Here's when BC's top ski hills open for the season & what to expect
Great news, skiers and snowboarders! This year’s ski season is looking way better than last year’s, and many of British Columbia’s top ski resorts have announced earlier opening days! So let’s not dwell on the rainy, cold days ahead in Vancouver – but instead, get ready to hit the slopes! Here’s when the top BC ski hills open for the season.
Whistler Blackcomb
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Thanks to a ton of new snow on Friday, November 15th, Whistler Blackcomb is set to officially open for the season on Thursday, November 21st – a day earlier than originally planned!
Stretching over two mountains with state-of-the-art technology, this world-famous ski hill is getting a couple of upgrades this season. For one, there will be an upgraded, high-speed Jersey Cream Chairlift, expected to increase uphill capacity and reduce lift-line wait times.
Oh, and Whistler Blackcomb passes are currently 65% off until December 2nd!
When: Opens Thursday, November 21st
Where: 4545 Blackcomb Way, Whistler
Grouse Mountain
In addition to the iconic Grind, Grouse Mountain boasts a ton of fun winter activities, from downhill skiing to ice pond skating and a holiday light walk. And the ski hill is already open for the season!
When: Now open
Where: 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver
Sun Peaks
Considered the second largest ski area in Canada, Sun Peaks is situated 45 minutes from Kamloops, with two alpine bowls and 138 runs total. Plus, there will be new skiable terrain to add to the mix starting Saturday, November 23rd, when it officially opens for the season.
When: Opens Saturday, November 23rd
Where: Sun Peaks, BC
Baldy Mountain Resort
If you find yourself near BC’s only desert, a trip to Baldy Mountain Resort is a must. This Okanagan Valley resort actually has the 3rd highest base elevation in Canada, making for one of the best powder skiing experiences in the country. And it will officially open for the season on Friday, November 29th.
When: Friday, November 29th
Where: 2680 Mount Baldy Road, Oliver
Mt Seymour Resort
Vancouver’s only family-owned and operated ski resort, Mt Seymour, is just a half an hour’s drive from downtown. And it’s well known for its mix of beginner-friendly hills and advanced terrain!
Visitors of all ability levels can look forward to its opening on Friday, December 13th.
When: Opens Friday, December 13th
Where: 1700 Mt Seymour Road, North Vancouver
Apex Mountain Resort
Nestled west of Penticton, Apex Mountain has some great stuff on-piste, no doubt, but that is greatly overshadowed by the absolutely massive backcountry terrain it offers. If you’re properly trained, this is an easy way to enjoy untouched powder every time you visit.
According to the resort, the ski hills will officially open for the season on Saturday, December 7th.
When: Opens Saturday, December 7th
Where: 324 Strayhorse Road, Keremeos
Big White Ski Resort
Considered one of North America’s top ski resorts, Big White is opening for the season on Thursday, November 28th. Its proximity to Kelowna, incredible Okanagan views, and family-friendly attractions make it a great place to go on a winter staycation!
When: Opens Thursday, November 28th
Where: 5315 Big White Road, Kelowna
Cypress Mountain
With 600 skiable acres and 6 lifts, Cypress is definitely a top-tier winter sports destination for folks coming in from the city. In fact, it’s considered Vancouver’s largest ski resort, which means there is no shortage of options when it comes to skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and more. While the resort hasn’t officially dropped its opening date just yet, it should be coming soon.
When: TBA this week
Where: 6000 Cypress Bowl Road, West Vancouver
And that’s a wrap on some of the top BC ski hills for now, snowbirds. Stay tuned for more info as it comes!
