Our members are on the look-out for skiers and riders travelling too fast or displaying reckless behaviour. Normally, a verbal warning will correct fast and reckless issues, but on occasion, skiing and riding privileges are suspended.

Our mission is to ensure that all guests and employees are aware of the Alpine Responsibility Code, thereby making our slopes safer for all. You can help the Mountain Safety Team by skiing or riding in control, by travelling at the same speed as others in Slow Zones, and by using common sense and courtesy while on our mountains.

Common Questions

How can I tell that I'm in a Slow Zone?
There are a couple of ways. First of all, have a look at a trail map. The Slow Zones are highlighted in yellow. You will notice that most of them are beginner runs. When you are on the mountain look for 'Slow' or 'Slow Zone' banners. Most Slow Zone runs have 4 ½ foot high banners at the top with 3 foot high banners in between, which are drilled into the snow. These top banners will usually be installed in such a way as to force skiers and snowboarders to slow down as they enter.

How fast is too fast?
Many people have a hard time remembering what it was like to be a beginner skier or snowboarder, and having to worry about whether there is enough space to attempt a turn. So first off, think about giving people some space. Next, remember that you must always be in control whether you are on an expert run or in a Slow Zone. This is the first point of the Alpine Responsibility Code. If you are in the air, you have no control over your speed or direction. Jumps and hits are not allowed in Slow Zones. The speed expected is relevant to how many people are on the run. If there is no one on the run, you may do short radius turns. When there are more people on the run the 10% Rule is in effect. You may pass people at a speed approximately 10% faster than the flow of other skier traffic on the run.

Why can't I go as fast as I want when there's no one else on the run?
The Slow Zones are on beginner runs. One of the biggest users of Slow Zones are kids. Kids don't have a high awareness of what other people are doing and are easily distracted. They might be on one side of the run and see something that they want to take a closer look at on the other side and just veer over and cross the run without checking to see if anyone is coming. Kids and adults that are learning to ski also tend to fall on terrain transitions (knolls) and can be trying to recover from a crash in an area that can't be seen from above.

The Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association (CARDA) was founded in 1978. The organization is dedicated to saving the lives of avalanche victims through the use of highly trained dog and handler teams. Made up of volunteers who have passed an intensive training program, CARDA strives to maintain a network of efficient avalanche search and rescue dog teams in Canada.

At present, Whistler Blackcomb is proudly represented by thirteen avalanche dogs and their handlers. The dogs work full or part time, depending if their handler is a professional or volunteer patroller. The teams have a range of experience, from puppies entering the first stages of training to dogs with years of experience. Their names are Burleigh, Finna, Norah, Quest, Zhiggy, Haole, Lexy, Kally, Koda, Mac, Gracy, Kaya and Hector.

The dogs and their handlers develop a powerful bond through ongoing, rigorous training exercises based on a system of reward for tasks successfully performed. Although it is a disciplined relationship, the feeling of love and friendship between the dogs and their handlers is immediately evident - they are a team.