If you like winter breaks on a scale that is unmatched anywhere else, then a ski holiday to Canada is a must for any skier or boarder. The sheer expanse of the ski areas is a mouth-watering prospect by itself, however, when matched with the perfectly groomed pistes, stunning scenery, famous customer service and the quality of accommodation, Canadian ski resorts certainly deliver an experience that is hard to beat.
The snow records, especially on the Western coast, are some of the greatest of all time and the incredible amount of fresh powder all season is why these resorts are a huge draw for people around the world. In recent years, these amazing conditions have pretty much set the standard for heli-skiing and the availability of these services makes this once in a lifetime experience very achievable whilst in Canada.
Skate over the frozen lake in Lake Louise, go husky sledding in Banff, hike the spectacular Maligne Ice Canyon in Jasper or snowmobile in Sun Peaks. Canada offers so much with or without your skis, there's plenty to make your trip remarkable.
The combination of a city break such as Vancouver or Calgary only adds to the uniqueness of a Canadian ski experience and is one we really recommend.
Why we love Canada Ski Holidays
- Huge ski areas with immaculate grooming and wide open pistes.
- Massive amounts of snowfall each year; 11.7m is Whistlers' yearly average.
- Friendly locals and great hospitality.
- Purpose built ski towns offer tasteful convenience.
Worth knowing
- For most accommodation, evening meals aren't included but eating out is part of the fun.
- Long flights make weekend skiing impractical, you'll want to go for at least a week.
- Lift passes can be expensive so take advantage of the early booking offers.
Our favourite resorts
Best for lively après ski - Whistler takes the Canadian après crown starting from the moment you step off the slopes and into Garibaldi Lift Co (GLC) or Longhorn Saloon.
Best for powder - With an average snowfall of 11.7m Whistler's high bowls and chutes are usually filled to bursting point with powder.
Best for beginners - Sun Peaks beginner slopes are focused around the village with plenty of options to progress your skiing all over the mountain.
Best for scenery - Lake Louise offers fabulous views of the mountain peaks, groaning glaciers and frozen lakes of Banff National Park.
Best for the adventurous - All of our Canadian resorts offer plenty of skiing for the more advanced skiers, however, purely for its remoteness and uniqueness, Jasper takes the most adventurous crown.