One of the easiest rides I've ever made to a major ski resort was driving from Vancouver International Airport to Whistler Blackcomb Resort, located in Whistler, BC. I don't think I made more than 5 or 6 turns from the airport to the Sea to Sky Highway in West Vancouver. In fact, if it weren't for a slight detour in downtown due to the Santa Claus parade it would have been even fewer - but who argues with Santa.

Sea to Sky Highway
The almost complete rebuilding of the Sea to Sky Highway is a $600 million project and makes for a very scenic ride with numerous pull-offs to take in the views. But as the gateway to Whistler Blackcomb Resort - the center of the 2010 Winter Olympics Alpine and Nordic skiing events - you can't beat the straight forward access.

The logistical plans for moving spectators to the Olympic events around Whistler have been developed over several years and I'm sure are computer tested to near perfection. However, if you just want to ski Whistler Blackcomb as I recently had the opportunity to do the Olympic preparations all work in your favor.

The snows of November 2009 set a record and the early December skiing was great and will only prove to get better. If you want to see and ski the Olympic runs they will be open to the public with a few restrictions as authorities work the safety netting and viewing areas.

Skiing Whistler Blackcomb
If you have a chance to get up, or over, to Whistler Blackcomb now, be assured the skiing is great and the people are excited to have you.

There is an undercurrent of expectation and excitement that you will sense with the mountain staff, the store employees, and all the restaurant and lodging personnel. Believe me you can't help but catch a little of it yourself.
More of the terrain is open this early in the season than in the last few years and in an Olympic year that goes a long way to making everybody happy. If, in fact, you are heading to Whistler Blackcomb during the Olympics don't forget your skis because over 99% of the terrain will still be open to the public.

Probably the best kept secret is all the skiing and lodging packages still available in Whistler before the Alpine Olympic events, during the events - over 90% of terrain will be open to public skiing - and those you can book now for after the games. Don't miss out on a chance to ski this world class resort.

Check out my photo gallery on the drive from vancouver to Whistler.