Just north of Vancouver is the Hollywood of the ski world: the Whistler/Blackcomb complex. The area has more vertical, more lifts and more varied ski terrain than any other ski resort in North America, and a clientele with panache to match. With winter approaching, ski enthusiasts visiting Vancouver on business should consider sneaking in a few days on the slopes of Whistler/Blackcomb.

The stats are standouts. Whistler Mountain has 5,006 feet of vertical and 100 marked runs; Blackcomb Mountain has 5,280 feet of vertical and 100 marked runs.

Get there quick. Two hours by rental car (check www.mywhistler.com for updates on lane and road closures) or three hours by bus (Whistler Express operates a bus service departing eight times daily from the airport: 604-266-5386).

Rent equipment with an attitude. High- performance skis, snowboards and snowshoes—from Summit Ski (604-938-6225), at various locations in the village.

Kick it up a notch. Arrange a three- or four-day run of skiing the backcountry through Whistler Heli-Skiing (888-HELISKI, www.heliskiwhistler.com).