Canada offers a completely different ski experience to the European Alps — vast, uncrowded resorts with some of the finest powder snow in the world, extraordinary mountain scenery, a relaxed and welcoming culture, and the unique experience of skiing in the Canadian wilderness. The two main ski regions are British Columbia (Whistler, Big White, Sun Peaks) and the Canadian Rockies in Alberta (Banff, Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, Nakiska).

Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia is the largest ski resort in North America — two mountains (Whistler and Blackcomb), 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, 200+ marked runs, 16 alpine bowls, three glaciers and a vertical drop of 1,609m (the greatest in North America). The resort receives an average of 11m of snow per year and is famous for its consistent powder conditions, its world-class terrain parks and its extraordinary village — a pedestrianised, purpose-built resort village with excellent restaurants, bars and shops. Whistler hosted the alpine skiing events of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

The Canadian Rockies ski resorts (Banff, Lake Louise, Sunshine Village) are set in one of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in the world — the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ski Big 3 pass covers all three resorts (8,000+ acres of skiable terrain) and is one of the best value ski passes in North America. The scenery — frozen lakes, elk and deer on the slopes, the turquoise waters of Lake Louise visible from the ski runs — is extraordinary.

Canadian ski resorts are generally less expensive than European resorts for accommodation and food, though the transatlantic flights add to the overall cost. The powder snow of British Columbia and Alberta is some of the finest in the world — light, dry and deep, particularly in January and February.