WHISTLER, BC, December 12, 2008 - Two years of effort culminated with the opening of Whistler Blackcomb's groundbreaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola on Friday, December 12. Despite uncertain forecasts, the crowds came out in full force to hear from a cast of government officials, snowsports luminaries, and the engineering and construction crew for Dopplemayr before the ceremonial ribbon was cut at 11am and the first cars loaded...but not before Shane McConkey and Red Bull jumped off the roof with squirrel suits and parachutes for good measure.

Spanning 2.73 miles and sitting 1427 feet above Fitzimmon's Creek, the Peak 2 Peak is a first in the North American market. We were escorted onto one of the first cabins out of the station and the ride was smooth despite gusting winds. Impressive views to the valley floor were enough to have the multitude of media representatives from around the world snapping photos. Later in the day, we decided to ride back to Blackcomb and found some powder turns in the more sheltered zones mid-mountain, utilizing the gondola to its full potential.

Thanks go out to Michelle, Ryan, Amber, and the rest of the Whistler-Blackcomb team for a smooth opening and a good weekend of riding in sub zero temperatures. With more snow on the way this week, it's a good time to go ride the Peak 2 Peak and get your pows on both mountains.