7 Intense Skiing and Snowboarding Destinations for Winter Thrill Seekers [VIDEOS]
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Are you one of those roller coaster fanatics? If yes, you're probably in ride withdrawal during the winter, so why not try flying off the side of a mountain instead. Some of the best spots for extreme skiing and snowboarding are in the Canadian Rockies. It doesn’t matter if you’re delivered to the top of the mountain by helicopter, lift or snowcat, you’ll encounter plenty of snow to carve a trail through on the way back down.
Fernie Alpine Resort
Fernie, in British Columbia, is famed for receiving more annual snowfall than any other ski resort in the Canadian Rockies. This is the place to go for powder hounds looking for thrills and mountains of fluffy white snow. The resort can boast as much as 37 feet of snow any given skiing season.
Lake Louise Ski Area
Lake Louse, situated in Banff National Park, in the province of Alberta, is one of the most famous ski areas on the planet. The resort is home to 4200 acres of skiing, and some truly spectacular views. There are slopes for beginners, intermediate and advanced skies and snowboarders. Regardless of your ski level, you'll be sure to find the perfect run at Lake Louise.
Kimberley Alpine Resort
Kimberley, in British Columbia, combines an astounding amount of skiing with busloads of sunny days. What that means for the average skier or boarder are some fantastic slopes, bowls and glades, and mile after mile of visibility across the beautiful Purcell Range.
Purcell Helicopter Skiing
Purcell Helicopter Skiing, also located in Alberta’s Banff National Park, is a helicopter skiing outfit that will take you and your friends up to some of the highest peaks in the Purcell Mountains. All you have to do is cut through the gorgeous virgin powder, and slice a path back down the mountain. These trips, which aren’t easy on the wallet, are definitely for advanced skiers. Of course, the steep prices afford you some luxury as well. You’ll never have to wait in line for a lift.
Whitehorse and Mount Sima
If you venture farther north in Canada, you’ll come to the Yukon Territory and Whitehorse. Mount Sima is the premier destination here. While the resort isn’t overloaded with chairlifts, the terrain you’ll be skiing across is simply stunning. The Yukon also provides the perfect location for backcountry skiing and some amazing alpine touring. While you’re out in the snow, come night, you might even catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis. The town of Whitehorse is that far north.
Revelstoke and CMH Heli-Skiing
Revelstoke is smack dab in the middle of the “deep snow capital of North America.” What better way to take advantage of untouched power than by helicopter? You can stay in comfort in one of the many lodges in town, and then get whisked up to the top of the mountain by the CMH Heli-Skiing crew. If you love powder, you’ll grin wide when you find out that Revelstoke receives 40-60 feet of snowfall each year.
Kicking Horse
Kicking Horse, located near the town of Golden in British Columbia, is home to some awe-inspiring vertical drops, tons of fresh power, gondola and helicopter skiing, backcountry trails, and a whole heck of a lot of fun. Black diamond runs tend to be the rule here, so get ready for 2,800 acres of snow, speed and some wonderful ski and boarding adventures.
