Canada is one of those countries that's fortunate to have an abundance of winter wonderlands, all offering alpine adventures and some of the world’s best skiing experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a novice looking to hit the slopes for the first time, you'll find a diverse range of skiing options that are suitable for all abilities—and budgets, too—in the Great White North.
Let’s dive into the top skiing destinations that you can find across the Canadian Rockies and more, as well as a survival guide to help you make the most of your trip— both off and on the slopes!
Where To Go for the Best Skiing in Canada
Given that the country stretches over 3.8 million square miles of land with some pretty epic mountain ranges to boot, Canada boasts some incredible ski resorts..
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
Let’s start with Whistler Blackcomb, BC, which is easily the crown jewel of Canadian skiing. Located just two hours north of Vancouver, it’s home to the largest ski area in North America. Stretching out over 8,000 acres of terrain, 16 alpine bowls, and three glaciers, it’s no wonder that Whistler Blackcomb draws skiers, snowboarders and alpine sports enthusiasts from around the globe. Plus, the resort itself offers something for everyone, from guided lessons on gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for experts.
Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta
Next up, we’re heading to the Canadian Rockies! Nestled in the heart of the mountain range is Banff and Lake Louise, an area that’s actually home to three major ski resorts: Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay. With stunning scenery and exceptional skiing and snowboarding, all three resorts provide a variety of terrains suiting cautious to adventurous skiers. Plus, after a hard day on the slopes, you can relax and unwind in the charming town of Banff, which is known for its hot springs and vibrant après-ski scene.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort, British Columbia
Another skiing hotspact in BC, Revelstoke Mountain Resort is a must-visit for anyone seeking deep powder and challenging terrain. Known for having the most vertical slopes in North America at 1,713 metres, Revelstoke offers a thrilling experience for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort also features cat-skiing and heli-skiing options for those looking to explore its untouched backcountry powder.
Nakiska Ski Area, Alberta
Nestled in the heart of Kananaskis Country in Alberta, you’ll find the Nakiska Ski Area. Established for the 1988 Winter Olympics, Nakiska boasts meticulously groomed trails, high-speed lifts, and diverse terrain that caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Its proximity to Calgary, as well as its extensive snowmaking capabilities, solidify the area as a top skiing destination.
It’s also conveniently located near mountain resorts like the Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino. Just a short drive away, the resort is the perfect base for winter sports enthusiasts and features a variety of accommodation options, from cozy rooms to luxe suites. It’s comprehensive amenities, which includes a casino, dining options, and entertainment, provide a well-rounded experience
Destinations Further Afield
Although this article is centered mostly on the great skiing you can do in Canada there’s still plenty of other amazing resorts in the world to consider. Vaujany and Alpe d’Huez, nestled in the French Alps, remain a favorite for Canadian skiers looking to venture abroad during the winter months. Both resorts offer a distinctly European skiing experience, with Vaujany offering a traditional alpine village atmosphere—perfect for those who prefer a quieter retreat. Just a short lift away is Alpe d’Huez, known for its expansive ski area and diverse terrain. Alpe d’Huez boasts over 250 kilometers of slopes, including the legendary 16-kilometer Sarenne run, which is one of the longest black runs in the world. Check out our accommodation and picture yourself in one of the besy places to ski in the world.
Survival Guide: Things to Do Away from the Piste
Sure, you’re heading to the big mountains with one thing on your mind, and that’s to get as much time on the slopes as possible. But, all resorts have to close their trails at some point each day, so don’t cut yourself off from enjoying the myriad of activities available away from the piste. Most big resorts are often surrounded by towns and villages with vibrant food scenes. So, head out and indulge in local delicacies like poutine in Quebec, fresh seafood in British Columbia, and Alberta's famous beef. There are nearly always SPA facilities somewhere too to relax those achy muscles in thermal baths, saunas, steam rooms and masseuses to really work through the pains.
Remember to take advantage of the winter activities available at your ski resort too, especially those things that you don’t get to do everyday such as snowshoeing or even ice fishing. Or cosy up y the fire! You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your cabin to enjoy the full range of digital entertainment offering (Wi-Fi and 4G permitting). The recent growth of online online acccess worldwide, means there’s an array of exciting virtual experiences to dive into apres-ski. Platforms like Netflix are currently offering video games, while streaming services such as Crave curate the best national and international TV shows.
We don’t recommend hiding indoors for the whole duration of your time away from the piste, though. Staying at a mountain resort like the Stoney Nakoda Resort will give you access to gaming classics like Penny Slots and card and table games at its in-house casino.
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