Whether you are new to skiing or a seasoned pro, the expansive terrain and powder of the Canadian Rockies and Western Mountains offer something for every skill-set. In our guide to skiing the Rockies, we have charted some of the best ski resorts and mountains with everything from bunny slopes to the most intense verticals. Not surprisingly, our top five favorites are:
Mt. Norquay Ski Resort –
This small, family-friendly resort has been around for 90+ years and is known for being the training ground for Olympic and World Cup athletes. With 28 runs, 6 lifts and numerous apres options, skiers can enjoy the season from October through April.
Lake Louise Ski Resort –
It’s hard to compete with the beautiful terrain and breathtaking views, stretching out over mountains, glaciers, forests and lakes of lake Louise Ski Resort. The resort is home to Ski World Cup Canada but is just as great for beginner as it is for professional skiers. The resort boast over 145 runs (the longest being 8 kms), 10 lifts, a fantastic apres scene and a season that lasts November through May.
Sunshine Village Ski Resort –
This resort is located high on the COntinental Divide in the heart of banff National Park. The seven month season, Canada’s non-glacial ski season, stretches from November to May.
Marmot Basin Ski Resort –
With the highest base elevation in Canada over four meters (160 inches) of snow per season and a state-of-the-art snowmaking system, skiers and snowboarders are guaranteed to enjoy excellent conditions all season. Marmot Basin’s season length is November through May.
Whistler Blackcomb –
Connecting the two side-by-side mountains is the Guiness World Record holding PEAK 2 PEAK gondola – the highest and longest lift of its kind. The two legendary mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, were integrated into one massive resort in 1997. Today it remains the largest resort in North America. Season runs November through May.
