Where Hamberites Hit the Slopes: Top Ski & Snowboard Spots This Winter

Photo Credit: On The Snow

With winter here and the ski season starting, Hamberites are headed to the slopes — from big destinations like Whistler to local mountains near the city. To prepare for the upcoming snow, students shared their go-to skiing/snowboarding destinations for the winter.

Olivia Young (8) has been skiing for 10 years, since she was 3-years-old. Her favourite ski spot is Whistler Mountain. Young shared that her “favourite memory [at Whistler] is going on the snowmobile for the first time.” However, she suggests that beginners start skiing at Mount Seymour. Then, if they’re up for a challenge, they can try the runs at Whistler.

For about four years, Ashley Mahnger (8) has been skiing at the Whistler resort. She prefers Blackcomb Mountain because of the variety of runs it offers. Mahnger shared that, since both mountains are so well known, they can get very crowded, especially on runs near where the gondola stops. She shared that snow quality at Whistler is consistently good, although popular spots can get a bit slushy.

Coco Yang (9) has also been skiing for ten years, though she took up the challenge of learning how to snowboard last winter. Her favourite mountain is Sun Peaks, which is a five-hour drive from Vancouver and located northeast of Kelowna. Yang would definitely recommend Sun Peaks because of its good snow quality, large and flat terrain, and cheaper accommodations. According to Yang, the mountain is more enjoyable for those who are already experienced at skiing or snowboarding.

Whistler Mountain

Whistler is one of the most well-known mountains for Vancouver skiers, with fast-moving gondolas and a wide variety of terrain. Many students enjoy that there are plenty of beginner-friendly areas, as well as many opportunities for more confident skiers to explore longer and steeper runs. Because Whistler is so popular, especially with locals, weekends can get crowded, and lift tickets are more pricey compared to other local mountains. One youth lift ticket for the day costs around $195 to $250, depending on demand.  

Blackcomb Mountain

Right next to Whistler is Blackcomb Mountain, which is often preferred by students who like having lots of different types of runs to choose from. Blackcomb is also known for its advanced terrain and large alpine areas, making it a favourite for more experienced skiers. Like Whistler, it can get busy, especially around the main gondola area, but many say that the snow conditions are still reliably good. Youth lift tickets for Blackcomb are priced similarly to Whistler tickets. 

Mount Seymour

Mount Seymour is one of the most accessible mountains for Vancouver students, especially those just starting to ski or snowboard. It’s closer to home than other mountains and is known for being more affordable. A single youth lift ticket for Seymour can be about $55 to $69. 

Cypress Mountain

Cypress Mountain is popular for its variety of runs and its night skiing hours, which makes it easier for students to ski after school. It also hosted several events during the 2010 Olympics, giving it a reputation for high-performance facilities. Because of the mix of terrain, it’s a good option for both intermediate and advanced skiers. A youth lift ticket at Cypress costs slightly more than Seymour — about $75 to $89.

Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks, located near Kamloops, is known for its wide runs, drier snow, and quieter atmosphere, compared to Vancouver’s local mountains. It’s much farther from the city, but some students choose it for family trips or longer stays because of the calmer slopes. Students, like Yang, mention that the terrain can be more enjoyable for those with some experience, though there are still areas for beginners to learn on. Lift tickets for youths range from $99 to $159 per day. 

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is one of Vancouver’s most convenient skiing destinations, especially for students who want to stay closer to the city. Known for its quick access and busy evening atmosphere, Grouse offers a mix of beginner and intermediate terrain along with popular night skiing options. Because it’s close to residential areas, the mountain often gets busy after school hours, but its convenience makes it easy to squeeze in a few weekday evening runs. The views overlooking Vancouver are also a highlight for students. Youth tickets here cost $47.