I love Manning! Please skiers/boarders, don't let it close! I find the snow conditions here are better than Whistler and much, much better than anywhere else in the lower mainland. Plus, it's about half the price of Whistler, and I can always find plenty of area to make fresh tracks! The only thing I worry about is having an accident and nobody ever finding me because there are so few people up there! Note: this place is for skiers, not shoppers. I love the peaceful wilderness setting. There is a lovely mountain lodge with a friendly, unpretentious feel and it's a super good deal to stay at. It has a great pool/steamroom/sauna/jacuzzi too, and a friendly pub.
Manning Park is a gem hidden in the Cascades. There are two old doubles that service excellent skiing on and off the main runs. With great snow quality it is usually very quiet, especially mid-week. The area resort has all amenities and other activities like skating, cross-country skiing and a tube park. There are even little cabins to rent if you don't want to stay at the lodge. Best of all it is affordable and as I live in Whistler, I always try to get to Manning Park for some skiing. Try it out, they need our support!