Curator’s statement
In October of 2023, my husband and I relocated to Big White Mountain in British Columbia. I have been a ski instructor for 12 years, and my husband has been a snowboard instructor for 6 years. We are your stereotypical ski bums, so the move to Big White was to chase the Okanagan Champagne Powder and our 100-day pins! We have been on Big White for a year now and we don’t picture ourselves leaving anytime soon! Both the resort and local community are growing and have so many fun things going on, making Big White a happening spot in both summer and winter! I cannot wait to share our mountain home with you!
The Fora Difference
Book with Emma to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay at Big White
Unlock perks by contacting Emma to book your trip.
Things to do at Big White
Resort Events: The resort organizes many evening events throughout the winter season. Weekly events include Bingo and Trivia at the Happy Valley Day Lodge, as well as the Saturday Carnival & Fireworks! They also host many other events like AltiTunes music festival, Big Reds Wine festival and Santa’s Workshop!
Outdoor Activities: There are so many amazing opportunities to stay outside even if you aren’t on the slopes! Dog sledding, horse-drawn sleigh rides and snowmobile tours are some of the unique excursions available at the resort. Tubing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and skating are also offered!
Indoor Activities and Services: If you are looking for a relaxing day out of the cold, there are many options offered as well! Altitude, Mountainside, Dizzy’s and The Rider are some great shops in the village. For a more relaxing day, visit the Stonebridge Spa or book an appointment with Mountain Massage. Fitness classes with the Big White Mountain Fitness and the Big White Mountain Community Development Association are always popping up. Working out can help keep you slope ready even on a rest day!
Places to eat & drink at Big White
Lunches and family dining
The mountain offers many great casual dining options. Bullwheel is a go-to for many locals and families. They serve a great selection and you are sure to find something for everyone! The mountains day lodges also provide great options
Clocktower Coffee (VCM)
Spuds (Ridge Lodge)
Alpine Burger Co (Happy Valley)
Vista (Black Forest) offers some great salads and healthier options. If you make the Ski to Gem Lake, there's Moonlight Bistro, as well as some all-Canadian “Beavertails”! Broken Anchor is often a bit quieter, and they serve some of the mountain's best hot chocolate! And for a night in, Underground Pizza is your answer!
For a nicer couple's lunch, my husband and I really enjoyed Black Diamond or Sasquatch Sushi!
Dinner and drinks
Snowshoe Sam’s is the #1 Ski Bar in North America. If you are looking for a wild night out, this is the place. Sunday night doubles are always packed! For an elevated yet still laid-back atmosphere, The Globe hosts drag and burlesque shows, as well as an all-you-can-eat pizza night! If you are looking for a truly elegant dining experience, try The Woods. The smoked old fashion is incredible, and only adds to the ambiance. Fourth Ace is the place for those wanting a good drink and a hearty meal. The brisket and fried chicken never disappoint! Bullwheel is the après of many locals looking for an after-work pint, try the Dino Sour!
Need to know
My recommended accommodations:
Happy Valley: The beginner hills, a skating rink, tubing and the snowshoe trails are all housed in Happy Valley. Whitetail, Trailside and The Raven are all great spots for families, and many of the units have private hot tubs. The Edge is a unique and modern space that really showcases the luxury accommodations that are offered at Big White! Happy Valley is located at the base of the gondola and is just a quick ride to all of the mountains amenities.
The Village: The Village has so many great ski-in ski-out options that are steps away from all of the mountains amenities. For a family ski trip, there are options like Black Bear, Sundance or the Snow Ghost Inn! If you are looking for a luxury stay to relax and enjoy the apres-ski, there are places like Stonegate, Stonebridge or the White Spirit Lodge. For the ski bums looking for a budget stay, Whitefoot has some great options, or there is the Urban Retreat Hostel.
Snow Pines: Snow Pines is a 10–20 minute walk from all of the mountains amenities. There is a lit and groomed walking trail. The homes in Snow Pines are more single-family homes and townhouses with larger living spaces than many of the other areas on the mountain. If you are coming with a large group or are planning on some nights in Snow Pines may be the best fit for you.
Skiing and Snowboarding:
With 16 lifts and 119 designated runs, Big White has terrain for everyone.
If you have not skied or snowboarded before, I highly recommend booking a lesson with the ski and board school. The ski and board school offers many great options for beginners, including Discover Lessons and Never Ever Days.
Even for those who are more experienced skiers, taking a lesson can be extremely beneficial, and Big White offers so many amazing programs! Ladies Day, Masters Camps and Teen Camps are just some of the exceptional programs that are offered! There are also many lesson options for children in the Ski and Board Schools Kids Centre and Daycare!
Booking with instructors outside the ski and board school may cause your travel insurance to become void. Please make sure to book through the ski and board school in the case of an accident.
If you don’t plan on taking lessons, there is also a free snow host tour in the village at 10:15am, that can give you a general overview of the mountain.
Travel Advisor
Emma Scott-Dorey
Get in touch with Emma
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Emma within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Canada.. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Tarrant Togia'i's guide, Week-long Stay in British Columbia and Seattle.