1. Overview of Fresh Tracks in Whistler
2. What’s Included in Fresh Tracks
3. Tips for an Unforgettable Morning
4. Enjoying the Snow-Capped Mountains
As we picked up our gear at Whistler Blackcomb for our week of snowboarding, everyone in the shop asked us if we would be doing Fresh Tracks. After figuring out exactly what Fresh Tracks was, we made up our mind to give them a try at least once during the next 5 days of boarding. (we ended up doing fresh tracks in Whistler twice) We bought our ticket in advance and two days later we were lining up for our first run on fresh tracks.
Fresh Tracks Whistler
Fresh Tracks costs $20 and must be bought at least a day in advance. You can use it any day you want for up to a year. This does not include your lift ticket which is required to get up the gondola in the morning.
What is First Tracks?
First Tracks, also known as Fresh Tracks, offers the dreamlike experience of being the first group on the mountain before the ski hills officially open. Only those who purchase Fresh Tracks tickets can ascend the hill before everyone else, allowing the opportunity to glide down a run with nobody else in sight. We were eager to experience that!
On the second day of our snowboarding adventure in Whistler, we determined that this was the perfect day to rise early and try Fresh Tracks.
Tip for Fresh Tracks in Whistler
To maximize your experience, do not leave your boards with the ski valet at your hotel. Ensure you have access to them early. We opted to check them with the bellhop the night before instead of leaving them with the ski valet at the Westin, where no ski or snowboarding gear is allowed in your room. The ski valet doesn’t open until 7:00 am, and we were advised to be in line for First Tracks by 6:45 at the latest.
The website suggests arriving between 7:15 and 8:00 am, but the staff at the Whistler/Blackcomb gear shop warned us that it fills up quickly. They were right! Getting in line early proved advantageous. We arrived just before 7:00 am, and there was already a sizable crowd forming.
Only 650 People Allowed on First Tracks
During peak season, arriving late can result in missing Fresh Tracks, as only the first 650 individuals are permitted up. Fortunately, on our visit, the queue was manageable. With fresh coffee in hand, we joined the early morning assembly, mingling with fellow early risers while we awaited the gondola’s opening.
Arriving at the Top of Whistler Mountain
The morning sun illuminating the Rocky Mountains was breathtaking! Upon arriving at the top of the gondola, we were greeted by a stunning sunrise over the snow-coated peaks. Although the air was crisp and cool, the sky was an impeccable shade of blue. We captured numerous photos before heading into the chalet for a hearty buffet breakfast.
Breakfast on the Mountain
The Whistler Blackcomb team assured us that the incredible breakfast alone made Fresh Tracks worthwhile, and they were absolutely correct! Only those with a Fresh Tracks ticket were allowed to ascend the gondola; first, nourishment and caffeine were required to kickstart the day.
Our plates overflowed with a variety of delectable options. Although we didn’t require such a large meal, the delicious spread of waffles, pancakes, bacon, eggs, yogurt, bagels, fresh fruit, and oatmeal was impossible to resist. We found ourselves thoroughly satisfied once the horn sounded, signaling the slopes’ opening.
Eat Fast to Be First!
Our punctual arrival allowed us to finish breakfast and gear up while other Fresh Tracks enthusiasts were still ascending in the gondola. We carved through the pristine slopes with barely anyone in sight.
Although we had only gained an extra half hour before the gondola opened to the general public, being up there for Fresh Tracks allows several runs free from the crowds.
It’s More Than Just One Hill Free from Crowds
With an early start, we navigated through empty hills for an extended period. As we snowboards down one hill, we encountered chair lift after chair lift, all vacant, until we arrived at Harmony Bowl just as it was opening.
We maintained our early-bird advantage for most of the morning! Reaching Harmony Bowl at the perfect moment allowed us to enjoy the bright, sunny weather.
Empty Trails in Whistler
The morning was fantastic as we explored new routes that felt like our own private trails. With limited experience snowboarding in Whistler, we made several wrong turns, each leading to another breathtaking viewpoint. Instead of adhering strictly to our trail maps and plans, we simply followed the wind.
About Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler Blackcomb boasts 200 trails, giving you limitless options to explore.
We zoomed down steep slopes, encountered flat areas, and made some unintentional choices that led us into a bump-filled field until we eventually found our way to leisurely scenic runs. Occasionally, we paused to admire the horizon or watch other skiers dash by.
We had an exhilarating morning, and by lunchtime, we had completely lost track of how many runs we had completed. Although we could have called it a day and been completely content with our morning on the mountain, our passion for riding kept us on the slopes until our legs were numb and our smiles were frozen.
I frequently express this sentiment when discussing Whistler, but it rings true: “We had a blast!”
