Insider’s Guide: Skiing and snowboarding in Canada
From the adventurous west with its steep mountains and thigh-deep powder to the laidback east – there is so much variety to the skiing and snowboarding in Canada. In spite of all their differences, Canadian ski resorts share an excellent reputation amongst skiers and snowboarders for fantastic, wild scenery and incredible hospitality.
On the slopes
The beautiful ski resorts of the west of Canada have a snow sure reputation, recognised for the quality of fresh snow that abounds on the incredibly groomed pistes. In the east, the gentle slopes of Tremblant are perfect for beginners and the challenging mogul runs are great for experienced skiers.
Canada provides many opportunities to attempt skiing and snowboarding less familiar to European skiers. The colder weather makes skiing at lower altitudes easily accessible, opening up plenty of tree skiing. There are many chances to ski untracked snow via helicopter or snowcat – bringing intrepid skiers closer to the great outdoors.
Canadians take skiing very seriously. Many resorts, such as Whistler and Fernie are purpose built with skiers in mind. The excellent lift networks found in resorts across the country are modern and efficient, and ski schools provide world-class tuition.
Why choose Canada?
Atmosphere
Nature lovers will adore Canada. Not only is the scenery absolutely stunning, resorts such as Kimberley and Jasper have a frontier feel where it is easy to connect to nature. If you are lucky, you may encounter exotic wildlife such as moose or elk.
Canadians are renowned for their hospitality. And whether you’re being welcomed at your hotel or eating out in a restaurant you’ll be amazed at the friendly service and charming personalities you’ll meet during your holiday.
Food and drink
Canadians love great food and drink. Unlike in Europe many Canadian hoteliers don’t include evening meals with accommodation – but this works really well. Resorts are full of fantastic restaurants serving international cuisine, burgers and pizzas, and prices are generally affordable.
Grabbing a beer is a popular Canadian past time and there are plenty of great bars and even microbreweries in Canada’s ski resorts. On the east coast, the distinctive Quebec menu includes such regional specialities such as poutine and la sugar shack.
Highlights
Whistler
Widely regarded as one of the top skiing and snowboarding destinations in North America, if not the world! The massive ski area and extensive lift system, situated amongst epic mountains is heaven for piste bashers.
Mont Tremblant
The distinctive village of Tremblant, with its cobbled streets, is full of Quebecoise charm. And the well-groomed runs provide an excellent variety of skiing. It’s unsurprisingly the most acclaimed resort in Eastern North America.
Fernie
Fernie’s exceptional snow record and reputation for good powder has made it a must visit destination for ski and snowboard enthusiasts. Its cult status is unparalleled by anywhere else in the Canadian Rockies.
