Big White

The highest (and second largest) resort in British Columbia, Big White is known to locals as the ‘Friendly Giant’. Somewhat overshadowed in size and international reputation by its famous neighbour Whistler, Big White has nonetheless been quietly growing in size and fame so that it now attracts discerning skiers and snowboarders worldwide. Its twin track approach of offering the highest quality facilities and at the same time a terrain mix that has reached cult status is reminiscent of Crested Butte next to Aspen in Colorado.

A major natural asset is the abundant powder snowfall which averages more than 7.5 metres (24 feet) annually – this snow is said to fall regularly throughout the season,, rather than being confined to huge one-off dumps, so the two thirds of patrolled terrain that is left ungroomed has fresh powder more frequently than most. This factor underlies Big White’s reputation with advanced skiers and snowboarders despite the fact that only just over a quarter of the terrain is graded advanced. The big snowfalls are also responsible for the creation of ‘snow ghosts’ a common feature in Japanese resorts but less well known elsewhere in the world. Heavy snowfalls literally cover up trees and the action of wind and freezing temperatures can transform them in to weird shapes creating a magical and surreal environment in which to ski or board.