Whistler Blackcomb on a Budget

Whistler Blackcomb is one of the top resorts in the world and the prices show it. Many go there for some of the best helicopter skiing offered to the public or to ski the glacier in the middle of July or just to get a sweet taste of its combined 8,171 acres of in-bound skiing. The gondola that connects Whistler to Blackcomb has the longest free span between ropeway towers in the world. The glass bottom gondola will let you take a look straight down from about 1,300 feet in the sky. It’s an incredible resort, but just because it’s a high-class resort doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it on a budget.

For a place to stay, book a room at the Hostelling International Hostel at Cheakamus Crossing. It’s about $39/night if you’re okay with some roommates. It was used once to house the athletes for the 2010 Winter Olympics and their morning coffees are amazing. It’s a quick bus ride right to the base of the mountain.

For lift tickets, unless you know someone who knows someone important, expect to pay around $100 for a full-day ticket. If you’re flying into Vancouver, on your drive to Whistler from the airport, stop by the Squamish 7-Eleven and pick up discounted tickets that’ll shave off around $17 per day. To get even cheaper tickets, settle for a half-day and pay around $40 after 12 p.m.

For some cheap places to dine, drop in any of the pubs in Whistler Village and seek out happy hours. We had affordable eats and drinks at Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub and Amsterdam.