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When geese fly south, and pasty Canadians flock to beaches in Florida, snow worshipers head to Whistler. Voted the number one ski resort in North America, Whistler, British Columbia dominates more than 8,100 acres of terrain dedicated to winter fun, with well over 200 ski runs. While famous for its skiing, Whistler boasts so many year-round activities, that many families, singles, gays and lesbians choose this area as their number one vacation spot.

Whistler has the longest ski season in all of Canada, but when the snow eventually melts, for a week or so between June and September, the area transforms into a summer camping and hiking destination filled with waterfalls, wild flowers and stunning mountain scenery at every turn.
There's no better spot for action-packed mountain biking, and the Valley Trail, 30 km of trails connecting parks and coastlines, including a clothing optional beach, makes the perfect strip for rollerblading. Shutter bugs hunting the perfect shot love the Whistler Mountain Gondola that zips up 1,829 m above sea level in 20 minutes exposing stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains and alpine landscapes.
Along with serious outdoor activities, Whistler caters to shopaholics with over 200 boutiques and services located in the pedestrian-only Village sure to make a dent in the deepest of wallets. Luxury seekers can soak their sore muscles in one of dozens of relaxing spas or retire to sophisticated international resorts with everything at their fingertips.
Much like the Hoary Marmot, the small mountain-dwelling animal that Whistler is named after, people in the area tend to be social. Forget staying in with a movie, Whistler comes alive at night with most pubs and bars filling up with tired, yet excited outdoor enthusiasts looking for a good time. Whether you want to drink by the fire or ignite the dance floor, it doesn't take long to blend into the ski and party culture, though you may want to pop your liver in the dryer for a spin afterwards.
Whistler doesn't offer any exclusively gay bars or resorts, but like most of Canada, the area is gay friendly. In February, Whistler welcomes WinterPRIDE, a week-long celebration catering to gays and lesbians who come for the ski and stay for the aprs ski. Whistler even holds same-sex weddings for couples itching to tie the knot surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
For a cultural experience of a different kind, visit The Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre and discover Salish canoes, a Squamish long house as well as weavings and other cultural relics. Join in a Cultural Forest Walk and learn about the local ecosystems in the area as well as traditions and the history of this beautiful corner of the world.
This winter, grab your girl or boy, or both, leave the beaches to the geese and swoop over to Whistler.

Learn more about this author, James W. Coates.
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