins us will see and feel all of that hard work and passion, both on our opening day and every day throughout the season.”

Whistler Blackcomb opens with a snow base of 70 centimetres and their snowmaking teams continue to take full advantage of the cold temperatures Whistler’s had over the last few weeks.

Which Lifts are Running on Whistler Blackcomb’s Opening Day?

If you’re a Blackcomb Mountain lover, Blackcomb Gondola, Excalibur Gondola, Excelerator, Jersey Cream, and Catskinner will be spinning. And on Whistler Mountain, the Whistler Village Gondola, Fitzsimmons, Garbanzo, Emerald and Franz’s Chair will be ready for you. And of course, the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola.

Are There Any Opening Day Events?

Opening day is going to kick off with a traditional welcome from the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) at Skiers’ Plaza in Whistler Village at 8 AM. The vibe is going to be wild with music and DJs, prizes and giveaways happening at the bases of both mountains.  

Are Whistler Blackcomb’s Signature Events Coming Back?

We are stoked to hear that the World Ski and Snowboard Festival, weekly Fire & Ice Shows, Peak to Valley Race, Whistler Cup and Creekside Classic are all coming back this year. Check our events calendar for freeride competitions, rail jams and more fun activations over the winter holiday season (including Santa Day). 

What’s Happening with the Creekside Gondola and Big Red Express?

Upgrades to Creekside Gondola and Big Red Express are still underway and are expected to open later this season. The Whistler Blackcomb blog has Creekside-specific information on the shuttle service, parking and expedited lift line details. 

4 Tips for Skiing and Riding at Whistler Blackcomb 2022/23

1. Book ahead – Whistler Blackcomb is limiting tickets during peak periods. Our advice is to purchase your lift access in advance – whether it is a Whistler Blackcomb Day Pass, Season Pass, or Edge Card (for the latter two call Whistler Blackcomb Guest Services at 1.800.766.0449).
2. Carpool, or better yet use a shuttle service to get to Whistler. If you do bring your car, be aware that parking isn’t cheap and that you need winter tires or chains. Read more on our Road Conditions page.
3. Visit midweek for a quieter experience on the mountains, in Whistler Village and on the roads.
4. Look out for the new menu items at Whistler Blackcomb’s restaurants, like the Salmon Chowder from the SLCC culinary team at Glacier Lodge, the Chorizo Sandwich at the GLC and Korean Jackfruit Tacos at Dusty’s.

Photos From Whistler Blackcomb’s Opening Day