Now that our first full week of Fall operations is in the rearview, I’ve been reflecting on my inaugural summer here at Whistler Blackcomb. The magic and beauty of these mountains and this community are just as prevalent this time of year as during the winter season. I have learned a great deal living, working and playing on the unceded, shared territory of the Squamish Nation and the Lil’wat Nation. It has been a privilege to be able to do so and I honour their culture and connection to this land.
There is so much to offer in Whistler during the summer months. Highlights for me were exploring the extensive trail network, from Lost Lake to Cheakamus and honing my skillset with an Intro to Bike Park lesson…and then venturing into the Fitzsimmons and Creekside Zones (while learning new terminology like “brown pow”). Tackling the Ascent Trail on Blackcomb was a fun and challenging adventure (making it to the top is still on the bucket list… there’s time!); and I had to steel myself for a walk across Cloudraker Skybridge to Raven’s Eye Lookout. I’m glad I did, as the views from the summit of Whistler Mountain are a sight to behold!
Sharing a meal at the Mountain Top Summer Feast was the cherry on top of an unforgettable day of sightseeing. This must-do summer experience included a collaboration with the culinary team at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre on a menu that featured traditional dishes such as Cedar Plank Salmon, Three Sister’s Salad and fresh baked Bannock. My compliments to the chefs, servers, staff and musicians, for delivering an exceptional alpine dining experience, every single weekend through to September 4.
How about Crankworx! Watching the team help bring this iconic mountain bike festival’s Whistler stop to life through meticulous planning, preparation and execution was impressive to say the least. From completing the iconic 1199 downhill competition trail, to providing IT support to bring the competitions into our Skier’s Plaza spectator areas, to enhancing the guest experience through quality catering, to ensuring both athletes and guests remained safe throughout; Crankworx was yet another example of our team working together to help deliver a world-class product.
Throughout all of this, upgrades to our Fitzsimmons Express continue to progress nicely and we are still on track to start spinning this winter (look for an update in the coming days). Watching as our teams – together with Doppelmayr and a host of local contractors – ensure this important work gets done while supporting Crankworx and operating our bike park all at the same time is truly remarkable. On top of it all, the team is completing preparations and initial works for the Jersey Cream Express upgrade, which will help expedite installation in summer 2024.
Whistler Blackcomb truly is a massive mountain operation and I have the utmost respect for the people responsible for its many moving parts. Spending time with our teams to understand what it takes to manage the operational requirements of a year-round resort, while delivering an unforgettable experience to our guests, has been educational, inspiring and eye opening.
As my husband, Adam, and I continue to settle in, I want to thank you all for making us feel at home in this community and on these mountains. I look forward to reveling in the magic of autumn and am eager to ramp up preparations for my favourite season – winter!
Cheers,
BT
