In the Snow: A Local’s Perspective

Name: Mercedes Nicoll

Title/Occupation: Professional Snowboarder

Resort Name: Whistler Blackcomb

Number of Years in Whistler: I was born in Vancouver, and spent several years in Toronto. My family moved to Whistler in 1995, but I’m a Whistler kid, through and through.

Accolades: I have two Olympic Winter Games competitions under my belt, with my best showing at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (placed sixth overall in women's halfpipe).

Where you’ll find me: If I’m not in Whistler riding the mountain, then I’m gearing up at a halfpipe competition somewhere on the planet. I’m always chasing the snow; you’ll find me training in Whistler, or in the States, New Zealand or Europe.

Walk us through a typical day on the mountain (your must-ski runs; hot spots to refuel, etc.).

It depends on the day — and the snow. If it’s a “pow” day, you’ll find me on my favourite mountain, Whistler. I may not have been born here, but you could say I was a Whistler kid from the womb. I’m usually in the lineup early, waiting for the Peak Chair to open, and I’ll keep riding all day until the lifts close.

If it’s a “park” day, I’ll head up Blackcomb. There are three different terrain parks here, perfect for all levels. This is a great place to learn, practise tricks, or just have a good time. If I need a bite, I’ll stop for lunch at Glacier Creek Lodge or the Rendezvous.

Are there any “hidden stashes” that the locals favour?

Anywhere off the Peak Chair — you can’t go wrong. I like to get out there with my brother; there are so many great pitches, and little pockets to discover. The snow is always amazing, and you’re guaranteed some fantastic tree riding.

Off the mountain, check out the “shoulder season” deal at Sushi Village. It’s a $19 menu and it’s so good.

What vantage point provides the best jaw-dropping view?

The PEAK 2 PEAK offers spectacular views, as does the Peak on Whistler, for sure. And Black Tusk — an inactive volcano that really does look like a huge tusk sticking out in the middle of a mass of white mountains — might be my favourite view out of anywhere I’ve travelled. Just go take a look and try to tell me I’m wrong. Beautiful!

It’s been two years since Whistler welcomed the world during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. How can visitors experience the lasting legacy of the Games?

If you come during the sliding sports World Cups, you’re in for a show (Luge World Cup competition is December 9 – 10; Bobsleigh & Skeleton World Cup is slated for February 2 – 5). I’ve watched these competitions at two Winter Games, including the 2010 Winter Games, and the Whistler Sliding Centre track is the fastest in the world. It blew my mind!

On-slope, you can ski the Dave Murray Downhill (site of the 2010 Winter Games alpine events), while outside of town, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe in the Callaghan Valley, the first Olympic Nordic venue to include all three traditional Nordic sport stadiums in one site.

No trip to Whistler is complete without a visit to the new Olympic Plaza. This draw was the medals plaza during the 2010 Winter Games and is now a fantastic area for concerts and picnics. When you’re there, don’t forget to have your picture taken by the Olympic rings.

It has a reputation as one of the world's premier ski resorts, but Whistler’s not solely about good times on the slopes. What would you say is a “must” for après when you store the skis and boards for the day?

The food! Some of my favourites include the GLC for yummy après with a view; La Rua for its Bolognese; Caramba has outstanding calamari; and Sachi Sushi is the best sushi in town. If you’re looking for a quick bite, head to Marketplace for fresh bowls at Pasta Lupino, tasty chicken burritos at Dups, big burgers at Splitz Grill — the list goes on.

In Whistler, the shopping is amazing, and the nightlife here is what I like to call “Disneyland for Adults.” There really is something for everyone.

Tell us something surprising about Whistler — something people might not expect to see or do.

Curiously enough, most of our nightclubs are downstairs, so that’s a bit surprising. Plus, when you’re wandering the village, you’ll soon discover that a large population of Aussies call Whistler home.

And speaking of wandering, our pedestrian village never ceases to amaze. To me, it’s the biggest and best I’ve seen anywhere.

For more information on Whistler Blackcomb, visit whistlerblackcomb.com.  For more information on what to see and do in Whistler, visit whistler.com.