Nestled in the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Big White Mountain proudly holds the crown as Canada’s best family friendly ski resort. At less than an hour drive from Kelowna's international airport, getting your family here is a breeze. Hop on one of the many shuttles and get whisked away to the mountainside village at Big White Mountain.

Although Big White Mountain is known for its ample powder and expansive terrain, a multitude of fun events, festivals and off slope activities attract families from across the globe. Rather explore with your friends? Along with offering a vibrant European-styled ski-in-ski-out village, green runs from every chair, 5 powder bowls and even some extreme skiing, the resort's variety creates the perfect environment for a great ski holiday.

The Resort

Big White Mountain lives on the tallest mountain in the Okanagan Highlands, Big White Mountain. With a peak elevation of 2,319 m (7,606 ft) and a vertical drop of 777 m (2,550), the ski resort offers 2,765 acres of in-bounds skiable terrain. The resort is organized by chairlift zones ranging from easy greens to steep double blacks. There are also 38 acres of Night Skiing to enjoy.

Village Centre is located on the right side of the resort, about one third up the mountain. Conveniently, it’s also surrounded by green runs with a couple going right through it. This is where you’ll find the majority of the town’s shops, restaurants and accommodations.

At the base of the mountain, you'll find Snow Ghost and Ridge Rocket Express which takes you three quarters of the way up the mountain. These chairs offer skiers and snowboarders a variety of blue and black groomed runs with some glades and the ability to traverse anywhere on the resort.

Big White Mountain’s summit is only accessible by a T-bar lift. Wide open green runs dotted with snow ghosts entice novice skiers whereas Parachute bowl and the Cliff Chair give advanced guests the most challenging terrain at the resort.

Lower down on the right side, you’ll find Bullet and Black Forest Express. This area holds high quality green and blue groomed runs that are great for warming up and lapping with the family. It’s also home to the resort's iconic Telus Terrain Park.

The left side of the resort is where advanced skiers and snowboarders love to hangout. Gem Lake houses the most groomed black runs and glades of all difficulties. Additional chair lifts such as Falcon and Powder Chair allow access to frequently wind load zones. There’s also a warming hut at the Gem Lake base with an eatery and rather nice views.

When to Visit

Big White Mountain’s ski season is similar to most British Columbia ski resorts. The lifts turn from late November to mid April giving guests over 5 months to visit. If you’re looking for the best chance at great conditions and big snow storms, February and March are two excellent months to bet on.

In February, everything is open, the base is healthy and powder days are a regular occurance. If you want to experience the quietest time of the year and the best chance at pow days, the last week of February is prime. February can also be the coldest month to visit the resort with cold snaps driving temperatures below -20 ºC (-4 ºF) in the alpine.

Rolling into March brings school holidays and with it, families from across North America to the slopes. In addition to great skiing at this time of the year, there are tons of activities and events both on and off the slopes.

The most magical time of the year to visit though will be around the Christmas holidays. The village and slopes are bustling and there’s tons of celebrations and festivities happening. It can be a lot to take in though, luckily there’s quieter accommodation available at the edge of the village.

Packing for the Weather

Big White Mountain's averages 7.5 m (24.5 ft) of snow annually with the majority of it being light and dry Winter storms are also consistent through the entire ski seasons with each month receiving several feet of snow.

Big White Mountain can also experience a lot of fog which can make it challenging to see. Ensure you bring a low light lens for your goggles.

Temperatures average around -7ºC (20 Fº) at the base and colder than -10 ºC at the peak. You’ll want warm base and mid layers and a waterproof shell.

In terms of skis or snowboards to bring, go with something All mountains or freeride specific. Given the amount of fresh snow that falls, you’ll want to take advantage of a wider base. Alternatively, rent something specific to the conditions at one of the resort’s rental shops.

Where to Stay

There is no shortage of accommodation at Big White Mountain. Hotels, lodges, condos, chalets are all available. Although the village is fairly small and walkable, it can be cumbersome to move around with luggage and kids if you have to switch accommodation. That’s why it’s best to study the village map, stay in one location and find accommodation suitable for your needs.

The Stonegate Resort, located right in the centre of the village is an ideal option for families, couples and groups. This ski-in-ski-out resort offers one, two, three and four bedroom suites with full kitchens, fireplaces, hot tubs, in-suite laundry and plenty of room to relax.

There’s also indoor / outdoor pools, two game rooms, a movie theatre, lounge and fitness facility. The central location in the heart of the village means easy access to shops, restaurants, slopes and more.

For those looking for a more peaceful setting, Snowbanks is located in a quiet setting away from the main village centre. These properties offer two and four bedroom units with private parking, garages and all of the amenities of a full house. These are still ski-in-ski-out with easy access to Snowghost and Ridge Rocket Express.

No matter where you’re staying, there’s an On-Mountain shuttle that can bring you around the resort free of charge. The shuttle stops at many points around the village and usually runs till 9:00 pm. Forewarned, there are no taxis here so plan your evening activities with this in mind.

Off-Slope Activities

Big White Mountain puts a lot of effort into offering a variety of off-slope activities. Be sure to check out the Events Calendar for up to date info.

Fireworks happen every Saturday which is always a fun time, especially with a thermos of something warm. Tubing is big here with 5 slopes to explore with the kids. Outdoor Ice Skating is a Canadian tradition and a must try for guests. Bring your own skates and stick or rent them at the resort. Have a leisurely skate or partake in a friendly pickup hockey game with the locals.

Nordic and Wilderness trails to the tune of 25 km (15.5 mi) provide outdoor exploration in the forest by foot, snowshoe or cross country skiing.

The Neil Edgeworth Memorial Banked Slalom is a legendary race that’s happened annually since 1987. One of the best events of the year which happens in the Spring.

Additional tours like dog sled, horse sleigh rides and snowmobile tours can be found here.

Where to Eat

Snowshoe Sam’s is not only an excellent eatery but it’s an absolute hoot of a time. Surprisingly, it’s been voted North America’s best ski bar due to it’s vibrant atmosphere, and numerous nighttime events.

Fourth Ace Bar and Smokehouse is a newer notable mention for those who like a bit of smoke on their meat. The restaurant served mouth-watering smoked morsels and a long list of tasty beverages.

Happy Valley Après is where families can hang out, eat, play games and enjoy a more child-friendly environment.

What’s Next?

Big White Mountain sets itself up as one of Canada’s best ski resorts. With the ample terrain choice, family friendly atmosphere and multiple off-slope activities, crafting the perfect trip is now within your grasp.