WHISTLER, British Columbia – A section of Whistler Blackcomb’s iconic high-alpine terrain will remain closed for the entire 2026-27 ski season following a rockslide near Whistler Peak earlier this year.
Vail Resorts confirmed the decision Friday, November 6, citing recommendations from geotechnical experts and continuing concerns about rock stability. The CBC reports mitigation work is expected to continue through summer 2027. The affected terrain will remain inaccessible to skiers and snowboarders throughout the upcoming winter.
The closure affects terrain surrounding the March rockslide near West Cirque and Monday’s, two of Whistler Mountain’s steepest and most recognizable expert runs. The resort has not yet released a detailed map identifying the full extent of the 2026-27 closure, leaving questions about exactly which entrances and descents will be available.
Rockslide Shut Down Whistler Peak in March
The original rockslide occurred March 12, at approximately 6:30 a.m., before the resort opened for the day. Large sections of rock broke loose near the summit, sending debris down the mountain and prompting an immediate closure of Whistler Peak and the Peak Express chairlift. Fortunately, nobody was in the affected area, and no injuries were reported.
Whistler Blackcomb worked with geotechnical specialists from BGC Engineering to assess the damage and determine which terrain could safely reopen. The Peak Express chairlift eventually resumed operations March 22, although the terrain directly affected by the slide remained closed.
Additional rock movement was reported May 28, near the original slide location. Resort officials said their preliminary assessment suggested that unstable rock fractured during the March incident had begun shifting as snow melted and temperatures increased.
The latest decision confirms that the affected section will remain closed for another full ski season while further safety measures and mitigation work are carried out.
Peak Express Chairlift Expected to Operate
The closure will mostly effect advanced skiers and snowboarders who seek out Whistler Blackcomb’s steep alpine terrain. The area around Whistler Peak includes some of the resort’s most challenging and recognizable lines. The closure does not mean the entire peak will be inaccessible.
Vail Resorts expects the Peak Express chairlift to operate during the 2026-27 season, maintaining access to other alpine terrain, including Symphony, The Saddle and Peak to Creek, as conditions permit.
Additional safety measures will be implemented around Whistler Peak based on expert recommendations. Skiers and snowboarders should expect marked closures around the affected area and should not attempt to enter restricted terrain.
When Could the Terrain Reopen?
There is currently no confirmed reopening date for the affected portion of Whistler Peak. Mitigation work is expected to continue through summer 2027, and any future reopening will depend on whether geotechnical experts determine that the area can be accessed safely.
Whistler Blackcomb is scheduled to begin its 2026-27 winter season November 20, with Whistler Mountain operations currently targeted for November 25. For skiers and snowboarders who have been hoping to return to the steep terrain surrounding the March rockslide, the latest announcement translates to another winter of biding time.
