Winter has arrived, and with it, the promise of an unforgettable ski season. For Kamloops residents, Sun Peaks Resort is more than just a ski hill — it’s the heart of our winter culture.

This year, the resort has taken its on-mountain experience to new heights with the launch of the West Bowl Express, a $12 million high-speed quad chairlift transforming Tod Mountain’s upper reaches.

Replacing the old T-bar, this state-of-the-art lift triples the skiable terrain in the West Bowl zone, now offering access to 169 acres of pristine slopes. At 800 meters longer than its predecessor, the chairlift climbs to an elevation of 2,093 meters, making it the highest at Sun Peaks.

“On days with inversions (lower elevation cloud cover), the upper reaches of Tod Mountain are where you want to ski, and now we have more of this alpine terrain available for guests,” said Christina Antoniak, Director of Communications at Sun Peaks Resort.

“An additional high-speed quad lift in the alpine spreads skiers out, so there is less demand for the Crystal Quad and Burfield Quad mid-station, meaning reduced wait times during peak periods.”

With a ride time of just 5.5 minutes, skiers can now spend less time in transit and more time carving turns on intermediate runs like the newly extended 5 Mile or exploring trails like Whyte’s Ryde, named in honor of Tod Mountain’s early visionary Donald Whyte.

The buzz doesn’t stop there. Sun Peaks’ opening weekend kicked off with a robust 78-centimetre snow base — far surpassing last year’s rocky start. With all 13 chairlifts and over 100 trails open, it’s shaping up to be a season to remember.

“This season, we had a record-breaking opening day on Nov. 23 and an all-time record-breaking day on Dec. 29, with the most skiers on a mountain in one day,” shares Antoniak”

The balance between international and domestic guests has remained steady. While international markets have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels, there has been strong demand from key drive markets, particularly in British Columbia and Washington. 

Skiing Europe’s Ultimate Playground

While a European ski vacation may sound luxurious, it often provides better value for money compared to North American resorts. Lift passes, equipment rentals, ski lessons, dining, and accommodations are generally more affordable, especially in Austria and Italy, where hospitality is top-notch and the mountain cuisine rivals fine dining.

Early snowfalls blanketed iconic slopes across France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy, setting the stage for an unforgettable ski season. Some resorts are reporting their best start in years.

Europe’s ski resorts are vast, often connecting multiple mountains and countries through efficient lift systems. For instance, Les Trois Vallées in France—the largest interconnected ski area in the world — offers 600 kilometers of pistes, linking the chic villages of Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens. Similarly, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which straddles Switzerland and Italy, allows skiers to glide across international borders.

Europe’s appeal extends far beyond the slopes. Imagine skiing down a perfectly groomed run to a charming alpine village, where après-ski involves sipping vin chaud (hot wine) or indulging in fondue at a mountain hut with panoramic views. European resorts excel in offering diverse activities, from sledging and snowshoeing to exploring historic towns ensconced in the mountains.

With favourable options for any budget, skiing in Europe this year is not just a bucket-list experience but a practical one. Standout destinations includeSt. Anton, Austria, renowned for its challenging terrain and vibrant après-ski scene. Zermatt, Switzerland, is home to the iconic Matterhorn and world-class ski runs.Dolomiti Superski, Italy, offers a network of 12 ski areas with stunning views of the Dolomites.

Europe’s ski resorts proudly showcase a rich history and tradition that’s hard to match. These villages have welcomed skiers for over a century, infusing their heritage into everything from architecture to cuisine. Italy wins in the food department (naturally). Think pasta and risotto paired with Alpine classics like polenta and venison. Combine that with unbeatable views and affordable lodging options, and it’s clear why the Dolomites continue to enamor visitors. 

World-Class Slopes Close to Home

For those seeking a European-style ski experience without crossing the Atlantic, North America offers exceptional ski destinations that rival the best in the world.

Big Sky Resort is the closest thing to a European mega-resort in North America. Thanks to a massive multi-year investment in infrastructure, it now boasts the most modern lift system in the United States. Upgrades include state-of-the-art gondolas, bubble chairs, and a new tram to whisk skiers to the top of Lone Peak, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrain.

What sets Big Sky apart is its sheer size and lack of crowds. With over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain and some of the lowest skier densities in the country, you’ll feel like you have the mountain to yourself. It’s the perfect stateside alternative to the Alps.

For skiers from Kamloops, Tamarack Resort is an underrated gem that’s easy to reach. A short connecting flight from Kelowna via Seattle to Boise puts you within a two-hour drive of this boutique resort in central Idaho’s rugged mountains.

Tamarack is perfect for families and those seeking a relaxed, uncrowded ski experience. The resort offers a mix of wide-open beginner and intermediate runs alongside more challenging terrain for advanced skiers. Its quaint village features cozy dining options, and you can enjoy après-ski while soaking in stunning views of Lake Cascade.

Tamarack Resort is earning recognition as a must-visit destination, recently ranked the #1 up-and-coming ski resort by Powder Magazine and highlighted by Forbes as a top multi-adventure ski vacation spot. Condé Nast Traveler’s 2024 Readers Choice Awards also named it one of the top U.S. ski resorts.

Adding to the accolades, The Reserve, Tamarack’s on-site restaurant, was voted #1 Ski Restaurant in North America by USA Today’s 10Best Readers Choice 2023.

Jackson Hole delivers on both fronts if you’re looking for epic terrain and luxurious accommodations. Known for its steep, challenging slopes and backcountry access, Jackson Hole attracts expert skiers and snowboarders from around the world. Corbet’s Couloir, the resort’s legendary run, is a rite of passage for thrill-seekers.

But Jackson Hole isn’t just for adrenaline junkies. The resort also offers plenty of intermediate terrain and a picturesque village brimming with Western charm. After a day on the slopes, unwind at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole, which combines rustic elegance with world-class amenities. Slopeside hot tubs, gourmet dining options, and in-room fireplaces make for a cozy ski retreat. 

No matter where you choose to hit the slopes, one thing is certain: skiing in 2025 will be an experience like no other. See you on the mountain!