Find Your Favourite Run at Big White Ski Resort 

There is a special kind of magic in waking up to a village wrapped in fresh snow, clipping into your skis or board outside your door and gliding straight towards the lifts. Snow-covered trees become Big White’s famous snow ghosts, while soft Okanagan Champagne Powder waits across the mountain. 

At Big White Ski Resort, winter does not feel like something you simply visit. It feels like a whole new world to step into — one filled with face shots, fireside drinks, long lunches and “just one more run” moments. 

Tucked into British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Big White receives an average of 750 centimetres of snow each year. Canada’s largest ski-in, ski-out village puts the mountain right outside your door, while the country’s second-largest lift system means more time on snow and less time standing in queues. 

A mountain for every mood 

With 119 designated trails, a 777-metre vertical drop and a summit elevation of 2,319 metres, Big White has room to roam without feeling impossible to navigate. The Village sits at 1,755 metres, so there are no epic commutes, long shuttle rides or awkward treks across car parks in ski boots. 

Wake up, step outside and slide into your day. 

Use the terrain map to plan the day, whether that means confidence-building green runs, wide-open blue cruisers, powder-filled tree laps or park laps with the crew. There is a favourite run waiting to be found. 

Beginners: build confidence, one turn at a time 

Learning to ski or snowboard is much more fun when the mountain gives you space to breathe. Every chairlift at Big White provides access to at least one green run, making it easy to explore at your own pace. 

Long, gentle trails such as Hummingbird and Serwa’s offer plenty of room to practise turns and find a rhythm. Happy Valley is ideal for first-timers, families and younger riders, with Magic Happy Valley is where first turns become big grins. The new beginner area features Polar Passage, a covered conveyor lift that keeps the ride back to the top smooth and sheltered, plus expanded teaching terrain that makes learning to ski or snowboard feel exciting, confidence-building and far less intimidating. 

Start small, take breaks when needed and celebrate every new skill… especially when it earns you a hot chocolate stop. 

Intermediates: cruise all day 

With 54% of the mountain rated intermediate, Big White is made for long, flowing laps and confidence-boosting blue runs. 

Cruise Kalina’s Rainbow for wide-open turns at Gem Lake, carve down Exhibition or spend the morning lapping the Ridge Rocket Express. When the snow is fresh, blue runs can turn into a playground of soft edges, playful side hits and perfectly groomed corduroy. 

This is the kind of mountain where you can ski from first chair until the legs say otherwise. Then revive yourself with a long lunch in the Village before heading back out for an afternoon lap. 

Advanced and expert riders: chase the good stuff 

For riders who like a little more challenge, Big White has steep pitches, powder-filled glades and plenty of places to hunt for fresh lines. 

Explore Falcon, the Cliff area and the trees off the Gem Lake Express for steeper terrain and memorable glade skiing. On a powder day, ducking into the trees can deliver that classic Canadian moment: soft snow, snow ghosts overhead and a trail of cheers from your mates somewhere behind you. 

Keep an eye on conditions, ski or ride with a buddy and ask local staff where the snow is skiing best that day. 

Terrain park riders: find your flow 

TELUS Park offers a progression of boxes, rails and jumps, plus a snow cross course, creating plenty of options for riders who want to build skills or dial in a new trick. 

There is room for first-time park laps and experienced riders alike. Start with the smaller features, scope the landing and work your way up. The best park day is the one where everyone leaves smiling and ideally with all their gear still attached. 

More ways to enjoy the snow 

Big White is not just about downhill skiing and snowboarding. Explore 25 kilometres of Nordic and wilderness trails, including 14 kilometres groomed daily for classic and skate skiing, or slow things down with a snowshoe through peaceful alpine forest. 

When the lifts stop spinning, the mountain keeps the fun going. Try tubing, ice skating, a horse-drawn sleigh ride, snowmobiling or dog sledding. There is also plenty of time for après, a cosy dinner or a quiet drink while the next snowfall starts outside. 

Pack smart, travel lighter 

Skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, poles, snowshoes, skates and cross-country equipment are available to rent at the resort. Ski jackets and pants are available from the Village Centre Mall Rental Shop, and high-performance skis and snowboards can be tested before buying. 

For time on the mountain, bring thermal base layers, a warm mid-layer, a waterproof outer shell and goggles suited to both sunshine and flat light. A Canadian winter can deliver bluebird skies, snowy afternoons and everything in between, sometimes before lunch. If you forget an essential or need an extra layer, you’ll find several retail outlets right on the mountain. 

A neck warmer, good gloves and an extra pair of socks are never a bad idea. 

When should you visit? 

Late November to mid-December 
Expect quieter slopes, value packages and the chance of light, dry early-season powder. It is a great time for a relaxed mountain escape before the festive buzz arrives. 

Late December to mid-March 
This is peak winter: deep snow, extensive terrain, lively village energy and a full calendar of on-mountain fun. If travelling during school holiday periods, booking early is a smart move. 

Late March to early April 
Think sunny patios, blue skies, soft afternoon snow and long spring laps. Ski in the morning, soak up the village atmosphere in the afternoon and make the most of those longer, brighter days. 

Plan your Big White escape 

Big White Central Reservations can help arrange ski-in, ski-out accommodation, lift tickets, lessons, rentals and childcare in one place, making the planning part refreshingly easy. 

Whether you are making your first turns, cruising groomers, lapping the park or chasing powder through the trees, Big White lets you build the holiday your way. 

Pack light, bring your sense of adventure and get ready for a Canadian ski trip with plenty of snow, plenty of stories and at least one run you will want to ski again tomorrow. 

From The Cliff to Gem Lake, see what makes Big White’s terrain special. Watch to discover your perfect zone.

Main Banner Photo Credit: Geoff Holman
Article by: Big White Ski Resort