A Whistler ski trip from the United States takes more planning than a drive to a Vermont resort. This post covers how to get here, what you need at the border, what your dollars buy and which pass works at Whistler Blackcomb, written by the team that manages around 50 Whistler homes.
How do I get from New York to Whistler?
Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and travel from there. Whistler is 120 kilometres (75 miles) from Vancouver, about a two-hour drive on the Sea to Sky Highway. Whistler.com lists coach and shuttle buses, private vehicle charters, helicopter charters, a seasonal floatplane and car rentals as ways to make the trip. Aloha Whistler’s concierge can arrange transportation.
There are daily flights to Vancouver from all three New York airports, so it’s a matter of preference. Pick the airport that’s easiest for you to get to and check your airline’s page for current schedules.
What do US visitors need to cross the border?
Canada does not require a visa or an eTA for US nationals or permanent residents. The Government of Canada recommends travelling with a valid passport, and says other identification is an option only if you are not travelling by air, so flying visitors should plan on a passport. US permanent residents flying in need a valid passport from their country of nationality and proof of their US status. Requirements change, so check the page before you travel: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/entry-requirements-country.html (page last modified July 31, 2026). Visitors who are not US citizens should check their own requirements on the same page.
How far does a US dollar go in Whistler?
On October 8, 2026 one US dollar bought 1.426 Canadian dollars, so one Canadian dollar cost about 70 US cents and a $1,000 CAD night was about $700 USD. Rates move daily, so check the current rate before you book.
Does my Epic Pass work at Whistler Blackcomb?
It depends on the pass. Whistler.com says the Epic Pass has unlimited access to Whistler Blackcomb with no holiday restrictions. The Epic Local Pass includes 10 combined days of access to Whistler Blackcomb, Vail and Beaver Creek, and Whistler Blackcomb access is restricted during peak periods. Check the passes page for current terms, which were read on October 13, 2026: https://www.whistler.com/skiing/lift-tickets/passes/
What should I bring, and what can the concierge arrange?
Pack warm boots and layers, bring a card without foreign transaction fees and carry your passport. Aloha Whistler’s concierge service can arrange transportation, grocery delivery, ski packages, catering, child care and babysitting, and massage and spa services.
Which Whistler home suits a US family?
Aloha Whistler manages around 50 homes, 37 of them with 3 to 6 bedrooms, and books directly with a one-night deposit and the balance due 30 days before arrival. For group sizing, see the post on how many bedrooms you need in Whistler.
