Golf

Few visitors associate Whistler with golf, but the four championship courses vie with some of the best in the Pacific Northwest. Golf season in Whistler runs from May through October; greens fees range from C$99 for twilight specials to C$189 for prime-time slots.

Golf Whistler. You can arrange advance tee-time bookings through Golf Whistler, an online service that also features last-minute specials and accommodations packages. 866/723–2747; www.golfwhistler.com.

Big Sky Golf Club. Facing some impressive glaciers, this course follows the Green River. Located 30 minutes north of Whistler, Big Sky sits at the base of 8,000-foot Mt. Curie. It's a favorite with locals, and for good reason. Check out the imaginative metal sculptures along the way. 1690 Airport Rd., Pemberton, British Columbia, V0N 2L3. 604/894–6106; 800/668–7900; www.bigskygolf.ca. C$155.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club . Carved from the side of Blackcomb Mountain, this challenging and breathtaking course was designed by prominent golf-course architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. Make sure to carry plenty of balls, though you can reload at the turn. 4612 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, British Columbia, V0N 1B4. 604/938–2092; 877/938–2092; www.whistlermountaingolf.com. C$189.

Nicklaus North Golf Course. Jack Nicklaus designed this challenging 18-hole track, which finishes beside lovely Green Lake. It's one of the few courses in the world that bears the famous golfer's name. 8080 Nicklaus North Blvd., Whistler, British Columbia, V0N 1B0. 604/938–9898; 800/386–9898; www.nicklausnorth.com. C$165.

Whistler Golf Club. Often overlooked, this Arnold Palmer–designed course is frequently ranked among the best in the country. It's surprisingly challenging, especially around Bear Island, and it has some spectacular practice facilities. "Five after 5" specials run as little as C$25. 4001 Whistler Way, Whistler, British Columbia, V0N 1B4. 604/932–3280; 800/376–1777; www.whistlergolf.com. C$159.