Golf in Whistler

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$49 to C$210.

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

Big Sky Golf and Country Club. Facing some impressive glaciers, this links-style course follows the Green River. Located 30 minutes north of Whistler, Big Sky sits at the base of 8,000-foor 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, BC, V0N 2L3. 604/894-6106 or 800/668-7900. www.bigskygolf.com. 18 holes. 7001 yds. Par 72. Green fee: $145. Driving range, putting green, golf carts, pull carts, rental clubs, pro shop, golf academy/lessons, restaurant, bar.

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 Village, BC, V0N 1B4. 604/938-2092 or 877/938-2092. www.fairmontgolf.com. 18 holes. 6635 yds. Par 72. Green fee: $169. Driving range, putting green, golf carts, pull carts, rental clubs, pro shop, golf lessons, restaurant, bar, snack bar.

Nicklaus North Golf Course. Jack Nicklaus designed this challenging 18-hole track which finishes beside lovely Green Lake. It's the only course in the world that bears the famous golfer's name. 8080 Nicklaus North Blvd., Whistler Village, BC, V0N 1B0. 604/938-9898 or 800/386-9898. www.golfbc.com/courses/nicklaus_north. 18 holes. 6961 yds. Par 71. Green fee: $189. Driving range, putting green and bunker, golf carts, pull carts, rental clubs, pro shop, golf academy/lessons, restaurant.

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 recent upgrades have created some spectacular practice facilities. 4001 Whistler Way, Whistler, BC, V0N 1B4. 604/932-3280 or 800/376-1777. www.whistlergolf.com. 18 holes. 6722 yds. Par 72. Green fee: $139. Driving range, putting green, golf carts, pull carts, rental clubs, pro shop, golf academy/lessons, restaurant, bar.