I’ve been hitting the slopes this season, reigniting my love for skiing. It’s been glorious! For all you ski and snowboarding lovers, here’s a guest post with some of the best spot for skiing in Canada. Enjoy!
There’s nothing like a ski vacation to take the edge off of those winter blues. Having a tough time deciding which slopes deserve your attention this year? Strap on that snowboard, and give these resorts a whirl.
Banff, Alberta
Surrounded on all sides by Banff National Park, this high-altitude hot spot is known for its perfect powder. What’s more, Mount Norquay, Lake Louise and Sunshine Village are all within easy reach, so you’ll have an endless array of glades, bowls and tree-lined runs to keep you occupied. Head to the Upper Hot Springs after a day on the slopes; it’s the best way to ease those sore muscles.
Jasper, Alberta
You’d be forgiven for thinking that Jasper is a completely undiscovered gem. Home to the famous Marmot Basin Ski Resort, this beautiful area is more natural and hushed than its powdery counterparts. Though you’ll find plenty of can’t-miss alpine bowls and chutes, cross-country skiing is understandably popular here. Head to Evelyn Creek for a special challenge, or trek to Maligne Lake for some of the region’s best views.
Tremblant, Quebec
Perched among the gorgeous Laurentian range — and just a short distance from Montreal — Mount Tremblant is the ideal place for skiers and non-skiers alike. Spend a morning racing down the glades, and then head into the nearby villages to explore the eateries, boutiques and tranquil spas. If you’re traveling with children, don’t miss the local Kidz Club; your little ones will enjoy a full complement of just-for-them programs.
Golden, British Columbia
Golden’s Kicking Horse Resort boasts one unbeatable claim to fame: It’s home to one of North America’s highest drops. Of course, there’s more to Golden than its vertical perks. Alpine and heli-skiing are the things to do here, and the snowmobiling opportunities are definitely not to be missed.
Whistler, British Columbia
When it comes to winter wonderlands, nothing beats the majesty of Whistler. Sprawled across more than 8,000 acres, this enormous ski resort boasts 12 alpine bowls, five terrain parks and a series of wicked drops. Adventurers can even get their kicks beyond the lifts; the heli-skiing opportunities here are spectacular, and they let you explore terrain that’s otherwise unreachable. Just make sure to save enough time to explore the area’s charming village.
Collingwood, Ontario
Welcome to the beauty of Blue Mountain. This much-loved ski resort may be third in line for the title of Canada’s Most Popular, but the powder here is seriously first class. Dash down the 36 thrilling runs, test your skills at the three freestyle terrains, or try a special treat with the after-dark options. Not into skiing? That’s no problem; Blue Mountain offers a super-fun mountain coaster and ice-skating rink for those who don’t want to brave the slopes.
Have you been to any of the above? What was your favourite?
Have been to Collingwood, Tremblant, Whistler, Banff, and BC. Collingwood is not in the leagues of the other and not worth spending the money to fly to. Tremblant is often very cold and icy. My two favourites are Whistler and Banff.
Whistler is great because you can access both Whister and Blackcomb from the village but often it is raining in the village and have to get your mind set to get through it to the mountains, where it will be snowing. The fact that you never have to drive to the ski hills and there is hills for all ski abilities makes this an excellent choice.
Banff is also a favourite that I have returned to several times. It has the variety of hills/resorts, with Sunshine being my favourite of all. The only downside is that you have to drive to the different resorts – so a vehicle is a necessity.