Both mountains are good for different reasons.... Whistler has some great steeps right off the chair and a good variety of terrain. However, Blackcomb was a much more purpose-designed and cut mountain, with runs much more down the fall line. Whistler, while good, has a lot of side-hill runs... and I prefer runs that follow the fall line. Plus... 7th heaven, jersey cream, glacier... fun for the whole family. I'll go with Blackcomb.
Ironically its the purpose/computer cut part of blackcomb that leaves it a little cold for me when comparing the cut trails. I love Whistler's off-camber crazy turns (I'm looking at you, Bear Paw). Of course, on an off piste day that doesn't really matter for either mountain. And for me I'd rank off piste zones on both mountains as (and you'll see I am lazy with any hiking haha): 1. all the stuff off Peak chair. 2. All the stuff off Harmony Chair. 3. Flute Bowl 4. Spankys. 5. Seventh (including the stuff off the back - pakalolo/coulouir extreme etc). Either way its a whistler win for me.
I began skiing Whistler in 1967 and prior to that had skied Alta (best for steep and deep powder) and Sun Valley (best for groomed), Jackson, Vail, Aspen, Squaw Valley. The problem with Whistler was that it was designed for European skiing which prefers side-hill runs as long as possible.Long enough for two stops for lunch is still admired. Murray-Latta constructed the green chair and one of their guys was a serious skier and the intended placement was determined by keeping the walk for the lifty as short as possible from the Red Chair. Which was away off the fall line. ML pushed it as much to the fall line as they could. Before joining Blackcomb, Hughie Smythe was Mtn Manager at Whistler and a strong skier. He personally laid out the runs on the new mountain to keep to the fall line. That included topog maps, stereoscopic pictures plus "booting" up and down each proposed run. Fall line is everything, but I'm too old now. Sigh,
Thanks for the quick history lesson BOB! Super interesting to learn more about the thought process behind the lifts. I love fall line so I'm always playing on Blackcomb!!
During big storms, Blackcomb is usually better, IMO. The Blackcomb alpine always opens earlier than Whistler, sometimes by several hours, due to the simpler Avi control. When the alpine is closed, especially on a weekend, the lower lifts can get extremely busy, so I’ve found the lines are often shorter on Blackcomb during stormy weather.
Met the creator on the Crystal Chair and had a nice conversation so checked out his site. Loved the comparison video. Black Comb is my favorite. Been skiing her for 2.0 years and just think it had more of a comfy at home feel. Whistler feels more sophisticated. Keep the video coming!!
This guy is awesome, particularly with his meme's popping up. Been there, I think, 10 times always for a week (5 days on skis). We've stayed on both sides with last several over on Blackcomb. Blackcomb is the NUMBER ONE without question. I have not been there since the Crystal chair opened, but I could ski that chair, Spankies and the glacier all week and be happy. Over on Whistler I do like going off Peak chair all that good stuff to the right (can never find the entrance to Cockalorum) but on the down side it does flush you down to Big Red which then requires two chairs back up. Being a one week a year skier, I don't hike (other than the glacier and spankies). BLACKCOMB #1 all day.
Watched for the entertainment, not the actual reviews and wasn't disappointed. However, the content/review is thorough and multi-faceted. Excellent overview - you know the mountains extremely well - you'd be an awesome guide for all levels of ability.
As a Brit who has skied there a number of times over 30 years I would have to go with Blackcomb. I think this is because I skied there in the early 90’s before it merged with Whistler and all the massive development of the villages took place and it was such a fantastic mountain to ski and a lovely place to stay in the evening. I do remember though staying at the Nancy Green Lodge in Whistler - some great memories. For me it’s 7th Heaven and the Saudan Couloir that are burned into my memory of the mountain and although I went there I think 5 times for 2 weeks at a time I kept returning there. Now I’m in my 50’s and my kids are snowboarding I’ll be back there sometime in the near future - joint with Lake Louise/Sunshine the best skiing areas in the world.
Before starting this video, I heard (from google) that blackcomb is better on pow days, Whistler for groomers/steeps and chutes. Whistler can be flatter for snowboarders, whereas Comb is more fall line. Based on google maps, I think Whistler looks especially interesting on a bluebird day, as I can ski from the summit down on a blue trail (it looks more exposed than 7th heaven summit on Comb). Also, Whistler groomers look longer and more appreciated by an intermediate skier like myself. I do like to ski glades, so I’m sure I’d be hitting Blackcomb for that. Anyways, can’t wait to watch this long overdue video! Cheers
@@vitaminb4869 black comb runs are more fall line-speed is better for powder. Also, the glades on Blackcomb seem to be better. Still, Whistler looks like my favourite
I love your videos! We picked up the five pack edge card this year and I'm brand new to Whistler Blackcomb. Your videos are great source of info, hopefully it will help us out a bit on our next visit. Our first day at got pulled into Glacier Express and Jersey cream since the top of whistler was closed and I found it to be breathtaking. Rocks were sketchy in the flat light though hahaha oh well. We could have used this info for the tree runs, your videos are very helpful thank you!
I raced at whistler for 5 years on Garbanzo, skied every possible powder day on Whistler since then. Iconic spots, Flute Bowl, Air Jordan, Chimney, Club 21. Learned how to ski bowels and drop off cornices, learned how to ski high alpine crap weather on peak chair. Loved every second and pushed myself as far as I could hitting cliffs and exploring pillow lines especially the cliffs under garbo and red chair. This being said, Blackcomb…. Boy oh boy. First time in whistler was at blackcomb, I was 13 on a deep powder day. Fuxking MAGICAl. Changed my life. Have never had a bad day on Blackcomb and now that I am moving towards finding sketchy ass lines off 7th above Jersey Creme, and forcing myself into higher exposure terrain in Spankys Blackcomb kills it: Nothing beats skiing under Crystal Chair too. I love exploration which is why right now Blackcomb is my favourite. I know Whistler like the back of my hand.
We just got back from a week at Whistler. It pretty much rained for the whole week at the base, but that just meant more snow on the hill. Visibility was almost never good but the snow made up for it. For what we like, deep snow in trees or bowls, both Whistler and Blackcomb home were excellent. We did find the lift lines to always be shorter at Blackcomb. Nothing required a ridiculously long wait except for our initial ride up the gondola to Whistler. I would not want to choose a favorite. And the presence of the Peak to Peak gondola meant that I didn't have to. I enjoyed seeing how your views tended to align with what we discovered.
Watching this video gets me going as I have ski most of everything you showed and talked about. The next season can’t come soon enough! But I agree with everything you said. Basically Blackcomb has an edge for Blacks and Double blacks and Whistler a bit better for beginners. But were splitting hairs here. We actually just alternate between each mountain each day. I avoid going back and forth between mountains because your wasting your time and energy “portaging” instead of Skiing.
I'm totally on the same page and also love how you refer to switching mountains as PORTAGING 😂😂😂😂. Always best to pick a side and stick to it for the day!
First time trip, we had 3 days. First day Whistler. Second day Blackcomb. Third day we all choose Blackcomb again. Loved Crystal, Glacier, and Seventh.
Great attention to detail in the comparison categories in the video and I can’t get enough of your positive energy. I ski Blackcomb more often for many reasons. I love the flow of the mountain and find there is less traversing between runs so that you get more runs in during a ski day. The top of the peak is an amazing view on a bluebird day. But I am remain a Blackcomb fan👍🏼👍🏼
Pre-Covid mountain food was great. For me - keeping my kids fed during the day meant a longer day on the mtn. There used to be Ramen, Cinnamon buns, Saurkraut and sausage, and of course the waffles at Crystal. Yes it was expensive - but to eat a waffle at the top of Crystal chair was worth it. When I’m by myself I definitely pack food and just do laps but with kids or casual skiing friend - food is important. Right now during Covid most mountain food places are closed and the ones that are open have chilli, chicken strips and fries (essentially). So the food right now is terrible.
I love both. I ski Blackcomb since I live in Alpine Meadows when there - its closer to Blackcomb. I'd rather do a P2P and come back than waste time in the car. That's just me. Great review.
The Stoker chair used to be called Chair three and was the biggest lift on the mountain when it 1st opened until the '87-88 season with the opening of the three high speed quads. Also: The 5280' stat came from the &th heaven T-Bar which was only open from '85-87 and terminated higher and to the east of the top terminal of the 7th Heaven chair.
i haven’t been yet but i’m planning to make a trip out there next season and your videos are just so in depth and your quality is so good, keep it up man
Damn whent to W&B a month ago for the first time, really wish this guide existed before! Still had a great time, and I think I enjoyed Blackcomb better myself.
It's tough man ... My first pow day was at Whistler but there is something to be said about those steeper runs at Blackcomb, and 7th heaven in the morning sun is a real game changer
Good job on this James, I'm at 3 great days there so hardly experienced enough to provide comment but I enjoy listening to yours. I'll be back next season looking to shred some more. BTW food really does matter, our best lunch was at Dusty's down at Creekside base. Peace Out
Can’t do front side alpine laps on Blackcomb. You have to take so many lifts to get back up. Plus you have to hike every lap. Every run on Blackcomb you can not see of the chairs so it’s a blind guess from the top. But saying that. We have two great mountains 🤟
There is no denying how EPIC Peak chair can be on the right days. On big POW days Whistler can be mind blowing but involves more patience/strategy to get it right. I'm to impatient to wait for chairs to open (which is the play on Whistler) I always find myself playing on the Garbonzo and having to suffer a 45minute+ taxi ride back to the base of peak chair and missing the fresh laps. We are so lucky to have so many unbelievable terrain options!!
I like to chase really good powder backcountry skiing and some dangerous high alpine skiing. I choose blackcomb because whenever there’s a big dump its a lot easier to predict when the alpine is gonna open and its easier to get fresh turns in my opinion. Flute bowl on whistler is great on a powder day when you get there early enough, but for me nothing anywhere else compares to spankys runs. I know both mountains really well, but i have to say blackcomb because its what ive done the most.
Ha, you forgot one more category.... Terrain parks? That could be the tie breaker!! I'm more of a whistler person. I need to be super confident and wanting some hardcore action to hit backcomb hard.
yo yo! Love your channel dude! Been living in whis for a year and a half now, your videos have definitely helped me find some sick lines. I'm a ski tech at a shop in the village, if you ever need a wax, mount or a repair, shoot me a line and i'll hook it up for you. Rock on brother!!
Awesome video! Well done, you are a good skier all around, nice to see the carving section. I still race and my weapon of choice is still a well tuned GS ski. My POW skis are the backcountry ski of choice.I have been a local for 14 years now and I always answer when asked which mountain is favourite……love them both, each has its real gems in terms of terrain. So even Steven on your video vote……perfect!. Fastskis
Nothing like a well tuned GS ski to get the juices going!!! Always happy to hear from a fellow carving enthusiast! We are so lucky to have so much sick terrain at our doorstep :)
After living there for 5+ winters and skiing everyday, each mountain has it's own specialties, when you think you know the mountains there is always a new mystery ski line to be found. Bottom Line: I like both mountains equally and I am a happy camper doing turns on either mountain.
The reason why this is controversial is that there is no correct answer - it depends - like a lot of people, I grew up skiing Whistler and I like the variety of the terrain, on a busy weekend, Blackcomb often has the shorter lines, so that's where I'll go. Other days, depending on which way the wind was blowing during a snowfall, one mountain will get more snow than the other. Another factor is snow conditions, even though the mountains are right next to each other snow conditions can be different - because Blackcomb can get more sun it could be softer earlier in the day. Visibility can be variable depending on elevation and on the mountain, and there have been times when visibility was poor on one mountain and not an issue on the other mountain. This is some of the appeal of having two side-by-side mountains with one lift ticket, especially with the addition of the Peak-2-Peak Gondola - it gives us the flexibility to choose the best mountain for each part of the day. After skiing Whistler for 40+ years I am still finding new lines, and believe me, I know how lucky I am to live in this part of the world!
Both are awesome. But if I had to pick one to ski for the rest of my life, its whistler for me. But you knew that already because I think I post that on pretty much every video you post haha. Blackcomb is just a little bland to me, a little soulless (probably in the way it was computer mapped). I only deliberately chose blackcomb when I was instructing an intermediate group - I'd take them to Blackcomb for the better blue groomers. That to me was its only advantage. EDIT - though I would often pop across the peak to peak to get lunch at glacier creek before skiing out. that was also a big advantage haha
Hey Matt, It totally depends on the snow coverage to the base! This year I would guess everything above the Excelerator chair will stay open but you will have to download form mid station!
so the question is basically seventh or symphony, and i prefer seventh. Plus, blackcomb has the real park. Only reason I spent so much time on whistler last season was the reverse spring closure lol. Dont get me wrong, it was a nice fresh change. But I'm excited to be back on catskinner this spring.
7th heaven...... Cat Skinner... Those two alone make Blackcomb my goto almost every time. Harmony and Symphony but it is never open anymore until mid day, you get a few hours at best.
Whitlser or Blackcomb, I choose Whistler not because it better (they both are great), I just more familiar with Whistler runs than Blackcomb. You need at least a season for familiar with terrian in Whistler and I just explored the skinny parts of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. This is an excellent guide book with hardcopy available in local bookshop at Whistler 《 Advanced/Expert Ski and Snowboard Guide to Whistler Blackcomb - By Brian Finestone & Kevin Hodder》 So much fun when follow this book for exploring the terrains in Whistler and Blackcomb.
Funny I spent more time on black comb when 1st started skiing Whistler blackcomb mountains but I loved blackcomb better for a long time but when the opened peak to peak I started going to Whistler more and exploring and realized I like both mountains it's great to switch it up but for sentimental reasons blackcomb is in my heart .one big reason is going to crystal hut to eat or sitting on the deck especially when the cook the hamburgers outside or the all day waffle yummy 😋
I think it's very interesting that you mentioned how competition improved both mountains. Because nowadays I feel like it is missing exactly those things. I worked there two seasons ago and I have to admit that the infrastructure is way behind compared to the big resorts in the alps where I'm from. Here, if a resort is outperformed by the competition, folks simply switch the valley as there are just so many places in close proximity. Tell any austrian skier that you have no snow protection on your lifts and they will be absolutely baffled.
@@buildingwithkev8665 In the alps many/most chair lifts have a round casing with some see through material like acrylic glass that is attached to the bar. This means that you are almost inside a bubble if you choose to lower the bar which is nice to do in heavy wind and snow. Kind of hard to explain but I think that is what he was referring to.
Majority of the time, Blackcomb for sure! But if the alpine is opening after a couple days of avy risk closure, you better believe I'm going to be waiting in line with everyone else at the peak chair!
Nice vid bud! Big ups. I have ridden cypress mainly my first 2 seasons and got to do my 3rd season this year. Had a 2 day trip to whistler blackcomb via the edge card. Stepped up to expert level riding this year, and I found Blackcomb to really capture my excitement when I started doing glacier express side. Hitting the bowls and chutes off spanky's ladder was a blast. Really enjoyed blackcomb on my second day up there and whistler was decent day one. If I had to choose off of a first impression basis, I'd say blackcomb was more my taste with the expert terrain and the overall big mountain feel of it. Can't wait to come back and really explore them both next season with a lot more days.
Happy to hear that you are starting to dabble with expert terrain! It opens so many doors and makes skiing and riding that much more fun. Keep up the speedy progression!!
Blackcomb. Better selection of longer blue runs IMO, plus love 7th Heaven area. And, our time share is a two block walk from the upper village lift. Plus, Crystal and Glacier Express = killer.
Intrawest was a real estate developer that ran Blackcomb from '86 onwards. This is why it was considered The Dark Side I'm guessing; it was always more corporate.
All depends on temps, visability, wind, sunshine and who you're skiing with - both excellent but somedays the difference is pretty big. Backcountry wise - Blackcomb is the more serious of the two and requires more knowledge/caution. Blackcomb wins hands down on facilities number, location and likeihood of being open. I now ski with a backpack all the time so I can keep the energy up and the flow going. Nothing kills the buzz like going from Flute all the way back to Emerald to get a drink and bite to eat.
Worked at Blackcomb for a season, so of course I prefer it. Both are great, seriously Whistler has some amazing terrain, but Blackcomb flows better, and has better off piste runs. The whole 7th heaven and glacier areas are some of the best riding I’ve had anywhere.
I would say Blackcomb is better in my opinion because it has amazing areas like Chainsaw Ridge, Spankys Ladder, Crystal Ridge, and so many other amazing places to be.
Whistler is my favorite side. Familiarity, Peak on a good day, no snowboarding early on. Blackcomb is the better mountain. Consistent fall-lines, more accessible vert, open later.
I literally went 25 years without setting foot on Whistler and only Skied Blackcomb all those years. It was great. I didn't have to birdwalk up hill once... Also the "top to bottom" on Blackcomb is insane compared to Whis... The Long Run Mountain Baby! Shredtastic Blackcomb
When I say no birdwalk I mean in the middle of a run or climbing up to a lift... Not talking about climbing up over the back into the bowls. Or into secret shutes etc.. Whistler makes you work uphill in too many spots just to keep going...
@@krisgrey5555 I don't know which runs you're referring to where you have to walk uphill on Whistler. Sure, if you're really slow, you might end up walking uphill, but just keep the speed up a little.
Blackcomb for pow day because of faster patrol! Whistler for all the days after the first pow day! Whistler for every weekday! Blackcomb for all weekend and holiday warriors! Whistler for entry park rider! Blackcomb for expert park rider! Wax your snowboard before you go to Whistler because of the long flat green traverse! Shred without wax on Blackcomb!
Stats say Blackcomb patrol wins 90% of the time and thanks to the popularity of Whistler all the tourists go there instead. Enjoy Matthews traverse meanwhile we shred Blackcomb baby
i've grown up skiing whistler so i'm gonna have to say whistler. but when there's powder like last year in december blackomb was much better as there were way less people on the mountain and therefore so much more pow
Blackcomb all the way. It has the glacier. It has Spanky’s. It has the groomers off the crystal chair. It has the straight down the fall line runs underneath the gondola. Seventh Heaven. Blackcomb has better groomers and more fall line skiing. Whistler has bowls with crazy lift lines.
Was there 16 years ago for 2 seasons. Think I spend 90% if the time in blackcomb. So much longer runs and steeper with backcountry access in my memories..
I think khyber, Millionaire's ridge, and the trees below highway 86 (all slackcountry, maybe adds some points for backcountry too) give whistler an edge in the tree skiing category...
Thanks! The healthy debate will always be a fun and entertaining topic for everyone who has had the fortunate chance to ski/snowboard at Whistler Blackcomb❤️
For me it's Blackcomb, BUTto me it's really about what's good on a particular day. The weather is so variable either one can have better conditions on a given day.
Food: I miss these mountain restaurants of Austrian ski resorts: for 10 euro you can get a huge bowl of goulash soup, fresh bun, salad and drink. Whereas most north american ski resorts offer you mcdonalds style burgers for $25.
I guess before the p2p you really either grow up with one or the other as the primary. For me, the Blackcomb slope are a bit better, especially towards the bottom half, but overall, the view, the terrain and all the rest Whistler. In general Whistler wins out. If I am day skiing, I ususally would finish on Blackcomb.
Blackcomb, less busy, smaller lines, the couloir extreme, glacier, spankys ladder, 7th heaven, better fall lines than Whistler. Aren't we lucky to have both in our back yard.
I too would say Whistler I lived there from 1989 to 2006 . If you like to get out there to fiend the secret spots Whistler is the spot but if you like the fall line then Blackcomb would be your choice. Hahaha other than that I can't really remember 😂 but I do know that there were a lot of party's . I miss those days best days of my life
@@riseandalpine ha you sparked my memories from the old gondala from creakside and then off from the bottom of the old red chair was a river bed or creak bed but it was full of deep snow up to our necks and it brought us down to the village I only ever did it once no need to cheat last luck 🤞 more then once well for that trail at least hahahaha 🤣
@@riseandalpine I've been to Whistler 8 times in the winter. The first two times P2C wasn't yet cut. So six times. About 30 days of skiing on those six trips. The trail was groomed and in good condition on just one of those roughly 30 days. That's a shame. It's truly one of the world's greatest long intermediate cruisers. It tops everything I've skied in the Alps and elsewhere in North America. It's an epic trail, and it's a gorgeous trail too. I guess it's just too expensive to groom the whole thing?
Blackcomb wins in expert terrain Blackcomb wins in gladed runs Blackcomb wins in groomers It's clear that Blackcomb is better, but I find myself only going there if I force myself. Blackcomb's runs don't feel as unique or authentic as Whistler, and Whistler is where I grew up skiing. Blackcomb has 7th heaven but my only memories of it are lining up for hours, whereas Whistler has Harmony which has endless hours of fun off the ridgeline and below and the line moves quickly
Good point, I had to go Whistler at least a bit to see that Blackcomb was indeed better. I would pay 100$ on my ski pass if they just shave an inch or 2 off the ground on Whistler cattracks because coming from Symphony and Harmony is what convinces me again, to just go to Blackcomb.
@@gabuchan123 Yea I know Blackcomb is better but I just like Whistler for some reason. Blackcomb has its fair share of cattracks too though (starring literally almost every green run on the mountain) Also, the peak chair is something magical
Both mountains are good for different reasons.... Whistler has some great steeps right off the chair and a good variety of terrain. However, Blackcomb was a much more purpose-designed and cut mountain, with runs much more down the fall line. Whistler, while good, has a lot of side-hill runs... and I prefer runs that follow the fall line. Plus... 7th heaven, jersey cream, glacier... fun for the whole family. I'll go with Blackcomb.
Number 2 is only 1 point 100M of vertical is like 10 seconds of skiing L
Ironically its the purpose/computer cut part of blackcomb that leaves it a little cold for me when comparing the cut trails. I love Whistler's off-camber crazy turns (I'm looking at you, Bear Paw).
Of course, on an off piste day that doesn't really matter for either mountain. And for me I'd rank off piste zones on both mountains as (and you'll see I am lazy with any hiking haha):
1. all the stuff off Peak chair.
2. All the stuff off Harmony Chair.
3. Flute Bowl
4. Spankys.
5. Seventh (including the stuff off the back - pakalolo/coulouir extreme etc).
Either way its a whistler win for me.
I couldn't agree more
I began skiing Whistler in 1967 and prior to that had skied Alta (best for steep and deep powder) and Sun Valley (best for groomed), Jackson, Vail, Aspen, Squaw Valley.
The problem with Whistler was that it was designed for European skiing which prefers side-hill runs as long as possible.Long enough for two stops for lunch is still admired.
Murray-Latta constructed the green chair and one of their guys was a serious skier and the intended placement was determined by keeping the walk for the lifty as short as possible from the Red Chair. Which was away off the fall line. ML pushed it as much to the fall line as they could.
Before joining Blackcomb, Hughie Smythe was Mtn Manager at Whistler and a strong skier. He personally laid out the runs on the new mountain to keep to the fall line. That included topog maps, stereoscopic pictures plus "booting" up and down each proposed run.
Fall line is everything, but I'm too old now.
Sigh,
Thanks for the quick history lesson BOB! Super interesting to learn more about the thought process behind the lifts.
I love fall line so I'm always playing on Blackcomb!!
During big storms, Blackcomb is usually better, IMO. The Blackcomb alpine always opens earlier than Whistler, sometimes by several hours, due to the simpler Avi control. When the alpine is closed, especially on a weekend, the lower lifts can get extremely busy, so I’ve found the lines are often shorter on Blackcomb during stormy weather.
Thanks!
Thank you so much for your support Martin.
Met the creator on the Crystal Chair and had a nice conversation so checked out his site. Loved the comparison video. Black Comb is my favorite. Been skiing her for 2.0 years and just think it had more of a comfy at home feel. Whistler feels more sophisticated. Keep the video coming!!
It was nice chatting with you as well. Thanks for checking out my content :)
This guy is awesome, particularly with his meme's popping up. Been there, I think, 10 times always for a week (5 days on skis). We've stayed on both sides with last several over on Blackcomb. Blackcomb is the NUMBER ONE without question. I have not been there since the Crystal chair opened, but I could ski that chair, Spankies and the glacier all week and be happy. Over on Whistler I do like going off Peak chair all that good stuff to the right (can never find the entrance to Cockalorum) but on the down side it does flush you down to Big Red which then requires two chairs back up. Being a one week a year skier, I don't hike (other than the glacier and spankies). BLACKCOMB #1 all day.
I endorse this message. 😜
You put the work in and really did well with this! I luv em both, one side in the morning, on side in the afternoon.
Watched for the entertainment, not the actual reviews and wasn't disappointed. However, the content/review is thorough and multi-faceted. Excellent overview - you know the mountains extremely well - you'd be an awesome guide for all levels of ability.
Thanks B Golden!!
As a Brit who has skied there a number of times over 30 years I would have to go with Blackcomb. I think this is because I skied there in the early 90’s before it merged with Whistler and all the massive development of the villages took place and it was such a fantastic mountain to ski and a lovely place to stay in the evening. I do remember though staying at the Nancy Green Lodge in Whistler - some great memories.
For me it’s 7th Heaven and the Saudan Couloir that are burned into my memory of the mountain and although I went there I think 5 times for 2 weeks at a time I kept returning there. Now I’m in my 50’s and my kids are snowboarding I’ll be back there sometime in the near future - joint with Lake Louise/Sunshine the best skiing areas in the world.
Amazing! It's always rad to hear about the glory days!
Lake Louise/Sunshine are on my hit list for next year when they hopefully have more snow.
Before starting this video, I heard (from google) that blackcomb is better on pow days, Whistler for groomers/steeps and chutes. Whistler can be flatter for snowboarders, whereas Comb is more fall line. Based on google maps, I think Whistler looks especially interesting on a bluebird day, as I can ski from the summit down on a blue trail (it looks more exposed than 7th heaven summit on Comb). Also, Whistler groomers look longer and more appreciated by an intermediate skier like myself. I do like to ski glades, so I’m sure I’d be hitting Blackcomb for that. Anyways, can’t wait to watch this long overdue video! Cheers
I don't see how Blackcomb is better on pow days. They'd be the same as both mountains are close to each other and about same elevation.
@@vitaminb4869 black comb runs are more fall line-speed is better for powder. Also, the glades on Blackcomb seem to be better. Still, Whistler looks like my favourite
I love your videos! We picked up the five pack edge card this year and I'm brand new to Whistler Blackcomb. Your videos are great source of info, hopefully it will help us out a bit on our next visit. Our first day at got pulled into Glacier Express and Jersey cream since the top of whistler was closed and I found it to be breathtaking. Rocks were sketchy in the flat light though hahaha oh well. We could have used this info for the tree runs, your videos are very helpful thank you!
Thanks for tuning in Zakkry. Glad the videos have bene useful. I've seen the views up there so many times and it never gets old :)
Thank you for the comprehensive comparison. Yes I love both!!!
I raced at whistler for 5 years on Garbanzo, skied every possible powder day on Whistler since then. Iconic spots, Flute Bowl, Air Jordan, Chimney, Club 21. Learned how to ski bowels and drop off cornices, learned how to ski high alpine crap weather on peak chair. Loved every second and pushed myself as far as I could hitting cliffs and exploring pillow lines especially the cliffs under garbo and red chair.
This being said, Blackcomb…. Boy oh boy. First time in whistler was at blackcomb, I was 13 on a deep powder day. Fuxking MAGICAl. Changed my life. Have never had a bad day on Blackcomb and now that I am moving towards finding sketchy ass lines off 7th above Jersey Creme, and forcing myself into higher exposure terrain in Spankys Blackcomb kills it: Nothing beats skiing under Crystal Chair too.
I love exploration which is why right now Blackcomb is my favourite. I know Whistler like the back of my hand.
I've skied many bowls but try to avoid skiing bowels
Keep up the grind. Love the videos!
Bro im new to your videos but I’ve been binge watching them. Love the content even coming from a snowboarder. Keep it up!
Thanks Bro! Welcome Aboard!
Thanks for the excellent video!! We're going tomorrow. Super useful
No Problem, Have fun Eric!
So much good info thanks for all the videos and hot sauce bud you are epic be there next week!
beauty is you can ski both in the same day!
symphony, peak to creek, saddle...7th, crystal.. its alllll good
So true! Why ski one when you can shred both!!
Excellent video! Skiing these mountains for the first time in Feb. your video helps to show what each has to offer.
Enjoy it up there Greg. Lot's of other helpful guides on my channel and website
We just got back from a week at Whistler. It pretty much rained for the whole week at the base, but that just meant more snow on the hill. Visibility was almost never good but the snow made up for it. For what we like, deep snow in trees or bowls, both Whistler and Blackcomb home were excellent. We did find the lift lines to always be shorter at Blackcomb. Nothing required a ridiculously long wait except for our initial ride up the gondola to Whistler. I would not want to choose a favorite. And the presence of the Peak to Peak gondola meant that I didn't have to. I enjoyed seeing how your views tended to align with what we discovered.
Watching this video gets me going as I have ski most of everything you showed and talked about. The next season can’t come soon enough!
But I agree with everything you said. Basically Blackcomb has an edge for Blacks and Double blacks and Whistler a bit better for beginners. But were splitting hairs here. We actually just alternate between each mountain each day. I avoid going back and forth between mountains because your wasting your time and energy “portaging” instead of Skiing.
I'm totally on the same page and also love how you refer to switching mountains as PORTAGING 😂😂😂😂. Always best to pick a side and stick to it for the day!
love ur content!
First time trip, we had 3 days. First day Whistler. Second day Blackcomb. Third day we all choose Blackcomb again. Loved Crystal, Glacier, and Seventh.
You did it!!! Great comparison with visual effects!
Great attention to detail in the comparison categories in the video and I can’t get enough of your positive energy. I ski Blackcomb more often for many reasons. I love the flow of the mountain and find there is less traversing between runs so that you get more runs in during a ski day. The top of the peak is an amazing view on a bluebird day. But I am remain a Blackcomb fan👍🏼👍🏼
Pre-Covid mountain food was great. For me - keeping my kids fed during the day meant a longer day on the mtn. There used to be Ramen, Cinnamon buns, Saurkraut and sausage, and of course the waffles at Crystal. Yes it was expensive - but to eat a waffle at the top of Crystal chair was worth it. When I’m by myself I definitely pack food and just do laps but with kids or casual skiing friend - food is important.
Right now during Covid most mountain food places are closed and the ones that are open have chilli, chicken strips and fries (essentially). So the food right now is terrible.
I very much miss the WAFFLES :(
I love both. I ski Blackcomb since I live in Alpine Meadows when there - its closer to Blackcomb. I'd rather do a P2P and come back than waste time in the car. That's just me. Great review.
This is one of your best videos, like the stand up cameo monolog, BLACKCOMB Alllll day, rarely ever go to Whistler.
Thanks for another awesome upload! Gonna grab my popcorn cause I know this video’s gonna be a banger as always! Keep up the good work!
The Stoker chair used to be called Chair three and was the biggest lift on the mountain when it 1st opened until the '87-88 season with the opening of the three high speed quads. Also: The 5280' stat came from the &th heaven T-Bar which was only open from '85-87 and terminated higher and to the east of the top terminal of the 7th Heaven chair.
this video is fire! so much good nuggets of info!
i haven’t been yet but i’m planning to make a trip out there next season and your videos are just so in depth and your quality is so good, keep it up man
Damn whent to W&B a month ago for the first time, really wish this guide existed before! Still had a great time, and I think I enjoyed Blackcomb better myself.
It's tough man ... My first pow day was at Whistler but there is something to be said about those steeper runs at Blackcomb, and 7th heaven in the morning sun is a real game changer
Good job on this James, I'm at 3 great days there so hardly experienced enough to provide comment but I enjoy listening to yours. I'll be back next season looking to shred some more. BTW food really does matter, our best lunch was at Dusty's down at Creekside base. Peace Out
Thanks Paul! Dusty's is one of my favourites post day spots!
As someone who has never been to the resort, definitely Whistler
Can’t do front side alpine laps on Blackcomb. You have to take so many lifts to get back up. Plus you have to hike every lap.
Every run on Blackcomb you can not see of the chairs so it’s a blind guess from the top.
But saying that. We have two great mountains 🤟
Um. All of 7th Heaven?
@@kenjiono4339 nothing steep there
There is no denying how EPIC Peak chair can be on the right days. On big POW days Whistler can be mind blowing but involves more patience/strategy to get it right. I'm to impatient to wait for chairs to open (which is the play on Whistler)
I always find myself playing on the Garbonzo and having to suffer a 45minute+ taxi ride back to the base of peak chair and missing the fresh laps.
We are so lucky to have so many unbelievable terrain options!!
@Mitchell G and three lifts later your back up 😂
@Mitchell G peak today was the Air Jordan show. Nothing like that on Blackcomb. Send it there. No one knows 🤟
I like to chase really good powder backcountry skiing and some dangerous high alpine skiing. I choose blackcomb because whenever there’s a big dump its a lot easier to predict when the alpine is gonna open and its easier to get fresh turns in my opinion. Flute bowl on whistler is great on a powder day when you get there early enough, but for me nothing anywhere else compares to spankys runs. I know both mountains really well, but i have to say blackcomb because its what ive done the most.
I totally agree! Whatever you're most familiar with is always the most fun!
Ha, you forgot one more category.... Terrain parks? That could be the tie breaker!! I'm more of a whistler person. I need to be super confident and wanting some hardcore action to hit backcomb hard.
Blackcomb is better admit it
Totally forgot terrain parks. There is really no comparison though. Black Park is king!
Agreed
yo yo! Love your channel dude! Been living in whis for a year and a half now, your videos have definitely helped me find some sick lines. I'm a ski tech at a shop in the village, if you ever need a wax, mount or a repair, shoot me a line and i'll hook it up for you. Rock on brother!!
Yoo - Happy to help brother!
I'll give you a shout for sure :)
Awesome video! Well done, you are a good skier all around, nice to see the carving section. I still race and my weapon of choice is still a well tuned GS ski. My POW skis are the backcountry ski of choice.I have been a local for 14 years now and I always answer when asked which mountain is favourite……love them both, each has its real gems in terms of terrain. So even Steven on your video vote……perfect!. Fastskis
Nothing like a well tuned GS ski to get the juices going!!!
Always happy to hear from a fellow carving enthusiast!
We are so lucky to have so much sick terrain at our doorstep :)
After living there for 5+ winters and skiing everyday, each mountain has it's own specialties, when you think you know the mountains there is always a new mystery ski line to be found.
Bottom Line: I like both mountains equally and I am a happy camper doing turns on either mountain.
Finding something new everyday is what I love about both mountains. It's impossible to ski every single acre!!
The reason why this is controversial is that there is no correct answer - it depends - like a lot of people, I grew up skiing Whistler and I like the variety of the terrain, on a busy weekend, Blackcomb often has the shorter lines, so that's where I'll go. Other days, depending on which way the wind was blowing during a snowfall, one mountain will get more snow than the other. Another factor is snow conditions, even though the mountains are right next to each other snow conditions can be different - because Blackcomb can get more sun it could be softer earlier in the day. Visibility can be variable depending on elevation and on the mountain, and there have been times when visibility was poor on one mountain and not an issue on the other mountain. This is some of the appeal of having two side-by-side mountains with one lift ticket, especially with the addition of the Peak-2-Peak Gondola - it gives us the flexibility to choose the best mountain for each part of the day. After skiing Whistler for 40+ years I am still finding new lines, and believe me, I know how lucky I am to live in this part of the world!
100% - It's clear you've been hanging around WB for a long time.
Maybe next year you could do a video on skiing at Mount Baker!
That place can get a ton of powder.
Plus it has some really fun skiing runs
I should totally try Baker - the snow up there is epic. Thanks for the recommendation Ted!
Both are awesome. But if I had to pick one to ski for the rest of my life, its whistler for me. But you knew that already because I think I post that on pretty much every video you post haha.
Blackcomb is just a little bland to me, a little soulless (probably in the way it was computer mapped). I only deliberately chose blackcomb when I was instructing an intermediate group - I'd take them to Blackcomb for the better blue groomers. That to me was its only advantage.
EDIT - though I would often pop across the peak to peak to get lunch at glacier creek before skiing out. that was also a big advantage haha
Love your vids 🤟
Thanks Chris!
Can anyone elaborate on what stays open in May at Blackcomb? Does most of the mountain usually stay open, despite Whistler closing in April? Thanks!
Hey Matt, It totally depends on the snow coverage to the base! This year I would guess everything above the Excelerator chair will stay open but you will have to download form mid station!
so the question is basically seventh or symphony, and i prefer seventh. Plus, blackcomb has the real park. Only reason I spent so much time on whistler last season was the reverse spring closure lol. Dont get me wrong, it was a nice fresh change. But I'm excited to be back on catskinner this spring.
Neither can't tell-I am usually totally lost when I'm there but always happy where I am.
hahahha this is my favourite comment!
7th heaven...... Cat Skinner... Those two alone make Blackcomb my goto almost every time. Harmony and Symphony but it is never open anymore until mid day, you get a few hours at best.
Whitlser or Blackcomb, I choose Whistler not because it better (they both are great), I just more familiar with Whistler runs than Blackcomb. You need at least a season for familiar with terrian in Whistler and I just explored the skinny parts of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.
This is an excellent guide book with hardcopy available in local bookshop at Whistler 《 Advanced/Expert Ski and Snowboard Guide to Whistler Blackcomb - By Brian Finestone & Kevin Hodder》 So much fun when follow this book for exploring the terrains in Whistler and Blackcomb.
I agree Brian! It takes years to figure out both mountains... I still have so much to learn!
Funny I spent more time on black comb when 1st started skiing Whistler blackcomb mountains but I loved blackcomb better for a long time but when the opened peak to peak I started going to Whistler more and exploring and realized I like both mountains it's great to switch it up but for sentimental reasons blackcomb is in my heart .one big reason is going to crystal hut to eat or sitting on the deck especially when the cook the hamburgers outside or the all day waffle yummy 😋
Both mountains are super killer - Can't beat a beer at the crystal hut deck.... the waffles always lure me in too
I think it's very interesting that you mentioned how competition improved both mountains. Because nowadays I feel like it is missing exactly those things. I worked there two seasons ago and I have to admit that the infrastructure is way behind compared to the big resorts in the alps where I'm from. Here, if a resort is outperformed by the competition, folks simply switch the valley as there are just so many places in close proximity. Tell any austrian skier that you have no snow protection on your lifts and they will be absolutely baffled.
can you briefly explain what snow protection? Not sure what that is unfortunately
@@buildingwithkev8665 In the alps many/most chair lifts have a round casing with some see through material like acrylic glass that is attached to the bar. This means that you are almost inside a bubble if you choose to lower the bar which is nice to do in heavy wind and snow. Kind of hard to explain but I think that is what he was referring to.
Majority of the time, Blackcomb for sure! But if the alpine is opening after a couple days of avy risk closure, you better believe I'm going to be waiting in line with everyone else at the peak chair!
Nice vid bud! Big ups. I have ridden cypress mainly my first 2 seasons and got to do my 3rd season this year. Had a 2 day trip to whistler blackcomb via the edge card. Stepped up to expert level riding this year, and I found Blackcomb to really capture my excitement when I started doing glacier express side. Hitting the bowls and chutes off spanky's ladder was a blast. Really enjoyed blackcomb on my second day up there and whistler was decent day one. If I had to choose off of a first impression basis, I'd say blackcomb was more my taste with the expert terrain and the overall big mountain feel of it. Can't wait to come back and really explore them both next season with a lot more days.
Happy to hear that you are starting to dabble with expert terrain! It opens so many doors and makes skiing and riding that much more fun.
Keep up the speedy progression!!
Blackcomb. Better selection of longer blue runs IMO, plus love 7th Heaven area. And, our time share is a two block walk from the upper village lift. Plus, Crystal and Glacier Express = killer.
Intrawest was a real estate developer that ran Blackcomb from '86 onwards. This is why it was considered The Dark Side I'm guessing; it was always more corporate.
Interesting!
All that matters is Blackcomb.
Blackcomb is also 100 Million years older (literally, the geology) than Whistler. Whistler's granddad is Blackcomb.
Another banger
1. Love you and your videos
2. Blackcomb on a pow day >
PREACH
What month u went? It looks so pretty. I’m trying to go late February early march
It looks pretty all months!
All depends on temps, visability, wind, sunshine and who you're skiing with - both excellent but somedays the difference is pretty big.
Backcountry wise - Blackcomb is the more serious of the two and requires more knowledge/caution.
Blackcomb wins hands down on facilities number, location and likeihood of being open.
I now ski with a backpack all the time so I can keep the energy up and the flow going. Nothing kills the buzz like going from Flute all the way back to Emerald to get a drink and bite to eat.
Totally! It's always a game time decision for me. Carrying your food is totally the play, especially on Whistler!
Worked at Blackcomb for a season, so of course I prefer it. Both are great, seriously Whistler has some amazing terrain, but Blackcomb flows better, and has better off piste runs. The whole 7th heaven and glacier areas are some of the best riding I’ve had anywhere.
Can't wait for you to touch that Natty Canadian Powder as well. You're going to get instant Mad Pow Disease!
8:46 what run is this?
looks like excitation
Yup Excitation!
Good video I hope to get their next season from the Ice coast
Hope to see you here!!
Whistler’s my favorite side because of all the high alpine options. I also like Blackcomb for the more advanced runs.
They are both so good! Now we have to wait until next year :(
I would say Blackcomb is better in my opinion because it has amazing areas like Chainsaw Ridge, Spankys Ladder, Crystal Ridge, and so many other amazing places to be.
This guy knows what he is talking about
@@gabuchan123 Me or him
@@thewintersportsguy both of you!
@@gabuchan123 thxx
Whistler is my favorite side. Familiarity, Peak on a good day, no snowboarding early on. Blackcomb is the better mountain. Consistent fall-lines, more accessible vert, open later.
First tracks down peak is truly hard to beat...
I literally went 25 years without setting foot on Whistler and only Skied Blackcomb all those years. It was great. I didn't have to birdwalk up hill once... Also the "top to bottom" on Blackcomb is insane compared to Whis... The Long Run Mountain Baby! Shredtastic Blackcomb
When I say no birdwalk I mean in the middle of a run or climbing up to a lift... Not talking about climbing up over the back into the bowls. Or into secret shutes etc.. Whistler makes you work uphill in too many spots just to keep going...
You are my hero
@@krisgrey5555 I don't know which runs you're referring to where you have to walk uphill on Whistler. Sure, if you're really slow, you might end up walking uphill, but just keep the speed up a little.
Blackcomb,the glacier,spankys,7th heaven my all time favourites I love Whistler but blackcomb and the spearhead just do it for me
BIG WHITE
100%
GO THERE IN BC CANADA
OPEN 25th OF NOVEMBER
Big White is an epic hill. I'll go for a ski mid-season for sure!
Thank you so much 😊
You might see me or my dad
Blackcomb for pow day because of faster patrol! Whistler for all the days after the first pow day! Whistler for every weekday! Blackcomb for all weekend and holiday warriors! Whistler for entry park rider! Blackcomb for expert park rider! Wax your snowboard before you go to Whistler because of the long flat green traverse! Shred without wax on Blackcomb!
Stats say Blackcomb patrol wins 90% of the time and thanks to the popularity of Whistler all the tourists go there instead. Enjoy Matthews traverse meanwhile we shred Blackcomb baby
i've grown up skiing whistler so i'm gonna have to say whistler. but when there's powder like last year in december blackomb was much better as there were way less people on the mountain and therefore so much more pow
Blackcomb for me and Whistler for my gf. Hope to see you on the slopes before the end of the season !
I hope you dont break up
@@gabuchan123 I obviously slept on the couch last night
Haha hilarious😊
😂😂😂 Always in the dog house after a powder dump!!
@@riseandalpine hahaha
Blackcomb all the way. It has the glacier. It has Spanky’s. It has the groomers off the crystal chair. It has the straight down the fall line runs underneath the gondola. Seventh Heaven. Blackcomb has better groomers and more fall line skiing. Whistler has bowls with crazy lift lines.
Was there 16 years ago for 2 seasons. Think I spend 90% if the time in blackcomb. So much longer runs and steeper with backcountry access in my memories..
Totally! Great backcountry access on the Blackcomb Side!
Thanks for watching Nicolas!!
@@riseandalpine great videos. So many good memories there!
First time tree skiing, which one would you recommend ?
With the addition of Peak 2 PEAK They are one massive wonderful Mountain !!
Very true!
ive skied both for about 8-9 years abd id say blackcomb because thats were i go the most
I learned to ski on Blackcomb and prefer it to Whistler - but really, I wouldn’t complain about skiing on Whistler ❤❤❤
Both are amazing!
I think khyber, Millionaire's ridge, and the trees below highway 86 (all slackcountry, maybe adds some points for backcountry too) give whistler an edge in the tree skiing category...
Good for you mate. Enjoy the long ass ride down the trails after kybers (until they build the cheakamus gondola) and please stay on Whistler
@@gabuchan123 ok, have a great day.
Thanks! The healthy debate will always be a fun and entertaining topic for everyone who has had the fortunate chance to ski/snowboard at Whistler Blackcomb❤️
For me it's Blackcomb, BUTto me it's really about what's good on a particular day. The weather is so variable either one can have better conditions on a given day.
100% - It always pays to know what the weather is doing, check the cams or explore both sides and figure out what's best
Blackcomb Avi conditions open before Whis. Sometimes days before after a big powder dump. Same with wind
Hmm...when the wind blows on 7th, it will usually blow you over to the Glacier side.
I’m from the uk, but every time I come over I tend to spend more time on blackcomb, but I love both tbh
It's hard not to love both :)
definitely telly between the four of them
Food: I miss these mountain restaurants of Austrian ski resorts: for 10 euro you can get a huge bowl of goulash soup, fresh bun, salad and drink. Whereas most north american ski resorts offer you mcdonalds style burgers for $25.
Goulash sounds delightful!
I guess before the p2p you really either grow up with one or the other as the primary. For me, the Blackcomb slope are a bit better, especially towards the bottom half, but overall, the view, the terrain and all the rest Whistler. In general Whistler wins out. If I am day skiing, I ususally would finish on Blackcomb.
Blackcomb, less busy, smaller lines, the couloir extreme, glacier, spankys ladder, 7th heaven, better fall lines than Whistler. Aren't we lucky to have both in our back yard.
It’s gotta be whiscomb? Start creekside early, a few whis laps then across to BC before a finish at the Peak and drop back to base.
That sounds like an ideal day!
EZ answer,,,,YES they are!
I too would say Whistler
I lived there from 1989 to 2006 .
If you like to get out there to fiend the secret spots Whistler is the spot but if you like the fall line then Blackcomb would be your choice.
Hahaha other than that I can't really remember 😂 but I do know that there were a lot of party's . I miss those days best days of my life
Amazing! You know what you're talking about! And there's still lots of parties!
@@riseandalpine ha you sparked my memories from the old gondala from creakside and then off from the bottom of the old red chair was a river bed or creak bed but it was full of deep snow up to our necks and it brought us down to the village I only ever did it once no need to cheat last luck 🤞 more then once well for that trail at least hahahaha 🤣
Whistler’s greatest asset is mismanaged: the Peak to Creek run. One of the world’s best runs, but it is almost never groomed.
Dude.... I 100% agree. I forget what a full top to bottom groomed P2C feels like
@@riseandalpine I've been to Whistler 8 times in the winter. The first two times P2C wasn't yet cut. So six times. About 30 days of skiing on those six trips. The trail was groomed and in good condition on just one of those roughly 30 days. That's a shame. It's truly one of the world's greatest long intermediate cruisers. It tops everything I've skied in the Alps and elsewhere in North America. It's an epic trail, and it's a gorgeous trail too. I guess it's just too expensive to groom the whole thing?
I had a better time on Blackcomb even though they are both amazing. Blackcomb has some easier runs for more mellow skiing. more my speed I think.
What’s difference between blackomb or wisthler
Dude that’s literally what’s the whole video is about
@@wikipedia_0601 LOL
they are the two names of the two physical mountains.
Windows Blackcomb turned into Windows 7 and Windows Whistler turned into Windows XP.
No difference. They exactly mirror each other. Also, watch the video.
Blackomb for sure, I live 20 mins away and I rarely go up Whistler because mid mountain and alpine is way funner on blackomb
Blackcomb wins in expert terrain
Blackcomb wins in gladed runs
Blackcomb wins in groomers
It's clear that Blackcomb is better, but I find myself only going there if I force myself. Blackcomb's runs don't feel as unique or authentic as Whistler, and Whistler is where I grew up skiing. Blackcomb has 7th heaven but my only memories of it are lining up for hours, whereas Whistler has Harmony which has endless hours of fun off the ridgeline and below and the line moves quickly
This guy knows what he is talking about. I feel if you paid me to ride Whistler I almost would say no thank you
@@gabuchan123 ruclips.net/video/ghmRWsWzdnI/видео.html
Good point, I had to go Whistler at least a bit to see that Blackcomb was indeed better. I would pay 100$ on my ski pass if they just shave an inch or 2 off the ground on Whistler cattracks because coming from Symphony and Harmony is what convinces me again, to just go to Blackcomb.
@@gabuchan123 Yea I know Blackcomb is better but I just like Whistler for some reason. Blackcomb has its fair share of cattracks too though (starring literally almost every green run on the mountain)
Also, the peak chair is something magical
Ahh trick question! It's both Whistler and Blackcomb 😎
Whistler, nothing touches Million and Khyber case closed.
Both sooo close, I choose Blackcomb for one reason only, it has my fave run...Saudan Couloir, there is no run like it, lap it all day
Saudan is the best eh!
Really hard to say, but I like the chutes better on Blackcomb.