Exploring Vancouver’s Best Ski Resorts: A Quick Guide
With its breathtaking mountains and stunning winter landscapes, Vancouver is a prime destination for ski enthusiasts.
Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find some of the finest ski resorts that cater to all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Whether you crave powder-filled slopes, breathtaking views, or a cozy après-ski scene, Vancouver’s ski resorts offer an unforgettable winter experience.
In this quick guide, we’ll highlight the best ski resorts near Vancouver, sharing what makes each one unique, along with tips on skiing conditions, amenities, and activities.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, this guide will help you make the most of your skiing adventure in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
Grab your gear and get ready to hit the slopes!
Your Guide to the Best Ski Resorts Near Vancouver
If you find yourself in British Columbia during the winter, you’re in for a treat with plenty of snow activities. To ensure you maximize your snow day, we’ve compiled a list of the top ski resorts around Vancouver.
Ski Resort Costs
Skiing can be an expensive hobby, with gear and passes adding up quickly. Here’s a simple cost guide to help you budget:
Grouse Mountain | Mt Seymour Resort | Whistler Blackcomb | Mount Washington | Sasquatch Mountain Resort |
Day Pass: $54 – $161 (Kids 1-4: Free) | Season Pass: $149 – $799 (Kids 1-4: $39) | Day Pass: $43 – $94 (Kids under 5: Free) | Season Pass: $499 – $899 (Kids under 7: Free) | Season Pass: $149 – $749 |
Annual Pass: $109 – $219 (Kids 1-4: $10) | 3-Trip Pass: $124 | Mid-level Season Pass: $399 – $783 | Day Pass: $56 – $109 (Kids under 7: Free) | Day Tickets: $29 – $89 |
Parking Permit: $40 (1-year), $69 (2-year) | Equipment Rental: $20 – $45 |
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Top Ski Resorts Around Vancouver
1. Grouse Mountain
Activities: | Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, wildlife refuge |
Wesbite: | Grouse Mountain |
Location: | 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC |
Contact: | (604) 980-9311 |
Hours: | Daily 9 am – 9 pm |
Highlights: Only 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse offers excellent terrain parks and various winter activities.
2. Mt Seymour Resort
Activities: | Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, dining |
Website: | Mt Seymour Resort |
Location: | 1700 Mt Seymour Rd, North Vancouver, BC |
Contact: | (604) 986-2261 |
Hours: | Daily 9:30 am – 9:30 pm |
Highlights: Known for its lessons and varied terrain parks, it’s perfect for all skill levels.
3. Whistler Blackcomb
Activities: | Skiing, snowboarding, biking, spa |
Website: | Whistler Blackbomb |
Location: | 4545 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC |
Contact: | (604) 967-8950 |
Hours: | Daily 10 am – 5 pm |
Highlights: A vibrant ski town with diverse activities, stunning views, and a community atmosphere.
4. Mount Washington Skiing Alpine Resort
Activities: | Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, hiking |
Website: | Mount Washington |
Location: | Mt. Washington, Comox-Strathcona C, BC |
Contact: | (250) 338-1386 |
Hours: | Daily 9 am – 4 pm |
Highlights: Offers both alpine and Nordic trails, plus family-friendly tubing options.
5. Sasquatch Mountain Resort
Activities: | Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing |
Website: | Sasquatch Mountain Resort |
Location: | 20955 Hemlock Valley Rd, Agassiz, BC |
Contact: | (604) 797-4411 |
Hours: | Daily 9 am – 4 pm |
Highlights: A smaller resort known for its well-maintained runs and less crowded slopes.
FAQs
What’s the difference between Nordic and Alpine skiing?
Nordic skiing differs from Alpine skiing in both the terrain and equipment. While Alpine skiing emphasizes downhill slopes, Nordic skiing traverses rolling landscapes and varying elevations. Additionally, Nordic skiers use flexible ski boots that allow for heel movement, making it easier to navigate diverse terrain.
How do skiing and snowboarding differ?
Skiing and snowboarding involve different equipment. Skiing requires ski poles, ski boots, skis, and protective gear, while snowboarding requires only a snowboard, boots, and protective gear.
Generally, skiing is considered easy to learn but challenging to master, whereas snowboarding is initially more difficult to learn but allows for quicker progression once you get the hang of it.
What do slope ratings mean?
North American ski resorts use a color-coded system to indicate slope difficulty. Green circles represent the easiest slopes, while blue squares are intermediate and more challenging. Black diamonds indicate advanced slopes with natural obstacles, and double black diamonds are for expert skiers, featuring steep and hazardous terrain. Triple black diamonds are the toughest, showcasing extreme drops and twists.
As for children, they can typically start skiing as young as 3 to 4 years old, depending on their readiness.
At what age can children start skiing?
Children can begin skiing as soon as they can run, jump, and maintain balance, which often leads to many starting as young as 3 or 4 years old.
Plan your snow adventure today and enjoy the stunning landscapes and thrilling experiences British Columbia has to offer!