12 Days Powder Highway Ski and Snowboard Tour

Imagine carving through fresh, fluffy powder on some of Canada’s most famous ski slopes, with the comfort of a well-planned itinerary and expert guides to unlock hidden gems. That’s precisely what the 12 Days Powder Highway Ski and Snowboard Tour promises. Offered by Fresh Adventures, this tour is designed for those who want more than just a typical ski trip—it’s a comprehensive journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies’ best ski terrain, with a dash of local flavor thrown in.

Two things we really like about this tour? First, the focus on maximizing time on the snow—with 10 lift tickets included and a carefully crafted itinerary that packs in five legendary resorts in just over a week. Second, it’s the way they blend deep powder skiing with authentic local experiences, like tasting craft beers and soaking in hot springs. But, a word of caution: the tour is quite active, with about 8 hours of skiing each day, which might be exhausting for some travelers. Still, if you’re a passionate skier or snowboarder eager to explore the best of Canada’s powder, this tour could be just the ticket.

This experience suits those who love adventure, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and want to avoid the hassle of planning logistics across multiple resorts. It’s perfect for travelers who want to truly experience the mountain culture of BC and Alberta while skiing some of the best terrain the country has to offer.

Key Points

• Intensive Ski Experience: Cover five top resorts in 12 days, with ample time for powder runs and exploring terrain.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides have a 6:1 ratio to enhance your experience and help discover secret spots.
• All-Inclusive Lift Passes & Hot Springs: 10 lift tickets are included, plus entry to hot springs for relaxing after long days on the slopes.
• Authentic Mountain Culture: Enjoy local craft beers and explore off-slope hidden gems like hot springs and local eateries.
• Comfortable Transportation & Accommodation: Travel is in a van with ski storage, and accommodation is included, mostly in double rooms.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 12 travelers, expect a balanced mix of social atmosphere and personalized attention.

A Deep Dive into the 12-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Starting in Calgary, heading to Fernie

The tour kicks off at the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel at 2 pm. After meeting your fellow skiers, you’ll drive around four hours westward to Fernie, BC. That first evening, the anticipation of fresh powder and new friends starts to build. Fernie’s reputation as a powder haven is well-earned, and your guides will be eager to get you out on the slopes early the next day.

Days 2-3: Fernie’s Epic Bowls and Tree Runs

Fernie is renowned for its five epic bowls and one alpine peak, offering wide-open slopes and hidden tree-lined runs. The guide’s local knowledge opens access to secret lines and powder stashes, a boon for anyone wanting to avoid crowded pistes. The experience of skiing Fernie on a weekday powder day is emphasized, promising fresh tracks and fewer queues. Enthusiasts rave about Fernie’s skilled guides and the freedom to carve through powder with less crowd interference.

Days 4-5: Whitewater Mountain Resort

Whitewater is a smaller but fiercely beloved resort, famous for dumping snow and its tree runs. It’s described as “going off Niagara Falls in a barrel NAKED,” which hints at the thrill and big dumps this place gets. Quiet, with hardly a sound when waiting for friends, Whitewater offers a peaceful yet exhilarating skiing environment. The guides will show you the best powder lines, making sure you get the most out of your day here.

Days 6-7: Red Mountain Village in Rossland

Traveling 1.5 hours south to Rossland, you’ll find Red Mountain, considered the birthplace of freeskiing in Canada. Its terrain begs for letting loose—powder bowls, tree runs, and open slopes. We loved the way the tour combines skiing with a chance to relax and socialize, with lunch on the sunlit deck of Paradise Lodge and beers at Rafters Bar—an authentic touch to the mountain experience. Reviewers highlight the “fantastic terrain” and “friendly local vibe,” making Red Mountain a highlight for many.

Days 8-9: Revelstoke

Next, the journey takes you to Revelstoke, famous for massive terrain and bottomless snow. The mountain’s scale means you’re unlikely to see it all in one day, so the second day is a great chance to revisit favorites or explore new runs. Revelstoke’s snow quality and mountain scenery are often described as breathtaking, with some runs like “Kill the Banker” being memorable for their challenging nature. Guides are adept at helping you navigate the mountain’s vastness, ensuring you find the best snow and views.

Days 10-11: Kicking Horse

Crossing Rogers Pass—an absolute highlight—your journey continues to Kicking Horse. Known for steep terrain and north-facing slopes, the snow here stays softer and more plentiful. Spending two days at Kicking Horse means plenty of opportunities for challenging runs and powder lines. The mountain’s rugged beauty, combined with consistent snow, makes it a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The guides will help you find the best lines, whether you’re into steep chutes or wide-open bowls.

Day 12: Final stop in Banff and soaking in Hot Springs

The tour wraps up with a short drive back to Calgary, stopping in Banff for a relaxing soak in the famous hot springs. The mineral waters are famed for their healing properties, and it’s a fitting end to a physically demanding but rewarding trip. It’s a chance to unwind, reflect on the trip, and enjoy Banff’s striking mountain scenery before heading back home.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Logistics

The tour uses a van equipped with ski boxes and trailers to transport guests and gear comfortably and efficiently. This means less hassle than renting vehicles or dealing with individual car rentals and more time for skiing and socializing. Accommodation is provided for 11 nights, mostly in double occupancy rooms, offering a good balance of comfort and cost-effectiveness. The tour starts in Calgary and ends there, with all logistics handled for you, which is a huge plus amid the often complicated planning of multi-resort ski trips.

What about the price?

At just over $5,000 per person, including 11 nights of accommodation, 10 lift tickets, transportation, park passes, and hot spring entry fees, this is a package that emphasizes value for avid skiers. Compared to booking each resort separately and managing logistics, it’s a convenient, cost-effective way to access some of the best powder in Canada.

Authentic Local Experiences

Beyond the skiing, this tour emphasizes local culture—hot springs, craft beers, and discovering hidden gems. This isn’t just about the runs but about truly experiencing the mountain communities. The guides are local experts, and their insights can turn a good ski day into a memorable adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who is this tour for?

This tour is best suited for intermediate to advanced skiers or snowboarders who are physically fit and eager to explore multiple legendary resorts in one trip. It’s ideal for those wanting a guided, hassle-free experience with a focus on powder and local culture. It’s also perfect for travelers who don’t want to spend time planning logistics or worry about finding the best snow—they can rely on guides to do that.

If your goal is to ski big mountain terrain with quality powder and enjoy the camaraderie of a small group, this tour offers incredible value. But if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding vacation or are a beginner, this might be more than you need.

FAQs

How many resorts are included in this tour?
You’ll visit five resorts: Fernie, Whitewater, Red Mountain, Revelstoke, and Kicking Horse.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers 11 nights accommodation, 10 lift tickets, transportation in a van with ski storage, park passes, hot spring entry fees, and local guides.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is optional, but personal meals and alcohol are not included, so travelers should budget accordingly.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, which helps ensure personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

What about the physical fitness level?
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to handle up to 8 hours of skiing each day comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for snowboarders?
Yes, the description indicates it’s designed for both skiers and snowboarders eager to enjoy powder and mountain terrain.

Can I expect to see some off-piste or hidden spots?
Absolutely—your guides aim to unlock “secret powder stashes” and take you beyond the crowded slopes to discover local treasures.

Final Words

This 12 Days Powder Highway Ski and Snowboard Tour offers a well-rounded experience for serious powder enthusiasts eager to explore some of the most iconic ski terrain in Canada. Its blend of legendary resorts, expert guides, and authentic local culture makes it a strong choice for those who want more than just skiing—it’s about experiencing the mountain lifestyle in some of the best snow conditions in the world.

Whether you’re chasing fresh powder, discovering mountain secrets, or relaxing in hot springs after a long day on the slopes, this tour provides a comprehensive, fun, and well-organized adventure. Just be ready for 8-hour ski days—this trip is truly for those with a passion for the snow and a desire to enjoy it fully.

Happy skiing!