British Columbia Ski Resorts

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Big White Ski Resort is where epic skiing meets endless family fun. Located in the heart of British Columbia’s beautiful Okanagan Valley, this resort dishes out some of the most jaw-dropping mountain views you’ll ever see. Imagine carving through powdery slopes with stunning panoramas of snow-dusted peaks—skiing at Big White is pure magic. What makes this place a standout is its legendary “champagne powder,” delivering perfect conditions for every skier and snowboarder. Big White is the ultimate playground for families. With an award-winning ski school, your little ones will be shredding in no time. And when you’re ready to mix it up, there’s plenty of off-slope action—think tubing, ice skating and even dog sledding to keep the smiles going all day long.

With its high elevation, Big White serves up reliable snow all season, ensuring you get the most out of every run. But this resort isn’t just about the slopes—it’s about the whole experience. The vibe is warm and welcoming, making it a top choice for families. Plus, with Canada’s largest ski-in, ski-out village, getting from your cozy lodge to the lifts is a breeze. With over 2,700 acres of varied terrain, from wide-open bowls to groomed runs, Big White has something for every skier in the family.

Highlights: Light, dry “champagne powder,” largest ski-in, ski-out village in Canada, "snow ghosts" and is designed with families in mind, offering a wide range of family-friendly activities and amenities.

Closest airport: Kelowna International Airport (YLW) - 37 miles (55 minutes)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Fernie Alpine Resort has certainly been causing a stir among our Mountain Travel Experts and the ski world on the whole—and it’s not hard to see why. Tucked away in the Lizard Range of British Columbia’s Rocky Mountains, Fernie serves up awe-inspiring views and the thrill of skiing on some of Canada’s best powder. For those who crave adventure, the resort offers access to legendary off-piste terrain, including the famous Five Bowls—steep, deep, and loaded with untouched powder. But the real showstopper? Fernie’s snow. Known for its epic snowfalls, Fernie boasts an average of 30 feet of natural snow each season, earning it the nickname “Powder Capital of Canada.”

If you’re looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush, Fernie is one of the few spots in Canada where you can experience cat skiing. This means endless fresh tracks and thrilling descents that are truly second to none. And after you’ve carved up the slopes, unwind in the charming town of Fernie, where you can explore local shops, cafes, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this mountain community. Fernie also knows how to keep the good times rolling after the lifts close. The après-ski scene here is vibrant and welcoming, with everything from cozy pubs to lively bars where you can relax and share stories from your day on the mountain.

Highlights: Incredible snowfall, averaging around 30 feet of natural snow each season, the famous Five Bowls, cat skiing and a genuine, laid-back mountain town atmosphere.

Closest airport: Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) - 65 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, known as the “Champagne Powder Capital of Canada,” is a true gem nestled in the rugged Purcell Mountains of British Columbia. This iconic resort is part of the Powder Highway and offers access to an impressive vertical drop of 4,133 feet—the fourth highest in North America. With over 120 runs and four massive bowls, Kicking Horse serves up some of the most challenging and diverse terrains you'll find anywhere, perfect for adventurous skiers and snowboarders. The resort's efficient lift system ensures you maximize your time on the slopes, even during peak season, allowing you to fully explore its expansive alpine playground.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is also home to the legendary Terminator 2 Peak, a thrilling in-bounds hike-to experience that promises jaw-dropping views and exhilarating descents. Plus, getting there is a breeze. Just a 3-hour drive from Calgary International Airport, Kicking Horse is easily accessible, making it a top choice for both Canadian and international skiers, and Ski.com’s Mountain Travel Experts couldn’t agree more! Whether you're carving through deep powder or enjoying the vibrant après-ski scene, Kicking Horse offers an unforgettable mountain adventure for all.

Highlights: A massive vertical drop, the fourth highest in North America, four vast and diverse bowls, hike-to terrain, the legendary Terminator 2 Peak and an exceptional skiing experience.

Closest airport: Calgary International Airport (YYC) - 180 miles (3 hours)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Panorama Mountain Resort is all the rage in the ski world and among our Mountain Travel Experts. Tucked away in the stunning Purcell Mountains of British Columbia, Panorama is a skier’s dream come true, famed for its epic snow conditions and sprawling terrain. With over 3,000 acres to explore and jaw-dropping vertical drops, this resort caters to every skier, from first-timers to seasoned pros. Plus, Panorama’s convenient access from Calgary and easy road connections make it a top choice for those seeking the ultimate Canadian alpine escape.

Sitting pretty at 7,800 feet, the village offers killer views of surrounding peaks like Mount Nelson. Panorama is also home to some of Canada’s top ski schools, making it a go-to spot for sharpening your skills. With expert instructors and personalized coaching, everyone gets the most out of their time on the mountain. Families especially dig Panorama’s “Discovery Zone,” where kids can safely cruise gentle slopes, ride magic carpets, and enjoy play areas designed just for them. The village combines the charm of a cozy mountain retreat with all the perks of a full-service resort. Think soothing hot pools, family-friendly dining, and a lineup of après-ski activities that keep the fun going long after the lifts close.

Highlights: One of the largest vertical drops in North America, a gateway to some of the best heli-skiing in the world, slopeside hot pools and a dedicated area with gentle slopes, magic carpets, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Closest airport: Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) - 90 miles (2 hours 15 minutes)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: RED Mountain Resort in British Columbia is the ultimate hidden gem for true ski enthusiasts, known for its authentic vibe and epic terrain. Tucked away in the heart of the Kootenay Rockies, RED is one of North America's oldest ski resorts, offering a rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience that has earned it a cult following. Unlike the glitzy, high-profile resorts, RED’s charm lies in its laid-back atmosphere and unpretentious character—this is where serious skiers come to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in pure mountain adventure.

RED Mountain boasts over 3,850 acres of pristine, skiable terrain spread across three peaks, catering to everyone from thrill-seeking powder hounds to intermediate cruisers. What sets RED apart? The diverse terrain includes everything from wide-open groomers to steep glades and challenging tree runs, all complemented by some of the best powder stashes in the region. This variety is a big reason why our Ski.com Mountain Travel Experts rave about RED. But it’s not just the skiing that makes RED special. The resort offers a range of winter activities, including cat skiing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing. RED is also home to a vibrant local community, with a lively après-ski scene that’s as welcoming as it is down-to-earth.

Highlights: One of North America's oldest ski resorts, property spanning over 3,850 acres across three mountains, refreshingly uncrowded and in-bounds cat skiing on Mt. Kirkup.

Closest airport: West Kootenay Regional Airport (YCG) - 25 miles (45 minutes)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Known for its deep powder and rugged mountain terrain, Revelstoke Mountain Resort in British Columbia offers an unparalleled skiing experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Our Mountain Travel Experts love the resort's mix of steep slopes, expansive backcountry and breathtaking views of the Columbia River. With the longest vertical descent in North America at 5,620 feet, Revelstoke is a haven for advanced skiers and snowboarders seeking an adrenaline rush that our Experts can’t stop talking about.

Revelstoke is also famous for its heli-skiing opportunities, attracting thrill-seekers from around the globe who want to carve tracks in untouched powder. The resort’s state-of-the-art facilities include the Revelation Gondola, which whisks you up the mountain to access over 3,100 acres of skiable terrain. Revelstoke Mountain Resort continues to buzz with innovation, offering a modern resort experience while retaining its authentic, wild mountain charm.

Highlights:  The longest vertical drop of any ski resort on the continent, renowned as a heli-skiing mecca, consistent and deep snowfalls, often referred to as "champagne powder" and over 3,100 acres of skiable terrain.

Closest airport: Kelowna International Airport (YLW) - 125 miles (3 hours)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: SilverStar Mountain Resort is where epic skiing and endless family fun collide in British Columbia’s gorgeous Okanagan Valley. Imagine you and your family carving down slopes with jaw-dropping views of snow-dusted peaks—skiing here is pure magic. SilverStar’s legendary “champagne powder” delivers perfect conditions for every skier and snowboarder, making it a must-visit for snow enthusiasts. This resort is a family favorite, thanks to its top-tier ski school that’ll have your little ones shredding in no time. And when you're ready for a break from the slopes, SilverStar’s got you covered with tubing, ice skating and fat biking to keep the good times rolling.

SilverStar’s high elevation means reliable snow all season long, ensuring you make the most out of every run. But it’s not just about the skiing—SilverStar offers a whole experience. The vibe is laid-back and welcoming, perfect for families looking for a fun and memorable getaway. Plus, the resort’s vibrant, ski-in, ski-out village makes getting from your cozy lodge to the lifts a breeze. With over 3,282 acres of varied terrain, from groomed runs to thrilling glades, SilverStar has something to thrill every skier in the family.

Highlights:  An extensive Nordic skiing network, renowned for its family-friendly environment, consistently receives some of the best powder conditions in the region and guided snowmobile safaris through the backcountry.

Closest airport: Kelowna International Airport (YLW) - 39 miles (55 minutes)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Whistler Blackcomb is the crown jewel of British Columbia’s Coast Mountains and a bucket-list destination for skiers and snowboarders worldwide. The largest ski resort in North America, Whistler Blackcomb offers an extensive network of trails, high-quality snow, and a legendary après-ski scene. The heart of the action? Incredible Tyrolean-style base villages, which are divided into the main Village, Upper Village and Creekside provide guests with a range of dining, lodging, après-ski bars, shopping and nightlife options to fit every ski vacation preference.

Families flock to Whistler Blackcomb for its dedicated family zones and top-notch ski schools, where kids can safely learn the ropes on gentle slopes and magic carpets. The resort's two connected mountains provide 8,171 skiable acres with a diverse set of trails from beginner to expert and everything in between. Despite the massive expanse, it’s quite easy to navigate thanks to the resort's PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola which connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountain. And let’s not forget the world-class backcountry that makes Whistler Blackcomb truly stand out. It’s no wonder our Ski.com Mountain Travel Experts can’t stop raving about this place.

Highlights:  The largest ski resort in North America, the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, was a host venue for the 2010 Winter Olympics, one of the highest vertical drops in North America and four unique base areas.

Closest airport: Vancouver International Airport (YVR) - 85 miles (2 hours 30 minutes)