WHISTLER, BC. - Whistler Blackcomb's Olympic season will begin ahead of schedule as the resort opens for skiing and riding on Saturday, November 14 - 12 days earlier than planned. More than 118 centimetres (46 inches) of fresh snow has fallen on the mountains in the past seven days and the opening weekend snow base already sits at 100 centimetres (39 inches). With the 2010 Winter Olympics fast approaching all eyes are on Whistler Blackcomb as it prepares to be a host venue for the Games.

Early season snow has pummeled the West Coast enabling this early opening. The Environment Canada alpine forecast is calling for more snow to fall with a possible 70 centimetres (28 inches) of accumulation over the next several days.

Guests planning a vacation to Whistler this winter can save up to 39% if they book before this Sunday, November 15. Whistler Blackcomb terrain will be 90% open throughout the Games, and great deals are still available in the resort - all winter long. Packages are available from $88 CAD/$84 USD (based on current exchange rate) per person per night, including lift tickets and lodging, if booked by November 15.

Photo Credit:Emmanuel Mendes dos Santos