Cloud Seas - Whistler-blackcomb

This site started off as a one-stop weather page for my own neurotic checks of the weather and conditions. I've continued to add comments and photos from ski trips in the Cascades (mostly Mt. Hood - my own backyard) and some points further afield - a way to recall past trips and jones for the next one... The Pacific Northwest possesses a lifetime of opportunities, and there are many others with whom I share a passion for backcountry skiing and inspiring views. A quick web search will easily link you to trip reports or resources that either inspired me to go to these places or inspire me to return.

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Whistler/Blackcomb is a huge complex consisting of two large peaks, each with 5,000�+ feet of vertical rise from the base. In terms of acreage, Whistler is the largest in North America. Breckenridge, which I skied and thought was pretty huge, looks tiny by comparison. The highlights of the resort for me were the variety and quantity of off-piste terrain, including giant bowls, chutes, and steeps; the Peak-2-Peak gondola from Whistler to Blackcomb, a real technological marvel; and the incredible views of the surrounding Coast Range and Garibaldi Provincial Park.

The weather was pretty much sunny with moderate wind � no new snow fell, but the hardpack conditions weren�t too icy and tended to soften up in the ample sun. The groomers were in great shape although the snowpack is pretty much just man-made ribbons until 1,000+� above the base.