Four bucket list ski trips in British Columbia and Alberta

1) Powder Highway

Ski destination spotlight: Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Kicking Horse Ski Resort, Panorama Mountain Resort, RED Mountain Resort, Fernie Alpine Resort, Kimberley Alpine Resort, Whitewater Ski Resort

If you are planning a ski road trip in British Columbia, you can’t go wrong with BC’s Powder Highway. Stretching through the snow-draped Kootenay Rockies, this route links eight iconic ski resorts and a handful of local powder-laden communities that know how to keep the stoke alive on snow.

With waist-deep snow, epic glades, and jaw-dropping views every winter, BC’s Powder Highway has trails perfect for first-timers and challenges that will push even the most seasoned skiers to their limits.

If you’re up for a road trip and keen to meet new friends along the way, several buses and shuttles—like the Revelstoke Shuttle and Kootenay Shuttle—can also take you along the legendary Powder Highway.
 

2) Banff to Jasper via Icefields Parkway

Ski destination spotlight: Marmot Basin, Lake Louise Ski Resort, Sunshine Village, Mt Norquay, Nakiska

Winding through 230 kilometres of Alberta’s majestic Rockies, the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper is a must for those who are looking for breathtaking scenery and powder-filled excitement all in one ski road trip, with awesome shredding on both ends!

Enjoy snowy views to keep you in awe the whole drive down—pass by frozen waterfalls, dramatic glaciers, and famous landscapes like the Columbia Icefield. Be on the lookout for furry friends! You might be able to spot elk, bighorn sheep, or even wolves along this road trip.

SnowSeekers hack: while we encourage you to put the phone down and soak up the incredible nature around you, we know you still need it for navigation. However, many spots along the route have limited cell reception, so be sure to download offline maps on Google or carry a physical map before you set out!
 

3) Ski the SilverSun 

Ski destination spotlight: SilverStar Mountain Resort, Sun Peaks Ski Resort

The route between SilverStar and Sun Peaks offers a double dose of BC’s best winter playgrounds. With a distance of just 188 kilometres (about a 2.5-hour car ride) between the two resorts, you’ll be able to carve through epic pow and varied terrain in no time.

Keep your eyes on the prize, because road tripping is only half the fun! The skiing and snowboarding scene at SilverStar and Sun Peaks is the real star of the show.

At Sun Peaks, there's a whole new West Bowl Express chair to fuel exploration into powder terrain.

For an irresistible challenge, tackle Attridge Face at SilverStar. With its steep slopes and hidden powder stashes, this run is ideal for advanced skiers. Prefer a more scenic run? No problem. Take Gypsy Queen and enjoy the stunning mountain views that interior British Columbia has to offer.

Cross-country skiers, raise your hand! We got you too. Embark on Sun Peaks' extensive network of cross-country ski trails, offering over 34 kilometres of groomed, scenic routes for every skill level. Start with McGillivray Lake for a beginner-friendly experience, or challenge yourself on the Stellar’s Jay Loop, winding through snow-dusted forests with stunning alpine vistas. 

4) Northern BC, #skinorthbc

Ski destination spotlight: Troll Ski Resort, Hudson Mountain Bay Resort, Powder King, Murray Ridge

Northern BC is calling all powder chasers, with its lesser-known gems, powder covered glades and uncrowded slopes. Start on any end of the #skinorthbc loop—in Quesnel, Smithers or Prince George—to score some epic times.

Ski resort to town at Hudson Bay Mountain, ride the longest t-bar in North America at Murray Ridge, shred Powder King's famous pow and connect to the deep community at Troll. This ski trip won't just fill your bucket, it will fill your soul.

To make it easy, you can find four itineraries here, which you can customize to suit your tastes.
 

When you go

When is the best time to go? January through early March is the perfect window for your ski road trip adventure. Early to mid winter is always a good call because of the fresh snow and uncrowded slopes, while spring season brings sunny days and crystal-clear views. And who knows? You might just score a surprise late-season snowfall!

What should I prepare before I leave? Change your tires to winter tires and make sure your car is well fed before you leave. Pack essentials like water, snacks, blankets, and games to keep you fuelled and entertained along the ride. Bring a camera to capture those breathtaking views so you can relive them long after the trip. Remember to also check road conditions and stay updated through 511 Alberta and Drive BC. Safety first!

Haven't decided on a destination yet? No worries at all—head over to our Destinations page to check out the many options we have for winter activities, including top spots for skiing in British Columbia and Alberta.

Alright, you’re ready to hit the road! Don’t forget to send us pictures. You can tag us at @snowseekers to share your adventures on Facebook or Instagram, and potentially be featured on our channels.