Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia

Get ready to hit the slopes with ratings and advice from a pro family traveler about Whistler Resort in British Columbia, Canada.

British Columbia's Whistler Blackcomb provides an adventure for every season. My family of ski and snowboard fanatics likes to visit the resort area of Whistler in the winter and early spring so we can cruise down miles of snowy trails and open meadows. Sitting side by side, Whistler and Blackcomb mountains offer more skiable acres and more vertical than any other resort in North America.

My friend, Lesley's family heads to Whistler every summer to take advantage of the vast array of warm weather activities. Her brother plays golf, her husband goes horseback riding, the kids rent bicycles to explore the miles of bike trails and she has at least one afternoon alone to nose through the shops. The entire family hikes and swims together, and each year they try something new -- renting boats on the little lake, fishing, scaling the climbing wall, or rafting. Her teens are too old for the kids programs now, but day camps for children as young as 18-months to 12 years old operate throughout the summer.

This purpose-built winter and summer recreational community was designed with convenience in mind. For my family, that means no matter where we stay, we're steps from the chairlifts and a broad choice of restaurants. For Lesley's brood, it means that activities are within walking distance of her condo or a short shuttle ride away. No matter what the season, you'll find all sorts of accommodations, from luxury condominiums and hotels to simple lodge rooms and apartments, above the shops and restaurants in the village areas.

Because Whistler Blackcomb has so many high-speed ski lifts, lines are short and skiers and snowboarders can really rack up the mileage. We've always intended to sample more winter activities - dog sledding, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, movies, bowling, squash, indoor swimming, and such--- but we usually just wobble back to our condo, hit the hot tub, and relax.

To find out more about Whistler Blackcomb visit their website at www.whistlerblackcomb.com.