Big White's moderate base elevation (1,755m/5,758ft) contributes to comfortable winter temperatures that average -5°C/23°F. In spring, look for an outdoor BBQ in the Village Centre or head for the picnic tables at Raakels and soak up the sun as skiers and boarders whiz by on the wide blue-rated, Perfection run.

Ski Runs and Glade Skiing

The majority of the 118 marked runs on the mostly south-facing slopes are blue and green with select areas set aside for beginners, but there's no shortage of black diamond action and double black diamond adventure in the high powder bowls. Big White also provides an unusual amount of glade skiing, with almost no place on the mountain where it isn't possible to ski among the trees – a special treat when snow ghosts populate the high slopes. Ski Canada has repeatedly recognized this feature with awards for "Best Tree Skiing" and "Best Glade Skiing."

Line-ups are reasonable even at peak times, thanks to the 16 lifts, including a gondola, a variety of six-, four- and two-pack chairs, t-bar and magic carpets. Mid-week all winter and warm spring days, when downhillers have defected to Kelowna golf courses, it feels like there's nobody else on the mountain.

Atmosphere at Big White

Focused around two key activity areas, the Village Centre and Happy Valley (connected by a no-charge gondola), most of the ski-in/ski-out day facilities and accommodations (condos, hotels and chalets) were built in the last 10 to 15 years and significant construction continues. The overall style is modern arts and crafts with predominantly board and batten construction accented by timber, fieldstone and shingles in muted shades of sage, butternut, and slate that looks cozy and inviting against the brilliant white and deep green of the winter mountain face.

Nearly all of the staff hails from Australia, giving the resort a "G'day mate" cheery feel. Rock 'n' roll, Motown, R&B and hip-hop playing in the public areas keeps the mood upbeat and fun. It also underscores the multi-generational appeal. Grey hairs ski among snowplowing mini-downhillers while teens carve turns on the open runs in the Telus Terrain Park.

While the overall feel is definitely family-oriented, there's no shortage of high-octane activity. When the lifts close, staff sometimes start pick-up games of hockey or snow-soccer and the late night bar scene is buzzing.

Family Activities

Big White provides an exceptional experience for the entire family. In fact, the Times of London recently name the resort one of the “Top 5 Family Resorts in the World.” The daycare accepts little ones from 18 months, while the Kids Centre provides half- and full-day programs for four to 12-year-olds.

Skiing and snowboarding are the primary activities, but there's lots more to do both inside and out including relaxing spa treatments, yoga classes, family sleigh rides, dogsledding, Mini-Z snowmobiling and shopping. Riding the gondola between the Village Centre and Happy Valley, expect to see kids popping a carrot nose on a snowman or digging snow forts for a snowball fight.

Cafeterias, coffee shops and restaurants cater to all ages, and bars like the Moose Lounge welcome children, allowing mom and dad to enjoy an après-ski cocktail or glass of Okanagan wine.

Every day a slate of new activities and events such as bingo, teen movie night, Wii, kid's carnival and fireworks gives families more to share.

Where to Get Started

Stop by the activities desk in the Village Centre Mall. The bulletin board lists events and the staff is on hand throughout the day to answer questions, offer suggestions and make arrangements. They've got a variety of full-colour brochures and maps that list the locations of restaurants, shops and services; outline shuttle bus routes and times; detail activities and illustrate ski runs and lifts.

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