Two mountains north of Vancouver, and by some distance the largest ski resort in North America. There is terrain for every level, but the mountain earns its reputation with strong skiers. Alpine bowls sit above the treeline on both peaks and the vertical drop is bigger than anything else on the continent. The Peak 2 Peak gondola strung between the two summits is worth a ride in its own right and holds records for both length and height.

The snow is coastal, which means heavy, plentiful and occasionally wet at the base. Late season here is often excellent, because the upper mountain keeps its depth long after the lower runs have softened.

Whistler Village is the most developed resort village in North America and closer to a small town, fully pedestrianised, with restaurants, bars and shops to match. The good tables go early. Accommodation spreads across three villages with a free shuttle between them, and Vancouver is around two hours up the Sea to Sky highway.