The snow's melting and winter is a distant memory, which means the Whistler, British Columbia golf season officially kicks off this month with course enhancements and great rates.

The driving range at Whistler Golf Club is now open and golfers will be greeted with brand new Bent grass greens when the course opens by May 18, weather permitting.

“We’re excited to provide our guests with unparalleled putting surfaces at the Whistler Golf Club for the 2012 season,” said Director of Golf, Alan Kristmanson. “The massive project has just been completed – with the installation of 007 Bent grass to replace the original greens that were built 28 years ago.”

“Bent grass has a much stronger resistance to snow and ice damage, “he said. “And with the incredible amount of snowfall we receive in Whistler this species of grass will help us achieve summer condition much quicker. Plus, Bent grass provides a much smoother putting surface so our guests will be thrilled with the experience.”

The greens renovation project at the Whistler Golf Club began last fall with the growth of new grass from seed. Snow removal began in February and in April all 18 greens were stripped and replaced with the new grass. Short videos tracking the progress of the project are available to view here.

At Nicklaus North Golf Course, the Golden Bear is coming out of hibernation in early May with the course aiming to open May 10. Big changes occurred on the course last year with the final touches to the 12th hole completed. The new stone accented bridge, which pays homage to the famous Hogan Bridge at Augusta National, was the final piece of the remodeling of this signature Par 3.

Aiming to open May 11, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club provides new golf carts this year, which are complimentary for all paying guests of the course and are full-color GPS enabled. The clubhouse is bringing back a full menu offering breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Date nights include two adult rounds of afternoon golf and dinner for two at the clubhouse for $129 per person.

On its opening day on April 19, Big Sky Golf and Country Club hosted more than 170 people who participated in the annual charity event, benefiting the Sea to Sky Community Services Society. This year, the Academy course at Big Sky will have eight-inch cups instead of the traditional four-inch cups which will make it easier for children and beginner golfers to putt and chip it in the hole. Until May 31, Big Sky offers the 10-round spring pass for $450.

Golfers looking for the best value on a multi-day, multi-course experience can book the Free Night, Free Round of Golf package, which includes three night/ four round packages from $130 per person, per night. Play at four of Whistler’s signature courses and one free round is included, plus stay three nights or more and your third night is included free. Also enjoy same day replay and free youth rounds with each paying adult.

Visit www.whistler.com/golf and book by June 30; conditions apply.