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Whistler Feature
by Rob Bates 2002 |
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It's good to be back. Suddenly three months doesn't seem that long
ago. Some things have changed, the temperature has dropped from the 20's
to the zeros, the creek through the village is now frozen over, and snow
covers most of the ground. Most noticeable though is the change in the
mountains, the bare green tracts below the chair lifts are now fully clothed
as skiers make their way down through the mist and snow.
Rob Bates stayed at the Crystal Lodge, travelling from Vancouver to
Whistler on the Perimeter Whistler Express. He took 3 days ski lessons
with Ski-Esprit.
Special thanks go to Lisa Storoshenko at Tourism Whistler and Mark Schroeder
and Erin Keam of Whistler Ski and Snowboard Schools. |
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One of the aspects to take into account if you're planning a trip to
Whistler is the weather. With it's large vertical - about one mile - but
relatively low base elevation and nearly coastal location, the conditions
can vary significantly from top to bottom. Rain can hit the lower slopes
below the Whistler gondola midstation but statistically if it's raining
in the valley it will be snowing half way up. This affects beginners more
than anyone else and early and late season it's not uncommon to download
the last section in the gondola due to variable snow conditions.
As a result of large snow falls, the high alpine regions can be hit
by limited visibility. Trails are well marked, but it can be a little daunting
to face a whiteout on your first morning. Common sense caution applies,
and with the storms does come alot of good snow - conditions are better
in March than January with regards to clear skies and sunny days.
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But don't let any of this put you off visiting. The location means
it's not that cold in the village or even on the mountain - temperatures
average close to the freezing mark in the village and slightly colder in
the high alpine - it won't get to the minus twenties of Lake Louise for
example. And, most importantly, the snow is good and plentiful on top of
the mountain. |
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