From Minivans to Gondolas
“Are we there yet?” Once a mantra from the backseat during long drives with five kids in our minivan, it now echoes from the mouths of grown children, iPhones in hand and GPS at the ready.
The scenery has changed—no paper maps, no cassette tapes—but the excitement of travel remains.
And for our family, the winter destination that brings out the best in every generation is Big White Ski Resort in British Columbia.
Just over an hour’s drive from Kelowna, BC, Big White is a snowy wonderland with something for everyone: impeccable ski terrain, year‑round traditions, and a compassionate energy that appeals to kids, parents, and grandparents alike.
Ski Country’s Snowy Heart
Big White is not a remote lodge hidden deep in the Rockies; it is one of British Columbia’s most accessible alpine resorts, proudly boasting 119 designated runs and around 2,765 acres of skiable terrain serviced by 15 lifts.
It receives champagne powder—light, fluffy snow that deep‑snow aficionados dream about—along with a diverse range of slopes perfect for beginners through advanced skiers.
From mellow green cruisers to steeper blue and black runs tucked among snow‑ghosted trees, Big White manages to balance size with ease, new thrills with feel‑good familiarity.
A Village Wrapped In Snow
Big White’s compact pedestrian village is a core part of its charm.
Once you park or step off the shuttle, many guests never need their car again.
Ski‑in/ski‑out lodging means you can pop back to your condo for lunch or a mid‑day hot chocolate, then duck back out for more runs.
For our family, Sundance Suites were the perfect base.
Crafted in rustic, cedar‑and‑stone style with full kitchens and spacious living areas, they allowed us to blend togetherness with comfort.
Watching snow fall from our balcony, hot tub bubbles steaming in the cold air, we felt like protagonists in a snow globe that refused to spill its magic.
Slopes Tailored To Every Skill
Big White’s terrain strikes an ideal balance: broad groomers and cruisers for newer skiers, glades and steeper pitches for thrill‑seekers, and plenty of intermediate blues where families can stay connected on the mountain.
Our first full day began with the sun cresting over the Monashee Mountains.
We met Don, one of the resort’s complimentary Snow Hosts, who guided us across varied terrain.
With sixteen lifts—including high‑speed quads that climb above the treeline—we spread across ridge tops, took in panoramic views, and found trails to suit every member of our crew.
Some of us carved wide, open runs; others delighted in blue cruisers beneath snow‑draped evergreens.
The ease with which Big White lets skiers of different abilities enjoy the same day—with plenty of options to regroup—draws families back year after year.
Beyond The Blue Runs
Big White is not just about downhill skiing, though it excels there.
A quick gondola ride connects guests to Happy Valley Adventure Park, where a world of winter activities awaits:
- Mega SnowCoaster Tube Park — North America’s largest resort tubing experience with multiple groomed lanes of thrilling rides.
- Outdoor Ice Skating — Glide, spin, or shoot a casual puck on Canada’s highest outdoor rink, framed by magnificent mountain views.
- Dog Sledding Adventures — Mush your own sled through pristine backcountry or ride with a guide for a truly Canadian winter adventure.
- Snowmobile Tours — Explore forest trails on a guided ride, complete with hot chocolate stops along the way.
- Snowshoeing & Nordic Trails — With 25 km of Nordic and wilderness trails, families can explore snowy forests at their own pace, with rentals and guided tours available.
- Horse‑drawn Sleigh Rides — A quiet, magical way to tour snow‑covered trails—blankets, bells, and all—especially lovely as evening falls.
- Night Skiing — Big White shines after dark too, with night skiing on select terrain and lift access, letting you extend the ski day under bright lights.
Activities For Every Age
While our adults enjoyed a steam room and treadmill at the onsite fitness area, the kids splashed in the outdoor pool and hot tubs at Sundance.
Other families in the village were watching a movie in the theatre, playing billiards in communal lounges, or checking out events in the village centre.
Evening entertainment can range from Thursday night family carnivals to weekly fireworks displays in Happy Valley, making Big White feel more like a festive winter community than just a ski destination.
Culinary Warmth And Village Flavour
After a day in the snow, appetite runs deep.
The village cooking scene has expanded in recent seasons with inviting spots like Toasty Café for morning fuel and Sopra: Sam’s Italian Kitchen for relaxed family‑friendly meals.
From hearty local comfort food and shared pastas to après‑ski drinks at lively pubs, there’s something to suit every taste—whether you’re craving casual fare after a long day on the slopes or a more refined dinner accompanied by Okanagan wine.
The Joy Of Family Togetherness
Late night conversations—especially those around the dinner table—are often the true heart of a family trip.
Our eldest son, cooking for the group, served a meal that was as memorable as the snowy vistas we’d seen all day.
Toasts were raised to powder days and powder memories, and to the new generation on the way.
Big White invites such moments.
Its combination of world‑class skiing, extensive winter activities, and an authentic mountain village atmosphere make it a destination that every age group can enjoy on their own terms, yet share experiences together.
Why Families Return
Whether you’re clipping into skis before dawn or winding down around a fire pit with hot chocolate after dark, Big White delivers a tapestry of experiences that resonate with travellers of all ages.
Its snow‑covered peaks, scenic trails, cozy accommodations, and diverse activities make it more than a ski holiday—it’s a story the whole family can write together.
And as we packed up to leave—boots and poles stowed, cheeks rosy from fresh air—we knew this was not a goodbye, but a “see you next winter.”
Getting There and Around
Location: Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
Distance from Kelowna: Approximately 56 km (about 1 hour)
By Air
- Fly into Kelowna International Airport (YLW), with direct flights from major Canadian cities like Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto.
- If routing via Vancouver, consider exploring fun family activities there before or after your trip.
- For comparing rental car options and finding the best deals, check out DiscoverCars.
By Car (from Kelowna)
- From downtown Kelowna, take Highway 33 (McCulloch Road) east.
- Drive approximately 32 km toward Beaverdell.
- Turn left onto Big White Road (well signed).
- Follow the plowed mountain road 24 km uphill to the village centre.
- Driving time: About 60 minutes in good winter conditions.
Winter Driving Tips
- Winter tires are strongly recommended and often required by BC law.
- Road conditions can change quickly—check updates before you depart.
- Allow extra travel time during snowfall or busy holiday weekends.
Shuttle Service
- Scheduled airport and city shuttles run daily between Kelowna and Big White during ski season.
- A convenient, stress-free option for families who prefer to avoid mountain driving.
Arrival Tip
- Big White’s ski‑in/ski‑out pedestrian layout allows you to park once and explore the village on foot, skis, or shuttle for the duration of your stay.
More info: Big White Ski Resort
Need a hand planning your trip? Here are the sites and services we rely on most, from booking tools to travel products we love.
Inspire your next adventure with our articles below:
- 7 Reasons to Visit Luleå, Sweden This Winter
- The Mother Lode of Precious Memories: Family-Friendly Things to Do in Silverthorne, Colorado
Author Bio: Since 1996, while freelancing, Jane Cassie has had thousands of articles published. Her stories have appeared CNN Magazine, Northwest Travel, New York Daily News, Chicken Soup For The Soul, Dreamscapes, Air Canada In-flight, Cottage Life, Epicure and Travel, just to name a few. She has been a regular contributor to Spa Life, INNspire, North American Inns Magazine, Cottage, and Inspire Magazines.
Want to discover more hidden gems and helpful travel tips? Join our free newsletter for the latest travel secrets and travel articles.
We are reader-supported and may earn a commission on purchases made through links in this article.
