Canadian Rockies a sight to behold, especially on skis
The mountains of British Columbia are a skier’s paradise, with reliable snow and plentiful resorts. While exchange rates are not as favorable as in past years, there are plenty of good deals for those ready to make the trip across the border.
When traveling into Canada, remember to bring a form of legal identification that proves citizenship, such as a passport or a birth certificate. For road conditions, call the B.C. Road Report at (900)-565-4997 or check online at www.th.gov.bc.ca/bchighways/
roadreports.
Red Resort
Big changes are in store for this resort near Rossland. A new owner is promising major expansion and has already changed the resort’s name from the previous Red Mountain.
Always known for its expert runs, the resort recently added a new beginner’s area to better accommodate families. Also, shuttle service will take passengers from Spokane International Airport up to the resort.
Location: 125 miles north of Spokane, three miles from Rossland, B.C.
Nordic: 50K, $7/day.
Information: (250) 362-7384, www.redresort.com
Kimberley
This resort located right above a picturesque, Bavarian-themed town is famous for its “Purcell Powder” in the heart of the Kootenay Mountains.
The front side of the mountain offers several long, slow slopes perfect for all abilities. For more action, hit the back of the mountain for some steep and deep snow. Look for a 2,465 foot vertical drop and 68 runs, plus plenty of tree-skiing to explore.
Location: 210 miles north of Spokane.
Nordic: 33K groomed and 3.3K lighted for night skiing, $3.
Information: (250) 427-4881, www.skikimberley.com
Fernie
Ranked No. 10 in Ski Magazine’s top 25 resort guide, Fernie attracts skiers with its 29 feet of annual snowfall and five alpine bowls.
The resort has expanded its tree-skiing options this summer and made improvements to the lodge. With 107 trails including bumps, steeps and tons of fresh powder, Fernie has more options than could be skied in one day.
Location: 3 miles from Fernie.
Nordic: 14K trails adjacent to the resort, free.
Information: (250) 423-4655, www.skifernie.com
Panorama
No resort in the Canadian Rockies can top Panorama’s 4,000 feet of vertical drop. And with nine lifts to serve more than 100 runs, the mountain is competing with bigger resorts but keeping prices down.
For the thrill of a lifetime, spend one day heli-skiing in unique backcountry with friendly guides and pilots.
Location: 285 miles northeast of Spokane and 12 miles west of Invermere, B.C.
Nordic: 27K, $7.50 for adults and $3 for kids.
Information: (250) 342-6941, www.panoramaresort.com
Whitewater
It’s not water, but it’s white at this resort located minutes from the vacation destination of Nelson. There is plenty of snow in wide-open bowls at bargain prices. Child care, food and drinks all are available from a mountainside lodge.
Location: 142 miles north of Spokane, 10 miles from Nelson.
Nordic: 30K, $6.50. Cross-country snow phone: (250) 354-4292.
Information: (250) 354-4944, www.skiwhitewater.com
Whistler/Blackcomb
Few mountains in North America can best Whistler’s enormous amount of skiable terrain. At 7,000 acres, there are so many options any level of skier can find the perfect run to please their carving craving.
Preparations are already underway for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, which will take place at the mountain as well as in Vancouver. Hit the mountain before it becomes an international sensation.
There are lodging and dining options beyond count in the European-style village. For non-skiers, dog sled rides, snow cat tours and skating are available.
Location: 218 miles north of Seattle (75 miles north of Vancouver).
Nordic: 28K at Lost Lake nordic, $7.
Information: (866) 218-9690, www.whistlerblackcomb.com
Fairmont
Imagine a day of fresh powder followed by an evening of relaxation in the largest natural hot springs in Canada. It’s possible at Fairmont Hot Springs, just across the border.
The mountain features 13 runs and cheap tickets. Relax for a while in the rustic cedar ski chalet, but don’t spend too much time on the hill: the warm waters below are inviting.
Location: Five hours north of Spokane.
Nordic: 2K free.
Information: (800) 663-4979, www.fairmontresort.com
Apex
With all of its terrain, features, and amenities, Apex seems like a big resort, but you won’t pay big ticket prices.
Take turns down the 67 groomed runs on the front serviced by a high-speed quad, or flip around and check out the “Wildside” for some more difficult runs. If the 2,000-foot vertical drop and 1,000-plus acres aren’t appealing, try inner-tubing, snowshoeing, skating or snowmobiling.
Location: 230 miles north of Spokane; 21 miles west of Penticton.
Nordic: 52K, $5.
Information: (877) 777-2739, www.apexresort.com
Big White
After spending more than $127 million on improvements, Big White is ready for big business.
They’ve added a world-class terrain park that meets Olympic and X Games standards. A new “cliff chair” brings 800 vertical feet of steep new terrain to the mountain. Add on six new intermediate runs and expanded flight service to Kelowna, and Big White is a much bigger place than ever before.
Location: 283 miles north of Spokane.
Nordic: 25K, free.
Information: (250) 765-3101, www.bigwhite.com