If you’re looking for an amazing Ski Instructor course or internship, Big White Ski Resort, nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Canada is one of the very best the planet has to offer! Abundant snowfall, friendly atmosphere, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. This article is for those who want to know everything about Big White before making your big decision! We’ll cover:

  • Location details and flights
  • Accommodation options
  • Beginner and advanced skiing options
  • A comparison with Whisler and Sun Peaks!

Let’s go!

Location Information

Big White Ski Resort is located about 35 miles southeast of Kelowna Airport in the Okanagan Valley. The drive from Kelowna taking just under an hour or by bus slightly longer. There are regular airport shuttles If you’re coming from the UK, you’ll likely go via Calgary Airport.

Accommodation at Big White

Big White offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some examples of where to stay at Big White:

  1. Hotels and Lodges: Big White has several hotels and lodges. The Chateau Big White, for example, offers comfortable rooms with stunning views, a hot tub, and a convenient central location.
  2. Condos and Townhomes: Ideal for families and groups, condos and townhomes provide the comfort of home with the luxury of a resort. These accommodations can have full sized kitchens and multiple bedrooms.
  3. Holiday Rentals: From quaint cabins to beautiful chalets, there are a range of private rentals available

Big White for Beginner Skiers

Big White is an excellent destination for beginner skiers, offering a supportive and accessible environment for those new to the sport.

  1. Ski and Snowboard School: The resort’s ski and snowboard school provides lessons for all ages and skill levels. Beginners can take advantage of private or group lessons with experienced instructors who are skilled at making learning fun and safe.
  2. Green Runs: Big White has numerous green runs designed for beginners. The Easy Street and Happy Valley runs are perfect for those just starting, with easy slopes and wide trails.
  3. Beginner Lifts: The resort features several beginner-friendly lifts, including the Plaza Chair and the Bullet Express, which provide easy access to beginner slopes.

Big White for Advanced Skiers

For advanced skiers, Big White offers a variety of terrains and runs to test your skills.

  1. Black Diamond Runs: The resort boasts numerous black diamond runs, such as Cliff Area and Parachute Bowl, which provide steep slopes and big descents.
  2. Glades and Bowls:Enjoy the tree skiing in the Powder Keg and Westridge Glades, as well as the expansive open bowls like Gem Lake and the Cliff Bowl.
  3. Backcountry Access: For those looking to venture off-piste, Big White offers guided backcountry tours that explore the wilderness surrounding the resort. Very unique.

Comparison with Other Resorts

To give you a better understanding of what Big White offers, here’s a comparison with two other renowned ski resorts: Whistler Blackcomb and Sun Peaks.

Feature

Big White

Whistler Blackcomb

Sun Peaks

Location British Columbia British Columbia British Columbia
Skiable Terrain (acres) 2,765 8,171 4,270
Vertical Drop (feet) 2,550 5,280 2,894
Annual Snowfall (inches) 295 458 220
Accommodation Options Hotels, Condos, Holiday Rentals Hotels, Condos, Holiday Rentals Hotels, Condos, Holiday Rentals
Family-Friendly Yes Yes Yes
Night Skiing Yes Yes Yes
Beginner Runs (green) 18 20 17
Advanced Runs (black) 27 57 40

Activities and Amenities

Big White isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding. The resort offers a variety of activities and amenities to ensure a memorable time for everyone, whether you stay a month or a year!

Ice Climbing

Big White has an ice-climbing tower. This is unique and is suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. Guided sessions and equipment rentals are available.

Tubing

Tubing at Big White is a favourite. The resort’s Mega Snow Coaster Tube Park features multiple lanes, and loads of fun!

Dining Options

Big White has a diverse culinary scene with over 20 on-mountain restaurants and cafes. From fine dining to casual eateries here are some highlights:

  1. Kettle Valley Steakhouse: Enjoy a gourmet meal featuring locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list.
  2. The BullWheel Gastro Family Pub: A relaxed atmosphere with a menu full of comfort foods and a great selection of beers on tap.
  3. Bean Scene Coffee Works: Perfect for a quick coffee and snack before hitting the slopes.

What is the Best Time to Visit Big White?

The best time to visit Big White is from late November to early April when the resort is fully operational, and the snowfall is at its peak. January and February are most popular due to the excellent conditions.

Conclusion

Big White Ski Resort offers an amazing winter experience. Whether you’re an avid skier, a beginner, or someone who enjoys winter scenery, Big White has something for everyone. Compared to other top resorts like Whistler Blackcomb and Sun Peaks, Big White stands out for its accessibility, variety of activities, and welcoming atmosphere. Big White is a beloved destination for winter sports enthusiasts worldwide.

If your looking to to a ski season or course, get in touch today!

BIG WHITE FAQ’s

What alternatives to Big White are available

If you’re looking for alternatives to Big White, some excellent options in British Columbia include Sun Peaks, and Revelstoke. These resorts offer varied terrain, with each catering to different preferences. Sun Peaks boasts a large skiable area with minimal crowds, and Revelstoke is ideal for advanced skiers seeking steep, challenging runs.

Is Big White good for partying?

Yes, Big White has a vibrant après-ski scene. There are several bars, pubs, and live music spots that offer a fun nightlife experience after a day on the slopes.

Where do you fly into for Big White?

To reach Big White, you fly into Kelowna International Airport (YLW), which is approximately an hour’s drive from the resort. Many shuttle services are available for easy transfers.

What is Big White known for?

Big White is renowned for its incredible snow conditions, particularly its light and dry “Okanagan Champagne Powder.” The resort is also known for being family-friendly, with a wide variety of beginner, intermediate, and expert terrain. Its ski-in/ski-out village and fantastic amenities make it a top choice for all.