Skiing in British Columbia

(53d7ec7e6cd18) Dubbed North America’s largest ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb is just 75 miles from the bustling metropolis of Vancouver. The resort connects two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, by a peak-to-peak gondola. It offers over 200 ski runs and 16 alpine bowls. Whistler Blackcomb's 8,171 acres of terrain are suitable for all types of skiers.

Located on Highway 3, the city of Fernie sits in the Elk Valley of the Rocky Mountains. The only municipality in the Canadian Rockies surrounded by mountains, it's known for having the best powder for skiing and snowboarding. As you approach the area, you'll notice five bowls, each with powdery snow and amazing terrain. Another attraction of Fernie is that it never gets too busy – it's the place for peace, relaxation, and great skiing.

(53cfdd6eac08e) 56km north of Kamloops lies Sun Peaks. With 4,270 acres of skiable terrain, the resort is considered the second largest in Canada. The area receives an average of 220 inches of snow per year, has more than 130 runs, and features gorgeous vertical drops that any skier would love. Like Fernie, Sun Peaks doesn't get overly crowded, and you may even get the slopes to yourselves!

(53cfdd8e8bea6) The highest mountain in the Okanagan Valley at 7,595ft, Big White is a family favorite. The accommodations offered in the area are high-quality, multi-purpose structures, and the center of the town is traffic-free, making it safe for children. There are many conveniently located places to stay in Big White Mountain, as well as ski-in and ski-out lodgings. You'll also find plenty of activities other than skiing, such as ice skating, dog sled tours, ice hockey, tubing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. It’s also possible for kids to ride a snowmobile.

The Purcell Mountains of southeastern British Columbia are home to the Panorama Mountain Resort. Considered one of North America's largest ski resorts at 2,487 acres, it also has outstanding vertical drops, ranking 5th behind big names such as Revelstoke and Whistler Blackcomb. It offers top-notch skiing facilities for families and groups. The resort features ski-in, ski-out lodgings, making it easy for you to herd everyone onto the slopes and get back to the cozy warmth of your cottage when it gets too cold.

At 5,280ft, Silver Star receives an annual snowfall of 23ft. There are 132 marked trails and vertical drops of up to 2,500ft. Like many family-friendly ski resorts, Silver Star Mountain offers a range of runs: beginner and intermediate skiers can head to Vance Creek, while advanced skiers will enjoy Putnam Creek's more challenging black diamond and double black diamond runs. Apart from skiing, you can also indulge in snowshoeing and snowmobiling with the entire family, or soak in the spa as the kids have a blast on the slopes.