7 Best Ski Resorts in BC: Everything You Need to Know [2025]
The Complete Guide to British Columbia’s Top Ski Resorts
British Columbia is home to some of the world’s best skiing and snowboarding. With consistent snow, terrain for all skill levels, and a fantastic variety of resorts, it’s no wonder the ski resorts in BC attract millions of visitors from around the world every winter.
BC is my favourite place to ski and snowboard—and that’s saying something! I grew up in a ski resort, so I know what to look for when it comes to skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. Plus, having lived in Canada since 2018, I’ve had the chance to explore much of BC, including many of its ski resorts and mountain towns.
So, to help you plan your next winter vacation, I’ve put together my list of the top ski resorts in British Columbia to visit this season.
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Ski Resorts in British Columbia
British Columbia is one of the best places in the world for skiing and snowboarding. The terrain is world-class and incredibly diverse, ranging from long, gentle runs for beginners to heart-pounding descents for seasoned pros.
BC is also a paradise for backcountry skiers, with abundant snowfall almost guaranteed every season. Resorts along the famous Powder Highway offer some of the best off-piste skiing in the world—so much so that they’ve even become inaccessible at times due to excessive snow!
But it’s not just the skiing and snowboarding that make BC a fantastic winter destination. Each ski resort in British Columbia has its own unique vibe and atmosphere. In fact, every village is a winter destination in its own right, with vibrant communities, charming lodges, fantastic restaurants, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Most BC ski resorts also offer plenty of off-slope activities. Some have a family-friendly feel, while others are known for their picturesque scenery and lively après-ski scene. From snowshoeing and dogsledding to thermal spas, tubing, ice skating, and snowmobiling—there’s something for everyone.
To help you choose the best resort for your interests, here’s everything you need to know about the top ski resorts in British Columbia.
Top 7 Ski Resorts in BC
1. Whistler Blackcomb
- Canada’s Premier Ski Resort
- Largest Ski Resort in North America
- 2-hour drive from Vancouver
- 8,171 acres of skiable terrain
- 5,020 ft (1,530 m) vertical drop
- 200 marked ski runs & 36 lifts
- 35.5 ft (10.8 m) average snowfall
Kicking off the list is Canada’s premier ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb. Known for its incredible terrain and ultimate ski-town vibe, this is one resort every skier should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Ranked as one of the world’s best ski resorts, Whistler Blackcomb boasts the largest ski area in North America.
Across its two mountains—Whistler and Blackcomb—the resort offers an extensive range of terrain suitable for all skill levels. From gentle tree runs for beginners to challenging alpine bowls and bucket-list worthy heli-skiing, Whistler caters to every type of skier and snowboarder. For freestylers, there are even five terrain parks covering 40 acres!
It’s easy to see why Whistler has earned such a stellar reputation. The resort has over 200 official runs across 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and a vertical drop of 5,020 ft. This vast area is serviced by 36 lifts, including the impressive PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, which connects the two mountains and, until recently, was the world’s highest lift of its kind.
Plus, the resort has recently undergone some major infrastructure upgrades, increasing the capacity of two of its most popular lifts—the Creekside Gondola and Big Red Express chair—by more than 30%.
And, thanks to its prime location (just two hours north of Vancouver, nestled in the picturesque Coast Mountains), the resort receives an abundance of snow, with an average of 35.5 ft (10.8 m) each year. This ensures consistently excellent skiing conditions throughout the season.
Other Activities
Beyond the slopes, Whistler offers a plethora of other fun winter activities. So, even if you’re not a big skier or snowboarder, there’s still plenty of reasons to visit.
Snowshoeing, tubing, snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, ice fishing, and dogsledding are some of the other popular winter sports to do here. For an adrenaline rush, you can even try winter ziplining, bobsleigh or skeleton!
And, if you’d rather relax after a long day on the slopes, visit Whistler’s Scandinave Spa to unwind in hot thermal pools while surrounded by beautiful old-growth rainforest and snow-capped mountains.
Whistler Village
Whistler’s pedestrian village is the heart of the resort. It’s a true winter wonderland and the best ski village in Canada.
The European-inspired village exudes a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It’s an especially picturesque mountain town, lit up with more than 350,000 festive fairy lights throughout most of the winter. When covered in snow, the village looks like a giant snow globe!
There’s plenty to do in the village, from skating at the outdoor ice rink in Olympic Plaza to exploring art and cultural museums. You’ll also find a plethora of shops and restaurants throughout the area.
Plus, on Sunday nights, the village comes alive with the thrilling Fire and Ice Show in Skiers Plaza, where the ski and snowboard pros perform tricks and jumps through huge rings of fire.
But what truly sets Whistler Village apart is its reputation as one of the world’s best après-ski spots.
For a true Whistler après experience, visit the Garibaldi Lift Company (‘the GLC’) or the Longhorn Saloon at the base of Whistler Mountain, or head to the iconic Merlin’s Bar & Grill at the base of Blackcomb for live music, table dancing, and ski shots!
Where to Stay at Whistler Blackcomb
When visiting Whistler, you’ll find accommodation options in the village, at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, and in Whistler Creekside. These primarily include hotels and self-contained units operated by the hotels, but you can also rent privately owned condos, townhouses, and cottages in and around Whistler.
For more budget-friendly options, consider staying on the outskirts of Whistler, such as in nearby Function Junction or further away in the town of Squamish. However, this will mean commuting quite a distance each day, and you might miss out on the true ski resort experience.
If you want to be in the heart of the action—within walking distance of the slopes, bars, and restaurants—the best place to stay is Whistler Village. There are tons of excellent hotels and self-contained units here, many with great amenities like outdoor pools and hot tubs.
The Aava Whistler Lodge, Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre, and Adara Hotel are all excellent options in the heart of the village.
Alternatively, staying at the base of Blackcomb Mountain is ideal if you’re looking to ski right to your door. Blackcomb Springs Suites by CLIQUE, Fairmont Chateau Whistler, and The Aspens are three of the best ski-in/ski-out options in Whistler.
Or, if you’re travelling with kids, Whistler Creekside is a family-friendly area with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Whistler Blackcomb Lift Tickets & Passes
You should aim to purchase your Whistler Blackcomb lift tickets online in advance. Online rates are significantly cheaper than buying at the window, and window tickets often sell out.
Alternatively, you can buy Whistler Blackcomb season passes, EDGE Cards, and EPIC Passes online before the season starts.
EPIC Passes are multi-resort season passes that give you unlimited access to 54 resorts worldwide. They’re usually available to purchase between March and November each year.
➡️ BOOK: Whistler Blackcomb Ski Packages
2. Sun Peaks
- Canada’s second largest ski resort
- European-inspired ski-in/ski-out village
- 45-minute drive from Kamloops
- 4,200 acres of skiable terrain
- 2,894 ft (882 m) vertical drop
- 135 marked runs & 13 lifts
- 18 ft (5.6 m) average snowfall
Boasting Canada’s second-largest ski area, Sun Peaks Resort features over 4,200 skiable acres, 135 alpine trails, and 13 lifts spread across three mountains: Mt. Todd, Mt. Morrisey, and Sundance Mountain.
Situated in the interior of British Columbia, Sun Peaks offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and captivating backdrop as you navigate the slopes. The resort is also easy to access, located just a short drive from Kamloops Airport.
Much of Sun Peaks’ terrain consists of long, easy-to-intermediate runs, making it an ideal resort for leisurely skiers and those who prefer to stay on the groomed trails. However, it’s not without challenging terrain—a third of the resort’s runs are rated difficult. It’s also home to legendary backcountry terrain, steep tree runs, deep powder, and epic heli-skiing.
The resort is known for its consistent snowfall and sunny weather, providing ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding. And recent infrastructure upgrades, including the new Crystal Chair, have increased the resort’s capacity by 20%, improving rider comfort and experience.
Sun Peaks also features a charming European-inspired village with a pedestrian-friendly layout. Quaint shops, inviting restaurants, and cozy cafés create a warm and welcoming après-ski atmosphere. Plus, it’s ski-in/ski-out!
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Sun Peaks offers a variety of winter activities, including ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, fat biking, dog sledding, and ice fishing.
Renowned for its family-friendly environment, Sun Peaks is an excellent choice for those traveling with children. With some of Canada’s best beginner terrain, various kids’ programs, and plenty of family-oriented activities, it’s a hit with families.
Where to Stay at Sun Peaks
Sun Peaks is a small village with various ski-in/ski-out hotels and vacation rentals in the village centre. For a hotel, I recommend the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel. Or, for a self-contained unit, Bear Country Vacation Rentals offers a range of beautiful one- to four-bedroom condos and townhomes.
Sun Peaks Lift Tickets & Passes
Sun Peaks day passes, Alpine Peaks Cards, and season passes can all be purchased online directly from Sun Peaks Resort. Alternatively, you can buy full-price day tickets at the window, but this isn’t recommended, as they often sell out.
Sun Peaks also participates in two multi-resort season passes: the Mountain Collective and the IKON Pass. Both are available to purchase online until early December each year.
➡️ BOOK: Sun Peaks Ski Packages
3. Big White
- Canada’s most family-friendly ski resort
- Largest completely ski-in/ski-out resort in Canada
- 1-hour drive from Kelowna
- 2,800 acres of skiable terrain
- 2,550 ft (777 m) vertical drop
- 118 marked runs & 16 lifts
- 24.5 ft (7.5 m) average snowfall
Known for its champagne powder and charming atmosphere in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Big White Ski Resort is a true winter wonderland.
The resort is particularly famous for its snow ghosts—trees completely covered in snow, forming natural sculptures. The mountain features entire fields of these impressive ice pillars, creating spectacular and unique alpine views.
Big White is consistently ranked as Canada’s most family-friendly ski resort. It’s the ideal place to learn to ski or snowboard, with an extensive beginner’s area, soft snow, and mild weather. There are daily activities for kids, including Big White Carnival Night every Saturday, featuring games, face painting, and fair food.
The resort also offers excellent childcare options, giving parents a well-deserved break.
Renowned for its abundant, light, and fluffy snow, Big White boasts vast and varied terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. With 118 runs and five alpine bowls across 2,800 acres, there’s everything from gentle groomed slopes to deep powder, steep mogul runs, and a world-class terrain park with its own dedicated chairlift.
And the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down—Big White also offers some of Canada’s best night skiing!
Off the slopes, there’s also plenty to do, including tubing, ice climbing, Nordic skiing, sleigh tours, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. The pedestrian-friendly village is filled with shops, restaurants, and a vibrant après-ski scene.
And if that’s not enough, Big White is Canada’s largest completely ski-in/ski-out resort. No matter where you stay in the village, you can ski right to your doorstep!
Where to Stay at Big White
Big White offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, condos, townhouses, and cabins. I recommend Sundance Resort, a family-friendly option with excellent amenities, including a beautiful outdoor pool and hot tub.
But are also plenty of of hotel-owned and private vacation rentals at Big White. However, they do book up quickly during the season, so be sure to reserve in advance!
Big White Lift Tickets & Passes
It’s usually recommended to purchase day tickets directly from Big White online in advance, as they aren’t always available at the window.
Alternatively, you can buy a multi-day POWder Card or a Big White season pass online from the resort.
➡️ BOOK: Big White Ski Packages
4. Revelstoke
- Capital of the ‘Powder Highway’
- Most significant vertical in North America
- 2.5-hour drive from Kelowna
- 3,121 acres of skiable terrain
- 5,620 ft (1,713 m) vertical drop
- 75 marked runs & 5 lifts
- 18.75 ft (5.7 m) average snowfall
While not the easiest ski resort in British Columbia to reach, Revelstoke Mountain Resort is well worth the effort for adventure seekers!
Located in southeastern BC on the banks of the Columbia River, Revelstoke is 641 km east of Vancouver and 415 km west of Calgary. The best way to get there is by flying into Kelowna, which is about a 2.5-hour drive away.
The resort features 75 runs across 3,121 acres of skiable terrain, including a mix of groomed trails, high alpine bowls, glades, and fall-line skiing. Plus, Revelstoke boasts the longest vertical drop in North America at 5,620 ft!
Expert and Off-Piste Terrain
The resort is a paradise for advanced skiers and snowboarders, with plenty of steep descents and challenging terrain. In fact, only 12% of Revelstoke’s terrain is rated as beginner, with the rest being intermediate and advanced.
What Revelstoke is most famous for, however, is its abundance of snow and huge powder dumps. It’s even considered the capital of the Powder Highway—a circular route in the Kootenay Rockies connecting eight alpine ski resorts in an area renowned for its deep, dry powder snow.
This makes Revelstoke one of the best places in the world for fresh powder, ski touring, and heli-skiing and snowboarding!
Beginner Areas and Off-Mountain Activities
Even if you’re not an advanced backcountry skier, there are still plenty of reasons to visit Revelstoke.
The resort has beginner areas at the base of the mountain and at the mid-station, complete with magic carpets and short, gentle slopes. For more confident beginners and intermediate skiers and snowboarders, Revelstoke also boasts North America’s longest ski run!
Named The Last Spike, this leisurely green run descends the resort’s full vertical over 9.5 miles (15.2 km). At a consistent pace, it takes about 20 minutes to reach the bottom, making it ideal for anyone who enjoys cruising down the mountain.
There are also plenty of other snow sports to enjoy, including snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and fat biking.
Revelstoke Town
Revelstoke is a quintessential North American ski town. The scenery is straight out of a Hallmark movie, combining a quaint atmosphere and modern amenities with a picturesque mountain backdrop. In fact, three Hallmark movies have been filmed here!
The town offers a wide range of dining options, shops, and après-ski spots for visitors to unwind after a day on the slopes. There are also plenty of attractions for non-skiers, including art galleries, glass-blowing workshops, nearby hot springs, and local breweries and distilleries.
Where to Stay at Revelstoke
Revelstoke has a variety of excellent hotels right in the centre of town. This is the best place to stay to be within easy walking distance of all the shops, restaurants and amenities.
However, there are also some great vacation rentals and B&Bs on the outskirts of the village, which are just a couple of minutes drive away.
The Regent Hotel Revelstoke and Grizz Hotel are both great options, right in the middle of town. Or for a phenomenal boutique hotel experience, I recommend Eleven Revelstoke Lodge.
Revelstoke Lift Tickets & Passes
Ski passes for Revelstoke can be purchased online or at the window from the resort. Buying them online in advance is recommended, as they can be up to 40% cheaper than purchasing them on the day.
Alternatively, you can buy Revelstoke season passes online. The resort is also part of both the IKON and Mountain Collective multi-resort passes, which are available to purchase until early December.
➡️ BOOK: Revelstoke Ski Packages
5. Fernie Alpine
- Abundant snowfall and deep powder
- Excellent for beginners and experts alike
- 3-hour drive from Calgary
- 2,500 acres of skiable terrain
- 3,550 ft (1,082 m) vertical drop
- 145 marked runs & 10 lifts
- 30 ft (9.1 m) average snowfall
Another of BC’s top ski resorts, Fernie Alpine Resort is located on the famous Powder Highway and is renowned for its abundant snowfall.
Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies (about a 3-hour drive from Calgary), Fernie is surrounded by dramatic snow-covered peaks, creating a stunning backdrop.
The resort features more than 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, 145 named runs, and a vertical drop of 3,550 ft.
Like Revelstoke, Fernie caters particularly well to experienced skiers and snowboarders, with 40% of its terrain rated as intermediate and 29% as difficult.
Fernie’s reputation for deep powder attracts advanced skiers and snowboarders every year. With around 30 ft of snow each season, endless backcountry skiing options, and varied terrain, Fernie is a true powder hound’s paradise.
However, the resort is also a great place to learn to ski or snowboard. It has an excellent beginner’s area, separate from the main slopes, with its own dedicated chairlift. All the runs on the Lower Mountain are also beginner-friendly, as they’re mostly wide and gentle.
Fernie Town
There’s a cute little village at the base of the slopes, but you won’t find much action there. Instead, head to the town of Fernie for more excitement.
Fernie is one of Canada’s coolest mountain towns. With its laid-back atmosphere, fascinating history, fantastic restaurants and bars, and all the amenities of a major ski resort, it’s a fantastic place to explore after a day on the mountain.
Beyond the slopes, Fernie also offers snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, curling, ice fishing, fat biking, and ice skating.
Where to Stay at Fernie
When visiting Fernie, you can choose to stay slopeside in the small village at the base of the mountain or a few minutes’ drive away in the town of Fernie. Since there’s much more to do in the town, I recommend staying there over the village.
In the town you will find a mix of hotels and apartments. The Best Western Plus Fernie Mountain Lodge is an excellent hotel option. Or, for an apartment, I recommend 901 by Fernie Central Reservations, which features beautiful high ceilings, wooden furnishings and fully equipped kitchens in every unit.
If you prefer to stay in the resort, Lizard Creek Lodge is one of the best ski-in/ski-out hotels, located right at the base of the mountain.
Fernie Lift Tickets & Passes
Fernie Alpine lift tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the ticket window. And Season passes are available to buy online.
Fernie is also part of the EPIC Pass, which is available to purchase online until early December each year.
➡️ BOOK: Fernie Ski Packages
6. SilverStar
- 100% all-natural light and fluffy snow
- Colourful Victorian ski-in/ski-out village
- 1-hour drive from Kelowna
- 3,282 acres of skiable terrain
- 2,500 ft (760 m) vertical drop
- 132 marked runs & 12 lifts
- 23 ft (7 m) average snowfall
SilverStar Mountain Resort is one of the best family ski resorts in BC. It offers an excellent mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, with varied terrain to suit every family member.
Located in the Monashee Mountains, the resort is just a one-hour drive from Kelowna, making it one of the easiest ski resorts to access in BC, with minimal travel time from the airport.
SilverStar features 132 runs across four mountain faces and 3,282 acres of skiable terrain. It’s serviced by 12 lifts and has very few crowds, so you’ll rarely wait in line to get up the mountain. The resort also prides itself on having 100% all-natural, light, and fluffy snow!
SilverStar is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and progressive runs, ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. There’s a great mix of mellow tree runs, uncrowded blue and black slopes, and an advanced zone with varying degrees of black runs.
Plus, after dark, the lights come on, with 4 km of beginner-to-intermediate trails lit up on Friday and Saturday nights.
Off the slopes, there are plenty of activities for the whole family, including tubing, ice skating, hockey games, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling (even mini snowmobiles for the kids!).
SilverStar Village
The quaint village is reminiscent of a typical 19th-century BC mining town but with a modern twist. Its colourful, Victorian-inspired buildings add unique charm, making it a delightful place to explore after a day on the slopes. Plus, it’s ski-in/ski-out!
Although it’s a small ski village, it has everything you need, including 13 cafés, restaurants, and pubs, several retail stores, a small grocery store, and a service centre.
Where to Stay at SilverStar
SilverStar Mountain Resort offers both hotels and vacation homes.
For a simple but comfortable stay, I recommend staying at The Bulldog Hotel, a colourful European-Style hotel. Alternatively, you can rent vacation homes through The Bulldog, which are a great option if you need a bit more space.
If you can’t find accommodation in SilverStar Village, there are more options about a 25-minute drive away in the town of Vernon.
SilverStar Lift Tickets & Passes
Ski tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the ticket window at SilverStar Mountain Resort. Online tickets are up to 20% cheaper if purchased the day before your arrival, but they sometimes sell out. If this happens, you can still buy lift tickets at the window.
Season passes are also available to purchase online. SilverStar also offers the My1Pass, which includes access to seven activities at the resort with one pass.
➡️ BOOK: SilverStar Ski Packages
7. Panorama
- Largest slope-side hot pools in Canada
- Even split of easy and difficult terrain
- 3.5-hour drive from Calgary
- 2,975 acres of skiable terrain
- 4,265 ft (1,300 m) vertical drop
- 129 marked runs & 10 lifts
- 17 ft (5.2 m) average snowfall
The final resort to make the list is Panorama Mountain Resort. Tucked away in the Purcell Mountains, Panorama is a 3.5-hour drive from Calgary and located in the heart of the Powder Highway.
The resort offers an expansive ski area with long descents, breathtaking views, and a laid-back atmosphere. It features 2,975 acres of skiable terrain, 129 runs, and 10 lifts, and is known for its consistent snowfall, reliable conditions, and lack of crowds. In fact, Panorama has the most space per skier of the world’s 100 largest ski resorts!
From gentle slopes for beginners to challenging off-piste terrain and some of Canada’s best heli-skiing, Panorama caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The terrain is evenly split between easy and difficult runs, with half rated as expert-level and the other half as beginner to intermediate. This makes Panorama an ideal resort for leisurely skiers and snowboarders, those looking to improve their skills, and expert riders alike.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Panorama offers plenty of other winter activities, including Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, fat biking, paragliding, snowshoeing, ice skating, and on-mountain dining experiences.
Panorama Village
The resort’s picturesque village is ski-in/ski-out and offers a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. It’s not a party town, but it has a great selection of bars, restaurants, and cafés, as well as a low-key après-ski vibe.
The village’s biggest attraction, however, is its hot pools. Panorama has the largest slope-side hot pools in Canada—literally right at the base of the slopes. This is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of skiing or snowboarding. With the stunning mountain backdrop, you can even watch skiers and snowboarders making their way down the home run.
If you’re looking for mineral-rich waters, Canada’s largest mineral springs pool—Radium Hot Springs—is just a half-hour drive away!
Where to Stay at Panorama
Panorama offers a range of accommodation options, including several large hotels, condos, and townhouses.
Most of the accommodation is operated by Panorama Mountain Resort, which boasts some of the best amenities in the village. Other popular options include Embarc Panorama, Aurora Townhomes by FantasticStay, and Panorama Vacation Retreat at Horsethief Lodge, all of which offer self-contained units.
Alternatively, there are more accommodation options in nearby Invermere, just a 20-minute drive away.
Panorama Lift Tickets & Passes
Winter lift tickets for Panorama Mountain Resort can be purchased online or at the ticket window. The resort also offers a SnowCard, which includes three or five days of skiing at a reduced price, with the option to add extra days.
Alternatively, you can buy a Panorama season pass. The resort is also part of the Mountain Collective multi-resort pass program, which is available to purchase until early December.
➡️ BOOK: Panorama Ski Packages
BC Ski Resorts Map
FAQs
How Many Ski Resorts Are There in British Columbia?
British Columbia has the most ski resorts in Canada, with 38 resorts and ski hills across the province—including 13 major ski resorts. The most well-known ones are Whistler Blackcomb, Big White, Sun Peaks, Kicking Horse, and Revelstoke.
What Are the Top 3 Ski Destinations in BC?
Generally, Whistler Blackcomb, Sun Peaks, and Big White are considered the top three ski resorts in British Columbia. Whistler, in particular, is Canada’s premier ski resort and boasts the largest ski area in North America, making it one of the top ski destinations in the world.
What Is the Biggest Ski Mountain in BC?
Whistler Blackcomb has the most skiable terrain in British Columbia—and in all of North America. However, Revelstoke Mountain Resort boasts the largest vertical drop in North America, with 5,620 ft of skiable vertical.
Does BC Have Good Skiing?
British Columbia is one of the best places for skiing in the world and is widely considered the top destination for skiing in Canada.
With some of the world’s largest and most renowned resorts, diverse terrain, abundant snowfall, and towering mountains, BC attracts millions of skiers and snowboarders every year.
Why Is British Columbia Good for Downhill Skiing?
British Columbia is ideal for downhill skiing thanks to its expansive and diverse skiable terrain, mix of groomed and off-piste runs for all skill levels, consistent and abundant snowfall, and world-class infrastructure.
The province’s ski resorts are mostly located at high altitudes with dry climates, which produce excellent-quality snow—light, fluffy, and perfect for downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Does BC Get a Lot of Snow?
Yes, British Columbia receives a significant amount of snowfall every year, especially in its mountainous regions. BC is known for its abundant and reliable snow conditions, making it a prime destination for powder skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
In particular, the Powder Highway—a circular route through the Kootenay Rockies—is famous for its massive snowfalls of champagne powder. Eight alpine ski resorts are located along this route, known for some of the most consistent, deepest, and driest snowfall in the world.
When Can You Ski in British Columbia?
Skiing in British Columbia typically begins in late November and runs through April. However, exact dates vary by resort and depend on weather conditions.
What Is the Best Month for Skiing in British Columbia?
January and February is the best time to go skiing in BC. These are the peak winter months and typically offer the best snow conditions for skiing and snowboarding. However, depending on the year, BC can also have excellent snow earlier or later in the season.
At most ski resorts in BC, you’ll likely find great conditions from late December through mid-March.
What Is the Oldest Ski Resort in BC?
Red Mountain Ski Resort in Rossland is the oldest ski resort in British Columbia. The mountains at the resort have been skied since 1896, and the first chairlift to the top of Red Mountain was built in 1947.
Located along the famous Powder Highway, Red Mountain Ski Resort is still in operation today. It features 4,200 acres of skiable terrain, 110 named runs, and six chairlifts.
Final Thoughts – Ski Resorts in British Columbia
With 38 ski hills—including 13 major resorts—abundant snowfall, and world-class terrain, there’s no shortage of excellent ski resorts in British Columbia. From large luxury resorts to quaint family-friendly hills and challenging backcountry terrain, BC has something for everyone.
I hope this list has helped you choose where to ski and snowboard in BC, so you can start planning your next winter adventure!
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