 Downhill Skiing, Yeti Photography photo
Combine all that with short to non-existent lift line-ups for an extraordinary winter holiday at one of Northern BC's ski hills, such as Hudson Bay Mountain Resort (formerly known as Ski & Ride Smithers), Powder King Mountain Resort or Shames Mountain. Snowy winters mean ski hills usually open in November and close in April.
Ski Resorts in Northern BC
Hudson Bay Mountain Resort (24km/14mi west of Smithers) is the largest ski area in Northern BC. Thirty-six runs and four lifts overlook the spectacular Bulkley Valley and access some of the best and driest powder in the region. A terrain park combines a good mix of sculpted hits, flowy rails, jumps and boxes that are all spaced evenly for maximum flow. Ski the “Trail to Town” run from the top of the mountain right into Smithers; this ski run provides 1,150m/3,775ft of continuous vertical.
Nestled in the unspoiled wilderness of the Canadian Rockies, Powder King Mountain Resort at Pine Pass (67km/42mi northeast of Mackenzie) receives an average annual snowfall of 12.6m/41ft and boasts some of the deepest powder in Northern BC. Twenty-four runs cover terrain that ranges from deep drops to gentle groomed slopes. On-mountain accommodation, restaurants, and a lounge round out the resort experience.
Fresh tracks, deep powder and an expansive backcountry lure skiers north to Shames Mountain (35km/22mi west of Terrace). Carve through blankets of fresh snow – an average of more than 12.2m/40ft annually – on 22 marked trails that cover 53ha/133ac and range from beginner to double black diamond. Natural glades offer 34ha/86ac of tree skiing and backcountry trails beckon adventurous skiers to explore the vast, untouched terrain.
Smaller Ski Areas in Northern BCSmaller, uncrowded and economical downhill skiing areas can also be found in Northern BC. Try Murray Ridge Ski Area (near Vanderhoof); Bear Mountain Ski Hill (near Dawson Creek); Tabor Mountain Ski Resort (near Prince George); and Purden Ski Village (near Prince George
|