Saturday, April 18, 2009

Peak 2 Peak in Whistler


Today turned out to be a beautiful day for the Peak 2 Peak Gondola ride in Whistler. We left our park around noon; and headed on up. There was very little traffic; and no road construction going on today. On our way up on Thursday, the crews were out working in full, preparing for the upcoming Olympics.

We took the first part of the gondola ride up; and were in our own car. The views all around were breathtaking, and both the upper and lower villages of Whistler were right below us as we climbed up. The first ride up was roughly 25 minutes and no matter what direction you looked; there were snow covered mountains, skiers/boarders and breathtaking beauty.

Once at the top, you have a chance to walk around for a bit; watch the skiers/snowboarders; have a bite to eat; shop for souvenirs; or just enjoy the views around. Then you continue on in the Peak 2 Peak gondola; which takes you from Whistler Mountain over to Blackcomb. This ride is roughly 11 minutes; the cars are much bigger - holding roughly 12 people; and again breathtaking views no matter where you look.

When we reached the end; we again got out and walked around for a bit. Even with sun glasses on, the glare from the snow was hard on my eyes. We walked into a few of the buildings; watched some more skiing/boarding action for a while; and then took the cable ride back over to Whistler. Took a few more pictures; and finally took the cable car back to the bottom.

The Peak 2 Peak Gondola is the longest and highest continuous lift system in the world. The highest part is 1472 feet above Fitzsimmons Creek.

Mike couldn't believe that he was actually spending the day at Whistler and wasn't going to be skiing! He did a lot of skiing in his past; but it's been a long time and with no equipment, etc.; he was content to just be up there.

The sun was shining the whole time; and there was no wind. Just an absolute perfect day to spend at the top of Whistler.

There was a big music festival happening on The Stroll, so we stopped and got a burger and poutine and listed to the music while watching thousands of people walking to and from the slopes.

Take a look at our pictures

3 comments:

Al Bossence said...

Hey, looks like you guys are really getting up in the world:))

Anonymous said...

Brings back wonderful memories of when Meme and Pepe joined Ken, me and toddler Calen....can still recall the majestic(ness) of it all....thanks for bringing it back to us.

Missed you guys at the grand spring bonfire...you had partaken in so many of these celebrations (Arnie's big 60th, Calen's 18th and Arash's 40-something)that it felt like you were here in spirit....or so we all said as we toasted the travellers safe journey home....gorgeous nite - perfect merriment and indulgences.

See you at the pepper tournament...no pressures there to arrive on time eh?

Load up a special rock from Whistler for our gardens.

happy sightseeing!

Acorn gang

Anonymous said...

Hello you two. Mike, you should rent some ski equipement and if Maureen hasn't skiied before stick her in a class and have a great day. I couldn't be that close and not hit the slopes. I am so jealous. I hope your both great.
Marie was here for the month of March and John and Lynette are here for two weeks. You'd get your fill of cards if you were hear.
Pati