Whistler’s 20/21 Ski Season: What You Need to Know

Things are different this year and that includes visiting our favourite destinations and doing our favourite activities, like skiing. First things first, Whistler is very much open in 2021. However, Vail Resorts, parent company to Whistler Blackcomb, made the decision to put a reservation system into place for skiers and riders this season. This is so they can manage the volume of people on the mountain on any given day. This is just one example of the many changes happening during the upcoming season. Below is a summary of everything you need to know about the 20/21 ski season at Whistler Blackcomb.

Reservations

This season, Pass Holders get priority access to reservations at Whistler Blackcomb starting from November 6, 2020 onwards plus exclusive Early Season access until December 8 when the reservation system will open to the general public. To be clear, you will need a reservation to ski or ride at Whistler Blackcomb for the 2020/21 ski season.

2020/21 Day Passes

Wondering how to ski at Whistler Blackcomb if you don’t have an Epic Pass? Lift tickets/day passes will be available but need to be purchased in advance and must be purchased online. Buying a lift pass will automatically give you a reservation for that day so there’s no need to obtain a separate reservation. 

Face Coverings

You will be required to wear a mask, bandana, buff or balaclava over your mouth and nose to access Whistler Blackcomb for the 2020/21 season. Face coverings are mandatory. This includes in any line, in chairlifts and gondolas, in all indoor spaces, and whenever you cannot maintain a physical distance of two meters (or six feet) from others.

Lift Access

When accessing the mountain, Whistler Blackcomb lifties will only be seating you with your bubble/cohort (people skiing and riding together). If you’re a single skier or rider, you will be seated on opposite sides of the lift or gondola from another single skier.

Lift Lines

Naturally given the changes for the 2020/21 ski season at Whistler Blackcomb, there’s bound to be longer lift lines, especially at peak periods. So be prepared for them or plan to upload, download or ski out during an off-peak time. Whistler Blackcomb will be using markers to space out skiers and riders waiting in lines so as long as people follow the rules and wear face coverings, safety shouldn’t be an issue.

Ski and Snowboard Lessons

As you know, I’m a big advocate of ski school at Whistler Blackcomb. All signs indicate that they will have lessons available however right now, only private lessons are available. FYI, those start from CAD $699 for a half day. 

Dining at Whistler Blackcomb

The folks at Vail Resorts have said that they plan to open the majority of on-mountain restaurants at Whistler Blackcomb this season but will be managing the number of people inside the restaurant at any given time to allow for physical distancing. 

Equipment Rentals

You will still be able to rent your ski and snowboard equipment from Whistler Blackcomb during the 20/21 ski season. However, there will be store capacities put into place so you should plan accordingly. Also expect to wear your face covering in the store, and see staff with face coverings and gloves. 

Do you have any other questions about the upcoming 2020/21 ski season at Whistler Blackcomb? Drop them in the comments below and I’ll answer them. In the meantime, get your legs ready with this 5 Exercises to Get You Ready for Ski Season.