Categories: Travel

A world-famous mountain village in B.C. will host its annual pond-skim competition next month

Photo via Red Bull Canada

Situated just 20 minutes from Invermere, Panorama is a quaint mountain village in the Purcell Mountains known as the “Powder Highway” that’s home to one of the most popular ski and golf resorts in the province, as well as the world’s longest skating path. So it’s worth planning a visit regardless of the time of year!

One of B.C.’s top ski and golf resorts

In 2011, the Alpine Club of Canada named Panorama the Resort of the Year, a title it has upheld with its commitment to being the best family-focused mountain resort in Canada, according to Columbia Valley Tourism.

The village consists of over 4,000 groomed slopes, alpine glades, and bowls, in addition to a ski-in, ski-out base area with a free village gondola and the Panorama Springs outdoor hot pools.

During the warmer months, visitors can check out the beautiful blue-green waters of Toby Creek or head to the world-famous Greywolf Golf Course, which draws golfers from across the globe to its famed “Cliffhanger” hole 6.

There’s also a popular water park to cool down at with water slides and a shallow-entry pool. Once the season commences, family activities such as campfires, movie nights, crafts, archery, and beach volleyball will start back up, so stay tuned for more info on that to come.

Annual pond-skim competition

Before the weather heats up, there’s one last major showdown to send off ski season: The Red Bull Slopesoakers competition and festival. Think of it as one last aprés-ski party, where skiing, snowboarding, music, and unique costumes come together for an unforgettable day on the mountain.

The pond-skim competition will feature competitions across multiple ponds varying in difficulty level, with “a high chance of getting soaked.” Participants take on high-flying action as they descend, making it an exciting event to watch and take part in.

The resort will award prizes for the best overall competitors, as well as a new award for the “Best Canadian Costume.”

“Bigger water ponds, innovative rails, and hand-built features provide the ultimate challenge for competitors to conquer, all while pulling off impressive tricks and flips,” shares event organizers. “Beyond just the tricks, expect jaw-dropping outfits that elevate the spectacle.”

Note that anyone aged 16 and older can participate for $20 per person.

Looking for more opportunities to explore the area? The nearby downtown in Invermere has a relaxed atmosphere and tons of specialty boutiques, cafes, pubs, galleries, and bookstores to visit. Grab a local pint at Arrowhead Brewery or The Station, or fuel up for a day of adventuring at Strand’s Old House Restaurant.

So mark your calendars and get ready for some end-of-ski-season fun.