WHISTLER, BC
Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain operations continued yesterday, offering sightseeing, hiking and mountain biking via seven chairlifts, including the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Fire crews remained on site on Blackcomb yesterday and remain vigilant given the high temperatures and potential for changing weather patterns.
Further details regarding the status of two Blackcomb fires will be distributed by the Resort Municipality of Whistler, in conjunction with the Ministry of Forests & Range following morning briefings.
Blackcomb Mountain operations include access for uploading and downloading via the Wizard Express and Solar Coaster chairs from the Blackcomb base, sightseeing around the Blackcomb PEAK 2 PEAK terminal and Rendezvous, as well as the Alpine Walk hiking trail located on the southwest side of the mountain. Rendezvous and Christine’s restaurants will also be operational. Access to the Overlord trail and all other Blackcomb trails are restricted. As well, the Crystal Ridge and Ruby Bowl fires are still active and entry into these areas is strictly prohibited.
Whistler Mountain is open, including the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, for sightseeing, hiking and mountain biking, with some restrictions to the high alpine hiking trails such as the High Note and Singing Pass trails. Access is via the Whistler Village Gondola or the Fitzsimmons Express.
“The safety of our guests and employees is our highest priority and so we are working within the Ministry of Forests & Range’s parameters to open up operations only once they are deemed safe,” says Doug Forseth, senior vice president of operations at Whistler Blackcomb. “We do expect Blackcomb to remain open, pending any major setbacks. Our operational plan is being reviewed each morning once we’ve had chance to understand how things have progressed overnight. In addition, we are monitoring any lightening activity and will pro-actively adjust operations as needed.”
Guests are reminded that due to the extreme fire hazard, the province of BC has issued a Voluntary Backcountry Restriction and requests all residents and visitors to BC to adhere to the advisory and exercise extreme caution on both mountains. Please obey all posted signs and trail closures and report any sign of smoke or fire by calling 604-938-FIRE.
