Big White Overview
Big White Ski Resort is located in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, about an hour's drive from Kelowna. This Canadian gem is renowned for its legendary "champagne powder" snow and extensive ski-in/ski-out accommodation options. The resort sits at an altitude range of 1508m to 2319m, offering a respectable vertical drop for British Columbia skiing.
With 119 runs spread across 16 lifts (including 1 gondola, 11 chairlifts, and 4 drag lifts), Big White provides plenty of terrain to explore. The resort has earned an overall rating of 4.49/5 from our Snomad community, with particularly impressive scores for family friendliness (4.75/5) and beginner-friendly terrain (4.81/5). One user, Naila, an expert snowboarder, sums it up nicely: "Big white is an amazing resort with a bunch of fun runs to do with family and friends."
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The Skiing in Big White
Big White's terrain caters brilliantly to all levels, with a particular strength in its intermediate offerings. The mountain features wide, well-groomed runs alongside fantastic tree skiing opportunities, making it versatile for different skiing styles and weather conditions.
Devon, an advanced skier in our community, notes: "Great hill to learn how to ski with the wide range of terrain and beginner to intermediate runs." The resort's lift system is efficient, earning 4.44/5 for lift efficiency, and users frequently comment on the minimal wait times. As Tom, another advanced skier points out: "Very seldom do you wait in line for more than a couple of minutes and looked forward to by the friendliest lifties."
For powder enthusiasts, Big White scores 4.44/5 for powder zones, with one Snomad user, Crystal, claiming: "I've skied the best pow of my life there. I love the black forest and all the tree runs." The Cliff area is particularly recommended by multiple users for challenging terrain and powder days, while Gem Lake offers excellent tree skiing.
The resort also boasts 4.43/5 for tree runs and 4.25/5 for off-piste opportunities, making it a playground for more adventurous skiers and snowboarders.
Eating Out in Big White
Big White scores 4.02/5 for eating out, with the village offering a good variety of dining options. Users frequently mention specific favourites - Leanne, an advanced skier, recommends: "Make sure you check out Snow Shoe Sams for their amazing nachos!!! They have a delicious smoothie shop and the clocktower has the best cheese and ham croissants!!"
The mountain dining gets positive reviews for quality, though some users note it can be on the pricey side. Lisa, an advanced snowboarder, shares that "dining and food on the hill is some of the best I've ever had." For a complete mountain day, Otto, an intermediate skier, suggests combining "delicious music" with live music at select venues for a well-rounded experience.
Several users recommend booking restaurants in advance, especially during peak season, as options can be limited without proper planning.
The Après-Ski in Big White
Big White's après scene scores 3.88/5 for après-ski, reflecting its more family-oriented atmosphere compared to some party-focused resorts. Snow Shoe Sams emerges as the most frequently mentioned après venue, though opinions on it vary.
Julia, an advanced snowboarder, notes: "It is definitely more family oriented than other resorts such as Whistler - there is not a lot of night life or Apres Ski here." Luke, an advanced snowboarder, agrees: "Family ski resort with little apres. Quiet runs with some excellent off piste... Slightly pricey for food and there is a lack of real apres."
However, that doesn't mean the resort is boring after dark. Big White offers regular events, with Austin mentioning: "Love BW! Wish there was slightly more of a night life element; however great welcoming mountain for everyone." For those seeking a livelier atmosphere, weekends tend to offer more options with occasional live music.
Big White for Families
Big White truly shines as a family destination, scoring 4.75/5 for family friendliness. The resort's layout, with ski-in/ski-out accommodation and gentle terrain options, makes it incredibly convenient for family groups.
Allan, a beginner skier, shares: "I highly recommend big white for families as they have lots fun things for kids at night and different events daily." This sentiment is echoed by numerous users, with Sonia adding: "Beautiful family friendly resort. This mountain offers tubing, horse rides through the forest, open air ice rink, a massive lodge with family events each evening."
The ski school receives particular praise, scoring 4.53/5 for ski school quality. Jeff, an advanced skier, notes: "The ski school is very value priced for families and they do an excellent job teaching beginners." With green runs accessible from every lift, families with mixed ability levels can easily ski together while finding suitable terrain for everyone.
Accommodation in Big White
Accommodation at Big White scores 4.42/5 for accommodation options, with the ski-in/ski-out access being the standout feature. Virtually all lodging options allow visitors to click into their skis right outside their door.
The resort offers various accommodation styles to suit different budgets and group sizes. Wanita, a beginner snowboarder, describes her experience: "Our hotel room was spacious 2-bedroom with our own hot tub, 2 bathrooms, ski in and ski out resort. Was so easy to get around to stores and restaurants."
While some users mention accommodation can be expensive, particularly during peak periods, most feel the convenience justifies the cost. Gabriella, a beginner skier, comments: "Accommodation is pricey but worth it for the slope-side views and ski-in ski-out."
Several users recommend booking well in advance, especially for prime weeks, as options can be limited due to the resort's popularity.
Environment and Sustainability in Big White
Big White has made several strides toward environmental responsibility, though detailed information about their sustainability initiatives is limited. The resort's compact village design promotes walkability and reduces the need for vehicles, while their efficient lift system helps minimise energy usage.
The resort's proximity to Kelowna (approximately one hour's drive) allows for shorter transfer times compared to more remote destinations, reducing transport-related emissions. However, there's room for growth in their visible sustainability communication and initiatives compared to some eco-leading resorts.
Local conservation efforts focus on maintaining the natural mountain environment that attracts visitors, though specific programmes and metrics aren't widely publicised by the resort.
Big White Pros: Why the Snomad Community Loves It
From our Snomad user reviews, here are the top five favourite things about Big White Ski Resort:
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Tree runs and glades - Mentioned repeatedly as a standout feature. One advanced skier, Devon, notes there are "plenty of options for tree skiing which is fantastic," while Alessia, an expert snowboarder, calls it "the best ski resort for families and for snowboarders. Lots of great tree runs - steep or mellow and open; great for powder days."
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The powder snow - Highly praised for its quality. Jordan, an advanced skier, describes it as "amazing resort to lose yourself in powder," and Carson, an expert snowboarder, mentions "they get lots of good snow here so typically there's lots of pow."
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Family-friendly atmosphere - Many users highlight this aspect. Tom, an advanced skier, states it "stands out as family friendly," and Brieann notes it's "a good beginners, family friendly mountain."
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Ski-in/ski-out accommodations - Widely appreciated for convenience. As Mavis, an intermediate snowboarder, points out, "accommodation options all have ski in and ski out capability making it convenient for mid-day stops."
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Wide variety of terrain - Praised for catering to different skill levels. Amy, an intermediate skier, explains, "a huge variety of options depending on whether you are looking for tree runs, powder or groomers."
Big White Cons: What Snomad Skiers Say Could Be Better
Based on our user reviews, here are the top 5 least favourite things about Big White:
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Weather conditions - Several users mention visibility issues. Dave, an expert skier, points out that "it is frequently foggy" and another user mentions that "the top of the mountain was incredibly windy and foggy." Krysta, an advanced snowboarder, suggests there should be "discounted tickets or rain checks for terrible weather and visibility which is frequent at this resort."
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Limited nightlife - Julia, an advanced snowboarder, notes that "there is not a lot of night life or Apres Ski here" compared to other resorts. Austin also wishes "there was slightly more of a night life element."
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Weekend crowds - Amanda describes it as "busy. Think downtown Kelowna in the summer, but on the mountain. Weekdays are best." Other users mention that weekends and holidays can get very crowded.
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Lift queues - One reviewer mentions that compared to Europe, "the runs aren't as long, meaning more time spent in chairlift queues."
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Terrain limitations - While Big White has variety, some users note its limitations. Axel, an expert snowboarder, describes it as "relatively mellow with limited vertical." Caitlin mentions that "depending on snow and winds some areas of the mountain may not be ski-able until later in the season."
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It maybe isnt the best resort for complete beginners, even the easiest greens have parts that are quite steep (as compared to greens in Europe) but the quality of skiing is great. Only negatives compared to Europe is that the runs arent as long, meaning more time spent in chairlift queues, and European style apres is pretty much non existent.
Big White Resort Stats
Big White Travel Information
FAQs Skiers' Most Asked Questions
Big White FAQs: Skiers' Most Asked Questions
Is Big White snow-sure?
Big White generally offers reliable snow conditions with its high elevation (top point at 2318.92m) and reputation for quality powder. Many Snomad users praise the snow quality, with one advanced skier noting "the champagne powder is amazing on a powder day". However, visibility can be an issue at times, with several users mentioning occasional fog and white-out conditions. It's known for consistent snow, but like any resort, conditions can vary throughout the season.
What mountain range is Big White part of?
Big White Ski Resort is located in the Monashee Mountain Range, part of the larger Columbia Mountains in British Columbia, Canada. The Monashees are known for their abundant snowfall and champagne powder, creating ideal skiing conditions. Standing at 2,319m at its highest point, Big White has earned its reputation for reliable snow quality and diverse terrain, making it a favourite among our Snomad community with an overall rating of 4.49/5.
When does the ski season start and end in Big White?
Big White's ski season typically runs from late November to mid-April, depending on snow conditions. Our users consistently praise the reliable snowfall, with the resort often opening in late November and staying open until Easter. One Snomad community member mentioned that even when locals apologized for "limited snow," it was still the most they'd seen all season compared to Alberta resorts. The champagne powder is especially celebrated during mid-winter months.
Is Big White good for beginners?
Yes! Big White is fantastic for beginners, earning 4.81/5 for beginners. Our users consistently praise its beginner-friendly terrain. Allan, a beginner skier, was "very impressed with the lessons" and found instructors "super nice with personalized tips." The Discovery program gets high marks for newcomers. Brieann notes it's "a good beginners, family friendly mountain." There's a green run from every lift, making it perfect for those just starting their snow journey.
Is Big White good for intermediate skiers?
Absolutely brilliant for intermediates! Big White gets 4.53/5 for intermediates from our users. Amy, an intermediate skier, calls it "pretty much the perfect resort to improve my skiing" with wide, uncrowded runs and variety from tree runs to groomers. Otto loves the "awesome groomed blue runs" that make up half the resort. The wide trails mean even on busy days you don't feel cramped. With 119 runs spread across varied terrain, it's an intermediate paradise.
Is Big White good for advanced skiers?
Big White offers solid terrain for advanced skiers, scoring 4.46/5 for advanced skiers. Our users praise the diverse black runs, particularly around the Cliff and Eagle chairs. One Snomad community member liked the "crazy steep runs if you're up for the challenge," while others highlight excellent tree runs and powder zones with a 4.44/5 rating. The resort shines after fresh snowfall, with Devon noting "plenty of options for tree skiing which is fantastic."
Is Big White good for expert skiers?
Big White offers decent challenges for expert skiers with a solid rating for experts (4.42/5). While not as challenging as Revelstoke or Kicking Horse, it has some worthwhile steep terrain. The Cliff chair offers demanding runs, and there's excellent tree skiing throughout. One Snomad community member, an expert snowboarder, mentioned that "the Cliff is a must on a powder day." You'll find enough to keep you entertained, especially if you explore the off-piste and powder zones.
Is Big White good for non-skiers?
Big White has plenty to offer non-skiers. The resort boasts activities like tubing, horse-drawn sleigh rides, an open-air ice rink, and daily family events in the lodge. One Snomad user mentioned: "It's a great place for families with a massive lodge hosting evening events." While the village is compact, it has everything you need, including dining options and a friendly atmosphere. The resort scores exceptionally well for family friendliness (4.75/5), making it perfect for mixed groups where not everyone skis.
Is there snow at Christmas in Big White?
Yes, Big White typically has excellent snow at Christmas. Our users consistently praise the resort for its reliable snow conditions. One Snomad community member, Jordan, notes that the "pow never disappoints!" while several others mention the "champagne powder" quality. With its high elevation (base at 1508m, top at 2319m) and strong powder rating (4.44/5), you can generally expect a white Christmas at Big White.
Where should I stay in Big White and what type of accommodation is available?
Big White offers extensive ski-in/ski-out accommodation throughout the mountain. The main Village area provides convenient access to amenities, restaurants and lifts. Happy Valley at the base has family-focused lodging near activities. Gem Lake area offers quieter accommodations with quick access to intermediate/advanced terrain. Black Forest area features secluded chalets among trees.
Our users consistently praise the accommodation options (4.42/5), with many mentioning private hot tubs as a fantastic après option. Accommodation ranges from luxury chalets and condos to more budget-friendly hotels and hostels, catering to all group sizes and budgets.
What's the best way to get to Big White?
For international travellers heading to Big White, fly into Kelowna International Airport (YLW), which has connections through Vancouver, Calgary, or Toronto. The resort is about 56km (35 miles) or a 1-hour drive from the airport. You can rent a car, but many visitors opt for Big White's airport shuttle service. One Snomad community member notes: "There's a shuttle service to/from the airport" which makes the journey hassle-free after your flight.