11 Best Ski Resorts in Canada, 2024/25
Ski resorts in Canada may fly under the radar compared to Whistler Blackcomb, but don’t let that fool you—this country is home to many world-class resorts! With British Columbia’s Powder Highway boasting legendary destinations like Revelstoke, Fernie and Kicking Horse, Canada delivers deep powder, uncrowded slopes, and varied terrain that’s perfect for all ability levels. Add in Alberta’s iconic Banff and Lake Louise resorts, and there’s no shortage of bucket-list options.
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Known for
The largest ski resort in North America, boasting world-class terrain and a vibrant ski village.
Highlights
Over 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, featuring 200+ trails, 16 alpine bowls and glacier skiing for all levels.
Convenient access: A scenic 1.5-hour drive (75 miles) from Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
A lively pedestrian-only village offering high-end dining, boutique shopping and après-ski hotspots like Longhorn Saloon.
Unique attractions include the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.
While offering luxury and diversity, Whistler Blackcomb can be crowded and costly, especially during peak season, although with such a large mountain, the crowds are easily spread out.
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)
Why Ski Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler-Blackcomb combines the terrain of two mountains to become the largest ski resort in North America. With over 200 runs, serviced by 37 lifts, Whistler boasts 8,172 acres of skiable terrain that can accommodate everyone from first-timer skiers to extreme skiers. Known for its reliable snowfall averaging 461 inches annually, you can expect varied terrain, including bowls, glaciers, tree trails and five world-class terrain parks!
The pedestrian-friendly Whistler Village adds to the resort’s charm with diverse accommodation options, from cozy condos to luxury hotels, alongside vibrant après-ski, fine dining, shopping boutiques, and art galleries. Whistler’s long ski season—from November to May—and breathtaking scenery ensure it remains one of the world’s best ski destinations. Whether you’re here for the legendary Peak 2 Peak Gondola or pristine powder runs, Whistler Blackcomb delivers an unforgettable experience.
Known for
Mont Tremblant delivers a European-style ski village experience close to home, without the price tag of transatlantic airfare.
Highlights
Family-friendly resort just 90 minutes from Montreal, Mont Tremblant’s convenient location makes it one of the best family ski resorts in Canada.
Excellent nightlife right next to the slopes. The pedestrian-only village comes alive after dark with cozy pubs, live music venues and fine dining options.
With 102 trails spread across 755 skiable acres, Mont Tremblant caters to beginners, intermediates and advanced skiers seeking challenging runs.
While the resort is incredibly popular, midweek visits offer quieter slopes and a more relaxed experience.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 28 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 21 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Montreal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) - 89 miles (1 hour 40 minutes)
Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) - 104 miles (2 hours)
Why Ski Mont Tremblant
Mont Tremblant combines the charm of a French alpine village with world-class skiing, all just an hour and a half from Montreal, and under 2 hours from Ottawa. The trails at Mont Tremblant are not only extremely well groomed but offer an array of difficulty with around half of their 102 trails designated for experts—21% beginner, 32% intermediate and 47% advanced/expert.
At the base, the European-inspired pedestrian village offers luxury accommodations like Fairmont Tremblant, fine dining at La Quintessence, and boutique shopping. For families, Mont Tremblant shines with programs like Tremblant Snow School, indoor play centers and winter activities like snowshoeing, fat biking and cross-country skiing. Non-skiers can relax at the village’s spas or explore the region’s vibrant après-ski scene. Mont Tremblant’s unique blend of accessibility, scenic beauty and family-friendly amenities makes it Eastern Canada’s top ski destination.
3. Lake Louise
Known for
A world-class resort in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering epic skiing, breathtaking views and access to the SkiBig3 resorts with one lift pass.
Highlights
4,200 acres of terrain for all skill levels, from wide groomers to steep chutes and bowls.
Stunning views of Lake Louise, alpine glaciers, and the towering Canadian Rockies.
One of North America’s longest ski seasons—from early November to May.
Access to Banff Sunshine and Mt. Norquay with the SkiBig3 pass.
Expensive, lift tickets can range from $140–170 CAD ($98–119 USD)/day
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 5 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 6 May 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Calgary International Airport (YYC) - 125 miles (2 hours 15 minutes)
Why Ski Lake Louise
Lake Louise is the largest ski resort out of the 3 Banff resorts with an incredibly scenic view that is unparalleled, offering over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain and stunning, unparalleled views of the Canadian Rockies. It’s a family-friendly destination featuring wide, well-groomed trails that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels—25% beginner, 45% intermediate and 30% advanced terrain—including breathtaking bowls, steep chutes and powder-filled glades.
The resort is very family-friendly with a great variety of wide well-groomed trails that cater to skiers and boarders of all abilities. Being located 45 minutes from the town of Banff, you might want to consider renting a car for extra flexibility since you can ski the surrounding mountains of Banff Sunshine and Mount Norquay if you have a SkiBig3 pass. However, shuttle services are also available for those without rental cars, ensuring hassle-free transportation. If you’re looking to unwind after a day on the slopes, plenty of hotels offer luxurious amenities and a classic alpine experience.
Known for
Sunshine Village is the only resort in Banff with ski-in ski-out lodging and offers access to all SkiBig3 resorts on a single lift pass.
Highlights
Sunshine Village’s high altitude ensures consistency, with light powder throughout the season.
The Teepee Town LX chairlift features heated seats and enclosed cabins for maximum comfort.
Six months of pristine snow conditions—from November to May.
Visit midweek or arrive early to avoid peak crowds.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 8 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 22 May 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Calgary International Airport (YYC) - 95 miles (1 hour 40 minutes)
Why Ski Sunshine Village
Why Ski Sunshine Village
Banff Sunshine has one of the longest ski seasons that span across early November to mid-May. Located 9.3 miles southwest of Banff Village, the resort has terrain for beginners up to steep terrain for expert skiers. With a base elevation of 7,200 feet and an average annual snowfall of over 30 feet of dry, natural powder, Sunshine Village is a top choice for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Out of the three ski areas, Banff has the best powder snow due to its high elevation. Spread across three mountains—Goat’s Eye Mountain, Lookout Mountain and Mount Standish—the resort features wide-open runs for beginners, scenic intermediate terrain and steep chutes for experts.
While Sunshine Mountain Lodge is the only ski-in ski-out accommodation, most visitors stay in nearby Banff Village, just a 15-minute drive away, where a range of dining and lodging options are available. Remember that, with the SkiBig3 pass, skiers can access Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise and Mount Norquay, offering over 8,000 acres of terrain. Free shuttle services connect these resorts, making it easy to explore the region.
5. Big White
Known for
Canada's top family ski resort and renowned for champagne powder skiing.
Highlights
Big White is a powder paradise that receives an average of 295 inches of light, dry snow annually.
The largest fully ski-in ski-out village in Canada.
38 acres of illuminated trails, the largest night skiing area in Western Canada.
Happy Valley Adventure Park offers tubing, skating and sleigh rides, making it ideal for families.
Well-marked trails and cozy on-mountain lodges ensure a great experience, but fog and snowfall can limit visibility.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 22 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) - 35 miles (50 minutes)
Why Ski Big White
Big White’s massive 2,765 acres of terrain makes it a great place to learn to ski powder and experience some of Canada’s best tree skiing. You can expect consistent annual snowfall—300 inches—perfectly groomed trails and excellent conditions for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
The resort’s standout feature is its ski-in ski-out village, the largest in Canada, providing unparalleled convenience for guests wanting immediate access to the slopes. Families love Big White for its family-friendly amenities, including night skiing, tubing and Kid’s Centre programs. For those flying in, Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is just 35 miles (1 hour) away, making Big White one of the most accessible resorts in British Columbia.
Known for
A hidden gem in Banff offering affordable skiing, uncrowded slopes and access to three resorts with the SkiBig3 lift pass.
Highlights
Mount Norquay’s gentle terrain and quiet slopes are perfect for first-timers and families.
Norquay is ideal for budget-conscious skiers, with lower lift ticket prices compared to Lake Louise and Sunshine Village.
Mount Norquay is one of the few Canadian resorts to offer night skiing—experience the thrill of skiing under the stars.
As Banff’s oldest ski resort, Norquay combines a cozy atmosphere with modern amenities like a renowned terrain park.
The ski area is small and there is a notable lack of on-mountain lodging.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 16 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 21 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Calgary International Airport (YYC) - 88 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)
Why Ski Mount Norquay
Mt. Norquay is the smallest of the three resorts in Banff, which means you will barely find any lift lines given how busy the other Banff resorts can get. At Mount Norquay, you can expect a local, no-frills vibe and breathtaking views of the region with 190 acres of skiable terrain and a vertical drop of 1,650 feet. Norquay is ideal for beginners who want to accumulate vertical laps quickly on well-groomed trails, especially since you will be able to accumulate verticals quickly on the groomers. Although small in size, the resort still offers an undeniably breathtaking view of the region. Its minimal lift lines make it an excellent alternative to the busier Sunshine Village and Lake Louise resorts.
Although amenities are limited at the base, Norquay’s charm lies in its simplicity, while nearby Banff town, just 10 minutes away, is bustling with restaurants, bars, and shops. Unique features include night skiing and a fun family-friendly tubing park, offering something for everyone. With a SkiBig3 lift pass, visitors gain access to all three world-class resorts in Banff National Park, perfect for those wanting to explore diverse terrain across Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise.
7. Sun Peaks
Known for
Canada’s second-largest ski resort after Whistler-Blackcomb, with fewer crowds and a family-friendly village.
Highlights
4,270 acres of terrain across three mountains: Tod, Sundance and Morrisey.
Family-friendly mountain with ski-in ski-out lodging, a vibrant village and après-ski activities like tubing and ice skating.
Diverse terrain with 135 runs, offering impeccably groomed slopes, glades and powder-filled bowls.
237 inches of annual snowfall for reliable grooming and snowmaking that ensures excellent conditions.
Fewer crowds compared to Whistler-Blackcomb, offering a more relaxed skiing experience.
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
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) - 120 miles (2 hours 30 minutes)
Why Ski Sun Peaks
Sun Peaks offers an unparalleled family ski experience that is also relatively affordable in comparison to neighboring resorts. As Canada’s second-largest ski resort, it spans 4,270 acres of terrain across three interconnected mountains—Tod, Sundance, and Mt. Morrisey—featuring impeccably groomed slopes, glades and gentle runs perfect for beginners and intermediates, who make up 68% of skiers here.
The pedestrian-friendly village base boasts Canada’s largest ski-in ski-out lodging options, meaning easy access to slopes and amenities. Off the mountain, enjoy après-ski activities like tubing, snowshoeing, and dining at cozy village restaurants. You can find many ski-in/ski-out lodging options at the village base with a number of bars and restaurants to choose from. You can drive to Sun Peaks or catch a shuttle bus to the resort from Kelowna International Airport (YLW). Once you get to the resort, you won’t need a car as the village is all within walking (skiing) distance.
8. Revelstoke
Known for
Ideal resort for avid intermediates and advanced skiers, with North America’s biggest vertical drop and unmatched powder skiing.
Highlights
Biggest vertical drop in North America at 5,620 feet.
Receives 34 feet of dry, powdery snow annually, creating ideal deep-snow conditions.
Access to cat-skiing and heli-skiing right from the base, making it a top spot for adventure seekers.
Slopes are generally less crowded, offering a peaceful skiing experience.
Limited beginner terrain and base dining options.
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 International Airport (YLW) - 120 miles (2 hours 15 minutes)
Calgary International Airport (YYC) - 260 miles (5 hours)
Spokane International Airport (GEG) - 250 miles (5 hours 30 minutes)
Why Ski Revelstoke
Revelstoke Mountain Resort is a must-visit for advanced and intermediate skiers, boasting North America's largest vertical drop of 5,620 feet. With 3,121 acres of terrain, it features long, groomed runs, thrilling bowls, and legendary backcountry skiing opportunities. Intermediates and above will love the long, groomed tracks that course right back to the base, while beginner terrain is limited. Gentler slopes, like Turtle Creek and local ski schools, offer options for first-timers and families.
When staying at Revelstoke, it is recommended to stay in the town of Revelstoke itself, just a few minutes’ drive from the resort, providing an authentic, old-school ski-town vibe with excellent accommodations, dining and après-ski options. Visitors can also experience premier heli-skiing and cat-skiing directly from the resort, a major draw for adventure seekers looking to carve fresh tracks in untouched powder.
Known for
Uncrowded slopes, legendary powder skiing and world-class terrain for advanced skiers with a relaxed base village atmosphere.
Highlights
2,500 acres of terrain with 3,550 feet of vertical drop and over 30 feet of light, dry powder annually.
Expert skiers enjoy epic steeps, tree skiing and five alpine bowls, including the iconic Currie Bowl.
The nearby town of Fernie—5 miles away—offers unique off-slope activities like dog sledding and a climbing wall.
Family-friendly options with ski schools and beginner-friendly runs alongside advanced terrain.
Base village amenities include ski rentals, dining options and a relaxed après-ski vibe.
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
Calgary International Airport (YYC) - 190 miles (3 hours 30 minutes)
Why Ski Fernie Alpine
Fernie is known to have the best and most reliable powder in the Rockies mountain range with a historical average of up to 36 feet each winter. You will find over 2,500 acres of terrain, from thrilling off-piste runs and alpine bowls for experts to scenic, well-groomed trails for intermediates.
Keep in mind that the options are limited at the base if you wish to seek out accommodation and dining. The charming town of Fernie, just 5 miles away, provides a variety of lodging, restaurants and après-ski activities, such as exploring local breweries, historic shops and art galleries. For those seeking a multi-resort experience, consider combining a trip to Kimberley Alpine Resort, only 90 minutes away.
Known for
Variety of terrain, family-friendly atmosphere, and heli-skiing in the Purcell Mountains.
Highlights
2,975 acres of skiable area with a vertical drop of 4,265 feet.
Family-friendly activities, such as a skate rink, tubing, water slides and Panorama Springs Pools for post-ski relaxation.
Access untouched powder in the surrounding Purcell Mountains with heli-ski operators.
Cozy ski-in ski-out village with relaxed yet limited après and nightlife options.
Fewer crowds and a laid-back atmosphere compared to larger resorts.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 6 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 13 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Calgary International Airport (YYC) - 193 miles (3 hours 30 minutes)
Why Ski Panorama Mountain Resort
Panorama offers a variety of terrain blanketed with light dry interior BC powder. Expect 4,265 acres of skiable terrain, from gentle groomers for beginners to extreme off-piste runs like Taynton Bowl for advanced skiers. Powderhounds flock to the resort’s upper slopes, while intermediates enjoy wide, impeccably groomed trails winding through scenic forests. The resort receives an average of 196 inches of annual snowfall, ensuring excellent conditions throughout the season.
The resort’s purpose-built, mostly car-free village features Canada’s largest ski-in ski-out accommodations, providing convenient access to the slopes. Families can enjoy a variety of off-slope activities, including a skating rink and a pool complex with hot tubs, heated pools and water slides. Many lodging options include access to these amenities, enhancing the resort’s appeal for family vacations, including easy access from Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC)—2 hours away, Panorama delivers a crowd-free, relaxed mountain escape.
Known for
An authentic, off-the-beaten-path ski destination with legendary tree-skiing and a relaxed, local vibe.
Highlights
3,850 acres of skiable terrain and a 2,919-foot vertical drop, RED Mountain offers extreme chutes, open bowls and perfectly spaced tree-skiing.
An average of 300 inches of annual snowfall.
RED’s quieter slopes provide an unmatched, uncrowded experience compared to busier resorts.
Stay in the nearby town of Rossland, just 5 minutes away, for cozy lodging, local dining and a welcoming ski-town atmosphere.
The resort’s expansive layout can be tricky for first-time visitors.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 7 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 6 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Spokane International Airport (GEG) - 130 miles (2 hours 30 minutes)
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) - 200 miles (3 hours 45 minutes)
Why Ski RED Mountain Resort
RED Mountain is as local as it gets. With its legendary tree skiing, cliffs and steeps, RED Mountain has established a big reputation for experts! Don’t fret if you’re not an expert, as expansion in recent years has opened up more intermediate terrain and you’ll hardly ever see crowds around the resort. The old mining town of Rossland, a short drive (or free bus ride) away, offers more options for dining and lodging than the resort’s base village. However, keep in mind that RED Mountain has a bad reputation as being difficult to get to from the major airports.
