In Whistler, this time of year, all of a sudden I feel the need for speed and the groomed cruiser runs on Whistler and Blackcomb have never looked more appealing. Confidence may also play a role — at this stage in the season everyone has their “ski legs” and technique dialed— but regardless, March and April are perfect for opening it up and feeling the wind in your face so tighten up those bindings, grab a trail map, and let’s go out for a rip.

The Insider’s Top 5 Cruiser Runs

1.   Cloud Nine — Blackcomb, 7th Heaven

Starting way above the tree line and following the skier’s-right side of 7th Heaven Cloud Nine is local Olympian Julia Murray’s favourite speed run. “I just love the epicness of it,” Julia says. “It’s a long, windy roller coaster that feels like you really are skiing in heaven.”

But don’t feel like you have to crank the entire run off in one lap, Cloud 9 also has incredible views of Blackcomb Peak and Whistler Mountain. Does it still count as a speed lap if you stop for a picnic in the middle?

2.   Dave Murray Downhill — Whistler Mountain, Garbanzo/Creekside

Named after legendary “Crazy Canuck” ski racer Dave Murray (who is Julia’s dad so you should listen to her when she talks about speed, it’s in her blood.) This epic run has hosted numerous World Cup races as well as the downhill events of the 2010 Winter Games and is considered one of the best downhill courses in the world. This time of year, the lower half of the run is not in prime shape but a quick lap down the beauty fall-line rollers of “Upper Dave” will always let you know you’re alive.

“Hike up from the top of Garbanzo chair and start in the proper starting hut at the true top of the run,” advises local photographer and speed demon Mark Gribbon. “It just feels a lot cooler to bust out from the official start point and see how fast you pick up speed.”

Speed Skiing on Whistler Blackcomb
LEFT: Really fast. JORGE ALVAREZ PHOTO. RIGHT: Not as fast. Burnt Stew Basin Trail is visible in the background.

3.  Rock n Roll — Blackcomb, Crystal Ridge Zone

Everyone knows Ridge Runner is a long rolling classic but that whole Crystal Ridge area seems to be a favourite for local snowboarders looking for speed and fun. “Rock n’ Roll,” enthuses Billabong team rider Helen Schettini. “There are a million side hits and high-speed berms throughout. Even when the snow is hard that just means more speed. It’s the best run.”

“Backstage Pass comes off the new road from Crystal Ridge over to the Glacier Creek restaurant,” says Taylor Godber, also riding for Billabong. “It’s like a natural terrain park, good fall line and just hit after hit.”

4. Burnt Stew Trail — Whistler Mountain, Harmony/Symphony

One of the Whistler cruiser runs with a much mellower feel, Burnt Stew is a perfect long scenic run for anyone not quite ready for “Speed Demon” status. Mellow terrain in a huge alpine bowl makes this one the most photogenic on the list but keep that speed up for the meandering traverse at the end. You might have to pull little kids with your poles but it’s always worth it to check out Whistler Mountain’s backside.

Cruiser ski runs on Whistler Mountain
Wide open runs are the best for speed – visibility rules.

5.  Ross’ Gold (aka Gandy Dancer) — Blackcomb Mountain, Solar Coaster Zone

After local rider Ross Rebagliati won the first-ever Olympic gold medal for snowboarding, the powers that be let him choose one run to put his name on. As a guy who understands speed, Ross selected one of the perfect fall-line rippers off Solar Coaster. With beautiful rollers throughout, Ross’ Gold was named Gandy Dancer before his victory and local ski clubs have long used it for training. You can’t argue with both past and future champions can you?

6. (Bonus!) The Saddle — Whistler Mountain, Harmony/Peak Zone

High alpine cruising at its best! The Saddle is generally the only groomed run in Whistler’s Glacier Bowl and it’s a straight shot back to Peak Chair. Be careful though, The Saddle can get busy and you always have to be on the lookout for debris and ice balls that may have rolled down from avalanche control on Whistler Peak. But when it’s perfect, it’s really perfect. “You can’t call it a season if you haven’t straightlined The Saddle,” Mark Gribbon explains. And I totally agree.

Editor’s Note: Whistler cruiser runs are fun but remember speed and risk go hand in hand. Always obey the Alpine Responsibility Code, stay in control and never speed through the designated “Slow Zones” or high traffic areas (you will lose your lift pass if you do). Just have fun and go fast but be safe, always.

Fresh Groomers on Whistler Mountain
Come and get it. Fresh groomed perfection. JORGE ALVAREZ PHOTO
Author

Feet Banks moved to Whistler at age 12 so his parents could live the dream and ski as much as possible. He ended up living it too. After leaving home Feet did a few good stints in warmer climates and 4 years of writing school before returning to the mountains to make ski movies, hammer out a journalism career and avoid the 9-5 lifestyle as long as possible. He’s been a hay farmer, a hole digger, a magazine editor and has a jump named after him on Blackcomb Mountain, Feet’s Air. It’s tiny.