5 Best Ski Resorts in British Columbia, 2024/25

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, covered in snow.
Karl Sander
Written by Karl Sander / Photos by Greg Burke
Last updated 21 April 2025

Home to some of the best skiing in Canada, British Columbia boasts world-renowned terrain, deep powder, and charming mountain towns. From the adrenaline-pumping steeps of Revelstoke to the family-friendly trails at Fernie, we’ve picked the top ski resorts in British Columbia along the legendary Powder Highway that deserve a spot on your winter bucket list.

Table of Contents

Known for

Largest ski resort in North America with the ultimate ski village

Highlights

  • 8,171 acres of terrain across Whistler and Blackcomb mountains with 200+ trails.

  • Just 75 miles from Vancouver, accessible via scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway or direct shuttle.

  • Lively Whistler ski village with bars, dining, spas and shopping right at the base.

  • Part of the Epic Pass network, offering multi-resort access and seasonal ticket deals.

  • High lift ticket prices and holiday crowds—plan ahead or visit during shoulder season for value.

24/25 Ski Season:

  • Opening Date: 22 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
  • Closing Date: 21 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)

Closest airports

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

Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) - 115 miles (3 hours)

This is Whistler Blackcomb!
This is Whistler Blackcomb!

Why Ski Whistler Blackcomb

As the largest ski area in North America, Whistler Blackcomb skiing stands out for its sheer scale and diversity. Over 200 marked runs, five terrain parks and access to inbounds backcountry, bowls, glaciers and tree trails await you, it’s no wonder this Canada ski vacation hotspot is considered world-class. A destination within itself, Whistler Village has everything you’d ever want from a ski village. There are endless options for pretty much anything with an abundance of accommodation, dining options, lively nightlife venues and a long list of non-skiing activities. Best of all, Whistler Blackcomb is part of the Ikon Pass ski resorts network, giving visitors access to incredible skiing value.

Known for

Often voted among Canada’s top family ski resorts, Big White Ski Resort is renowned for its legendary powder and unbeatable convenience.

Highlights

  • Averages 295 inches of light, dry snow annually, excellent for powder skiing.

  • Nearly all lodging options ski-in ski-out, perfect for families and groups.

  • Western Canada’s largest night skiing area.

  • Features a dedicated kids’ center, tubing park and Tot Town Daycare.

  • Due to frequent snowfalls and high elevation, foggy conditions can occur.

  • Can get crowded on holidays and weekends.

24/25 Ski Season:

  • Opening Date: 26 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
  • Closing Date: 6 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)

Closest airports

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) - 38 miles (1 hour drive)

If you are looking for champagne powder, Big White is your resort!
If you are looking for champagne powder, Big White is your resort!

Why Ski Big White

Big White is incredibly family-friendly because it has a convenient resort base and relatively mellow slopes. Known for its welcoming village atmosphere and nearly 300 inches of powder annually, it provides ideal snow conditions for beginner and intermediate skiers. To top this off, Big White’s entire village is covered by ski-in ski-out accommodations which makes it extremely accessible, especially if you have little ones. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Big White features snowshoeing trails, Canada’s largest resort-based ice rink, a tubing hill and snowmobiling tours—perfect for families seeking winter adventure beyond the slopes!

Known for

Canada’s second-largest ski resort after Whistler-Blackcomb, with fewer crowds and a relaxed vibe.

Highlights

  • Family-friendly alpine village with plenty of après-ski activities for all ages.

  • Over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain, including wide groomers, glades and powder bowls.

  • Consistently ranked among the top family ski resorts in Canada.

  • Less crowded than larger resorts, offering a more laid-back experience.

  • Average annual snowfall of 237 inches.

24/25 Ski Season:

  • Opening Date: 23 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
  • Closing Date: 13 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)

Closest airports

Kamloops Airport (YKA) - 38 miles (45 minutes)

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) - 128 miles (2 hours 45 minutes)

Explore Canada's second largest resort!
Explore Canada's second largest resort!

Why Ski Sun Peaks

As Canada’s second-largest ski resort, Sun Peaks Ski Resort offers over 4,270 acres of skiable terrain spread across three distinct mountains, connected by an intuitive lift system. With more than 130 trails, the resort caters to all ability levels—from wide-open beginner runs to tree-lined steeps on Mt. Morrisey. Visitors will love the ski-in ski-out Canada convenience of the European-style village, complete with cozy accommodations, après bars, and dining. Known as a top-rated family ski resort in Canada, Sun Peaks offers childcare, ski school programs, and crowd-free slopes—ideal for families and first-time skiers. Located just 45 minutes from Kamloops Airport, with regular shuttles from Kamloops and Kelowna, it’s both accessible and affordable. For planning, download the official Sun Peaks trail map to discover the best terrain for your crew.

Known for

Ideal resort for powder-seeking intermediates and advanced skiers.

Highlights

  • Boasts the biggest vertical drop in North America and averages over 400 inches of snowfall annually.

  • "Kill the Banker" is a must-try black run for thrill-seekers.

  • Cat-skiing and heli-skiing in Revelstoke can be booked right from the base.

  • Crowds are minimal thanks to the resort’s remote location and more advanced terrain.

  • Located near Kelowna International Airport, with shuttle transfers available.

  • Terrain is not well-suited for beginners.

  • Base village amenities are limited.

24/25 Ski Season:

  • Opening Date: 30 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
  • Closing Date: 21 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)

Closest airports

Kelowna Intl. Airport - 120 miles (2.5 hour drive)

Revelstoke has the biggest vertical drop in North America!
Revelstoke has the biggest vertical drop in North America!

Why Ski Revelstoke

Revelstoke is one of the most thrilling ski resorts in British Columbia, offering serious vertical (the largest vertical drop in North America at over 5,620 feet) and deep, consistent snow conditions. This world-class ski destination is most suitable for intermediate and expert skiers, with challenging terrain, tree skiing, and access to backcountry skiing, cat-skiing, and heli-skiing in Canada—all departing directly from the resort base. The terrain here is steep, varied, and perfect for thrill-seekers who prefer fewer crowds and longer, more technical descents. While there are some beginner slopes and a learning area, Revelstoke skiing primarily caters to more seasoned skiers and snowboarders looking for adventure.

Revelstoke is also a key stop along the Powder Highway, a circuit of ski resorts in British Columbia known for massive snowfall and rugged terrain. It receives an average of 400+ inches of snow per year, making for excellent powder days and reliable snow conditions throughout the season. Although it’s more remote—around 2.5 hours from Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and 5 hours from Calgary International Airport (YYC)—the journey is well worth it for those looking to experience one of the most authentic and exhilarating ski resorts in British Columbia. Shuttle services are available from both airports, or visitors can rent a car for greater flexibility.

Known for

Crowd-free slopes with quality snow, epic expert terrain and a relaxed base village along the Powder Highway.

Highlights

  • Tons of light, dry powder with over 350 inches of average annual snowfall.

  • World-class expert terrain with five alpine bowls and challenging steeps.

  • Nearby town of Fernie offers unique activities like dog sledding, indoor climbing wall and boutique shopping.

  • Basic amenities at the base, and a laid-back charm that appeals to seasoned skier.

  • Part of the Ikon Pass, offering multi-resort access and great value for frequent skiers.

  • Night skiing available on select weekends during peak season.

  • Heli-skiing in Fernie is available for those looking to explore untouched backcountry terrain.

24/25 Ski Season:

  • Opening Date: 29 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
  • Closing Date: 13 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)

Closest airports

Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) - 33 miles (1 hour)

Fernie Alpine is the perfect expert's playground! Just check out the Curry Bowl!
Fernie Alpine is the perfect expert's playground! Just check out the Curry Bowl!

Why Ski Fernie Alpine

Sitting along British Columbia’s famed ‘Powder Highway’, Fernie Alpine Resort is a dream destination for powder lovers and expert skiers alike. Located in BC’s interior, the resort benefits from frequent snowstorms that drop light, dry powder—thanks to moisture being squeezed out over the Rockies. With an impressive average snowfall of over 360 inches annually, Fernie offers deep days and untouched stashes for days after a storm. Skiers and snowboarders can explore world-class terrain, including steep chutes, glades, and the resort’s signature five alpine bowls: Cedar, Lizard, Currie, Timber and Siberia. With over 2,500 skiable acres and a vertical drop of 3,550 feet, it’s a bucket-list stop for advanced riders.

Fernie is part of the Epic Pass, offering great value for passholders seeking fewer crowds and big mountain lines. While the base village is low-key, it includes ski-in ski-out accommodations, a few restaurants and basic services. The nearby historic town of Fernie (just 10 minutes away) provides more après-ski options, from cozy pubs and live music to dog sledding, a climbing wall and cultural attractions.