Categories > Guides and Tips
11 Best Ski Resorts Near Vancouver for Every Kind of Skier
Skiing brings back childhood memories for a lot of people in Canada, including myself—early morning drives to the mountains, fumbling with cold boots, and the rush of carving down fresh snow.
It really doesn’t matter if you grew up on the slopes or picked it up later in life, there’s something about a good ski day that sticks with you.
Vancouver is lucky to have some of the best skiing right in its backyard, with local mountains for quick trips and world-class resorts just a few hours away. From easy groomers to steep powder runs, here are the best ski resorts worth checking out this season.
Cypress Mountain
Media from cypressmtn
Address: 6000 Cypress Bowl Rd.
Contact Details: +16049265612
Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM–10 PM
Entrance Fee: $
Website
If you want solid skiing without driving too far, Cypress is your best bet. It’s the biggest of Vancouver’s local mountains, offering a mix of runs for all skill levels just 30 minutes from downtown.
The terrain is varied, with wide groomers, steep glades, and a decent terrain park. Night skiing is a big draw here, letting you carve down lit slopes with the city glowing in the distance.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, there are free snowshoe trails and a tubing park for anyone looking to mix things up. On clear days, the views from the top stretch over the ocean, making every run down even better.
Pro Tip: Weekends get packed fast, so head up early or opt for a night session to avoid the rush.
Grouse Mountain
Media from grousemountain
Address: North Vancouver
Opening Hours: 24/7
Website
Skiing with a city view isn’t something you get just anywhere, but Grouse Mountain makes it happen. Just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, it’s the most convenient place to hit the slopes after work or on a quick weekend trip.
The mountain isn’t huge, but it packs in enough variety with tree runs, well-groomed slopes, and a terrain park. Night skiing here is a standout, with the city lights stretching below as you carve your way down.
If skiing isn’t your thing, there’s a skating pond, snowshoe trails, and even a gondola ride to the top for the views alone. It’s a great option for both beginners and anyone looking for an easy, no-fuss ski day.
Pro Tip: The Skyride gondola gets busy, especially in the evening. Try heading up mid-afternoon to skip the long lines.
Mount Seymour Resort
Media from mtseymour
Address: 1700 Mt Seymour Rd.
Contact Details: +16049862261
Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM–9:30 PM
Entrance Fee: $$
Website
If you’re looking for a laid-back mountain with solid terrain, Mount Seymour delivers. It’s smaller than Cypress or Grouse, but that just means fewer crowds and a more relaxed vibe.
The runs are great for beginners and intermediates, with wide-open groomers and tree-lined trails. There’s also a terrain park with a mix of features for anyone looking to practice tricks.
Beyond skiing, the mountain has snowshoeing, tubing, and a toboggan area, making it a good spot for families. And the best part in our opinion? The views stretch all the way to the city, giving you a picture-perfect backdrop every run down.
Pro Tip: Parking can be pretty hectic on weekends. Get there early or plan for a weekday trip to avoid the rush.
Whistler Blackcomb
Media from gowhistler
Address: 4545 Blackcomb Wy
Contact Details: +16049678950
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM–4 PM
Entrance Fee: $$$
Website
If there’s one ski resort that doesn’t need much of an introduction, it’s Whistler Blackcomb. As the largest ski area in North America, it’s got everything—massive terrain, deep snow, and runs that seem to go on forever.
The two mountains are connected by the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, giving you easy access to an endless mix of groomers, steep bowls, and backcountry routes. No matter your skill level, you’ll find something that fits.
Whistler Village adds to the experience, with plenty of après-ski spots, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where a single day never feels like enough.
Pro Tip: If you want to beat the morning crowds, hop on the Whistler Village Gondola right when it opens. You’ll get first tracks before the lifts get packed.
Sasquatch Mountain Resort
Media from sasquatchmountainresort
Address: 20955 Hemlock Valley Rd.
Contact Details: +16047974411
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM–4 PM
Entrance Fee: $$
Website
This ski hill flies under the radar, but that’s part of what makes it great. Tucked away in the Fraser Valley, it’s got a more relaxed feel compared to the bigger resorts near Vancouver.
The terrain is a solid mix, with wide groomers, tree runs, and a few steeper sections to keep things interesting. It’s also a top spot for night skiing, with well-lit trails and fewer crowds once the sun sets.
Sasquatch is a good choice if you want a more affordable ski day without giving up quality runs. Plus, the snow tends to stick around longer here, giving you better conditions even later in the season.
Pro Tip: Chains are required for the road up in winter. Bring them along, even if the forecast looks clear.
Mount Washington
Media from nevinsphoto
Address: Comox Valley
Opening Hours: 24/7
Entrance Fee: $$
Vancouver Island isn’t the first place that comes to mind for skiing, but Mount Washington proves it belongs on the list. Sitting high above the coastline, this resort delivers deep snow and views that stretch all the way to the ocean.
The terrain has something for everyone, with smooth groomers, challenging tree runs, and a solid mix of beginner-friendly trails. If downhill isn’t your thing, there’s also a full Nordic area with cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails.
Since it’s farther from the mainland, the slopes tend to be less crowded, giving you more time on the snow. The mix of coastal scenery and mountain conditions makes it one of the more unique ski spots in BC.
Pro Tip: Head up on a bluebird day. The contrast between the snow, trees, and ocean in the distance is something you won’t get at most ski resorts.
Sun Peaks Resort
Media from sunpeaksresort
Address: Sun Peaks
Contact Details: +12505785474
Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM–3:30 PM
Entrance Fee: $$
Website
Some ski resorts feel massive without feeling overwhelming, and Sun Peaks nails that balance. With three mountains and a European-style village at its base, it’s the kind of place where you can ski all day and still have more to explore.
The runs cater to every level, with wide cruisers, tree-lined glades, and steep bowls that keep things interesting. Since the mountain layout spreads skiers across different areas, the slopes rarely feel crowded.
Beyond skiing, the village adds to the experience with cozy cafés, après-ski spots, and easy ski-in, ski-out access. It’s one of those resorts where everything is set up to make your trip smooth from start to finish.
Pro Tip: The mid-mountain chairlifts give you quick access to quieter runs. If the base gets busy, head higher up for more space.
Big White
Media from skibigwhite
Address: 5315 Big White Rd.
Contact Details: +12507653101
Opening Hours: Per booking basis
Entrance Fee: $$
Website
When a resort is known for its deep powder and near-perfect conditions, you know it’s worth the trip. Big White gets some of the lightest, fluffiest snow in BC, making every run feel smooth and effortless.
The terrain has a good mix, from long groomers to tree runs packed with fresh snow. Since the entire village is ski-in, ski-out, getting from your cabin to the slopes takes no time at all.
It’s also a great place for night skiing, with one of the largest illuminated ski areas in Canada. After a long day on the mountain, the village has plenty of spots to warm up and grab a bite.
Pro Tip: The Gem Lake Express chair gives you access to some of the best snow on the mountain. Fewer people head that way, so it stays untouched longer.
Manning Park Resort
Media from manningpark
Address: 7500 BC-3, Manning Park
Contact Details: +16046685922
Opening Hours: Per booking basis
Entrance Fee: $$$
Website
If you’re looking for a quieter ski trip without the usual resort crowds, Manning Park is a solid choice. Tucked away in the Cascade Mountains, it has a more relaxed feel with wide-open runs and plenty of space to explore.
The ski area offers a mix of groomed trails and off-piste sections, making it great for both beginners and experienced riders. The Nordic trails are just as impressive, with kilometers of scenic routes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
One of the biggest draws is the night sky—this area is far from city lights, making it one of the best spots for stargazing after a day on the slopes. If you’re staying overnight, the lodge and cabins keep things cozy with a classic mountain vibe.
Pro Tip: For a different kind of adventure, check out the Polar Coaster tube park. It’s a fun way to end the day, especially if you’re with a group.
SilverStar Mountain Resort
Media from silverstarmtnresort
Address: 123 Shortt St, Silver Star Mountain
Entrance Fee: $$
Website
This resort stands out with its colorful village and relaxed atmosphere. It’s got that classic ski town charm but with enough terrain to keep every level of skier entertained.
The front side is packed with wide groomers and beginner-friendly runs, while the backside has some of the best glade skiing in BC. The snow here stays light and dry, making for perfect powder days when the storms roll through.
SilverStar is also a hub for Nordic skiing, with over 100 kilometers of cross-country trails. Whether you’re here for downhill, snowshoeing, or just the cozy village vibe, it’s an easy place to settle in for a few days.
Pro Tip: Night skiing is a great way to extend your day. Fewer people, cooler temps, and perfectly groomed runs make it a different kind of experience.
Whitewater Ski Resort
Media from whitewaterskiresort
Address: 6010 Whitewater Ski Hill Rd.
Contact Details: +12503544944
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM–3:30 PM
Entrance Fee: $$
Website
You won’t find big hotels or fancy lifts here, but that’s what makes Whitewater special. It’s all about the snow, and if you love deep powder and exploring untouched terrain, you’ll feel right at home.
The runs have a natural flow, with wide bowls, tree stashes, and steep drops that keep you on your toes. Since there aren’t huge crowds, you’ll have more space to carve out your own lines without racing to beat the rush.
Even the lodge feels different—no overpriced fast food, just hearty meals that hit the spot after a few hours on the slopes. Everything here is built for people who love to ski and ride, and you can feel it in the atmosphere.
Pro Tip: If you’re interested in a short hike, the terrain beyond the Summit Chair has some of the best hidden powder stashes on the mountain. It’s worth the extra effort.
