Ski Guide 2014/15
Transcription
Ski Guide 2014/15
Super, Natural British Columbia Ski Guide 2014/15 www.BritishColumbia.travel/ski A ONCE IN A LIFETIME TRIP YOU’LL WANT TO DO EVERY YEAR. With 13 world-class resorts that extend from the Pacific Ocean to the Rockies, British Columbia Canada is one of the world’s most diverse and amazing ski destinations. From big verticals to relaxing runs, there are enough experiences here to keep you coming back for the rest of your life. Discover the most abundant and ski-worthy powder here in British Columbia. And with a huge amount of acres per skier, you’ll rarely wait in line-ups or get stuck in crowds. Though you’ll definitely want to slow down for a moment and take in the beautiful British Columbia scenery. It’s sure to give you just as much of a rush as the runs do. When you’re ready to take off your skis, there are plenty of other diversions just waiting for you. Great restaurants and a laidback West Coast attitude complement the good vibes you bring off the slopes. A British Columbia holiday is just so unbelievable that you’ve got to ski it to believe it. 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Everything you need to get started. 4 Map of BC ski resorts & areas 6 Panorama Mountain Village 8 Accolades 5 Apex Mountain Resort 6 Red Mountain Resort 9 Vancouver ski areas 5 Big White Ski Resort 7 Revelstoke Mountain Resort 10 More BC ski areas 5 Fernie Alpine Resort 7 Silver Star Mountain Resort 11 Off the slopes 5 Kicking Horse Mountain Resort 7 Sun Peaks Resort 12 Other ski activities 6 Kimberley Alpine Resort 7 Whistler Blackcomb 14 More winter fun 6 Mount Washington Alpine Resort 8 Whitewater Ski Resort 15 Information for visitors 3 DISCOVER DIVERSITY OFSKI BCRESORTS SKI RESORTS & AREAS DISCOVER THETHE DIVERSITY OF BC & AREAS BC SKI RESORTS Resorts may include lodging options, restaurants, and various amenities and services. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Apex Mountain Resort Big White Ski Resort Fernie Alpine Resort Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Kimberley Alpine Resort Mount Washington Alpine Resort Panorama Mountain Village Red Mountain Resort Revelstoke Mountain Resort Silver Star Mountain Resort Sun Peaks Resort Whistler Blackcomb Whitewater Ski Resort FORT NELSON CANADA USA FORT ST. JOHN A Q BC SKI AREAS O H SMITHERS Ski areas can range in level of amenities from basic ski lifts to resort-type offerings. 0 N 50 100 150 200 Kilometres A Bear Mountain Ski Hill B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V Crystal Mountain Cypress Mountain Fairmont Hot Springs Ski Area Grouse Mountain Harper Mountain Hemlock Resort Hudson Bay Mountain Manning Park Resort Mount Baldy Mount Cain Mount Seymour Mount Timothy Ski Area Murray Ridge Ski Area My Mountain Co-op, Shames Mountain Phoenix Mountain Powder King Mountain Resort Purden Ski Village Salmo Ski Hill Summit Lake Tabor Mountain Ski Resort Troll Ski Resort PRINCE GEORGE U R V M Pacific Ocean WEST VANCOUVER C E L KAMLOOPS K VANCOUVER VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 10 VANCOUVER 12 B I VICTORIA 7 D T KELOWNA 1 G CALGARY F WHISTLER 6 4 9 11 NORTH VANCOUVER 2 J P 8 5 CRANBROOK 13 S USA SPOKANE Airport SEATTLE 3 BIG WHITE SKI Resort Apex Mountain Resort Heavy precipitation and low humidity is a recipe for the best snow you can hope for, and you’ll find it at this mountain resort right in the centre of the Okanagan Valley. Bowls, chutes, glades and impeccably groomed cruising runs flow perfectly from the resort’s impressive peak, while double black diamonds leave you breathless. And the new ski/ snowboard-cross course, plus two terrain parks with tables, rails and sliders, make it a no-brainer destination for skiers and boarders. There’s also an NHL-sized hockey rink, a 1 km (0.6 mi) outdoor skate loop and a tube park. The ski-in/ski-out village area features licensed childcare, retail shops, restaurants and après-ski bars to suit all tastes. RUNS: 68 VERTICAL:610 m (2,000 ft) TERRAIN: 450 ha (1,112 ac) 16% beginner 48% intermediate 36% advanced ApexResort.com The resort lives up to its name with an annual average of 7.5 m (25 ft) of dry Okanagan champagne powder. As Canada’s largest totally ski-in/ski-out resort village over 17,000 guests can experience the ease and convenience of skiing virtually to their doorstep. Combine a picturesque alpine village with the 16 lifts and 118 runs that span over 1,119 ha (2,765 ac) of vast and varied skiable terrain and you’ll have created an amazing ski experience. And this is only where the fun begins at Big White. Spa treatments, carnival nights, snowmobiling, tubing, skating, dogsledding and ice climbing are just a few of the in resort activities available that have made it an award winning family resort. Top it all off with a unique dining experience at one of the over one hundred cottage wineries in the region. RUNS: 118 VERTICAL: 777 m (2,550 ft) TERRAIN: 1,119 ha (2,765 ac) 18% beginner 54% intermediate 28% advanced BigWhite.com FERNIE ALPINE RESORT Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Photo: Mark Shannon Photo: Henry Georgi Does big mountain skiing with a small town vibe appeal to you? Then Fernie is your resort. With up to 11.3 m (37 ft) of snow each season, the peaks here often receive more snow than any major resort in the Canadian Rockies. This powder paradise also features five massive alpine bowls, plus endless chutes, cliffs and glades. And the Polar Peak chairlift means that Fernie has the most runs and most vertical in the Canadian Rockies. It’s a place where the beginner feels right at home and the expert can find nirvana. Beyond the stellar slopes, try a dogsled or snowmobile ride. Whatever you try, you’ll see that this is a truly unforgettable destination. SkiFernie.com RUNS: 142 VERTICAL:1,082 m (3,550 ft) TERRAIN: 1,013 ha (2,503 ac) 30% beginner 40% intermediate 30% advanced Welcome to the champagne powder capital of Canada—home to Rocky Mountain vistas, 1,260 m (4,133 ft) of extraordinary vertical, and a world-class resort village. So if you’re looking for a fresh adventure, look no further. Kicking Horse offers something for everyone: the Learning Centre caters to first-timers, the wide-open groomers are great for intermediates, and four alpine bowls offer over 85 inbound chutes that will challenge even the most experienced skiers. Plus, the Eagle’s Eye Restaurant, Canada’s most elevated dining experience, boasts spectacular views from an eye-popping elevation of 2,350 m (7,710 ft). At the end of the day, take advantage of the impressive ski-in/ski-out village. RUNS: 129 VERTICAL:1,260 m (4,133 ft) TERRAIN: 1,133+ ha (2,800+ ac) 20% beginner 20% intermediate 60% advanced KickingHorseResort.com 5 Mount Washington Alpine Resort Kimberley Alpine Resort In the heart of Kimberley lies the ultimate family-friendly alpine destination. It’s a magical place in the Purcell Mountains where you can relax, recharge and forget all about city life. Beginner skiers and boarders will instantly bond with the meticulously groomed powder trails on the front side of the mountain. The tree-lovers will love the hundreds of acres of gladed skiable terrain. Consistent snow conditions, incredibly short lift lines and seemingly endless sunny days make this a skier’s playground. To top it all off, dogsledding, ice skating, snowshoeing and live music will lure you to one of many ski-in/ski-out accommodations in this charming family resort. SkiKimberley.com RUNS: 80 VERTICAL:751 m (2,464 ft) TERRAIN: 728 ha (1,800 ac) 20% beginner 42% intermediate 38% advanced Ski or board some of the deepest snow on the West Coast. How much snow? How about a staggering annual average of 11.5 m (38 ft)? Take in the unbelievable ski-to-surf views with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop and check out the towering mountains of Vancouver Island’s interior from the mile-high summit. Explore over 55 km (34 mi) of cross-country trails nestled in one of BC’s oldest and most stunning parks. While there, try snowshoeing the 22 km (14 mi) of gentle slopes and rolling hills. If you’re learning to ski or snowboard, check out the Easy Acres learning area. Five Magic Carpet lifts will get you safely up the slopes for one of the best learning experiences in North America. The vibe here is pure Vancouver Island so enjoy the beautiful scenery, the friendly laid-back atmosphere and a day with endless possibilities! RUNS: 81 VERTICAL:505 m (1,657 ft) TERRAIN: 688 ha (1,700 ac) 14% beginner 35% intermediate 51% advanced RUNS: 110 MountWashington.ca Panorama Mountain Village You could say this destination resort is one of the family-friendliest. New for this season is a quad chairlift which will access long runs that are ideal for beginner and intermediate skiers. With a stroll through the village—everything is within walking distance—enjoy Panorama’s easy ambience while you take in beautiful views. Known to have a variety of terrain, the resort’s consistent fall-line cruisers and the Tanyton Bowl’s backcountry-style terrain provide a “best-of-both-worlds” experience that appeals to all levels of skiers. You can even easily try heli-skiing— Panorama specializes in taking out first-timers and trips depart from the village. After a day filled with activity make sure you take the time for an après ski soak in Canada’s largest slope-side hot pools. PanoramaResort.com RUNS: 120 VERTICAL:1,220 m (4,000 ft) TERRAIN: 1,152 ha (2,847 ac) 20% beginner 55% intermediate 25% advanced Red Mountain Resort Known as the big serene mountain with a small town feel, Red Mountain is also famous for its incredible tree skiing. New for 2014/15 is in-bound cat skiing on 79 ha (195 ac) of terrain. Just last winter, RED expanded over 400 ha (1,000 ac) of new skiable terrain with something for everyone: great cruiser runs, wide-open groomers, south-facing intermediate terrain and eight expert chutes. During the season, even at the busiest of times, there is enough room here to carve out your own tracks at your own pace. After an exhilarating day of skiing, check out the Rafters Bar located at the newly renovated baselodge. Powder magazine has named it North America’s No. 1 Ski Bar for its lively music and great food. Need somewhere to stay? Kick back in one of the newest luxury condos at the foot of the resort or in the heritage ski town of Rossland. RedResort.com VERTICAL:890 m (2,917 ft) TERRAIN: 1085 ha (2682 ac) Lift Accessible 1,699 ha (4,200 ac) Controlled Recreation Area 16% beginner 47% intermediate 37% advanced 6 Revelstoke Mountain Resort Revelstoke Mountain Resort is an amazing destination with the highest lift-serviced vertical in North America, plus cat-skiing, heli-skiing and backcountry skiing, all from one village base. The terrain options are endless, with majestic alpine bowls, legendary glades, lofty rolling groomers and a base-area beginner slope. Need more? Feel your pulse start to race with another half-million acres of heli-skiing terrain and three alpine bowls for cat-skiing. The village features ski-in/ski-out lodging at The Sutton Place Hotel as well as great dining options. And the authentic ski-town atmosphere of downtown Revelstoke is minutes away, offering a variety of restaurants, cafés and shops. RUNS: 65 VERTICAL:1,713 m (5,620 ft) TERRAIN: 1,263 ha (3,121 ac) 7% beginner 45.5% intermediate 47.5% advanced RevelstokeMountainResort.com SunPeaksResort.com This vast mountain with three distinct faces has runs for beginners looking to cruise down the slopes, through to steep and deep terrain for those adrenaline-seeking experts. This resort has it all: deep powder, meticulously groomed cruisers, and some of the best tree-skiing in Canada. The mix of dry Okanagan powder, mild temperature, and sunshine make for the perfect snow experience. Alpine lift tickets include free, unlimited access to 55 km (34 mi) of daily groomed Nordic trails, 16 km (10 mi) of snowshoe trails, Tube Town Adventure Park and ice skating at Brewer’s Pond. A colourful mid-mountain village offers exceptional ski-in/ski-out access with plenty of shops and restaurants to suit all tastes. This winter wonderland is about as wonderful as it gets. RUNS: 115 VERTICAL:760 m (2,493 ft) TERRAIN: 1,240 ha (3,064 ac) 15% beginner 40% intermediate 45% advanced RUNS: 200 + SkiSilverstar.com Whistler Blackcomb SUN PEAKS Sun Peaks is consistently rated as one of the top ski resorts in Canada due to its reliable and consistent powder and an award winning ski-in/ski-out village. The resort is opening more than 200 ha (500 ac) of new, advanced terrain for 2014/15 season, adding to its already massive acreage. Canada’s second largest ski area now features over 1,700 ha (4,200 ac) of skiable terrain that encircles the ski-through village in a unique 360-degree layout. The charming and picturesque village, plentiful dry powder and clear blue skies will inspire winter enthusiasts to indulge in other classic Canadian winter activities. Enjoy dogsledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating and more. Popular activities such as Fondue Dinner and Evening Descent, First Tracks, and kids’ nights are being offered more frequently this season. Silver Star Mountain Resort RUNS: 126 VERTICAL:882 m (2,894 ft) TERRAIN: 1,700 ha (4,200 ac) 10% beginner 58% intermediate 32% advanced Whistler Blackcomb is consistently ranked the No. 1 mountain resort in North America for many good reasons: it has the most skiable terrain in North America, one of the continent’s longest snow seasons, the world-record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, and a vibrant mountain culture with what is arguably the best après scene anywhere. Kid-friendly features like the Whistler Kids snow school, the enchanted Tree Fort and Magic Castle, ensure families are happy and busy. This winter guests are invited to try new Whistler Village Gondola cabins for the breathtaking ride up Whistler Mountain. The cabins seat eight passengers with their gear in outside racks, increasing lift capacity by 12 per cent through four additional cabins and greater loading efficiency. WhistlerBlackcomb.com VERTICAL: WHISTLER 1,530 m (5,020 ft) BLACKCOMB 1,609 m (5,280 ft) TERRAIN: 3,307 ha (8,171 ac) 18% beginner 55% intermediate 27% advanced 7 Whitewater SKI Resort Deep in the Kootenay Rockies and along the Powder Highway, Whitewater is a resort renowned for epic snowfalls. An average of 12 m (40 ft) of light, dry, powder falls onto 620 vertical metres (2,044 vertical feet) of uncrowded slopes of family-friendly groomers, remarkable steeps, top of the line tree-skiing, and endless backcountry. Small crowds ensure fresh lines in the open bowls or through the numerous chutes and glades. End your day at the lodge with a locally inspired meal from an acclaimed menu that has inspired three national best-selling cookbooks. Whitewater is just a 15-minute drive from Nelson, an eclectic city that features great restaurants, accommodations, hot springs and cat- and heli-skiing. So if you’re looking for your life’s truest skiing experience, you’ve found it. RUNS: 81 VERTICAL:623 m (2,044 ft) TERRAIN: 479 ha (1184 ac) 10% beginner 32% intermediate 58% advanced SkiWhitewater.com HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Each one of our 13 ski resorts has had accolades bestowed upon it from the world’s premier ski and travel publications. That means you’re sure to end up with an award-winning resort, no matter which one you choose. APEX MOUNTAIN RESORT KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT PANORAMA MOUNTAIN VILLAGE SUN PEAKS RESORT Best Weather Ski Canada Magazine (2011) One of Top 5 Biggest Vertical (West) Ski Canada Magazine (2009) British Columbia’s Mountain Resort of the Year BC Alpine Ski Association (2011) BIG WHITE SKI RESORT KIMBERLEY ALPINE RESORT RED MOUNTAIN RESORT #2, Best Overall Resort SBC Resort Guide Editors’ Choice Awards (2013/2014) Awarded Best Family Ski Resort Snow Action Magazine – Australia (2014) Best Tree Skiing Ski Canada Magazine (2012) Most improved North American resort World Snow Awards (2013) FERNIE ALPINE RESORT MOUNT WASHINGTON ALPINE RESORT REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT Best Winter Trips National Geographic (2012) Biggest Snow Ski Canada Magazine (2012) Top 10 Ski Resorts in the World Snow Magazine (2014) SILVER STAR MOUNTAIN RESORT Best Family Resort Okanagan Life Magazine (2013) WHISTLER BLACKCOMB #1, Top 10 Ski Resorts in North America Freeskier Magazine (2014) WHITEWATER SKI RESORT Top 10 Emerging Ski-Towns National Geographic (2013) 8 VANCOUVER SKI AREAS A cypressmountain.com B grousemountain.com C mountseymour.com Need a quick ski or snowboard fix while you’re in Vancouver? Hit one—or all three—of the local mountains for spectacular views and great runs within 30 minutes of the city. A WEST VANCOUVER A NORTH VANCOUVER B VANCOUVER VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT C Cypress Mountain is conveniently located near downtown Vancouver. The freestyle ski and snowboard venue for the 2010 Winter Games, Cypress has the most terrain and greatest vertical of Vancouver’s mountains, and also boasts Canada’s most popular cross country skiing area. With a massive snow-tubing park for thrill seekers, plus snowshoe tours for those who like a slower pace, people of all kinds will find the winter experience that’s perfect for them. B Grouse Mountain will thrill everybody. Even the ride up the mountain is something special. The Skyride provides panoramic views of the mountain and the Vancouver skyline that are truly stunning. And, once at the top, you’ll discover one of Vancouver’s favourite winter playgrounds. Everything from great local skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice skating, to great restaurants with views as breathtaking as the menu items. C Mount Seymour is a must for anyone who just can’t get enough snow-filled adventure. With four terrain parks, everyone from beginners to hardcore professionals will come away with a smile on their face. Skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing pristine and beautiful mountain trails are just a few of the activities to be had here. There’s also the Enquist Snow Tube Park and tobogganing hills for those who like less of a challenge. But locals will tell you just about anything you choose will delight, even if it’s just relaxing at the cozy restaurant. 9 BC SKI AREAS There are many other ski areas throughout BC. These mountains are playgrounds waiting to be discovered. Take a road trip and seek out a brand new adventure. Bear Mountain Ski Hill bearmountainskihill.ca Dawson Creek Five minutes from lovely Dawson Creek, this is the perfect place to enjoy a few runs and then relax in the lounge overlooking the hill. And for the night owls out there, Bear Mountain offers night skiing. Crystal Mountain crystalresort.com Westbank (West Kelowna) Families love this resort in West Kelowna. It offers great skiing and, as a nice touch, you ski free on your birthday. Hopefully, you weren’t born in July. Fairmont Hot Springs Ski Area fairmonthotsprings.com Fairmont Hot Springs This is the place to be for great snow conditions and everything you need to take advantage of them. And it’s all only a few minutes’ drive from the world-famous hot springs. Harper Mountain harpermountain.com Kamloops Get in all the skiing and boarding you want, and don’t miss the fun and adventure of Snow Town Tube Park. Then hit the lodge to sit by the fireplace and get some hot eats. Hemlock Resort hemlockvalleyresort.com Agassiz/Mission The Hemlock Valley is one of the best-kept secrets in the Lower Mainland. It gets one of the best snowfalls around and, besides skiing and snowboarding, it has a four-lane tube park. Hudson Bay Mountain hudsonbaymountain.com Smithers “It’s always been about the powder” just about says it all. You’ll find plenty of the white stuff here and won’t soon forget the adventures you had in this awesome wilderness of snowy beauty. Manning Park Resort manningpark.com Manning Provincial Park Visitors get access to amazing groomed Nordic trails as well as excellent snowshoeing trails. And winter camping is available for the really adventurous. Mount Baldy skibaldy.com Oliver/Osoyoos You’ll get everything you expect from an awesome BC ski resort, plus an 18-hole championship Frisbee golf course. Mount Cain mountcain.com Woss If you’re on Vancouver Island, you’ll want to be on Mount Cain. This family-friendly mountain offers great skiing and virtually no line-ups. Mount Timothy Ski Area skitimothy.com Lac la Hache The skiing here is excellent, but what makes this place special is the laidback vibe and smaller crowds. And when you get off the slopes, the log day lodge is a great place to just put your feet up and enjoy the vistas. Murray Ridge Ski Area murrayridge.com Fort St. James This is a breathtaking spot for anyone looking to enjoy some family-friendly skiing that’s not going to eat into your wallet too much. Mom and Dad, and the little ones, will be glad they came. My Mountain Coop, Shames Mountain mymountaincoop.ca Terrace If you’re into backcountry skiing, this is the place to do it. There’s nothing but endless untouched powder just waiting to be cut through here. Phoenix Mountain skiphoenix.com Grand Forks Locals call this “the best little mountain in BC”. And if you visit this winter playground, you’re sure to agree. Powder King Mountain Resort powderking.com Mackenzie The name alone lets you know what you’re in for. Powder King gets an awesome 1250 cm (492 in) of powder per year. And it falls on everything from beginner runs to drops that only the most adventurous will attempt. Purden Ski Village purden.com Prince George Strap your skis on and hit the hills at central BC’s largest ski mountain. It’s got dry powder runs, treed runs, and you’ll never have to complain about crowds here. It’s central BC’s hidden gem. Salmo Ski Hill skisalmo.com Salmo This West Kootenays favourite is famous for its night skiing on full-lit runs. But a visit during the day will be just as fun. Summit Lake skisummitlake.com Nakusp Summit Lake is all about affordable skiing for the whole family. It’s got everything you could ask for from a great ski trip – except an expensive price tag. Tabor Mountain Ski Resort tabormountain.com Prince George There are more than a dozen runs of fun here that are sure to please anyone looking for nice slopes and good powder. Troll Ski Resort trollskiresort.com Quesnel Don’t worry, this ski resort is a lot more beautiful than its name would suggest. Take in the views while you take on the mountain. 10 OFF THE SLOPES After a big day on the slopes, it’s time for a big night out. BC’s 13 resorts are home to some of the best après-ski you’ll ever experience. Join the fun as the evening kicks into high gear—or shake off the day’s excitement by finding something more relaxing. Either way, you’re sure to enjoy an après-ski adventure that’s as celebrated as our slopes. RETAIL THERAPY RELAXATION IS AN ART FORM HERE CUISINE AS FRESH AS THE POWDER HIGH-ALTITUDE NIGHTLIFE Sometimes just wandering around a charming alpine village is exactly what you need. Pair your stroll with a few great buys and that’s some time well spent. You can browse for hours here and find quaint souvenirs, sporting equipment, beautiful Aboriginal art, or the latest skiwear for when you’re recharged and ready for the slopes again. When you slip off your skis, awardwinning restaurants offer a more elegant dining experience while quaint cafés offer the perfect casual break. And just about everywhere you go, your meal will be paired with exquisite mountain views. When you have scenery this serene and beautiful, it’s only natural you’ll want to enhance it with some sensuous treatment at a luxury spa. Massages, full body wraps, or acupuncture are the order of the day here. As the stress melts away, rest assured that the snow will still be there for you when you want to get back on the runs. Nightlife is alive and well at the resorts too—but with an alpine twist. And depending on what you like to do, your après-ski can easily turn into après-après-ski. Pubs and clubs and everything in between means everyone gets what they’re looking for after dark. So whether you’re in need of a relaxing glass of wine, or a hopping dance floor, it’s all here. 11 OTHER SKI ACTIVITIES HELI-SKIING & CAT-SKIING It’s no wonder these two types of epic skiing were born in BC. With ten massive mountain ranges, plus equally massive snowfalls, BC is the perfect place to get your adrenaline going. Plunge into untouched powder, diverse terrain, and descents from the highest peaks. Whether you take to the skies by helicopter, or track your way up the mountain on the treads of a snowcat, you’ll find the skier’s paradise you’re looking for. Just imagine the chance to ski an area more than 100 times the size of BC’s largest ski resort — and you’re sharing it with only a few other people. In BC, we know there’s nothing more exciting than strapping on a pair of skis and hitting the slopes. But we also know that touching those skis down on powder that hasn’t been touched by anyone else is even more amazing. And the different ways you can experience the skiing are just as incredible as the skiing itself. Go for a multi-day excursion for maximum thrills or just go for a day trip. Check out remote destination lodges featuring hot tubs and gourmet meals or in-town hotels with great après-ski nightlife just around the corner. So come to BC and explore heli- and cat-skiing. You’re sure to discover something you won’t soon forget. 12 OTHER SKI ACTIVITIES Skiing doesn’t have to be fast to be fun. Taking it slow and taking in the scenery is often the way to go. And it’s nice to have time to catch your breath— especially when your surroundings can take your breath away. BACKCOUNTRY SKIING CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING In BC, sometimes it’s nice to get off the beaten path and create some of your own paths. And the BC backcountry is the perfect place to do it. The terrain offers a wide variety of experiences for skiers of all kinds. Discover hidden powder stashes anywhere from alpine bowls, rolling slopes, and steep chutes to peaceful glades, epic ridges, and wide glaciers. BC is where you need to be if you’re looking for worldclass trails groomed for classic and skate skiing. Every winter, the abundant and consistent snowfall turns the province into a cross-country skier’s playground. And when you’re not pushing forward in the wilderness, there are plenty of great places to lay your head and get some rest. Backcountry accommodations are as diverse as the terrain. Go for luxury fly-in retreats, cozy alpine cabins or rustic backcountry huts. Though where you stay may depend on how much adventure you can handle. Check out a guided backcountry ski tour for a day trip, multi-day excursion, or hut-to-hut traverse, or just strike out on your own. Go backcountry once and you’ll always go back. If skiers have all the time in the world, they could criss-cross the province and visit more than 50 cross-country skiing areas. And, of course, most of BC’s major ski resorts have incredible trails waiting for you. At Whistler Olympic Park, skiers can even tackle the same trails where athletes competed for gold during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. For the more adventurous, provincial and national parks offer less crowded and more peaceful trails, plus loads of chances to spot wildlife just hanging out in the great outdoors with you. Wherever you go, you’re sure to get a ski experience that won’t disappoint. 13 MORE WINTER FUN SNOWSHOEING BC provides the trails, powder and pristine winter scenery for one of North America’s fastest-growing winter sports. Fasten on a pair of snowshoes and wander our trails at your own pace. It’s perfect for families seeking a fresh air activity, adventurers wanting a cardio workout and outdoor lovers. TUBING/TOBOGGANING Relive those childhood winter days hurtling down a hill on a crazy carpet. BC is slider heaven with various designated toboggan areas and snow-tube parks. Enjoy the thrill and excitement of sliding down the hill on a toboggan or in a specially designed tube. DOGSLEDDING There’s more to BC mountains than just skiing and snowboarding. During your vacation, why not mix it up and take advantage of the abundant winter activities available throughout BC, many of which can be enjoyed at your favourite resort or ski area. Dogsledding is a unique way for you to explore BC’s wilderness in winter. Gliding quietly along snow-covered trails, the sleds are pulled by teams of enthusiastic dogs and offer a memorable backcountry experience. Scenery along the route can include mountain views, frozen lakes or powder-filled meadows. SNOWMOBILING Snowmobilers have plenty of places to play in BC. There’s a wide variety of terrain, including groomed trails, massive glaciers, and hillsides topped with fresh snow. Beginners can zip along established routes, while advanced sledders will revel in steep and remote riding areas. 14 INFORMATION FOR VISITORS Key Travel Information For important information regarding currency exchange, customs, and other travel information, visit www.BritishColumbia.travel. WATCH BC SKI VIDEOS > Departure Location & TRAVEL DURATION (Times are approximate) To Vancouver London 9.5 hours Frankfurt 10.5 hours Amsterdam 9.5 hours Sydney 14 hours Auckland 13 hours To Calgary London Frankfurt Amsterdam Sydney Auckland YouTube.com/HelloBC 9.5 hours 10 hours 9.5 hours 17 hours 16.5 hours PLAN YOUR BC SKI HOLIDAY > Seattle, Washington is also an airline gateway into British Columbia. INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES SERVICING BRITISH COLUMBIA www.BritishColumbia.travel/ski Air Canada, Air New Zealand, Air Transat, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, Qantas, United Airlines and Virgin Australia. Airlines Servicing British Columbia’s Ski Resorts Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, Central Mountain Air, Pacific Coastal Airlines and WestJet. PASSPORT INFORMATION For all travel into Canada, visitors must present their passports. For updates, please visit the Canada Border Services Agency website at http://www.cic.gc.ca/English/visit/visas.asp. For individuals travelling from the United States to Canada, please visit the U.S. Department of State website at www.travel.state.gov. ROADS, ROUTES & RAIL For driving routes, road conditions, and information on border delays in British Columbia, please visit www.DriveBC.ca. VIA Rail and Amtrak all offer scheduled trips to destinations within the province. For more information on rail travel options, please visit www.BritishColumbia.travel. © 2014 Destination BC Corp. — All rights reserved. “SUPER , NATURAL BRITI SH COLUMBIA”, “SUPER , NATURAL” and “HELLO BC” and all associated logos/trade-marks are trade-marks of Destination BC Corp. 15