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Ski British Columbia

Ranked among the worlds best ski destinations, Canadas most westerly province shines from winter through spring. > Inside, find out why.
INSIDE

Snow time
hen it comes to skiing in British Columbia, experts say the good times start with the provinces variety of terrain, quality resorts and plentiful snow. B.C. has the best snow in the world, says Ski Canada editor Iain MacMillan. B.C. spoils you, says Mike Douglas, the reputed Godfather of freeskiing and a charter member of what came to be known in the early 1990s as the New Canadian Air Force, pioneers in the gravity-defying art of trick skiing. Ive never seen any other place on Earth that gets quite as much snow. I guess youd have to say we have something of a snow advantage, says David Lynn, president and CEO of the Canada West Ski Areas Association. Year in, year out, B.C. is known for delivering reliable and abundant snow. Luckily for skiers and riders, B.C. doesnt just get a lot of snow; it gets snow you can use. Peruse a topographical map and the province looks like the geological equivalent of a washB.C. ski resorts, Page SC 2

Whistler BlackcomB. photo: tourism Bc/eric Berger WHISTLER BLACKCOMB. PHOTO: TOURISM BC/ERIC BERGER

board, with mountain ranges running from east to west and top to bottom. Cast among these many ranges, like diamonds in the rough, are about 46 developed ski areas, of which no fewer than 13 are major resorts. They offer extensive ski operations, are served by high-speed lifts and have a wealth of ski-in/ ski-out accommodation, not to mention dining, aprs-ski and recreational options to suit every budget and taste.

ROAD TRIP Tour by car through B.C.s Kootenay-Rockies region along the fabled Powder Highway, gateway to some of the provinces most prolific and legendary ski terrain.
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REGIONAL APPEAL Each of B.C.s three major ski regions offers distinct terrain, snow conditions and other unique offerings.
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A VIEW FROM ABOVE An info map provides a view into B.C. ski country, including highlights of 11 of the provinces popular ski resorts and factors that make each one special.
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LESSON UP! Professional ski instructor Josh Foster outlines the reasons why lessons are a smart choice for skiers of all abilities.
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FAMILY AFFAIR B.C. ski resorts do their best to outshine one another, especially when it comes to offering family-friendly amenities.
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SKI BRITISH COLUMBIA ski British columBia

B.C. ski resorts: A world of variety in one province

Regional airports serve resorts in Regional airports serve resorts in the hinterland, where the snow the hinterland, where the snow comes big and crowds run low. comes big and crowds run low. It really is a combination of It really is a combination of things, says MacMillan. Along things, says MacMillan. Along with the snow, B.C. has everywith the snow, B.C. has everything from little boutique operathing from little boutique operations, like Whitewater and Red tions, like Whitewater and Red Mountain, to world-class resorts Mountain, to world-class resorts like Whistler Blackcomb, and like Whistler Blackcomb, and everything else in between. everything else in between. Theres something for everyTheres something for everybody, he adds a universe of body, he adds a universe of skiing in one province. skiing in one province. If your gang is a family crowd If your gang is a family crowd and needs everything a family and needs everything a family requires, including activities requires, including activities other than skiing, the Thompother than skiing, the Thompson Okanagan has a plethora of son Okanagan has a plethora of resorts with public pools, skating resorts with public pools, skating rinks and rec centres. If youre rinks and rec centres. If youre part of the hardball crowd and part of the hardball crowd and want to skin-up and head into want to skin-up and head into the backcountry looking for the backcountry looking for powder and super-steeps after powder and super-steeps after stepping off the chairlift, then stepping off the chairlift, then maybe its the Kootenays youre maybe its the Kootenays youre looking for. And if you want all looking for. And if you want all the action of a purpose-built rethe action of a purpose-built resort with an international crowd, sort with an international crowd, then its Whistler Blackcomb. then its Whistler Blackcomb. There really is a world of skiing in There really is a world of skiing in one province. one province. And the snow comes in differAnd the snow comes in different avours, too, says Douglas, ent flavours, too, says Douglas, eagerly offering insight into B.C.s eagerly offering insight into B.C.s regional differences. regional differences. You get the most snow on the You get the most snow on the coast, he explains. Its a little coast, he explains. Its a little bit heavier, but the good thing bit heavier, but the good thing about it is that it sticks to the about it is that it sticks to the rocks and trees, which makes rocks and trees, which makes it possible to ski in steeper and it possible to ski in steeper and rougher terrain. As you travel rougher terrain. As you travel into the Interior, the snow gets into the Interior, the snow gets drier and overall a little bit drier and overall a little bit lighter. Its the kind of snow that lighter. Its the kind of snow that blows up into your face with blows up into your face with every turn. every turn. Along with a snow advantage, Along with a snow advantage, B.C. has a lift-capacity advantage, B.C. has a lift-capacity advantage, says Lynn. B.C. has numerous says Lynn. B.C. has numerous destination ski resorts as well destination ski resorts as well as smaller ski hills scattered as smaller ski hills scattered throughout the province, so you throughout the province, so you dont typically encounter long dont typically encounter long lift lines. Sure, show up on a busy lift lines. Sure, show up on a busy weekend at a major resort and weekend at a major resort and youll run into some kind of lift youll run into some kind of lift lines, but even then they move lines, but even then they move quickly, because these same quickly, because these same resorts have made enormous resorts have made enormous

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BY THE NUMBERS by thE NumbErS

Skiing and Snowboarding in Skiing and Snowboarding in British Columbia British Columbia

46

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Number of downhill resorts in Number of downhill resorts in the province, many of which the province, many of which are expanding, employing are expanding, employing ecologically sensitive means of ecologically sensitive means of adding terrain, equipment and adding terrain, equipment and lodging. lodging.

35+

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Number of Heli-cat operations. Number of Heli-cat operations.

35,000 #1

Number of metres of vertical Number of metres of vertical drop promised by B.C. drop promised by B.C. helicopter and snowcat ski helicopter and snowcat ski operators in a seven-day trip. operators in a seven-day trip.

Whistler Blackcombs consisWhistler Blackcombs consistent rank among North Ameritent rank among North American ski and snowboard resorts. can ski and snowboard resorts. Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops is among the destination properties known having a charming village atmosphere. Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops is among the destination properties known having a charming village atmosphere.
PHOTO: ADAM STEIN photo: adam stein

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Along with the snow, Along with the snow, B.C. has everything B.C. has everything from little boutique from little boutique operations, like operations, like Whitewater and Red Whitewater and Red Mountain, to worldMountain, to worldclass resorts like class resorts like Whistler Blackcomb, Whistler Blackcomb, and everything else in and everything else in between. between.
Iain MacMillan Iain MacMillan is editor of Ski Canada is editor of Ski Canada magazine magazine

capital investments in highcapital investments in highspeed lifts that whisk skiers up to speed lifts that whisk skiers up to the top and onto the snow, where the top and onto the snow, where the crowds magically disappear. the crowds magically disappear. He adds that many skiers new He adds that many skiers new to B.C. are pleasantly surprised to B.C. are pleasantly surprised by the lack of temperature by the lack of temperature extremes, a consequence of the extremes, a consequence of the climate being moderated by climate being moderated by Pacic Ocean weather systems, Pacific Ocean weather systems, which blow in the snow but not which blow in the snow but not the cold. the cold. You rarely ski in extreme cold You rarely ski in extreme cold when you ski in B.C., notes Lynn. when you ski in B.C., notes Lynn. Accessibility for outsiders Accessibility for outsiders has improved exponentially in has improved exponentially in recent years, he adds. In addition recent years, he adds. In addition to providing access to the Coast to providing access to the Coast Mountains, Vancouver serves as Mountains, Vancouver serves as a hub, feeding skiers from across a hub, feeding skiers from across Canada and around the world Canada and around the world into regional airports throughout into regional airports throughout the province. Direct ights now the province. Direct flights now operate from both Eastern Canoperate from both Eastern Canada and California into Kelowna ada and California into Kelowna in the B.C. Interior, opening up in the B.C. Interior, opening up

access to major resorts in the access to major resorts in the Thompson-Okanagan. Calgary Thompson-Okanagan. Calgary serves as a gateway to the snows serves as a gateway to the snows and steeps of resorts in the Canaand steeps of resorts in the Canadian Rockies and Kootenays. dian Rockies and Kootenays. And for those who like to stray And for those who like to stray off the beaten path, B.C. is the unoff the beaten path, B.C. is the unchallenged world leader in both challenged world leader in both helicopter and cat-assisted skiing. helicopter and cat-assisted skiing. The variety there is matched The variety there is matched only by the range of terrain and only by the range of terrain and the quality of the snow. It was in the quality of the snow. It was in B.C. that stylish lodges dedicated B.C. that stylish lodges dedicated to nothing but heli-skiing rst to nothing but heli-skiing first started appearing back in the started appearing back in the 1960s and there are many to 1960s and there are many to choose from today. But heli-ski choose from today. But heli-ski ights are also now offered out of flights are also now offered out of most ski resorts, making it posmost ski resorts, making it possible for any skier to experience, sible for any skier to experience, if only for a day, the wonder of if only for a day, the wonder of being dropped on a glacier and being dropped on a glacier and having it all to themselves. having it all to themselves. Deep snow and places to go Deep snow and places to go when it comes to skiing, B.C. when it comes to skiing, B.C. offers it all. offers it all.

Mount Washington Alpine Mount Washington Alpine Resort on Vancouver Island Resort on Vancouver Island boasts Canadas deepest boasts Canadas deepest average snow base: 400 average snow base: 400 centimetres. centimetres.

Number of major ski resorts Number of major ski resorts Big White, Silver Star, Sun Peaks Big White, Silver Star, Sun Peaks and Apex located in southand Apex located in southcentral B.C.s high-altitude central B.C.s high-altitude Thompson-Okanagan region Thompson-Okanagan region

1,090

Kilometres of the Powder Kilometres of the Powder Highway, linking some eight Highway, linking some eight full-service alpine destinations, full-service alpine destinations, 10 Nordic ski sites, 25 snowcat 10 Nordic ski sites, 25 snowcat and heli-ski operations and and heli-ski operations and 21 backcountry lodges in the 21 backcountry lodges in the Kootenay-Rockies region. Kootenay-Rockies region.
Sources: Tourism BC; Sources: Tourism BC; *Canada West Ski Areas Association *Canada West Ski Areas Association

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Whether you tour B.C.s coastal, Thompson-Okanagan or the KootenayWhether you tour B.C.s coastal, Thompson-Okanagan or the KootenayRockies regions, a strong selection of resorts means short and scenic drives Rockies regions, a strong selection of resorts means short and scenic drives with big payoffs. PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM with big payoffs. photo: istockphoto.com

ROAD TRIP roaD trIp

SKI IT TO BELIEVE IT.com

Get your motor running and explore the best of B.C. skiing
he two most welcome he two most welcome words to a skier, after words to a skier, after fresh and snow, are fresh and snow, are road and trip, as in road-trip. road and trip, as in road-trip. Thanks to a well-maintained Thanks to a well-maintained road network and a high density road network and a high density of quality ski resorts throughout of quality ski resorts throughout the province, ski road-tripping the province, ski road-tripping in B.C. is a joy ride. in B.C. is a joy ride. Road-trippers have a lot of Road-trippers have a lot of options throughout the provoptions throughout the province, including the ever-popular ince, including the ever-popular Kootenay-Rockies circuit. Fabled Kootenay-Rockies circuit. Fabled as the Powder Highway this as the Powder Highway this route links more than 60 ski and route links more than 60 ski and snowboard operators including snowboard operators including six of B.C.s nest inland resorts: six of B.C.s finest inland resorts: Kicking Horse, Revelstoke, Kicking Horse, Revelstoke, Whitewater, Kimberley and Whitewater, Kimberley and Panorama. Panorama. Skiers and riders who like it Skiers and riders who like it long and steep as well as deep long and steep as well as deep converge on Kicking Horse converge on Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in the PurMountain Resort in the Purcell Mountains at picturesque cell Mountains at picturesque Golden. It boasts the fourthGolden. It boasts the fourthhighest vertical drop in North highest vertical drop in North America and averages nearly America and averages nearly eight metres of light and uffy eight metres of light and fluffy snow a year at its summit. Four snow a year at its summit. Four bowls and more than 2,800 acres bowls and more than 2,800 acres of skiable terrain, along with of skiable terrain, along with a whole lot of black-diamond a whole lot of black-diamond runs, make this a top choice runs, make this a top choice among serious downhillers. among serious downhillers. Next stop is Revelstoke MounNext stop is Revelstoke Mountain Resort in the spectacular tain Resort in the spectacular Selkirk Mountains. Featuring the Selkirk Mountains. Featuring the most vertical in North America, most vertical in North America, Revelstoke Mountain Resort is Revelstoke Mountain Resort is the only ski destination in the the only ski destination in the world to offer lift, cat, heli, and world to offer lift, cat, heli, and backcountry skiing from one vilbackcountry skiing from one village base! The combined access lage base! The combined access allows for a mind-boggling halfallows for a mind-boggling halfmillion acres of skiable terrain. million acres of skiable terrain. At Whitewater, the legend At Whitewater, the legend continues. Just outside the continues. Just outside the historic and picturesque town historic and picturesque town of Nelson, Whitewater lives by of Nelson, Whitewater lives by a simple motto: Pure, Simple a simple motto: Pure, Simple & RealDeep. Powder maga& RealDeep. Powder magazine describes it as one of the zine describes it as one of the best powder mountains on the best powder mountains on the continent. In 2010, Whitewater continent. In 2010, Whitewater virtually doubled its terrain to virtually doubled its terrain to 1,317 acres, when it opened the 1,317 acres, when it opened the Glory Ridge chairlift. Glory Ridge chairlift. Families love Kimberley AlFamilies love Kimberley Alpine Resort, with its consistent pine Resort, with its consistent snowfalls, short lift lines, abunsnowfalls, short lift lines, abundance of sunny days and many dance of sunny days and many gently rolling and meticulously gently rolling and meticulously groomed runs, wending through groomed runs, wending through North America's largest serving North America's largest serving of gladed terrain. The Bavarianof gladed terrain. The Bavarianthemed town of Kimberley is themed town of Kimberley is also a big attraction. also a big attraction. Adventuresome clans and Adventuresome clans and serious skiers alike gravitate serious skiers alike gravitate to nearby Panorama Mountain to nearby Panorama Mountain Village. Although three-quarters Village. Although three-quarters of its runs are aimed at beginof its runs are aimed at beginner and intermediate skiers, the ner and intermediate skiers, the black-diamond offerings are black-diamond offerings are still rated epic. For the off-slope still rated epic. For the off-slope hours, Panorama has Canadas hours, Panorama has Canadas largest slope-side hot pools, largest slope-side hot pools, a toboggan area, a kids playa toboggan area, a kids playground and a three-lane snow ground and a three-lane snow tube park. tube park. Gas up the car! Gas up the car!

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Villages and mountains charm visitors

with a range of ski-in/ski-out accommodation. Complimentary guided tours are offered daily, and the terrain park is an everevolving treat for tricksters. When it comes to skiing and living large, Big White at Kelowna has it all: wide-open alpine cruisers, white-knuckle chutes, powdery bowls and lovingly groomed glade-style skiing for all ability levels. Home of Canadas highest pond skating rink, as well as a 60-foot ice climbing tower the only one of its kind in North America Big Whites village has no fewer than 18 on-mountain restaurants, cafes, delis, pubs and nightclubs. With its laid-back feel, Apex Mountain Resort is another favourite among those who enjoy quality skiing and an oldfashioned ski-resort feel. There may only be two lifts, but Apexs quantity and quality of terrain is so vast that weekend lineups look like those found midweek at larger properties elsewhere.

photo: mount Washington alpine resort Downhill skier in fresh powder at Mount Washington Alpine Resort. PHOTO: MOUNT WASHINGTON ALPINE RESORT

Coastal resorts easy access and loads of snow

hen it comes to skiing, B.C.s coastal region offers unrivalled ease of access and consistently favourable conditions. Never mind the rain that Vancouverites often complain about in the spring and fall. During ski season, the regions moisture turns into deep snow at higher elevations, blessing local mountains. Vancouver has three ski hills just minutes from downtown Cypress Mountain, Grouse Mountain and Mount Seymour as well as Hemlock Valley Resort in the Fraser Valley. Not much further east theres picturesque Manning Park, located along the Hope-Princeton Highway. Less than two hours north of Vancouver is Whistler Blackcomb, consistently ranked North Americas pre-eminent mountain resort. However, with 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, more than 200 trails and 37 lifts, new arrivals are often left wondering where to begin. The answer is Wonder Routes, a network of tours, trails, waypoints and stops created to help guests navigate the mountain and discover Whistler Blackcombs most wondrous places. These include the Top of the World route, featuring views from Whistler Blackcombs highest four peaks: the Steeps Sampler, which needs no explanation; the Gold Medal Route, with its points of interest inspired by the 2010 Winter Olympic Games; and the Certified Family Certied Route. There is also the ever-popular and selfexplanatory Powder Stashes. Another plus: visitors dont have to squint at little maps when they go exploring; at Whistler Blackcomb, mountain hosts offer complimentary guided tours. When it comes to deep snow, Mount Washington, in the Comox-Courtenay area of Vancouver Island, has no rivals, says public relations director Brent Curtain. Its known as the Deep Snow Capital for the simple reason we get the most snow, Curtain says. five For the past ve years, we have averaged over 14 metres a year. Although Mount Washington opened up a dark side a few years ago, featuring a wealth of black-diamond runs for expert skiers and served by a dedicated chairlift, it remains proud of its reputation as a family-friendly ski destination, Curtain says. In addition to a whole front side of intermediate terrain, he notes, the resort has invested $3 million in its Easy Acres beginners area, making it one of the most learn-to-ski-friendly hills on the planet. It includes not one but four magic carpet lifts that are effortless to ride and are also completely enclosed to protect tentative learners from the elements. A straightening and re-contouring of the learners slope has virtually eliminated the need for panicky turns, and has made the inevitable pratfalls less painful to endure. Its all about making the beginners experience as pleasant and memorable as possible, explains Curtain. Mission accomplished.

thE CoaSt THE COAST

hampagne powder snow, amazingly short lift lines and a family-friendly ambiance are the hallmarks of ski resorts in B.C.s ThompsonOkanagan region, all of them readily accessible from Eastern Canada through through Kamloops Airport and Kelowna International Airport. Silver Star, at Vernons Old West-style village known for charms including its horsedrawn sleighs offers up some serious skiing: 10 lifts serving 115 marked trails, all powder coated in 700-plus centimetres of snow annually. The mountain has a reputation for having some of the best cruiser-style groomed runs in Canada, but theres also plenty of steep-and-deep in the Putnam Creek area for the hard core. Sun Peaks at Kamloops has a distinctly European character, and no fewer than three mountains to ski on, all of them feeding down to a slopeside village

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A downhill skier in deep powder at Whitewater Ski Resort in Nelson.

photo: WhiteWater ski resort/doug lepage PHOTO: WHITEWATER SKI RESORT/DOUG LEPAGE

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kootENay-roCkIES KOOTENAY-ROCKIES

Kootenay-Rockies skiing is steep and deep

xpert skiers and snowboarders from around flock the world ock to B.C.s Kootenay-Rockies region, often drawn by its reputation for rugged mountains that offer steep find and deep terrain. And they nd what they are looking for in spades at locations including Kicking Horse Mountain Resorts nearly vertical walls, Kimberley Resorts perfectly formed moguls and Fernie Alpine Resorts overthe-shoulder-and-into-the-face powder. Matt Mosteller, vice-president of marketing and sales for Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, knows the region well. Within the hard-core skiing and riding community, I dont think youd get any argument that Fernie Alpine defines Resort denes the steep and deep experience, he says. There is a reason why the Powder Highway saga began in Fernie; last winter we had a mind-boggling 1,100 centimetres of snow fall at the resort. To put that number into perspective, think of three giraffes stacked on top of each other. Mosteller continues: I talk to many skiers from around the world who search for that magic combination of the best terrain and snow, and they keep coming back to Fernie Alpine Resort. The Kootenay-Rockies region is home to three other destination resorts: Kicking Horse Mountain Resort near Golden, Panorama Mountain Village Resort near Invermere, and Kimberley Resort, located just outside of the Bavarian-themed town of Kimberley. All four resorts offer a super-friendly B.C. welcome to international skiers and riders combined, with uncrowded slopes, where steep and deep runs can be enjoyed for days on end. Located just outside of the charming city of Nelson, Whitewater Winter Resort offers skiers a one-of-a-kind experience premised in part on its average 1,200 centimetres of dry snowfall annually and the resorts genuine hospitality. Nearby Kicking Horse, Revelstoke Mountain Resort is another prolific of this regions prolic ski areas, one that boasts not only 5,620 feet of vertical fall lines the most in North America but also a whopping 30 to 45 feet of annual snowfall. Revelstoke also wows skiers with a variety of terrain that includes glades, wide-open bowls, groomed trails and a beginner area and tube park. Meanwhile, skiers seeking find the thrills of slack-country nd ready access through cat and heli operators including Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing.

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photo: Big White ski resort

B.C. is home to more than 35 fully serviced ski areas, from Bear Mountain Ski Hill near the northern commu Island. The map below offers a view into B.C. ski country, including highlights of 12 of the provinces popula

Coastal region
1

Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Blackcomb defines the 21st century big mountain scene: North Americas most skiable terrain (8,171 acres/3307 hectares), an average snowfall of 11.9 metres or 39.1 feet, a world record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK gondola that connects the two side-by-side mountains, a vibrant mountain culture and arguably the best aprs-ski scene anywhere. At its heart, Whistler Blackcombs huge, wideopen and varied terrain is ideal for skiers of all levels including families, children and those who are new to the sport.

Mount Washington Alpine Resort

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Vancouver Islands Mount Washington is Canadas snow magnet. Known for epic snowfall averages more than 14 metres per season enough snow to bury a five-storey building Mount Washington also boasts unparalleled mountaintop views, offering a panoramic vista that includes Strathcona Provincial Park and the Pacific Ocean. This resorts terrain is varied beginners choose Easy Acres, with its four new magic carpet lifts, while intermediates schuss down their pick of many meticulously groomed cruising runs and experts tuck into the Outback. In addition, the resort is an acclaimed cross-country ski and snowshoeing destination. A charming alpine village with 4,500 beds makes Mount Washington the place to stay and play. Direct flights from Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver to nearby Comox Valley Airport help make getting to this destination resort easy.

Thompson-Okanagan region
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Silver Star Mountain Resort

A breezy 55-minute drive from Kelowna International Airport, award-winning Silver Star Mountain Resort is recognized as one of Canadas best family resorts. There are many new offerings complementing the 700 centimetres of champagne powder that falls annually on Silver Stars slopes. Among this years highlights, Silver Star is introducing Canadas first all-inclusive seasons pass and day ticket, allowing access to more than 3,065 acres of skiable terrain and free upgrades to tubing, skating, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Whether its challenging the resorts new bowling alley or checking out a heli-ski program just for ladies, Silver Star is poised to please skiers this season.

More skiing!
Beyond the highlighted ski resorts, B.C. is also home to the following ski areas situated around the province.

Big White Ski Resort

Located in the picturesque Okanagan Valley, 55-minutes by car from Kelowna International Airport, the award-winning Big White Ski Resort is British Columbias second most popular resort. It boasts the largest totally ski-in/ski-out accommodation village in Canada. Blessed with sunny weather, dry powder and mild average ski season temperatures, Big White is best known as Canadas favourite family resort, where kids and adults can all have fun together. Coming into its 50th year, Big White has been recognized as a finalist as the top family resort in 2012 at the World Snow Awards in London England.

Sun Peaks Resort

First-timers to Sun Peaks Resort are often awestruck upon their arrival by the unique and charming pedestrian village, range of ski-in/ski-out lodging and plentiful light, dry snow. Three mountains cradle Sun Peaks village and offer a selection of ski terrain that includes long-cruising groomers, deep steeps and endless tree skiing. Its easy to head into the village at a moments notice for a quick snack or evening aprs session at one of more than 20 cafs, pubs and restaurants. While the resort is home to the second-largest alpine ski terrain in B.C., there are also 50 kilometres of Nordic trails and other activities like dog-sledding, snowshoeing and more to explore during your winter holiday.

Apex Mountain Resort

A hidden gem of Canadian skiing, Apex Mountain Resort is a breezy 30-minute drive from Penticton Regional Airport. This full-service destination resort is known for its Okanagan champaign powder snow, spectacular terrain, short lift lineups and a vibrant aprs ski scene. Popular among locals and visitors alike, Apex's highlights include its South Bowls, Wild Side glades and The Pit, an area renowned for its breathtaking steep n deep fall line. Apex has an average temperature of -4C, 1,112 skiable acres, 2,000 feet of vertical, and receives about 700 cm of dry powder snow each season.

A. Cypress Mountain B. Grouse Mountain C. Mount Seymour D. Shames Mountain E. Hudson Bay Mountain F. Murray Ridge Ski Area G. Powder King Mountain Resort H. Bear Mountain Ski Hill I. Tabor Mountain Ski Resort J. Purden Ski Village K. Troll Ski Resort L. Mount Timothy Ski Area M. Mount Cain N. Hemlock Resort O. Crystal Mountain P. Harper Mountain Q. Summit Lake R. Fairmont Hot Springs Ski Area S. Manning Park Resort T. Mount Baldy U. Phoenix Mountain V. Salmo Ski Hill W. Red Mountain

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unity of Dawson to Mount Washington on Vancouver ar ski resorts and factors that make each one unique.

Kootenay-Rockies region
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Whitewater Ski Resort

For those with a passion for epic Canadian winters in an authentic setting, Whitewater Winter Resort located deep in British Columbias Kootenay region is a one-of-a-kind experience. Located just outside of the famously charming city of Nelson, on B.C.s internationally famous Powder Highway, Whitewater is blessed with an average of 1,200 centimetres of dry snowfall every season. Situated high above town, at an elevation of 5,400 feet, and renowned for hearty hospitality, the resort is an ideal destination for those seeking a winter vacation of a lifetime. Legendary for its open bowls, gladed trees and steep chutes, Whitewater also offers a gentler side that includes family-friendly groomed slopes.

Revelstoke Mountain Resort

Revelstoke Mountain Resort features 30 to 45 feet of annual snowfall and the most vertical in North America 5,620 feet. With 3,121 acres of terrain, Revelstoke offers skiers exhilarating fall-line runs, wide-open bowls, skill-progression glades, flowing groomed trails and a village-based beginner area and tube park. The village offers luxury ski-in/ski-out accommodation at the Sutton Place Hotel, unique dining at Rockford Wok|Bar|Grill and Wino: The Wine Bar. There is also direct access to lift, cat, heli- (Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing) and backcountry skiing. Home to Canadian Freeskiing, Revelstoke is the only Canadian venue on the Swatch Freeride World Tour by The North Face.

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a world-class destination, where the mountains are a lot bigger, the powder is a lot lighter and smiles are more than just a little wider. The Champagne Powder Capital of Canada, Kicking Horse includes 2,800 skiable acres, 4,133 vertical feet, four alpine bowls, 128 runs and 85 inbound chutes. The mountainside village features a stunning selection of accommodation options as well as the largest and most varied selection of ski-in/ski-out lodging in the Canadian Rockies. Take the eight-person gondola to the mountaintop at 7,770 feet and enjoy 5-star dining at The Eagles Eye Restaurant. Canadas highest elevation restaurant, its a culinary experience not be missed. The resort is just a 2.5-hour drive from Calgary, 1.5 hours from Banff and closer to heaven than you might think.

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Panorama Mountain Village

Rising 4,000 vertical feet above its base, Panorama Mountain Villages summit terrain covers nearly 3,000 acres, suitable for all abilities. Intermediates carve Panoramas famed fall-line groomed runs, while advanced skiers enjoy the steeps of Taynton Bowl. The summit, just below tree-line, provides breathtaking views and stands tall over this convenient, family-friendly ski-in/ski-out village, as well as the nearby quaint town of Invermere. After an exhilarating day on the slopes, guests can rejuvenate in Canadas largest slope-side hot-pools. The resorts relaxed character and abundance of on-site activities, including heli-skiing, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and tubing, make it a favourite.

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Kimberley Alpine Resort

Kimberley Alpine Resort has everything from wide-open groomed runs to powder stashes and adventurous steeps, as well as North Americas largest gladed terrain, the Black Forest. With 73 runs to choose from, ranging from beginner to expert, it offers beautiful views of the Purcell Mountains in a laid-back and friendly atmosphere. Kimberley Alpine Resort also features Western Canadas largest illuminated slope, where you can enjoy night skiing and our night rail park.

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Fernie Alpine Resort

I J K

A powder-packed dream turned reality, Fernie Alpine Resort offers a variety of nearly endless terrain and vistas, as well as uncrowded trails and a mild climate making it a true winter playground for skiers and riders at all levels. Push yourself to new heights and discover big-mountain skiing at its best on Fernies new Polar Peak Lift. It brings the resorts run count up to 142, which gives Fernie the most runs, the most vertical and the most snow up to 37 feet a season in the Rockies. In 2012, Fernie was named as a Top 25 Ski Town in the World by National Geographic.

5 1

9
P Q

Kamloops
O

8 10 11 7
V R

Whistler ourtenay/Comox
A B C

Kelowna
6
T U

Vancouver Victoria

4
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Cranbrook
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left: photo: tourism Bc/dave heath. aBove: fernie alpine resort, photo: henry georgi

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SKI BRITISH COLUMBIA ski British columBia

For all ages and abilities, ski and snowboard lessons deliver value
Professional instructors choose the right terrain and conditions By Josh Foster that help their Director of Snow Sports students Big White Ski Resort improve their skills CSIA Level 4 Senior Examiner and therefore CWSAA Snow Sports Division Chair build their CSIA BC Board Chair confidence. CSIA Interski Team Member 2007
e Canadians tend to be a trailblazing, self-taught culture. We routinely go out and beat ourselves up for hours before even thinking of asking for some help. As with other skill-intensive sports and activities, when it comes to skiing whether you are just beginning or advanced professional instruction pays. The sensibility of this wisdom was reinforced to me a few years Tono, rst ago in Tofino, B.C., where I first surng. attempted surfing. My friends were well-meaning, but their guidance and encouragement to just stand up left me getting pounded into the beach by relentless Pacific Ocean waves. Pacic Rather than give up, I sought some professional lessons. What a difference! Within a few minutes of understanding the basics, I was back out in the waves and standing up on my surfboard. All too often, when it comes to skiing and snowboarding, rst-timers first-timers are inclined to either go on their own or have a buddy take them to the top of the mountain. Shortly after, they set out rocketing down hill as they attempt to respond to their friends instructions, such as, TURN! or STOP! This approach rarely ends with a positive experience for anyone. There are, of course, much better ways. At every ski hill and ski resort across British Columbia, there are a multitude of lesson programs available for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. A program shared by most is called Dis-

SNOW SCHOOL SNow SChool

cover Skiing and Snowboarding. rst-timers, Designed for first-timers, this lesson program includes everything you will need to try out the lifelong sports of skiing and snowboarding: a lift ticket, rental equipment and the all-important rst first lesson. Most resorts will also have a program that follows their Discover Program to keep you on track and progressing too. Be sure to investigate those options as well. Lessons arent just for beginners. If youre already a skier or snowboarder, ask yourself a few simple questions: Do I ski/ride condently confidently and in control in all conditions and situations? Do I ski/ride at my desired level of performance? Am I limited to certain runs, but would like to try something more? Would I ski/ ride better if I had new equipment? If finding the answer to nding any of these questions is a bit of a struggle, you could likely use a lesson. One of the most common things that guests say when

Learning proper techniques from a profession ski instructor helps ensure skiing is a safe, fun and rewarding activity.
PHOTO: WHISTLER BLACKCOMB/PAUL MORRISON photo: Whistler BlackcomB/paul morrison

booking a lesson at a ski school desk is, I want to be more condent. confident. My answer is that theyve come to the right place. Spending some time with a ski or snowboard pro leads to that condence. fidence. Professional instructors choose the right terrain and conditions that help their students improve their skills and therefore condence. build their confidence. Want to up your performance? A ski or snowboard pro can help you elevate your game by showing you subtle tips and tricks to get the most of out your equipment. It could be as simple as a small adjustment in how you stand in

your gear or maybe even where you look when you turn. What sort of lesson should you take? There are lots of options ranging from affordable group lessons to more focused private lessons, plus weekend programs and multi-day clinics. The best source of information on choosing the right program to suit you and your family is to check out the website of your local ski hill or the destination ski resort where you plan to vacation. From ts there you can pick what fits your schedule and budget. Hopefully youre convinced that taking a lesson or two this

winter is smart and will help you get even more enjoyment of skiing and snowboarding. One more thing to remember: all of British Columbias Snow Sports Schools employ ski and snowboard pros who are trained and certied certified by either the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance (CSIA) or the Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors (CASI). When you take your lesson, be sure to ask at the sales desk for certied a certified pro. You can bet they too have taken lessons recently as part of their ongoing training and professional development. See you on the snow.

Online? online?

Heli-ski operators expertly whisk skiers to pristine mountain tops.

PHOTO: SELKIRK TANGIERS HELI-SKIING photo: selkirk tangiers heli-skiing

BC RESORTS bC rESortS

Interested in exploring Canadas ski destinations?

Up and away heli-ski operators take resort skiing to new heights

rom improbable landings atop splendidly isolated, snow-capped peaks to the knee-deep powder that washes over you with every turn, theres nothing that compares to the thrills of heli-skiing, says veteran heli-skier and legendary freeskiing champion Mike Douglas. Its the ultimate chair lift, he says. Theres no other way you can just go up in the air, see a mountain and say, Hey, lets go there. Its such a great adventure; you stand at the top and look down and wonder whats below, nd and then you go find out. And you dont have to worry about crossing any other tracks because there arent any! Its like a dream come true. In this heady realm, British Columbia is the ultimate dream weaver. Theres helicopter skiing all over the world, but it pales in comparison to what you have in B.C., says Ski Canada editor Iain MacMillan. And B.C.s heli-skiing operations truly are the best in the world. B.C. resorts like Whistler Blackcomb are the pre-eminent launch pad for memorable heli-ski experiences promising the best of slack country no crowds, wide-open scenery, unbridled ski terrain, deep snow and untracked lines. The resort has a lot to offer, but we provide 50 times more nd terrain than youll find there and average about 50 skiers a day, says Stuart Rempel of Whistler Heli-Skiing. Theres always good snow and a fresh line. And you dont have to plan ahead; if the weather looks good, you can take a day off from the lifts and go. At Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing offers a unique opportunity to enjoy full days of heli-skiing and boarding with easy access to Revelstokes vibrant nightlife, shopping and restaurants afterward, says Sarah Windsor, marketing and communications co-ordinator for Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Unique to our location, the extraordinary experience of complete remoteness is a just a few minutes away in the helicopter! Wide-open glaciers, alpine meadows, and arguably the best tree-skiing in the world are what our guests enjoy in 500,000 acres of exclusive terrain, on over 200 named runs. Nearby, Snowwater Heli Skiing caters to only 12 guests at a time and offers snowcat back-up, meaning no down days, and With over 150,000 acres at our disposal, our terrain is steep and deep, presenting dramatic alpine ridges, colossal bowls and countless pillow fields, says guest elds, services director Julia Van Ee. At Panorama Mountain Village, RK Heliski has been sharing the magic of the Purcell backcountry for 43 years. Our location allows for easy access to seemingly endless glaciers and deep tree runs, says company spokesperson Bryan Schellenberg, adding rst-timers. that RK welcomes first-timers. certied Our certified guides make the transition to backcountry powder skiing a breeze; theyll have you looking like a pro in a run or two.

Front row seats to Fantastic

Theres just something about it. Carving endless corduroy on 4000 vertical feet of fall line perfection. The massive terrain of Taynton Bowl. Oohs and aahs in Canadas largest slopeside hotpools, right next to your ski-to-the-door digs. Latte? Down the sidewalk. Heliskiing? Left off the gondola. And crowds? Where? Nothing but snow-capped peaks and friendly faces in every direction. Welcome to our Village.

Sensational Ski Package! From only $299 per FAMILY per night. PLUS! Receive a $200 Resort Gift Card.*

Call 1.866.601.7387 or Book Online at SkiPanorama.com

Conditions apply.

SKI IT TO BELIEVE IT.com

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SKI BRITISH COLUMBIA ski British columBia

Terrain parks like the TELUS Park Pipe at Big White have become popular among thrill seeking skiers and snowboarders alike. PHOTO: BIG WHITE SKI RESORT photo: Big White ski resort

Half-pipes, terrain parks and other radical, accessible fun

errain parks have become such a popular mainstay at B.C. ski resorts today that imagining them without these thrilling xtures is like picfixtures turing ski hills without chairlifts. Almost 25 years since their introduction, its hard to believe there was a time when the snowboarders who built and shaped them were banned from the slopes. Flynn Seddon, Big Whites director of terrain parks and outdoor events, remembers those early days well. In 1985, four of us hiked up the slopes at Big White with these home-built snowboards and bindings. It took us over two hours, but we found this awesome north-facing slope with three feet of fresh powder. Seddon, whose previous experience riding his early snowboard was on humble snow-covered mounds at a local golf course, recalls a sensation unlike anything else Id ever experienced. I knew right then that I was hooked. Seddon and pals became instrumental in getting Big White management to legalize snowboarding, and later, teaming up with a snowcat driver named Doug Jamieson to make a halfpipe the beginnings of what is now one of Western Canadas most renowned terrain parks. Hence, the snowboard or terrain park was born, with features that indeed mimicked a snow-lled version of the sports snow-filled inspiration: a skateboard park. Features including sleek and deep half-pipes, long, at table flat top style jumps and ubiquitous metal rails, which required the stealth of a tightrope walker to negotiate, became mainstays. In a few short years, freestyle snowboarding began to dominate the sport. The spins, jibs, ollies and switch (backwards) riding became the epitome of cool. Among the core 12- to 25-year-old age group, participation in snowboarding soared. For years, skiers and snowboarders kept their distance, at least until a gang of four Quebecois skiers descended on Blackcombs Horstman Glacier with bright yellow and black skis that were turned up at the tip and the tail. Designed with input from Whistlers Mike Douglas, the Salomon Teneighty twintip ski could easily go both forwards and backwards, or switch. Douglas, a former freestyle coach, had been skiing in the half-pipe at Blackcomb since it rst opened, even though the first snowboarders would hassle me. Known as The Godfather for his role in creating an entirely new discipline of the sport known as New School freeskiing, the sport seriously took off in the summer of 1998. We had been doing the same eight or 10 tricks, but once we got the new skis, we were able to get it up to about 30. Douglas and the New Quebec Air Force as they were called threw down aerial routines that even impressed snowboarders. One of the coaches watching the action on the glacier that summer was Wade Garrod, who is now the executive director of BC Freestyle. He says, Those tricks that Douglas and the New Quebec Air Force did just caught on like crazy with skiers at the smaller hills there was an enormous amount of enthusiasm at the grassroots level. We would rewind and study their videos repeatedly. Garrod would end up coaching at Silver Star Mountain Resort, where the local freestyle club was especially stoked on the Big Air discipline. Garrod recalls, The freestyle club did a lot to get the mountain on side when it came to building topnotch training facilities like the air site. The Silver Star air site would literally launch the careers of a half dozen freeskiers who would go on to make a name for themselves at venues like the XGames and the Dew Tour. With thumping music, bright lights for night sessions and sponsor logos splashed on every jump and tied to every fence, terrain parks have emerged the most energetic spots on todays mountains. Half-pipe skiing will join halfpipe snowboarding at the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia. And B.C. athletes training at some of best facilities in the world will be there. For recreational skiers and snowboarders, resorts across the province today provide the ultimate grounds in which to develop and test their skills, and most of all, have fun in this new age of freeskiing and snowboarding.

25 YEARS OF INNOVATION yEarS of INNoVatIoN

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SKI British columBia ski BRITISH COLUMBIA

Ski getaway provides the making for a satisfying family holiday

hristmas gift-giving took on a unique glow for Randall and Louise Mangs family last winter. Instead of giving typical gifts, we decided to present our six children with a gift of togetherness a ski weekend, says Randall, noting that, at the time, his and Louises six children ranged in age from 11 to 26 years old. With the kids growing up, its harder to nd time to do things find as a group. We really wanted to put the focus on our family. While the Mangs presented their gift including matching toques to their clan at their Lower Mainland home on Christmas Day, they slated their ski weekend for mid-February, choosing Big White Resort, near Kelowna. Randall, who, since childhood has skied primarily in B.C.s coastal terrain, says, We had heard that Big White is familyfriendly and is known for light, dry powder snow, so all of us were really looking forward to checking it out. The couple booked the trip through Big Whites central reservations, which Randall describes as turnkey. They were helpful and offered us a good selection of chalets all of which offered ski-in/ski-out access and balconies with hot tubs. We were also able to book lift tickets, lessons and rentals in advance, which helped make things easy. With most of the family members skiing at an intermediate or higher level, the Mangs decided to put their youngest daughter into ski school for the morning, allowing the rest of the group to ski at a more advanced pace. It was terric. She had a great time terrific. and so did we. Then we all got together after lunch and skied together for the afternoon. Louise says Big Whites customer service was also impressive, including the friendly staff members, many of whom hail from Australia. Aussies are known for hospitality, and they bring a warm vibrancy to the resort. Randall and Louise say they were also pleased with the wide

EVERYONE WELCOME EVEryoNE wElComE

Its a great activity from a social perspective and the perfect sport for the whole family to enjoy. My own family of four my daughter is eight and my son is five frequently skis together here in the Okanagan, and we love it.
David Lynn is president and CEO of the Canada West Ski Areas Association

range of activities offered in the village for free or nominal prices. After skiing, our older guys took the younger ones to the village while Louise and I made dinner. They had a blast. That evening we all soaked in the hot tub on our deck. There was even a reworks fireworks display, which it turns out is a regular part of Big Whites offering, he says. Louises brother Mike, his wife Sheri, and Mikes two adult-aged children and their spouses also came up for the weekend, staying in a nearby condo and adding to the mix and the festivities. Mike and Sheri have become big fans of family ski holidays. This was

their rst time at Big White, and first they loved it. Theyve also holidayed at Sun Peaks and Whistler, and they say each is special in its own way. David Lynn, president and CEO of the Canada West Ski Areas Association, which represents 107 ski areas throughout Western Canada, says the entire region is terric for families. terrific Skiing is a fun and healthy way to stay active during the winter. Its also a great activity from a social perspective and the perfect sport for the whole family to enjoy. My own family of four my daughter is eight and my son is ve frefive quently skis together here in the Okanagan, and we love it, he says.

British Columbians are very fortunate to live in a province with such a superb range of ski resorts, Lynn comments. I would encourage skiers at all levels to explore the fantastic variety of ski experiences that B.C. has to offer. There is tremendous diversity in terms of terrain, scenery, accommodations and culture that will amply reward skiers who explore B.C. ski resorts. Randall says for himself and his family, it was a Christmas gift we will all remember a really great time for every one. We got outside, enjoyed some spectacular skiing, had a ton of fun, and it was good value too.

Simple pleasures ranging from whisking down ski slopes and playing in the snow to spending time with family and friends in entertaining, village-style resorts contribute to the popularity of B.C. ski holidays among families. PHOTO: BIG WHITE SKI RESORT photo: Big White ski resort

Online? online?

JUST GREW
( And its sure to be a repeat item ) And its sure to be repeat item
A starlit sky. Fresh tracks. Peacefulness of the outdoors. This evening ski is all yours after a traditional fondue dinner at the mid-mountain Sunburst Lodge. Sun Peaks is the only resort in British Columbia to offer this unique Canadian pairing, one that has become a favourite among returning guests and a highlight of a Sun Peaks vacation. Every Thursday after the chairlifts close, the Sunburst lift whisks a few dozen eager guests away on an evening featuring delicious food, live entertainment and an evening ski down the 5 Mile run by starlight or headlamp. Experience this and more at British Columbias second largest ski area.

YOUR BUCKET LIST YOUR BUCKET LIST

Taking a B.C. ski holiday is easier than ever

new provincial holiday, a new travel website and enhanced ight to Kelowna flight the gateway for several ski areas in the British Columbia Interior are just three ways that will help make 2012-13 ski season ideal for ski vacationing in B.C. Perhaps the biggest change that skiers and snowboarders in Western Canada will note this winter is the addition of the new B.C. Family Day, to be observed as an ofcial statutory holiday on official Monday, February 11, 2013, and on the second Monday in February each year from now on. David Lynn, president and CEO of the Canada West Ski Areas Association, says, Our thanks go out to all of the B.C. residents who voted for this very special holiday. B.C. Family Day will never conict conflict with either U.S. Presidents Day or Alberta Family Day, thereby giving British Columbians the opportunity to ski and snowboard on uncrowded slopes. To encourage participation, Lynn says, We are very excited to be able to celebrate the rst first B.C. Family Day, by providing B.C. families with the opportunity to experience B.C. skiing at half the regular price. Vacation planning in B.C. is simple for families, says Cindy Burr, travel media specialist for Tourism British Columbia. With easy access and convenient shuttle service from major gateways, most of the resorts have quaint villages with ski-in/ski-out accommodation, which means you dont need a car. Many properties are condo-style, with full kitchen facilities, replaces and private fireplaces hot tubs. Burr is excited about the launch of a brand-new B.C. ski website, which goes live on October 8. The site, www.Ski It To Believe It.com, will provide information on B.C. resorts, as well as special offers and current ski conditions. Burr encourages visitors to B.C. as well as local skiers and boarders to check for daily updates on the site. Kelowna International Airport (YLW) also lends to B.C.s ski destination appeal, particularly for those wanting to spend time at resorts located in the provinces Thompson-Okanagan or Kootenay-Rockies regions. Since undergoing an extensive renovation in 2008, YLW has become Canadas tenth-largest airport, now offering non-stop and direct service from Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver. December 19 marks the inaugural non-stop ight from Los Angeles flight International Airport to YLW. Kelowna is a logical jumpingoff spot for Big White, Silver Star, Sun Peaks (also serviced from Kamloops Airport), Revelstoke Mountain Resort and various cat skiing and heli-skiing lodges throughout the B.C. Interior. Of course, Vancouver International Airport continues to handle the vast majority of domestic and international trafc coming to traffic resorts in B.C.s coastal and other regions.

TRIP PLANNING trIp plaNNINg

Interested in exploring Canadas ski destinations?

1 877 660 1460 1.877.660.1460 SunPeaksResort.com/Play

*Only available via phone reservations. Minimum 3 night package. Can be combined with other offers through Sun Peaks Central Reservations. New bookings only. Limited quantity of free tickets are available on a rst come, rst serve basis. Maximum 2 tickets per package. Blackouts include December 27, 2012 and January 3, 2013. Must be 14+ years to participate. Photo: Adam Stein.

www.cwsaa.org

0 ur r 3 yo be ok em bo v u No yo y n eb he g W cka a ip sk

EE FR

Outstanding resort amenities help make a B.C. ski holiday enjoyable for skiers and snowboarders of all ages. PHOTO: WHISTLER BLACKCOMB/ROBIN O'NEILL photo: Whistler BlackcomB/roBin o'neill

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ski British columBia SKI BRITISH COLUMBIA

Unique family attractions distinguish resorts

ompetitive by nature, B.C. ski resorts do their best to outshine one another, especially when it comes to offering family-friendly amenities. This following alphabetical listing of popular B.C. ski resorts offers hints at how each works to show moms, dads and kids of all ages a great time.

multIgENEratIoNal appEal MULTIGENERATIONAL APPEAL

SuN pEakS rESort SUN PEAKS RESORT

Kids have their own ideas about what constitutes an aprs-ski activity, and Sun Peaks Resort gets it! The Sports & Aquatic Centre features a year-round heated outdoor pool, hot tub and dedicated kids pool. The Mascon Hangout is the place to spend time with friends, watch the latest ski or snowboard movies and play Xbox or Wii. Sun Peaks has also ramped up the fun at its tube park, with curved lanes, and kids of all ages love the Bungee Trampoline, the safest way to get high and bounce low. For a real treat, enjoy a Cat Trax Groomer Ride fire-breathing aboard a snorting, re-breathing PistenBully snow groomer as it prepares the slopes for the next days fun.

apEx mouNtaIN rESort APEX MOUNTAIN RESORT

If you want the perfect blend of creature comforts and the ingredients for genuine, family excitement, Apex Mountain Resort offers everything you need in an intimate and welcoming setting. Family oriented options include cross country skiing on one of 56 world-class trails at Nickel Plate Nordic Centre, riding the Tube Park with the kids, taking a peaceful snowshoe tour, playing late night hockey and ice skating along a lighted, one-kilometre loop through a pristine pine forest. Your family can enjoy this ideal get-away experience all starting at special $69 Ski and Stay rates.

bIg whItE BIG WHITE

Recognized as one of the Top Five Family Resorts for UK skiers by Britains Sunday Times, Big White welcomes families from across Canada, with packages that offer five ve nights of accommodation in a two-bedroom condominium and four days of skiing. The packages, which include air travel with WestJet, start at $866 per person from Toronto, $884 per person from Montreal and $974 per person from Halifax. Ontario March Break VIP packages include a weeks worth of fun, starting from $1,055 per person, based on four sharing. Choose from two itineraries: March 9-16 and March 10-17.

Thanks to contemporary ski resort designs, skiers of a variety of skill levels can ski together.
photo: fernie alpine resort/henry georgi PHOTO: WHISTLER BLACKCOMB/PAUL MORRISON photo: tourism Bc/don Weixl PHOTO: TOURISM BC/DON WEIXL

kICkINg horSE mouNtaIN rESort KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Tubing at Kicking Horse just keeps getting better. After a full makeover, Tube Zone, in the heart of the Kicking Horse Plaza, is now accessible via the Jelly Bean surface lift. Retro fans converge for Disco Tubing, featuring the hits of the 70s, every Saturday night. Families are also invited to bring their Smores supplies to the re pit at the fire indoor skating rink. Even when the weather outside is frightful, hearts and hands stay warm, with fireside reside benches, a warming hut and music. Play on!

whItEwatEr SkI rESort WHITEWATER SKI RESORT

Whitewater, near Nelson, has a reputation for appealing to hardcore skiers and boarders, but it also maintains a full slate of kidfriendly programs for beginners and youths looking to improve their skills. New this year is RBC Jumps & Bumps, focused on teaching kids to ski using freestyle techniques. Young jumpers and bumpers will be exposed to mogul and terrain park skills and also get briefed on slope-side etiquette. The program, designed by the Canadian Freestyle Skiing Association, in partnership with the National Coaching CerticaCertification Program, is a fun and safe way to introduce the kids to freestyle skiing.

fErNIE alpINE rESort FERNIE ALPINE RESORT

Fernie Alpine Resort offers complimentary kids activities that include themed craft nights, activity nights and Movie Mania Fridays, complete with free popcorn. Skiers and boarders booking five by November 30 will receive ve five nights accommodation and ve days of skiing for the price of four, starting as low as $415 per person. Fernie Alpine has the distinct advantage of being located just a snowballs throw from the town of Fernie, rated one of the Best Winter Trips of 2012 by National Geographic. This is thanks in part to the great skiing, but historic Fernie also features heritage redbrick architecture and genuine small-town friendly ambiance. Its just an hour by road from Canadian Rockies International Airport in Cranbrook.

whIStlEr blaCkComb WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

Dedicated learning centres, specially designed terrain gardens, family zones, an enchanted Tree Fort and Magic Castle ensure that any time is a good time for families to experience Whistler Blackcomb. Once the days onmountain adventures are done, the village is packed with family activities. Many mountain side bars welcome kids until 8 p.m., and give everyone a chance to en joy aprs-ski. Those with energy to spare can skate circles around one another on the outdoor skating rink at Olympic Plaza, or experience the thrill of the Coca-Cola Tube Park. Look for the Family Certified Certied icon throughout the resort, which shows youre in a family-friendly zone.

mouNt waShINgtoN MOUNT WASHINGTON

Families looking to start their kids on the slopes will want to know about Mount Washingtons midweek ski packages, which five include ve nights of accommodation in a ski-in/ski-out condofive minium, ve lift tickets (MondayFriday,) eight hours of lessons, snow tubing, a Monday night finale aprs social and a grand nale dinner on the Thursday night! Packages start at $499, based on four sharing. Mount Washington also has an all-week daycare centre, catering to children from five 18 months to ve years.
photo: kicking horse mountain resort PHOTO: KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT

kImbErlEy alpINE rESort KIMBERLEY ALPINE RESORT

Kimberley Alpine Resort loves Toronto, so much so that it is offering a Toronto Loves Kimberley package. The package includes five ve nights of accommodation in a kitchen-equipped ski-in/skiout unit at Trickle Creek Lodge, air from Toronto to Canadian Rockies International Airport in Cranbrook, shuttles between the airport and Trickle Creek Lodge, and a four-day lift ticket for two adults at Kimberley Alpine Resort. New at Kimberley is the Minute Maid Adventure Trail Program for kids, featuring cool info on the environment and natural history along ski trails through the woods.

SIlVEr Star SILVER STAR

They say families that ski together stay together, and Silver Star is helping keep the family unit intact with its Kids Ski Free deal. Stay in select properties at Silver Star March 1-31 and receive one complimentary childs lift pass per adult pass purchased. Theres a two-pass maximum in select one- and two-bedroom condominiums, vacation homes and hotel units, and a four-pass maximum in select three-bedroom condominiums and vacation homes.
photo: Jenn dykstra PHOTO: JENN DYKSTRA

paNorama mouNtaIN VIllagE PANORAMA MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

Ski kids who turn into swim kids when the lifts close will be over the moon at Panorama Mountain Village, home to the legendary Panorama Springs pool complex, with its massive slope-side hot tubs. Pools are complimentary for all lodging guests. Family-friendly events at Panorama include the Winter Festival in January, Mardi Gras in February, Mountain Stampede in March and Spring Carnival in April. Panorama has tripled the size of its night-skiing terrain and added a conveyor-liftaccessed, three-lane snow tube park.

rEVElStokE mouNtaIN rESort REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT

At Revelstoke Mountain Resort, kids ROC! At the Revelstoke Outdoor Centre (ROC) that is, a dedicated space for young snow-school participants. The newly developed space allows for easy drop-off and pick-up for parents, creates a positive atmosphere for students and guides, and provides an entertaining lunchtime space for children enrolled in full-day programs. Kids ROC has fun play structures, a foam pit, a mini climbing wall, and games and crafts. In the evenings, Kids ROC will host aprs activities and will also be available for private rental functions, such as birthday parties.

photo: tourism Bc/david gluns PHOTO: TOURISM BC/DAVID GLUNS

photo: don Weixl PHOTO: DON WEIXL

this randallanthony communications inc. the globe mail. richard deacon, national development manager, This report was produced by RandallAnthony Communications Inc. (www.randallanthony.com) in conjunction with the advertising department of The Globe and Mail. Richard Deacon, National Business Development Manager, rdeacon@globeandmail.com.

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ski British columBia SKI BRITISH COLUMBIA

Lodging, entertainment and dining options encourage skiers to stay and play
ccommodations at B.C. ski resorts range from convenient ski-in/ski-out hotels at the base of ski lifts to value-priced, off-hill lodgings in alpine village settings, complete with a wide range of entertainment and dining choices. Whistler has the full range of prices and affordability, says Robin Nasmith, president of Skican, a long-time provider of all-inclusive ski and snowboard holiday vacation packages to Western Canada. What you see at resorts like Panorama, Fernie and Sun Peaks is based on the same model and offers the same quality, but on a smaller scale. B.C. resorts have also vastly expanded ski-in/ski out options, Nasmith says. Thats the big market nowadays, and B.C. has been very good at developing it. In step with its international reputation and clientele, Whistler Blackcomb has amassed a comprehensive collection range of accommodation options from hostels and budget hotels five-star to ve-star resorts catering to A-list celebrities, adds Nasmith, who notes that midweek skiers benefit benet from particularly competitive pricing, not to mention shorter lift lines. In other parts of B.C., regional towns near the slopes often at the very foot of the mountain offer distractions and attractions that lend both depth and character to a ski holiday. For example, the historic hamlet of Fernie backstops the Fernie Mountain Resort, famous for its powder snow. Panorama Mountain Village, meanwhile is situated nearby Alpine-inspired Invermere, itself just 15 minutes from Radium, known for Canadas largest natural hot springs. Sun Peaks Resort, which punches well above its weight by offering skiers a choice of three mountains to enjoy, is also itself a vibrant Tyrolean-style village. Silver Star at Vernon and nearby Apex Alpine at Penticton are legendary for their Old West ambiance and Western-style hos-

plaCES to Stay PLACES TO STAY

fEStIValS FESTIVALS

photo: tourism Bc/toshi kaWano PHOTO: TOURISM BC/TOSHI KAWANO

Festivals bring added fun to the slopes B.C. ski resorts are home to some of North Americas premier festivals and special events. Early-season skiers with a passion for things cinematic will be swelling Whistler soon for the 12th annual Whistler Film Festival (November 28-December 2,) a magnet for industry insiders and a time when the town buzzes with celebrity sightings, both on the slopes and in the shops. Every April, the TELUS World Ski & Snowboard Festival (TWSSF) takes Whistler by storm as thousands of fans witness North Americas largest annual snowsport and music celebration. For 10 days and 10 nights, this festival creates a unique vibe with a high-energy combination of world class ski and snowboard competitions, the largest free concert series in Canada, visual arts megafilm productions, lm premieres, community events and parties. Wine lovers are advised to book early if they want to attend the 15th annual Sun Peaks Winter Festival of Wine, scheduled for January 12-20. Area winemakers, of which there are many, descend on this alpine village, offering unique tasting sessions like the popular Blind Tasting Party at Cahilty Bar & Grill. The elegant Fondue Dinner and Evening Descent features a cook-it-your-way dinner at the mid-mountain restaurant, followed by a lantern-lit ski ride to the bottom. Package pricing includes discounts for early bookings. Fernie Alpine is a festival-loving kind of place, hosting Kokanee Snow Dreams on January 26-27. Griz Days in March are highlighted by the rather amusing Raging Elk Dummy Downhill, where the race contestants are, well, dummies! The season winds down with the Fernival & Slope Soaker on April 13-14, where its equal parts mourning for the warming and imbibing for the ambiance.

photo: Big White ski resort B.C. ski resorts including Big White (above) include ski-in/ski-out convenience. PHOTO: BIG WHITE SKI RESORT

Theres something for every taste from rustic to cosmopolitan, romantic to familyfriendly.
Cindy Burr is a spokesperson for Tourism BC

pitality. Whitewater Ski Resort is nearby Nelson, known for its arts community and colourful, shop-lined main street. And the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort offers ready access to the town of Golden, in the foothills of the spectacular Rocky Mountains. Revelstoke is a good example of a great ski hill next to a high-quality mountain town, Nasmith notes. Its near the hill and has museums, entertainment, shopping and entertainment options that really enhance the quality of a visit. Cindy Burr of Tourism BC says that the diversity of B.C.s skiing is matched only by the range of its accommodations. Ranging from cosy, value-priced rooms to full-service luxury hotels, there is something for every budget, she explains. Theres something for every taste from rustic

to cosmopolitan, romantic to family-friendly. Many are ski-in/ ski-out condominium-style, with firefully equipped kitchens, replaces and private hot tubs. Thanks to the Internet, exploring accommodation options is easier than ever. Virtually all B.C. ski resort websites provide detailed mountain statistics, maps and accommodation options, as well as listing an ever-changing array of stay-and-play specials. Aggregator sites like Skican make it easy to plan a mountain vacation using a few clicks of a mouse. Full-service call-in centres and toll-free numbers are also available to simplify ski planning. Burr adds that the B.C. government will launch a new website in mid-October to help skiers plan their B.C. ski holiday, at Ski It To Believe It.com.

photo: tourism Bc/randy lincks Garibaldi Lift Co. Bar & Grill in Whistler Village is part of Whistler Blackcombs entertainment scene. PHOTO: TOURISM BC/RANDY LINCKS

After a day on the slopes, unwind or play to your hearts content

kiers and snowboarders are amazing athletes. There is no better proof of this fact than the way they can ski and ride all day and then dance all night. Attuned to their clienteles penchant for la dolce vita, B.C. ski resorts offer a plethora of aprs-ski activities, ranging from cozy wine bars and romantic restaurants to cheerful pubs and raucous, bop-til-youdrop nightclubs. Nobody does aprs-ski better than Whistler, says Laura Gallant, public relations co-ordinator for Whistler Blackcomb. There are a number of things that make aprs-ski in Whistler legendary. Maybe its the number of aprs bars and patios nestled at the base of the mountains; maybe its the pedestrian-only village that exudes an atmosphere of camaraderie after an epic day of powder skiing; maybe its the vibe that reverberates throughout the resort or the mountain high that comes from giving it your all during the day, Gallant notes. It certainly helps to have vibrant slope-side bars and energetic aprs-ski entertainers, like Guitar Doug and Grateful Greg of the legendary, if weirdly named, Hairfarmers. Whatever it is, Whistler receives international accolades year after year for its aprs scene. Consider the case of the Garibaldi Lift Company at the base of the Whistler Village Gondola, which has had the honour of being named North Americas best mountain bar by Skiing magazine and one of the top 10 aprsski bars in the world by Forbes Traveler. Nearby, at the base of Whistler Mountain in Creekside, Dustys Bar and BBQ is Whistlers original watering hole, known for rockin tunes and friendly locals. For the romantically inclined, Canadian Snowmobile Adventures offers a starlit ride up Blackcomb Mountain for a cozy and decadent dinner. Also reputed as an aprs-ski paradise, Fernie Alpine Resort is home of the world-famous (and

bC rESortS BC RESORTS

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infamous) Griz Bar Keeping Rippers Ripped Since 1962. The resorts main plaza is also the location of the equally cherished Beer Garden, where people watching is a well-honed pastime. And then theres the historic town of Fernie itself, with its own unique take on winter fun. Fernie was voted The Friendliest Place on Earth by greatoutdoors.com, says Matt Mosteller, vice president of marketing and sales for Resorts of the Canadian Rockies. Its where the beer with its own skiing heritage is brewed locally, but your server may be imported; where you have the opportunity to rub shoulders and hang out with real locals and imported ski bums from around the world, and you can also savour the ski-town heritage and shared love for the sport that has brought us all together here. At Apex Alpine in the Thompson-Okanagan region, the Gunbarrel Saloon, with its fine ne collection of antique ski-hill memorabilia, is the place to unwind after a satisfying day on the slopes. Nearby Kelowna, Big White is home to Snowshoe Sams, a past winner of Ski Canada magazines coveted #1 Ski Bar in Canada award. For skiers who love to have fun night and day, B.C. delivers, on the slopes and off.

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