On the edge at Whistler Blackcomb
Photo © Paul Morrison

With over 7,000 acres of skiable terrain spanning the two flanks of 7,160-foot Whistler mountain and 7,494-foot Blackcomb mountain, there's piste to satisfy every level of skier. Nearly 200 marked trails, a network of ultra-modern lifts, and legendary off-piste combine to cement Whistler Blackcomb's standing. One slight detraction may be the wetter weather of British Columbia. However, keep climbing and you'll likely encounter a differing climate to that in the valley below.

Those seeking that double-diamond headrush should make for Blackcomb's Ruby Bowl. Just getting there (or to neighboring Sapphire and Garnet Bowls) can be a throat-drying adrenaline rush. From the top of the Glacier Express lift, you'll need to sling your skis over your shoulder and start hiking. This will take you along the knife-edge precipice of Spanky's Ladder, British Columbia's most sought-after double-black-diamond and the gateway to Ruby Bowl's 2,000 vertical feet of continuous steeps. A hike-only endeavor on the backside of Blackcomb mountain, here you'll tangle with a northern exposure that keeps the powder dry, firm, and fast.

Move on to Corbet's Couloir, Jackson Hole