Whistler, B.C., December 31, 2003 - Revelers at Whistler Blackcomb will have more than just the New Year to celebrate this holiday season. With 300cm or just under 10 feet of snow in the month of December alone, ski and snowboard conditions at Whistler Blackcomb are exceptional.

December 2003 ranks among the top 5 snowiest Decembers in the last 20 years. Since the start of the season, weather forecasters at Whistler Blackcomb have recorded 478 cm or 15 ¨ø feet of snowfall. Early season snowfall is a indicator of great winters. Over the last 20 years, in winters where Whistler Blackcomb has received 300cm of snow in December, it has also had a total season snowfall that averages an incredible 1224 cm. That is 300cm or 10 feet more than the Whistler Blackcomb¡¯s normally bountiful snowfall. If trends hold true, this season will continue to be a great one for mountain enthusiasts.

With all this snow comes the opportunity to open more terrain for guests to the mountains to play on and explore. Whistler Blackcomb is 100% open, from top to bottom, with North America¡¯s highest vertical, 5280 feet. With the most skiable acreage available on the continent, 7071 acres, there is always room to feel like you have the mountain to yourself.

When asked about the snow, Bob Dufour, Director of Operations and 30 year Whistler local had this to say; ¡°We have the best conditions I've seen in years. It can't get any better, in fact. With all of the snow we've received, the consistently cool temperatures we've had, and our grooming and snowmaking efforts, the skiing is fantastic from the top to the bottom.¡±

The Environment Canada Forecast for the next five days is calling for clouds and scattered flurries, with sunshine expected for Sunday. For more information on mountain activities and snow conditions please call 1-800-766-0449 or visit us online at http://www.whistlerblackcomb.com. The snowphone report is updated 4 times daily (at 6:00am, 7:30am, 11:00am and 3:00pm) and can be reached at 604.932.4211 (locally), 604.687.7507 (Vancouver), and 1.800.766.0449 (toll-free).