It’s hard to picture Canada without envisioning a winter wonderland. A bucket list destination for skiers and boarders across the globe, it’s known for big snowfall and legendary resorts – including the largest skiing destination in North America: Whistler Blackcomb.

Most Canadian ski resorts are located in British Columbia, including Big White, Fernie and Panorama. You’ll find additional resorts in Alberta, including Banff Sunshine and the picturesque Lake Louise Ski Resort. The stunning peaks and breathtaking national parks make Canada a destination you’ll never forget.

Ski seasons in British Columbia typically open towards the end of November into early December, and close throughout April. Alberta enjoys a slightly earlier season start, in early November, and closes later than the B.C. resorts around the beginning of May.

The 2019/20 ski season is just around the corner and the opening dates for the resorts have now been released, check them out below before deciding what destination is best for you.

British Columbia Ski Season Dates

With the most ski resorts in Canada, the biggest problem you’ll have in British Columbia is narrowing down your final destination! The state is home to massive mountains and world-renowned ski resorts.

Big White

Opens: 28 November 2019
Closes: 19 April 2020

Big on powder and big on terrain, at Big White Ski Resort you’ll find something for everyone. There’s terrain suitable for all types of skiers and boarders, family friendly activities and has the largest ski-in ski-out resort village in Canada. 

Fernie Alpine Resort

Opens: 30 November 2019
Closes: 14 April 2020

Located on the Powder Highway, Fernie is a small historic town with a reputation as having some of the best powder in the Rockies, meaning Fernie should definitely be on your list!

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Opens: 7 December 2019
Closes: 14 April 2020

With a real mountain town culture, Kicking Horse has fantastic expert and extreme terrain and is ideal for those snow-seekers who are on the hunt for a challenge. Kicking Horse is known as the Champagne Powder Capital of Canada – and yes it’s also on the legendary Powder Highway. 

Kimberley

Opens: December 2019
Closes: April 2020

Kimberley is well known for a being a family-friendly resort, but there’s a huge amount of options for expert skiers too and it offers North America’s largest gladed terrain! The perfect place to go if you are looking to get away from the busy ski villages and with 420 acres of terrain, you’ll have some trails to yourself.

Panorama

Opens: 6 December 2019
Closes: 12 April 2020

Ski-in Ski-out! Panorama has an incredibly large amount of skiable terrain, combined with a huge vertical drop of 1,300 metres. The lift lines also tend to be short as well and that means more runs down the mountain!

Red Mountain Resort

Opens: 14 December 2019
Closes: 2 April 2020

With 4,200 acres, the western Canadian gem, Red Mountain Resort is a great place to find powder stashes and since it’s along the famous Powder Highway, it is a tantalising spot for skiers and boarders looking to explore something new.  

Revelstoke Mountain Resort

Opens: 30 November 2019
Closes: 19 April 2020

Revelstoke is a great place for expert skiers and riders looking for vertical – it boasts North America’s greatest vertical at 1,173m, not to mention 12 metres of powder each year and 3,121 acres of skiable terrain featuring alpine bowls, phenomenal glades and excellent groomed runs.

SilverStar Mountain Resort

Opens: 15 November 2019
Closes: 5 April 2020

The colourful SilverStar Mountain Resort offers true ski-in ski-out access to the slopes,  and terrain for every level. Don’t underestimate this resort for its lack of crowds, that is just one of the benefits alongside family friendly fun for all.

Sun Peaks Ski Resort

Opens: 23 November 2019
Closes: 13 April 2020

Sun Peaks is the 2nd largest Ski Resort in Canada. With varied runs, three mountains and the convenience of the award-winning ski-in ski-out village, Sun Peaks is a fantastic destination for families.

Whistler Blackcomb

Opens: 28 November 2019
Closes: 19 April 2020

Whistler is world famous, and if you ever get the chance to visit, you’ll see just why. Legendary chutes, powder-filled bowls, groomers and dedicated family zones alongside its undisputed vibe, pedestrian village, convenient ski-in/ski-out lodging, après ski activities, shopping and night life!

Whitewater

Opens: 6 December 2019
Closes: April 2020

The powder at Whitewater is award-winning, and the resort has trails for every level of expertise. It’s simple and relaxed, not too many frills, but the snow and trails here are all you need, and they’re both fantastic!

Alberta Ski Season Dates

Banff & Lake Louise is an absolute treat to visit with its steep slopes and bustling town. There’s plenty of variety amongst the three resorts in Banff, and the area is well set up for the huge amount of tourists it gets every year with great accommodation and a charming ‘village’. Banff is a must-visit for any ski-buff heading to Canada.

Banff Sunshine

Opens: 8 November 2019
Closes: 3 May 2020

Beginners and experts alike will be rapt with the runs they find at Banff Sunshine. Plus the resort features Canada’s “hottest” chair – the bubble heated high speed quad!

Lake Louise Ski Resort

Opens: 8 November 2019
Closes: 8 May 2020

Voted #1 Ski Resort in Canada at the 2017 World Ski Awards, Lake Louise Ski Resort is known as the friendly giant of Canadian skiing. With over 4,200 acres spread across four mountain faces, Lake Louise is also one of the largest ski resorts in North America.

Mt Norquay

Opens: 9 November 2019
Closes: 17 April 2020

The locals best kept secret! Mt Norquay is the original ski resort of the Canadian Rockies and just 10 minutes from the town of Banff. A whole mountain of fun including a tube park and the only night skiing in the area.

Our Active Travel Experts have exclusive deals, information and prices at their fingertips, they’ll help you find the best value deals and experiences to suit your needs and budget on your next ski/board experience in Canada. Get in touch on NZ Toll-Free: 0800 555 035 or click here for our latest offers. We can’t wait to chat about your perfect skiing or boarding experience!

*Ski resort opening and closing dates are subject to change