Kokanee Crankworx 2009

WHISTLER, BC August 6, 2009 – Whistler is readying itself to welcome the world with Kokanee Crankworx, the world’s largest freeride mountain bike festival, kicking off in just two days. Now in its sixth year, the event has grown from a grassroots celebration of gravity-fueled mountain biking, to a festival spanning nine days; drawing over 300 of the world’s best mountain bike athletes, over 150 accredited media and tens of thousands of spectators.

“Kokanee Crankworx is another great opportunity for Whistler to test its ability to host a major event,” says Jeremy Roche, General Manager of Kokanee Crankworx. “Our pinnacle event, the Monster Energy Slopestyle, drew over 20,000 spectators to the base of Whistler Mountain last year and on Saturday, August 15 we are anticipating to host at least that many again.”

Kokanee Crankworx’s free events, coupled with incredible deals on accommodation and dining in Whistler, bode well for a successful festival, and are expected to drive attendance as visitors seek out high-value experiences this summer..

“This summer we are seeing strong numbers from our destination and regional visitors. This speaks to the momentum and strength of the mountain bike industry, and to the kinds of experiences Whistler Blackcomb offers in the summer, as well as some of the great deals that can be found,” says Roche. “Whistler is now on the ‘must-do’ list with experiences like the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola; and events like Kokanee Crankworx where sport merges with art and music to create an incredible festival experience.”

Kokanee Crankworx will feature free, world-class mountain bike competitions; the Deraylor Music Festival featuring artists like K-OS; and the inaugural Saint Deep Summer Photo Challenge slideshow event at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. The Crankworx calendar features mountain bike events nearly every day, a Bike Expo and Demo Zone snaking through the village, and athletic spectacles around every bend including the mind-blowing technique of trials gurus Ryan Leech and the Baia Brothers. For those who can’t be in Whistler, organizers are anticipating a worldwide, online audience of over 150,000 through live feeds of the following events in the Pacific Time Zone: Air Downhill, August 13, 5:30-7:30pm; the VW Trick Showdown, August 14, 6-9pm; and the iconic Monster Energy Slopestyle, August 15, 5:30-7:30pm on Go211.com and www.crankworx.com.

While Whistler Blackcomb has been affected by two wildfires on Blackcomb Mountain in the last week, they have been quickly managed thanks to the Ministry of Forests and Range, the Whistler Fire Department and Whistler Blackcomb staff. At this point there is no concern that wildfires could impact Kokanee Crankworx as these occurrences have been in isolated areas high on Blackcomb Mountain. Extreme caution is being exercised with on-mountain operations, and sightseeing and hiking continues on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.

Blackcomb Fire Update

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.

For full details on Whistler Blackcomb operations, please visit us online at www.whistlerblackcomb.com/whatsopen (linked from the homepage) or call 1-800-766-0449.

Long-Term Whistler Rental

We have a long-term lease available for a one-bedroom unit in Whistler starting November 1 2009. It is located in the Marquise building with ski-in/ski-out close by.

If you are interested, please contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays.

Rocky Mountain Holidays

We are pleased to introduce our updated RockyMountainHolidays.com website. We have made the site simpler to navigate through to help you plan your Rocky Mountain Holiday with us.

This website provides detailed information on the following Canadian locations:

• Banff Information


• Canmore Information


• Lake Louise Information


• Jasper Information


• Kicking Horse Information


• Fernie Information


• Kimberley Information


• Whistler Information


• Vancouver Information


• Calgary Information

In addition, we also provide summarised details on the services we offer:

• Ski Holidays Canada - Our discounted packages include: ski accommodation, lift passes, lessons, transfers, ski rentals and tours.


• Summer Holidays Canada - Let us plan your Rocky Mountain Holiday itinerary for you. We are a one-stop shop and will save you time and money.


• Train Holidays Canada - Travel across Canada on one of our train holidays with VIA rail.


• Rocky Mountaineer Holidays - This day-time only train will maximise your viewing experience.


• Motorcoach Holidays Canada - Relax and let someone else do the driving. Enjoy the views out of the big picture windows.


• Private SUV Holidays - Let our certified guide take you on a private tour.


• Self-Drive Holidays Canada - We do all the planning, you do the driving. Experience the freedom of driving yourself!


• Tours Canada - There are many day tours to add to your Rocky Mountain Holiday package, check out the selection!


• Cruise Holidays Alaska - A cruise of just 7-days out of Vancouver allows you to cruise up to Alaska through the inside passage.

We hope you enjoy our new website and please do not hesitate to contact us through Rocky Mountain Holidays to help plan your holiday in Canada, anytime of the year!

Any feedback on our site you may have can be posted here. Thanks for reading!

Airport Transfers to Banff and Whistler

Airport transfers are our recommended mode of transport especially in the winter season when the roads can be dangerous.

The prices for our scheduled services are very competitive and ski resorts are set up to cater for guests without cars. In fact, Banff was recently rated in the Top 10 'No Car Needed' Resorts by OnTheSnow.com. For those of you who have visited other Canada ski resorts, you will know that you can get by without a car. Whistler Blackcomb has a free village shuttle which operates in the early morning through to the early hours!

If the above doesn't convince you to catch our transfer services, direct from Calgary International Airport YYC and Vancouver International Airport YVR, then consider the following:

• It's safer. Most of you will have travelled on a flight for many hours to get here.
  
• It's faster. Let an experienced driver who knows the roads get you to your hotel. No need for directions and maps!
  
• It's cleaner. By taking the airport transfer with other guests, there is less pollution which means better for the environment!
  
• It's cheaper. No parking, gas (petrol) or insurance to pay for. Note that stone chips to a rental car are not always covered.
  
• It's more enjoyable. You spent the money to get here, enjoy the scenery out of the windows while the driver concentrates on the road.
  
• It's direct. Most airport shuttles are direct or have minimal stops. The ski shuttles get you to the ski hill sooner as they drop you off right at the base.
  
• It's easy. Jet lagged? No problem, our friendly drivers know where to take you!
  
• It's peace of mind. One less thing to worry about on your Canada ski holiday.
  

We also organise private transfers and charter services. For more information on our winter services, view the Calgary to Banff Transfer Schedule and the Vancouver to Whistler Transfer Schedule.

Contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays to book!

Whistler Blackcomb OPEN 2008

WHISTLER MOUNTAIN TO OPEN WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26
Blackcomb Mountain Will Follow Thursday, November 27

WHISTLER, BC, November 24, 2008 – Whistler Blackcomb officials have announced that Whistler Mountain will open early on Wednesday, November 26. Whistler Mountain will open for daily operations with access to Emerald Express, Big Red Express and Franz’s Chair via the Whistler Village Gondola. On Thursday, the Creekside Gondola will open for the American Thanksgiving weekend, providing access to Whistler Mountain from the Creekside Base through to Sunday, November 23.

Blackcomb Mountain will join Whistler Mountain on the official opening day Thursday, November 27, with access to Solar Coaster Express, Jersey Cream Express and Catskinner Express. The Wizard Chair, Excalibur Gondola and Excelerator Chair will operate through the weekend for uploading.

“We’ve been blasting every snow gun on the two mountains to add to what Mother Nature has deposited in the past few weeks,” says Jodie McCutcheon, Whistler Blackcomb snowmaking manager. “Grooming staff have been working to manicure the snow to make for some great corduroy skiing and riding on opening weekend.”

Guest Relations in Whistler Village is currently open from 10am to 6pm. On Wednesday the village ticket windows and Village Guest Relations will be open from 8am to 7pm to assist guests. On Thursday, November 27, Creekside Guest Relations and Blackcomb Daylodge Guest Relations will open from 8am. Lift ticket pricing will be $55 on opening day.

“The 2008/2009 season is finally upon is, and we’re gearing up for Whistler Blackcomb’s most exciting season yet,” says Stuart Rempel, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Whistler Blackcomb. “With the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola grand opening set for December 12, and the one year countdown to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games taking place in February, we’re thrilled to kick this season off and start skiing!”

Guests should be aware that early season conditions apply and caution should be exercised. Terrain is recommended for intermediate and advanced skiers and riders and guests should stay within the ski area boundary, ski and ride with care and obey all mountain signage.

Whistler Blackcomb Snowphone will be updated five times daily. Reach the Snowphone by calling 604.932.4211 in Whistler, 604.687.7507 in Vancouver or toll-free at 1.800.766.0449.

Whistler Local Artist

When visiting Whistler on business, I came across a fantastic local artist: Ruth Johnson. Her artwork was displayed in the Blenz Coffee shop in Whistler (July and August 2008).

The artwork is different in that Ruth Johnson creates most of it by ironing molten wax onto a canvas, which creates textures in the colours resulting in a rewarding piece of art.

If you are thinking of some Christmas ideas, then artwork from this local artist might just be what you are looking for. Visit Ruth Johnson's website to view her artwork and check out the other services she offers such as graphic design and more!

WINTER STORM CYCLES LEAVE WHITE GOLD AT WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

Consistent snowfall spoils skiers and riders

Over the past seven days Whistler Blackcomb has received 51cm/20 inches of new snow. The five day forecast is calling for a possible 85+cm by Sunday as a strong frontal system hits the coast. The long-range forecast is calling a series of disturbances to pass over the area bringing even more snow to the Coastal Mountains by the end of the week. The snow base is currently sitting at 289cm at mid mountain on Whistler and there is more snow on the way.

“The freezing level has stayed consistently low and with all this snow it means great conditions all the way to the village,” says Ryan Proctor Whistler Blackcomb Public Relations Coordinator. “I’m not sure when the last time that I had to look for powder was, it feels like we’ve been getting fresh snow almost everyday.”

Incredible snow conditions and great events mean February is shaping up to be one for the books. February 12 is the two year countdown mark for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Also, make sure to check out the Canadian National Snow Sculpting Team showcasing their work on Whistler Mountain, February 27-29.

Remember to book your ski holiday with rocky-peak Holidays - your year-round specialists in Western Canada!

Dog Sled Tours

We have been turning this blog into a Dog Sled Tour blog with our recent posts so sorry if you are not a dog fan! We are just excited about new dog sled tours and want to let you know about them!

We are pleased to announce that Dog Sled Tours are now available in the following ski resorts:

Banff Dog Sled Tours

Lake Louise Dog Sled Tours

Jasper Dog Sled Tours

Panorama Dog Sled Tours

Whistler Dog Sled Tours

Canmore Dog Sled Tours


If you do not want to pay booking fees, and want a one stop dog sled stop for your Ski Holiday package, then contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays.

Whistler Dog Sled Tours - Dog Sledding

Mush! Dogsledding is one of Canada’s oldest official sports. For thousands of years, the dog has been an integral part of First Nations life.

Learn about this ancient mode of transportation as you blaze through the meandering forest of towering Western Hemlocks and Cedars. Witness stunning views of the Whistler Valley, Olympic sites, Black Tusk and beyond as the enchanted forest trails open up to reveal a spectacular world of winter beauty.

Your adventure isn’t over until you’ve warmed your hands and shared your tales of adventure over a hot drink and a snack in our staging area!

Rates for a round-trip (including transportation) 2-2.5 hour tour are CDN$167 for an adult (2 adults per sled) and half price for children when sharing with 2 adults.

To book this tour in Whistler, contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays of visit their Whistler Dog Sled Tours web page for more information.

NHL Ice Hockey Tours from Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise, Whistler & Squamish

The Calgary Flames beat the Minnesota Wild last night in a great NHL Ice Hockey Game. Tours to this Ice Hockey Game were available from Lake Louise, Banff and Canmore.

Ticket prices including transport from Banff and Canmore are $125 for Green seating, $110 for Black seating, and you can pay just $10 more for an enhanced ice hockey tour package! These rates apply to all our NHL Hockey games over the 2007/2008 winter season. For transport from Lake Louise, please inquire as there is a surcharge for pick-up.

What is an "enhanced" ice hockey tour?

The enhanced ice hockey tours include a fanatical hockey guide, a chance to win a prize by guessing the score and a souvenir puck!

Game Times and Tours Pick Up Times

Game times are typically at 7pm but can also be at 5pm, 6pm, 7pm, and 7:30pm. The full schedule including game times for the Calgary Flames in the Saddledome can be viewed at our Banff Ice Hockey Tours page. Pick-up times for the ice hockey tours are usually about 2 hours before the game time, so the regular pick-up time in Banff for a 7pm game time would be about 5pm and for Canmore, 5:15pm.

The Vancouver Canucks are taking on the Edmonton Oilers tonight which is set to be a high-paced game. Ice Hockey tickets to this game including transportation from Whistler or Squamish are still available. You can get to Vancouver Canucks games in Vancouver from Whistler and Squamish. See the Vancouver Canucks Hockey Tour schedule and pricing on the Whistler Ice Hockey Tours page.

To book Banff Ice Hockey Tours or Whistler Ice Hockey Tours, just contact rocky-peak Holidays to reserve.

Whistler Ice Hockey Tours

This season we are now offering Ice Hockey Tours so see the Vancouver Canucks play at GM Place in Vancouver.



The Ice Hockey Tours leave from Whistler and Squamish throughout the season and there is limited availability. Book early to avoid disappointment!

To book or enquire about Whistler Ice Hockey Tours or Banff Ice Hockey Tours, please visit rocky-peak Holidays and click on the Ice Hockey Tours link at the bottom of their page.