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WATERSKI MagazineDo we really need to mention the irony? On sweltering summer days, British Columbians can merely look to Whistler Mountain from 100 miles away and cool off. Seeing snow in the distance will do that to a person. But Whistler has another way of rescuing visitors from the dog days – lakes.
One is called Green Lake (it didn't take a genius to come up with the name) and derives its remarkable clarity from glaciers. Though it's next to the beating chest of Whistler, Green Lake is still one of the least known hot-but-cold spots north of the border.
“A couple locals have set up a slalom course, and only about five boats use the lake on a regular basis, so it's perfect,” says Colin Law, operator of Wake2Wake WaterSki Company at Green Lake.
The advantage of skiing this far north is that in the morning you can snowboard the most popular resort in North America, water ski on the late-afternoon glass that lasts until about 8 p.m., and watch the evening sun light up the lake when the 11 o'clock news starts. All this, plus you get a great exchange on the Canadian dollar.
First impression: The water really is green and Whistler really is white, even when it's 95 at the base.
From Vancouver: 1.5 hours
Be aware of: Bears that tend to lumber into the village to sample food left out.
Best known for: Being next to the most popular ski resort in North America.
Miles of shoreline: 20
You should experience: Making fresh tracks on the snow early in the morning, mountain biking at mid-day from the top of one of the chair lifts and hitting the wakes at dusk.
You might experience: A ride in one of the floatplanes that drops guests off at the lake.
Slalom courses: There's one set up as a courtesy to visitors.
Where you'll sleep: The mountains, the lake and a golf course flank The Edgewater at Green Lake (888-870-9065 or 604-932-0688).
Local Flavor: Citta's is a popular patio hangout, or try the pasta at Uli's Flipside.
Secret: This is one of Prince Charles' favorite getaways.
Advice: Bring sunscreen. Rays are strong in the clean air at 3,000 feet.
Directions: From Vancouver, take Highway 99 to the flashing light at Alpine Way in Whistler Village and turn right toward the lake.
Best contacts: Wake2Wake Waterski Company (604-932-7541 or wake2wake99@yahoo.com); Whistler Outdoor Experience Company (www.whistler.net/outdoorexperience).
