Whistler Mountain set to open this Saturday, November 18  

A massive winter storm that has blanketed Whistler resort since Thursday night in 75 centimeters or 30 inches of snow, has precipitated the announcement that the resort will open earlier than expected. Whistler Mountain will open for the season this Saturday, November 18 from 8:30am to 3pm. Blackcomb Mountain will open as planned on Thursday, November 23.

Weather forecasters are predicting that this is only the beginning of a period of snowy, stormy weather over the next several days in the resort. Environment Canada's forecast calls for snow throughout the week. Bestskiweather.com is also reporting an active weather pattern for Whistler well into late November.

Whistler Mountain will open on Saturday with access from the Whistler Village base. The Whistler Village Gondola, the Emerald Express and the Big Red Express are all scheduled to open. The resort's new fleet of grooming machines will be hard at work this week preparing the slopes for skiers and riders. Guests should be aware that early season conditions will exist off-piste and so extreme caution should be exercised when venturing beyond the ropes.

Bridge to Pow: Whistler Mountain set to open this Saturday, November 18

"There has been huge anticipation in the resort for weeks as opening day has drawn closer," says Stuart Rempel, Whistler Blackcomb's senior vice president of marketing and sales. "With the unveiling of our brand new Symphony Express high speed quad in the back bowls of Whistler Mountain, this season's excitement level is through the roof. We're thrilled that we can open the mountain early for everyone to get up there and get in some turns." The Symphony Express grand opening is scheduled for December 16. 

Skiers and riders eager to keep an eye on Whistler Blackcomb as the storm continues, can stay up to date by checking out web cams and operational updates at whistlerblackcomb.com. The snow phone will also be updated daily and can be reached by calling 604-687-7507 (Vancouver) or 604-932-4211 (Whistler).