The ingredients to a perfect ski destination are as follows: breathtaking scenery, fresh powder, diverse (and challenging!) terrain, modern facilities, and a strong après scene. Our neighbors to the north? They deliver on all of the above, and then some. Indeed, the best skiing in Canada hits all the marks when it comes to a world-class ski destination.
British Columbia has the lion’s share of Canada’s ski resorts, with the iconic Powder Highway running through the region’s Kootenay Rockies. Here you can expect adrenaline-fueled adventures, like heli-skiing, as well as quintessential ski towns and luxury backcountry lodges. Eastern Canada also has a ski scene worth checking out (more on that below), and is especially appealing for those living in New York City where reaching Quebec is only an hour-and-a-half flight.
This winter, rather than frequenting the same old slopes, head north for Canada’s world-famous ski resorts and enjoy the country’s impressive amount of snow and impeccable terrain.
Whistler Blackcomb
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No doubt the best-known ski resort in Canada, Whistler Blackcomb offers 8,100 acres of terrain stitched together by two interconnected mountains (the largest skiable area in all of North America, in fact). The resort is beloved for several reasons—perhaps most notably thanks to the diverse runs available for all skill levels. The world-famous scenery is also a big draw, as are the world-class facilities (think: on-mountain lodges, high-speed lifts, and plenty of restaurants and après ski bars).
The resort is about two hours north of Vancouver and has the world’s longest continuous lift system with a gondola that connects the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb. These side-by-side mountains receive an average of 34 feet of snowfall annually across their 200 marked runs, 16 alpine bowls, and three glaciers. Whether you’re a first-timer, carving with the entire family, or an expert in search of backcountry powder, Whistler Blackcomb has it all… and then some.
Where to Stay
Resembling a European Alpine vignette, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler has rich wood interiors, roaring fireplaces, and spacious guest rooms. The heated outdoor pool and three whirlpools have panoramic views of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains and are open all year long. Book a private full-day lesson through the resort’s ski concierge, followed by an indulgent treatment at the spa. Nita Lake Lodge offers a boutique hotel experience and is serenely positioned by Whistler Creek. Guests can enjoy the rooftop hot tubs (cue the mountain scenery), a barrel sauna, and festive holiday programming throughout the holiday season.
Lake Louise
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