How To Ski Spanky's Ladder

Data

• Location: Whistler Blackcomb, B.C.
• Getting There: From the top of the Glacier Express quad, head skier’s left, then veer right for the short hike up to the entrance Spanky’s Ladder. On a powder day, just look for the line of bootpackers.
• Vertical Feet: 1,650
• Acres: 133
• Scare Factor: There’s great skiing off of Spanky’s but there are cliffs too, so know where you’re going before you drop in.

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How To Ski It

From the top of the hike, head skier’s left into Garnet Bowl and stay left to hit Ruby Bowl. It’s the easiest place to drop into the wide-open bowl skiing on tap here. On lap two, test yourself on Diamond Bowl (straight ahead after the bootpack) or Sapphire Chutes (skiers right). Both are harder to get into and more intimidating, but the payoff is big. 

Terrain

It’s considered as inbounds, avalanche-controlled area, but with steep pitches, variable snow, and some intense approaches, Spanky’s isn’t a sit-back-and-relax zone. 

Beta

On a powder day, the hike to Spanky’s will have a long queue. Tough it out, because it’s worth it. If you look hard enough, there’s still powder to be had a few days after the storm.

What’s New at Whistler Blackcomb? The Upside of Change

Après

The Garibaldi Lift Co., at the base of the Whistler Village gondola, is a must. Besides great pub food, local beer, live music, and late-night dancing, the GLC has a big patio. Later, take off your boots and fill yourself silly with the Sass Tolls and Saki Margaritas at Sushi Village.