The Whistler-Blackcomb resort has dozens of hiking trails that crisscross the ski slope areas of both mountains. Depending on your interest, exercise tolerance and fitness, you can select from walking trails to hiking to climbing trails. I selected the Blackcomb Ascent Trail, divided into three parts, rated as "difficult" and specifically does not allow pets (no dogs).
(Little Burn section of the trail)
Overall, there is a 6.2 km (3.8 miles), 1,200 meter (3,900 feet) elevation change for a hike that takes about 3-5 hours depending on your own pacing. Little burn is at the base, traversing only 0.5 miles and 243 feet elevation that takes you out of the Blackcomb base to Base #2. The next part is Big Burn, with 1.2 miles and 1,472 feet elevation changes that ends about the level of the Blackcomb Gondola midstation. Finally, Heart burn is a 2.1 mile and 2,185 feet elevation change that takes you up to the Rendezvous Lodge at the top of the mountain.
(Vista from Mid Burn)
(Trail markers)
(Scenes along the trail)
It was a most beautiful setting, climbing through very well-maintained trails that traverse through three different forest strata as you climb, periodically having you traverse a ski slope in a zig-zag pattern that affords some amazingly beautiful vistas of the entire valley, various lakes, and of course the mountain range that surrounds you in all directions.
(Ski section of the trail)
The trail is step in some areas, where wooded stairs have been constructed to allow easier access and prevent slipping. There are interesting fact signs along the way, with several markers placed on the trees so you don't lose your way. Benches are places periodically at vista points for you to enjoy the surroundings. Small streams run by the trail and you cross over them, part of the melting snow runoff.
(Snow on the trail)
(Top of the trail)
The types of trees change as you climb, with coastal temperate rainforest, with trees estimated to up to more than a thousand years old. As you advance in elevation the tree branches get shorter with less foliage so that the snow falls off and keeps them from breaking from the weight. Animals and wildlife abound, and bears were certainly seen in abundance. They didn't bother us though and seemed interested in eating. There were "LOTS" of mosquitos, specifically noted when pausing to take pictures or let more aggressive climbers pass.
(Peak to Peak Gondola)
Once you get to the Rendezvous Lodge, you can take the "Peak to Peak" gondola, the largest free-standing gondola in the world. The views are spectacular. And then, upon reaching the opposite side, you can walk down to the Peak Express Lift, and see the vistas from Top of the World Summit -- walking the Cloudraker loop (a skybridge, gravel trail and swinging bridge). What an amazing experience, all for C$15. The best money I have spent in a long time.
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