Been missing the slopes? Well, it’s time to dust off your ski boots and make tracks for the Canadian mountains. Boasting jaw-dropping snowy scenery, Canada is a haven for skiers and snowboarders alike. Plus, when you book winter flights with Air Canada, you’ll get complimentary ski and snowboard carriage as part of your ticket. Tempted? Take a look at the best ski resorts in Canada.
Whistler
Officially called Whistler-Blackcomb, this place is the largest ski resort in the whole of North America. More than 200 tree-lined runs snake their way across a whopping 8,100 acres, covering Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain. The two are connected by the Peak-2-Peak gondola, which is the world’s longest and highest unsupported lift. So if you’re generally of the opinion that bigger is better, this is the best Canada ski resort for you.
Whistler Village has a great variety of accommodation, too, with swanky chalets, luxury hotels and budget-friendly apartments. And the apres scene has something for everyone, from family-friendly bars to late-night karaoke. Tempted? Find cheap flights to Vancouver, which is just a two-hour drive away.
Banff
If you’re all about the views, consider Banff. Made up of three ski areas – Lake Louise, Mount Norquay and Sunshine Village – Banff was Canada’s first national park. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so the scenery is pretty special. In terms of the ski areas, Sunshine Village is ideal for beginners, while the other two are best for more advanced skiers and boarders. You can buy a lift pass for all three, though, and they’re all connected by regular buses.
When you’re not leaving grooves on the slopes, you’ll find plenty more to do. You could go on a guided walk through an ice canyon, soothe your tired muscles in a thermal spring, or watch a game of ice hockey in one of Banff’s bars. If that sounds right up your street, take a look at Air Canada flights to Calgary.
Jasper
Small but perfectly formed, Jasper is one of Canada’s best ski resorts. With 90 runs, this petite ski area is one of the highest in the country – so you’re guaranteed fantastic snow. There are lots of green and blue runs for beginners but, if you’re an advance skier or boarder, why not tackle the Tres Hombres? Built in 2018, this vertical, north-facing slope is made up of five intense runs – and it’s not for the faint-hearted.
There are lots of other activities on offer in Jasper, too. You’ll be in the heart of the Rockies, so you could try dog-sledding and snowshoe hiking. Or why not go on a guided wildlife tour in search of elk, moose and bears?
Mont Tremblant
If you’re a fan of France’s ski resorts, you’ll love Mont Tremblant. In French-speaking Quebec, this scenic spot oozes European charm, from the croissant-filled bakeries to the authentic restaurants. More importantly, the skiing and snowboarding is brilliant. Featuring around 110 runs, Tremblant is the largest ski resort in Eastern Canada. And, because it was specifically designed to be a ski resort, the town is car-free and most hotels are ski-in, ski-out.
When you fancy a pamper session after a day on the slopes, head to Scandinave Spa. Tucked away in the woods, this relaxing retreat has hot tubs, saunas and – if you’re feeling brave – you can even go for a bracing dip in the ice-cold river. Compare flights to Montreal to kick-start your French-Canadian adventure.
