Whistler Blackcomb beginners ultimate Ski: Ski Resorts > Canada > Whistler, BC

Whistler Blackcomb beginners

One of the great things about Whistler is that beginners can get a “whole mountain” experience by skiing well-groomed green trails from high altitude all the way down to the village.

Two vast mountains may seem rather daunting, but do not be put off by the fact that only 15–20 percent of the mountain area is graded for beginners. One of the great things about Whistler is that beginners are not restricted to the lower slopes. You can learn fast here and confident beginners can quickly progress to enjoy some of the high altitude beginner trails like Burnt Stew Trail off Harmony Express chair (6,939 feet / 2,115 m)—a perfect area for groups of mixed ability with some breathtaking 360-degree views and easy trails running down to the village. This gives beginners a “whole mountain” experience and a strong sense of achievement as they ski well-groomed green trails from high altitude all the way down to the village.

Beginners are likely to join one of the many classes available, but there will be plenty of time left to explore the ski area. For those not joining a class, take the Whistler Village Gondola or Fitzsimmons Express to Olympic Station at 3,346 feet (1,019 m), where you’ll find the Children’s Learning Area and the best area for beginners on either mountain. Return to the gondola at Olympic Station and progress higher up the mountain to Roundhouse Lodge at 6,069 feet (1,850m), from where you can access the Green Acres Family Zone off the Emerald Express, or take the “easiest way down” trail and ski all the way back down to Whistler. This run can get busy and skiers need to be of intermediate ability to ski all the way back to the village. On Blackcomb, you can get started low down at the Magic Chair, but Whistler Mountain is by far the better mountain for beginners and children.

The trail map is clearly marked to show slow-skiing zones on both mountains. Highlighted yellow on the trail map, they are well patrolled by the Mountain Safety Team—recognizable by their bright yellow jackets—who are quick to seize upon would-be racers skiing too fast in beginner areas or at intersections where skiers of mixed abilities meet.