How to plan the ultimate Western Canada ski vacation
Top travel tips from Doc Pow and Powder Matt, who have more than 40 years experience within the ski world
Comfy and convenient - Stay slope-side, commonly known as ski-in, ski-out accommodations. This is the No. 1 tip that will make your ski holiday so easy. It means you dont have to drive each day to and from the ski area. And for those in your group that may choose to only ski half day, its simple for them to go home, kick back with hot cocoa and read a book by the fire. Besides, they're probably sneaking into the hot tub and who can resist more time there right?
Make your dollar go farther - Saving money is always smart and you can do that by booking a package. Many ski resorts in British Columbia package lift tickets and lodging together, and usually both come with some savings. To get deeper savings, pick non-holiday and off-peak dates, and get those extras like upgraded units. Better yet, pick off-peak dates and book early to save even more money. Many ski resorts offer super savings when you book early, usually ending in November, so book now. This is known as pre-booking. Thankfully, British Columbia ski resorts such as Fernie Alpine Resort and Whistler are known for deals and snow, so that not only makes it easier on your pocketbook but also give you peace of mind.
Watch the weather - Snow really matters, so make sure you book in a region that gets plentiful amounts of natural snow. We are talking about snowstorms that come early and stay strong during prime winter months. And voila, you have incredible skiing and riding from early December through to mid-April. British Columbia stands out for having the top snowiest resorts, compared to many other famous ski regions in the world. The snowfall has been consistent over the past 10 years with some of the deepest snowpack anywhere.
Packing tips: Travel light and easy with what matters
Photo:
Abby Cooper
Don't bother bring your own your skis or snowboard. Travel light and quick without the extra baggage, because all destination ski resorts in British Columbia have top of the line rental ski and snowboard equipment.
But bring your own boots. Wearing your own ski or snowboard boots ensures that youll enjoy your day on the slopes, as long as you have the right fit. Foot pain is no fun, so we recommend skiing and riding in your boots to break them in before you take your ski vacation.
Learn to play in the powder. Dont worry if you have never skied fluffy, Champagne powder. Take a day-long lesson with a pro. Whistler Blackcomb and Fernie Alpine Resort have some of the best ski and snowboard instructors and they will make skiing and riding in deep powder so much fun. Afterwards, you'll be craving more powder kisses. Trust us!
So many great ski resorts: Here are a few we think you will like
Photo:
Andrew Strain
Snow, snow, snow
There's a reason British Columbia has become one of the top ski destinations in the world. It's all about the snow and the experience. Both Whistler Blackcomb, located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia and Fernie Alpine Resort, located in the Canadian Rockies, offer some of the deepest and most consistent snowfalls - over 30 feet per year.
Easy landings
Convenient and accessible airports are key to getting in and out quickly, so you can spend more time doing what you love. Both Vancouver International Airport for Whistler Blackcomb and Canadian Rockies International for Fernie Alpine Resort make access a snap.
Variety of terrain
You'll want something for everyone to enjoy, runs for all abilities and a variety of terrain to challenge all levels. Youu'll find this at Fernie Alpine Resort and Whistler Blackcomb. Both offer a variety of ski trails that will please all levels, from beginners to experts.
If you go
Grab yourself a great ski and stay package at Fernie Alpine Resort.
Book a ski and stay package at Whistler Blackcomb.
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