With so much fabulous skiing and snowboarding to be had, it comes as no surprise that choosing a destination to vacation to is not as easy as it once was. Ultimately, the decision will be determined by the visitor’s needs – level of difficulty, number of runs, nearby attractions and amenities and even the type of accommodation provided.
Located just two hours drive from Vancouver, Whistler is British Columbia’s premier mountain destination, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding on its impressive vertical terrain. Towering peaks seem to touch the clouds while champagne powder blankets the steep land, allowing its visitors to glide almost effortlessly downhill. Worthy of its accolades, Whistler boasts nearly year-round glacial skiing, ensuring the most exhilarating alpine experience. The buzzing Village center offers visitors trendy boutique shopping, unique dining options and a fabulous nightlife, keeping them entertained both on and off the ski hill. With a seemingly endless list of available accommodations ranging from private vacation rentals to luxurious five star resorts, Whistler truly has something for everyone.
British Columbia’s beautiful Okanagan Valley offers three of its own extraordinary ski destinations; Big White, Silver Star and Sun Peaks, each promising something different from the other. Big White, situated 45 minutes southeast of Kelowna, features ski-in/out access throughout the resort, making it highly desirable among families alike. The newest addition to Big White is the Snow Ghost Express, Canada’s longest six-passenger lift, carrying skiers upwards of 6,000 feet in just six minutes, ensuring visitors spend more time enjoying the mountain activities. Soar down the groomed lanes of the Mega Coaster, the infamous tube park, providing endless hours of enjoyment for all ages. With lodging accommodations ranging from idyllic cabins to chic chalets, Big White is certain to leave a lasting impression.
Silver Star Resort, consisting of over 3000 acres of stunning alpine scenery, enables skiers of all skill levels to enjoy the fabulous Okanagan powder. The mountain face of Vance Creek offers visitors the opportunity to indulge in wide-open trails, while Putnam Creek is geared toward the thrill-seeker, providing challenging runs and rugged terrain. With a long list of family-friendly activities including ice skating, tubing and sleigh rides, Silver Star is a charming destination to escape to for an upcoming vacation. Providing a quaint backdrop for creating precious memories, the brightly colored buildings of the Victorian-style Village promises tasty meal options and unique shopping. With an abundance of cozy accommodations to be discovered, visitors are bound to find something to suit their needs.
Situated just 50 kilometers from Kamloops, British Columbia, Sun Peaks, while quickly developing, offers an intimate resort feel. Aptly named “Little Whistler”, this delightful destination features a bustling Village, a lengthy list of lovely accommodations and a friendly atmosphere. With ski-in/out access to the over 3,600 acres of magnificent terrain spread over three separate mountains, Sun Peaks promises a unique alpine experience. The 117 runs and 12 gladded areas provide skiers and snowboarders with varying degrees of difficulty, ensuring the entire family’s needs are met.
Experience the Canadian Rockies by taking in all that Fernie Alpine Resort has to offer. Whether a novice or an expert, this impressive B.C. destination is sure to please all who visit. With an average snow fall of nearly 30 feet per year, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the 107 marked runs and some of the finest powder bowls that can be found within North America. From rustic-inspired cabins to full-service resorts, it’s all waiting to be discovered at Fernie.
Whatever the decision, wherever the destination – Whistler, Big White, Silver Star, Sun Peaks or Fernie – British Columbia promises unparalleled, world-class skiing, ensuring the return of its avid alpine enthusiasts, year after year.
Article by OKChalets author: Melissa MacDougall
For more information on these and other great Canadian ski destinations as well as Fernie Accommodations, Sun Peaks Lodging and Big White Rentals - please visit www.okchalets.com