If you are currently planning a winter vacation, word around town is that Whistler is the best—and no, it’s not just the locals who think that.
Whistler Blackcomb (WB) is the best ski resort in North America, according to Condé Nast Traveler's annual reader choice awards.
WB scored the highest in the luxury and lifestyle travel magazine's reader rankings, scoring 88.37/100, beating out well-known ski resorts like Snowmass and Aspen Mountain, Colo.
“I’m proud Whistler was recognized as the best ski resort in the world by readers of Condé Nast Traveler," Whistler Mayor Jack Crompton said in an emailed statement.
"Congratulations to all the Whistlerites who have worked so hard, especially through the challenges of the last two years, to provide an outstanding guest experience throughout Whistler, both on the mountains and in the Village. Whistler workers have truly gone above and beyond; this award recognizes that."
The only other Canadian ski resort to make the list was Big White Ski Resort, located near Kelowna, which came in fourth place in North America with a score of 87.42/100.
On an international scale, WB's score of 88.37 would put it third worldwide, behind only St. Moritz (90.30) and Zermatt (90.5), both in Switzerland.
In addition to Whistler being named the best ski resort in North America, local hotels also did fantastic in the rankings, winning four of the 10 national resort ranking spots.
Nita Lake Lodge was named the best resort in Canada with a score of 98.37, followed by Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler, which came in second with a score of 98.15. The Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre came in fourth (93.85), and Fairmont Chateau Whistler came seventh, scoring 92.31.
The awards rank places such as the best hotels in Canada, the best island or the world's best city on a scale out of 100. The nominees' scores come from various criteria, including service, food and atmosphere.
"It’s an honour to be ranked at the top of Conde Nast Traveler’s reader choice awards for the best ski resorts in North America," Tourism Whistler communications manager Mandy Rousseau said in an emailed statement.
"In addition to Whistler’s spectacular natural scenery, majestic ski mountains, and charming village of shops and restaurants, what makes Whistler stand out is how all sectors of our resort community work together to share our unique mountain culture with residents and visitors alike. Inclusion in this award reflects this collaboration, and makes us feel proud."
Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in Canada and North America, with 8,171 skiable acres, over 200 runs and 35 lifts that can carry close to 69,939 skiers per hour.
You can find the full rankings here.
