Whistler Magic

Whistler/BlackComb Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler / Mike Crane

 There's something very magical about Whistler...especially during the winter.  I've never visited during the winter, and was lucky enough to catch the tail-end of it, to enjoy both some of the winter and spring activities that Whistler is famous for.  It's a Top 40 Under 40 for good reason...as Whistler is a destination that offers up adventures at every turn.

I stayed at the Moutainside Lodge which is right in the heart of Whistler Village.  The Hotel is close to everything and is a stone's throw to the Gondolas for Whistler and Blackcomb. The suite I stayed in contained an upstairs loft, a kitchenette, a personal sauna and a deep jetted bathtub. Amazing.

Me at the Coca Cola Tube Park on BlackComb

My first adventure in Whistler was tubing at the Coca Cola Tube Park located at the Base of Blackcomb. From the moment my tube shot down the hill, I was hooked. The pure adrenaline rush I felt as I sped down the hill turning and spinning was incredible.  I felt like a child again.

The best part is that there is a conveyor lift back up the hill, so you don't have to lug your tube all the way to the top.  It's a great family activity - and kids of all ages are welcome to give it a go.

The next morning I headed to The Core, which is a gym that also boasts an indoor rock climbing facility. The best part about The Core, is that it has different levels of difficulty to challenge even the most experienced climber (and the most inexperienced like me!)

Although I enjoyed the challenge of making my way up the wall, it did take some time to get used to the auto belays, where speed and trust come in to play.

Making my way up the wall at The Core

But its something I've always wanted to try and in an hour, I found it to be a tremendous work out for both my arms and my legs.

In the afternoon, I headed to Ziptrek, where you truly come alive by ziplining across some of the most spectacular terraine I've ever seen. I did the Bear Tour, which was five ziplines - including some incredible suspension bridges and platforms to take in the views.

Although it is a family-friendly adventure, I would not recommend this type of adventure for children under the age of 10 due to the height and length of some of the ziplines.

However, for me, it was spot-on for the great thrills I got ziplining over the Fitzsimmons Creek.

On the last zipline, I even hung up-side down for that extra bit of excitement. ;)

My 9-year old son making his way across one of the ziplines-don't look down!

When it was time to leave Whistler, and all the incredible adventures I had behind - it was a bittersweet. For although I had an incredible time during my three-day stay, I know I will miss it, as there was so many other things to do that I have yet to experience.

But don't worry Whistler, I will be back soon........after all, summer is just around the corner, and you are only a two-hour drive from me.  Besides,  I still have to try your adventurous biking trails, ATV Tours, hiking and....well, you get the picture. ;)