The Best Winter Resorts in Canada for a Magical Getaway
Canada, with its vast landscapes and snowcapped mountains, is a winter wonderland that draws visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re a ski fanatic, a family searching for a warm winter hideaway, or just want to escape to a serene snowy paradise, Canada’s winter resorts have something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of some of Best Winter Resorts in Canada, including location, budget, and amenities.
1. Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia.
Location: Whistler, BC (two hours from Vancouver)
Average lodging costs between $200 and $500 per night, with lift tickets starting at $150 per day.
Whistler Blackcomb, one of North America’s best ski resorts, is a skier’s and snowboarders’ paradise. With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain and 200+ defined routes, it’s clear why winter sports lovers flock here. But Whistler is more than just skiing; the picturesque pedestrian village features a range of stores, gourmet eating, and après-ski activities. Spas, dog sledding, zip-lining, and the well-known Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains, are also available at Whistler Blackcomb.
2. Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta.
Location: Banff National Park in Alberta.
Average budget: $250-$600 per night; lift tickets start at $130 per day.
These two resorts, nestled within the breathtaking Banff National Park, offer an amazing experience in the Rocky Mountains. Lake Louise Ski Resort and Banff Sunshine Village are well-known for their stunning scenery, high-quality snow, and courses ideal for all skill levels. Staying in Banff or Lake Louise allows you to visit the picturesque mountain towns, frozen lakes, and ice castles. Ice skating on Lake Louise is the classic Canadian experience. Banff’s thermal hot springs, restaurants, and boutiques contribute to the winter charm, creating an ideal balance of adventure and relaxation.
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3. Mont Tremblant, Quebec
Location: Laurentian Mountains in Quebec (90 minutes from Montreal).
The average budget is $150-$400 per night; lift tickets start at $100 per day.
Mont-Tremblant is a lively, European-style resort that provides an exhilarating blend of skiing, snowboarding, and après-ski culture. It has 102 trails spanning four mountain sides, catering to everyone from beginners to specialists. The pedestrian village exudes color and charm, with cobblestone lanes dotted with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. The resort also provides dog sledding, snowshoeing, and ice skating on Lac Tremblant. Mont-Tremblant, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, is a popular winter destination with a distinct French-Canadian flavor.
4. Big White Ski Resort in British Columbia.
Location: Kelowna, BC (an hour’s drive from Kelowna Airport)
The average budget is $120-$400 per night; lift tickets start at $125 per day.
Big White is a popular ski and snowboard destination due to its constant, dry powder snow. The resort has 119 runs and a quaint village center with restaurants and stores. Families like the variety of activities, such as tubing, dog sledding, and ice climbing. Big White’s “Ski-In, Ski-Out” accommodations allow you to hit the slopes directly from your door. Big White is suitable for both adrenaline seekers and those who want to enjoy the snow at a leisurely pace.
5. Sun Peaks Resort, British Columbia.
Location:Kamloops, BC (45 minutes from the Kamloops Airport)
Average budget: is $140-$350 per night, with lift tickets starting at $120 per day.
Sun Peaks, Canada’s second-largest ski area, is a hidden gem ideal for a relaxed and quiet winter vacation. Sun summits is known for its sunny weather and wide-open lines, with 4,200 acres of skiable terrain spread across three summits. The European-inspired hamlet at the base has a friendly atmosphere with excellent food and lodging choices. Aside from skiing, tourists may enjoy snowshoeing, ice fishing, and sleigh rides, making it a resort that offers both action and relaxation.
6. Blue Mountain Resort, Ontario.
Location: The Blue Mountains of Ontario (two hours from Toronto)
Average budget: Prices range from $150 to $350 per night, with lift tickets starting at $90 per day.
Blue Mountain, Ontario’s largest ski resort, is popular throughout Eastern Canada. The resort has approximately 360 skiable acres and plenty of winter activities including tubing and snowshoeing. With its many stores, restaurants, and lively nightlife, the picturesque Blue Mountain Village has something for everyone. This resort is great for families and beginner skiers, with easy access from Toronto and a lively atmosphere all year.
7. Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, British Columbia.
Location: Golden, BC (3 hours from Calgary)
Average budget: Prices range from $200 to $500 per night, with lift tickets starting at $140 per day.
Kicking Horse is noted for its tough terrain, which draws advanced skiers and snowboarders. With one of North America’s steepest vertical drops, it provides thrilling runs and breathtaking vistas of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can add to their trip by trying heli-skiing. The resort’s small village exudes a laid-back character, and nearby Golden provides more food and lodging options. Kicking Horse is ideal for anyone seeking a tough, adrenaline-fueled winter experience.
8. Fernie Alpine Resort, British Columbia.
Location: Fernie, BC (three hours from Calgary).
Average budget: Nightly rates range from $130 to $300, with lift tickets starting at $120.
Fernie, known for its deep snow and true mountain-town charm, has a diverse range of demanding terrain, including five alpine bowls and more than 2,500 acres of skiable terrain. Fernie has a rich history and a friendly ambiance, making it easy to visit local stores, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The resort is suitable for all skill levels and provides a quieter, more relaxed ambiance than some of the larger resorts.
