Big White

About Big White

Those on the hunt for a laid-back Canada ski destination will find Big White high on their list. Located in British Columbia's picturesque Okanagan Valley, Big White is uniquely blessed with sunny weather, dry powder and mild temperatures. With 2,565 acres of skiable terrain, there‘s a great selection of terrain for everyone – from deep powder bowls and wide-open glades to thrilling fall-line cruising and the award-winning Telus Terrain Park.

One of Big White’s most unique features is its “snow ghosts,” or snow- and ice-caked trees, which create a magical backdrop in this winter playground, and provide perfect photo opportunities.

As Canada’s largest ski-in, ski-out village, Big White is a premier family destination. Its car-free, mid-mountain village offers convenient slopeside accommodations, making it easy to enjoy everything the resort has to offer. The resort is packed with off-mountain activities, including snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, dog sledding, night skiing, snow tubing, ice skating and more. After a day on the slopes, unwind at one of Big White’s diverse dining options, from cozy pubs and bakeries to vibrant bars and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Big White has something for everyone.

How to get to Big White Ski Resort

Getting to Big White is a breeze, and you won’t even need a car! Just 56 km (35 miles) southeast of Kelowna, the largest city in the Okanagan Valley, Big White is very accessible. Fly into Kelowna International Airport, hop on a quick 55-minute shuttle, and you’ll be at the resort in no time. With daily direct flights from major cities on several major airlines, getting to your mountain escape has never been easier.

To book your Big White ski vacation or learn more about your travel options, connect with one of Ski.com's knowledgeable Mountain Travel Experts.

Once you’ve arrived at Big White the main village is completely car-free! The village paths are groomed and packed down for easy strolling, so you can enjoy the snowy scenery without any hassle. Plus, Big White’s got you covered with a free shuttle bus that runs around the resort from 7-11 a.m. and 4-10 p.m. Need to get between Happy Valley and the mid-mountain village? Just hop on the Lara Gondola—it's free for pedestrians and gets you where you need to go in no time.

Skiing in Big White Ski Resort

Skiing at Big White is a dream, thanks to its 295 inches of annual snowfall, often referred to as "champagne powder" due to its light and dry consistency. Big White offers a balanced mix of terrain for all skill levels. Whether you're a novice skier or rider, or a seasoned expert, there’s something here for everyone. The resort is also home to the largest night skiing area in Western Canada, with 38 acres of well-lit runs that extend the ski day well into the evening.

Beginner Skiing in Big White Ski Resort

First-time skiers and riders will love learning at Big White’s designated Beginner Learning Area, located above the Happy Valley Lodge. Here beginners can practice their skills in a comfortable, secluded environment. When it’s time to take the skills further up the mountain, Big White provides beginners with an unrivaled high-alpine experience. All of the resort’s 14 chairlifts offer access to green trails, including the summit-reaching Alpinet T-bar lift and Gem Lake Express.

Expert Skiing in Big White Ski Resort

Family vacations in Big White Ski Resort

Big White Ski Resort is the ultimate family-friendly destination, perfect for creating unforgettable memories both on and off the slopes. From the moment you arrive, seamless services ensure a stress-free experience, starting with easy transfers from Kelowna airport right to your ski-in/ski-out accommodations. Even during peak holiday seasons, the resort excels at keeping lift lines short, giving your family more time to enjoy its pristine, powdery slopes.

With a variety of terrain catering to all skill levels, Big White is ideal for families with diverse skiing abilities. Kids can confidently learn to ski in the resort’s well-organized ski school, which features magic carpet hills and top-notch instructors who make learning fun. Meanwhile, adults can take advantage of specialized clinics and private lessons to refine their skills.

Off the slopes, Big White offers a wide range of activities to keep everyone entertained. Evenings can be spent tubing, ice skating or unwinding in a hot tub. For a truly unique adventure, don’t miss out on dog sledding tours or horse-drawn sleigh rides—experiences that the whole family will be talking about long after the trip ends.