Insider Info



Skiers cruising the green trails

Since 1992 Fresh Tracks has been sharing local secrets with its customers.

  • Get a bird's eye view of the resorts - click one of the 'Maps' links.

  • Read up on recommended dining, entertainment, and non-ski activities, check out the 'Guides' links.

  • Find out what standard of accommodation we offer by reading our 'Accommodation Guide.'

  • Need advice on a destination that gives you what you want? Check out 'Planning Your Trip.'

  • And for some helpful travel advice, click the 'Tips' link.

Our Personal Trip Advisors can fill you in on special travel tips, deals, and up-to-the-minute info not listed here.

Call Us Toll Free:

US + Can - 1 800 667 4744
UK - 0 800 917 5924
Australia - 1 800 992 872   

Whistler Maps

Whistler Resort is deserving of its reputation as one of the world’s finest resorts. Spanning two peaks (Whistler and Blackcomb), this resort forms the largest single ski area in North America with 8,171 acres of skiiable terrain. This is over 50% larger than the runner up of Vail, and with plans to add another 1000 acres over the coming year the skiing terrain is only going to improve. The vast size of the mountains means terrain perfect for novices, experts, and everyone in between. Their combined areas also boast the highest "vertical drop" in North America (Blackcomb comes in on top at 1564 meters with Whistler slightly shorter at 1530 m).

Whistler Blackcomb features 200 runs accessed by 37 lifts, with a new Peak to Peak Gondola set to span the peaks of the mountains by December 2008. Lift passes encompass both mountains and all lifts, ensuring you can follow the conditions and interests of the day.

Whistler Blackcomb’s skiing terrain is 20% beginner, 55% intermediate, and 25% advanced.

whistler map

Banff Maps

Sunshine Village is located in Banff National Park, the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Only 20 minutes from the lively community of Banff, Sunshine Village boasts some of the best snow and scenery in North America. Well-developed and well-maintained, Sunshine Village offers a great diversity of terrain for families and novice skiers, as well as the challenges offered to the expert by the rugged terrain of the Goat’s Eye ski area.

Over 100 runs and 3,358 acres of skiing terrain are easily accessible by Sunshine Village’s 12 lifts, including a high speed gondola taking guests direct from the shuttle point to the upper village (lovely and car-free) in thirteen minutes. From there it’s quick and easy to explore the slopes, the scenery, and the 33 feet of annual snowfall. With skiing available from early November to late May, Sunshine Village offers great skiing throughout the seasons.

Sunshine Village’s skiing terrain is 20% beginner, 55% intermediate, 25% advanced.


banff map

Mont Tremblant Maps

Mont Tremblant offers great skiing for all ages and a pedestrian-only village styled after a Parisian arrondisement. Recognized as the #1 Ski Resort in Eastern North America for 8 consecutive years (as of 2005), Mont Tremblant is great value with all the amenities and terrain of Western resorts.

The main ski resort features 625 acres of ski and snowboarding trails in 4 distinct areas: North Side (Versant Nord), South Side (Versant Sud), Sunny Side (Versant Soleil) and The Edge (Versant Edge). There are 94 marked downhill trails and 13 lifts over a vertical rise of 2,116 feet making the mountain a breeze to explore.

Mont Tremblant’s skiing terrain is 17% beginner, 33% intermediate, and 50% advanced.


tremblant map

Complete Whistler Guide

Whistler is a bustling resort, and, as such, is full of things to do with excellent dining, shopping, relaxing, and sightseeing opportunities.

Unique activities include:

  • Ski and snowboard lessons: Perfect for those looking to improve their strides, Whistler’s snow schools offer skiing and snowboarding lessons for adults, teens, and children. These lessons cater to all levels, ages, and learning desires, and offer a great opportunity for one-on-one coaching (for private lessons) or a neat way to make new friends (with age and skill-specific snow schools).

  • Tubing: Clamber into a giant rubber tube for some unique winter fun! Located at Base II of Blackcomb, this Tube Park is full of fun for the whole family.

  • Fresh Tracks Breakfast: This unaffiliated fresh adventure is perfect for those looking for pristine powder. Treat yourself to a mountain-top breakfast before making the most of early riding privileges by being the first to tackle the slopes.

  • Snowmobiling: These fun snowmobiling tours are built around your skill levels, so are a perfect way for everyone to explore the mountain in a different way.

  • Sleigh rides: The ultimate way to unwind, sip a mug of hot cocoa as a horse drawn carriage takes you through the pristine wilderness in style.

  • Heli skiing/boarding: The perfect way to get off the beaten path. Take to the skies for a new vantage point on the mountains before setting down on that perfect spot for the ultimate powder.

  • Zip Trek eco tours: A unique and memorable experience! Soar above and through old growth pines as you race above the forest floor, safely secured in top of the line equipment.

  • Dog sledding: Mush! Come on and join Apollo, Zeke, Rosie and the rest of the team on the backcountry experience of a lifetime. This adventurous activity is sure to appeal to the whole family.

  • Snowshoeing: Whether you choose a guided tour or strap on the snowshoes on your own, snowshoeing is a fun and active way to explore the mountain wilderness.

  • Sno-Limo mountain ecotouring: For those who aren’t quite up to skiing the slopes on their own, sno-limo service offers an unparalleled way to experience the slopes. Glide along snow-covered trails in comfort with an expert guide providing the momentum and the commentary. This is a great way for grandparents to be able to witness children on the slopes.

  • Cross country skiing: This winter activity is a real treat, and one that shouldn’t be overlooked. Whistler offers over 28 kilometers of track-set trails perfect for all skill levels through beautiful areas like Lost Lake Park, the Chateau Whistler Golf Course, and Nicklaus North Golf Course.

  • Train trips: The Whistler Mountaineer winds its way along the coast and through the mountains connecting Whistler and Vancouver. This gorgeous trip is full of scenic views and unparalleled comfort, and could be a highlight of any trip.

  • Spa packages: Vacations are about mind, body, and spirit, and indulgences at the spa are the perfect way to soothe all three. After a long day on the slopes, consider a pampering pedicure or a relaxing massage. These and more offer a great preparation for the evening festivities ahead.

Dining & Entertainment

Whistler is a bustling and popular resort with plenty of opportunities for dining and nightlife.

Dining:

Whistler features nearly 100 restaurants, with more opening every day. There are small ethnic eateries, boisterous pubs, and romantic and refined fine dining. Here’s a few of our favourites:

  • Apres: A charming boutique restaurant with an extensive wine list. Perfect for, you guessed it, après ski.

  • Araxi: One of Whistler’s tastiest offerings, Araxi offers the best of the cuisine from the Pacific Northwest.

  • Bearfoot Bistro: The perfect way to celebrate a special occasion. This elegant and sophisticated champagne bar is the perfect spot to toast a date with a glass of Dom Perignon.

  • Crystal Lounge: Cheap and friendly lounge with tasty appetizers and drinks perfect for après ski.

  • Crepe Montagne: For a light and easy dinner try indulging in a decadent yet simple crepe at this unique French-style creperie. Also a lovely spot for dessert.

  • Earls: A well-loved and much-frequently chain of casual fine dining with an excellent variety of well-priced appetizers, meals, and cocktails. Perfect for an evening out with friends or family.

  • Hy’s Steakhouse: Great steaks combined with impeccable service and a well-thought out martini and wine list lend easily to a great meal.

  • Rim Rock Café and Oyster Bar: Another choice for a fine meal, this casual yet refined restaurant is consistently voted one of Whistler’s best fine dining establishments.

  • Quattro: Quintessential gourmet Italian. With options for choosy kids and more refined palates, this is perfect for a nice family meal as well as a date.

  • Consider also: the Old Spaghetti Factory (an affordable and friendly family joint), Citta Bistro (often voted the best spot for people watching in Whistler), Caramba (great seafood and pizzas), the Mongolie Grill (choose your meats and veggies and watch them grill it in front of your eyes), and Samurai Sushi (tasty fresh sushi.)

Nightlife:

Whistler is renowned for its nightlife, with plenty of opportunities to relax in martini bars, laugh over nachos in pubs, see a show or two, or dance into the wee hours. The best way to find the hot spot of the night is to ask a local. Here’s a few of our more perennial favourites:

For après ski:

  • Citta’s with its lovely patio and excellent people watching.

  • Dusty’s features a unique Western décor and atmosphere very popular with Whistler locals.

To watch the game or have a beer:

  • Black’s Pub features beer and scotch from all over the world.

  • Highmountain Brewing Co. for great pub food and excellent beer.

Dress up and sip a martini:

  • The Mallard Bar in Chateau Whistler with its extensive scotch list.

  • Bearfoot Bistro

  • Any of Whistler’s excellent fine dining institutions.

Dance until the wee hours:

  • Garfinkles is a Whistler institution, and rightfully so. This bar attracts all crowds and plays Indie rock hits and classics as well as modern dance tracks.

  • Moe Joe’s is similar to Garfinkle’s, but more intimate and perhaps a little more quiet.

  • Buffalo Bill’s is popular with a 30something crowd and features occasional comedy nights and live shows.

  • The Savage Beagle is another spot to consider with a split-level room offering the best of both worlds – people-watching over a cigar upstairs, and dancing downstairs.

Live music:

  • The Crabshack (Sundays) features affordable pub food and the musical stylings of local Whistler bands.

  • Dubh Linn Gate sees traditional and modern Irish music every night of the week, as well as Whistler’s largest select of draft beer and whiskeys.

Other Entertainment:

  • Fire and Ice show: A free outdoor spectacle welcoming visitors to Whistler, held every Sunday night.

  • Great Wall Underground: Indoor rock climbing center.

  • Rainbow Theatre: First run movies are played twice a week.

  • Village 8 Cinema and Gaming Underground: A cinema and gaming complex perfect for a couple of hours of family distraction.

  • Whistler Museum: Explore the history and ecology of Whistler.

Our Pick of Whistler’s Best Rides

Skiing Whistler is an incredible experience. Boasting over 200 runs and a huge area across two mountains, Whistler offers unparalleled diversity. The resort is well planned and the modern lift system provides fast and comfortable access to the expansive terrain.

An early-morning gondola ride from the base of the mountain to the high alpine offers the perfect way to wake up and plan your day as you drink in the incredible views.

However you tackle the slopes, 38 well-positioned lifts result in fewer line-ups and bottlenecks than most other resorts. Meticulous attention to detail and service extends to the omnipresent “sniffle stations”, well-stocked with tissues.

Blackcomb Mountain is the perfect area for intermediates and snowboarders. Endless and wide blue runs are great for working on your technique, and there is enough pitch to prevent flat spots from ever becoming a problem. Take the Jersey Cream Express to access a large bowl area which is ideal for warming up.

Take the 7th Heaven Express to admire the spectacular views across BC’s coastal range. From the top choose between swooping down some very long blue cruisers or make your own between the well spaced trees. This lift also provides access to some of the last groomed areas in the resort, a short hike from the usual runs. If you are willing to hike for your fresh powder, ‘Spanky’s Ladder’ is a perennial favorite and gives access to Blackcomb’s glacier, fantastic views and more untracked areas. Our friendly agents would love to chat about their favorite areas and ‘secret powder stashes’.

Whistler is a quick ride to the high alpine where you can warm your muscles on the gentle terrain accessed by the Emerald chair. The Ego bowl is a great place to build your confidence, ‘Family Zones’ and ‘Slow areas’ make this perfect for beginners and children. Once you have found your feet the Emerald bowl gives a taste of things to come as you head to the Symphony Bowl. The Symphony express was completed in 2006 and took away the need for hiking (previously the only way to explore this local favorite) Exploring this spectacular area of open bowls and wooded glades is sure to be a treat.

For an exhilarating finish to the day coast down the Peak to Creek run all the way from Whistler peak to the valley bottom.




Complete Banff Guide

Non-ski activities include:

  • Dog sledding: Snuggle into cozy sleds covered with down blankets as you take to the trails for an iconic winter experience. Mush!

  • Spa packages: Vacations are about mind, body, and spirit, and indulgences at the spa are the perfect way to soothe all three. After a long day on the slopes, consider a pampering pedicure or a relaxing massage. These and more offer a great preparation for the evening festivities ahead.

  • Gondola sightseeing: Take to the skies in one of Banff’s or Lake Louise’s gondola rides. These gondolas offer unsurpassed views of the mountains around.

  • Snowmobiling: The area around Banff is full of wilderness terrain and great Rockies views perfect for the adventurer. Snowmobile tours for all levels and interests are available.

  • Ice Canyon Walks: Icewalks are a unique winter experience full of natural and cultural sightseeing. Learn about ancient Native Rock art painted on the canyon wall or walk on steel catwalks built into the canyon wall, see frozen waterfalls or enjoy a night walk with headlamps and roast marshmallows over a campfire.

  • Heli skiing/boarding: The perfect way to get off the beaten path. Take to the skies for a new vantage point on the mountains before setting down on that perfect spot for the ultimate powder.

  • Cave tours: Explore the fascinating limestone cave system of Grotto Mountain. Let experienced guides interpret the fascinating natural history of this underground world with twisting passages and chambers of stalactites and stalagmites. The caves remain a mild 5C (41F) throughout the winter.

  • Snowshoeing: Whether you choose a guided tour or strap on the snowshoes on your own, snowshoeing is a fun and active way to explore the mountain wilderness.

  • Ice Fishing: Experience the thrill of ice fishing on a frozen, snow-covered lake set in the middle of the mountains, but in the comfort of a heated hut, and with a steaming hot beverage in hand. Fish caught here include lake trout and Rocky Mountain whitefish.

  • Ice Skating: Skating on Banff's ponds, rivers, lakes, as well as artificial outdoor rinks, is a favourite winter activity enjoyed by both locals and visitors. The mountain views, glimpses of fish wintering below the ice, the gentle booming sound of thick ice shifting, and the thrill of skating itself... all these make ice skating in the outdoors an exhilarating experience.

  • Sledding and Tobogganing: The terrain around Banff National Park is perfect for tobogganing. While locals in Banff and Lake Louise take advantage of backyards, side streets and parks for sledding throughout the winter, there are a few hills that have more of an official feel.

  • Sleigh Rides: Enjoy the cheery sound of sleigh bells as you cruise through beautiful wilderness with breathtaking views.

Dining & Entertainment

The town of Banff is an eclectic charmer with great restaurants, shops, and cultural pursuits just steps away from awe-inspiring mountains and lakes.

Here are a few of our favourite indoor spots:

Dining:

  • Banffshire Club: The ultimate in fine dining, the Banffshire Club in the Fairmont is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion. This intimate, exclusive, and elegant space offers up contemporary North American cuisine.

  • Evergreen: Cozy and elegant featuring an open concept kitchen, Evergreen’s talented chefs serve classically inspired contemporary dishes focusing on the freshest, seasonally available ingredients.

  • Fuze: This cheeky fine dining restaurant aims to create ‘finer dining’, with an eclectic and internationally inspired, but always tasty, menu. A great dinner spot for adventurous adults.

  • The Grizzly House: A unique dining experience where the focus is meat. Chefs here serve beef and chicken, but also crocodile, elk, buffalo and more, and they serve it well! A fun evening out for a carnivorous family.

  • The Keg Steakhouse & Bar: Casual comfort in stylish surroundings, this restaurant is one of a rightfully popular chain serving perfectly cooked steaks and delicious sides. A varied menu makes it great for families, and a bumping bar atmosphere in the evening makes it a good stop for a night on the town.

  • Maple Leaf Grille: Casual, stylish, and fun, the Maple Leaf dishes up pizzas and burgers as well as duck and venison. Equipped with quick bartenders and a great wine list, this restaurant stays bustling throughout the night.

  • Melissa’s Restaurant and Bar: A casual and friendly restaurant with a supper club feel serving up old favourites like baked potatoes, steaks, and pastas as well as excellent breakfasts. Great comfort food for the family.

  • Sushi House: Considered one of Canada’s best small eateries, this tiny gem is a delight for the family. Fresh and tasty sushi parades by the tables on a model train, and anything not visibly available on the train can be whipped up in minutes by talented chefs. This is a very Canadian experience and one not to be missed!

For après ski:

  • Café Soleil: This cozy café is a warm and popular Mediterranean tapas bar with an excellent wine list. Gaze out the window, cuddle by the fire, or chat up the bartender while perusing the tasty treats on offer.

  • The Paddock: A local watering hole with comfy chairs and pool tables.

  • The Fairmont Banff Springs bars and lounges offer an alternative way to unwind.

To watch the game or have a beer:

  • Wild Bill’s Legendary Saloon is legendary for a reason – huge plates of nachos and free flowing beer.

  • St James Olde Irish Pub: This traditional pub (built in Dublin and reassembled in Banff) serves 33 draught beers and more than 65 single malt scotches.

  • Tommy’s: A neighbourhood pub with a friendly atmosphere and great comfort food.

Dress up and sip a martini:

  • Grapes, in the Fairmont Banff Springs: Enjoy a tasty Pinot or Chardonnay in this romantic and intimate 21-seat wine bar.

  • Saltlik: Tasty food is served alongside inventive drinks in this stylish and sexy restaurant-lounge.

Dance until the wee hours:

  • The Aurora: Guaranteed to be fun, this is the place to be after everywhere else closes.

  • Hoodoo Lounge: This stylish lounge features a bustling dance floor.

Live music:

  • Rose & Crown: This lively bar features live music 7 nights a week with blues, reggae, funk, and pop. Dancing is encouraged!

  • Saltlik: This stylish steakhouse features live jazz, blues, and acoustic on Thursdays.

Other entertainment:

  • Banff is home to several great museums, including the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, the Cave and Basin Historical Site, and the Banff Park Museum.

  • Hot springs: the perfect way to unwind after a day on the slopes is a soak in these historic springs.

  • The Banff Centre: Banff’s centre for the Arts with a rotating calendar of events and exhibits.

  • Lux Cinema Centre: Your spot for the latest celebrity feats on the big screen.



Complete Mont Tremblant Guide

Non-ski activities include:

  • Acrobranche in Mont Tremblant: Try a sensational aerial adventure with ziplines 25 to 75 feet high in the trees. Night-time excursions are also available, made especially memorable with the use of headlamps!

  • Sleigh rides: Enjoy the cheery sound of sleigh bells as you cruise through beautiful wilderness with breathtaking views.

  • Helicopter tours: Take to the skies for a new vantage point on sightseeing - the wilderness like you’ve never seen it!

  • Dog sledding: Mush! Take to the trails for a snowy winter experience you’re not likely to forget.

  • Tubing: Clamber into a giant rubber tube for some unique winter fun! Perfect for the whole family.

  • Ice climbing: Try your hand at this fun winter activity as you tackle mountains and glaciers (or at least icy patches of snow).

  • Scandinavian Baths and Massages: Indulge in a relaxing spa of wood pavilions, solariums, terraces, outdoor fireplace and relaxation areas perfectly integrated into the beautiful wilderness surroundings.

  • Snowmobiling: Enjoy a fun and exhilarating sightseeing exploration of wilderness terrain on board snowmobile tours suited for all ages.

  • Sledding and Tobogganing: The perfect fun activity for the whole family! Play in the snow and slide down streets and mountains.

  • Snowshoeing: Whether you choose a guided tour or strap on the snowshoes on your own, snowshoeing is a fun and active way to explore the mountain wilderness.

Dining:

  • Les Artistes: This Parisian-style bistro offers the best of European influenced refined casual fare. As casual or as formal as you like!

  • Auberge Caribou: Enjoy the hospitality of an old world Laurentide inn in this charming and romantic restaurant on the shores of nearby Lake Superior. This refined rustic aesthetic is sure to appeal with astounding views of tranquil Lake Superior and the surrounding peaks of mountains making the fine continental offerings even better.

  • Aux Truffes: A perfect way to celebrate a special occasion with specialties in truffles, foie gras, and game.

  • La Chouquetterie: Indulge in some comfort food at this old fashioned bakery serving up excellent pastries, chocolates, and coffee.

  • La Forge Bar & Grill: Enjoy the excellent terraces as well as the excellent wine list. Try the specialty of the house on the second floor, meats cooked over maple wood!

  • Plus Minus Café: Indulge in a unique gastronomic adventure in what some consider one of Canada’s best restaurants. This fine dining establishment is located in Tremblant’s oldest chalet, but the creations here are anything but old fashioned. Modern and inventive, this is worth a try.

  • Spag & Co: This relaxed and friendly family-oriented restaurant serves up delectable classic contemporary Italian cuisine.

  • Windigo: A sumptuous meal awaits at this restaurant in the Fairmont Tremblant. Fresh produce and inspired thinking form the cornerstone of delectable theme buffets and a la carte menus.

  • Yamada: Enjoy internationally inspired Japanese cuisine served in a fun fantasy décor. Colourful dishes and interesting flavours inspire all palates, with plates to tempt all ages.

For après ski:

  • The Lounge du Westin: A modern and relaxed lounge with an excellent selection of wines by the glass.

To watch the game and have a beer:

  • Microbrasserie la Diable: A fine offering of home-brewed beers and tasty European sausages make this is a unique and enjoyable home for the afternoon.

  • Le Shack: Enjoy the big screen TV and lively conversation offered by this sports bar also offering casual family dining.

  • Le Ptit Caribou: A fun and often loud bar consistently voted a favourite by Ski Canada magazine.

Dress up and sip a martini:

  • The Windigo Lounge: Refined relaxation in the Fairmont Tremblant with an excellent variety of fine wine by the glass, vintage ports, timeless martinis, and personalized cocktails.

  • The Whisky Bar: Indulge in a fine whisky or port as you gather for friendly conversation around a warm stone fireplace in this comfortable room.

Dance until the wee hours:

  • Bar Café d’Epoque: Tremblant’s finest party establishment with nightly DJ, dancing, and happy hour.

  • Le Ptit Caribou: A fun and often loud bar consistently voted a favourite by Ski Canada magazine.

Live music:

  • Fat Mardi’s: This New Orleans-style resto-bar features live music every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday in addition to daily dishes of steaks, burgers, appetizers and more.


Other entertainment:

  • Aquaclub La Source: Indulge in an invigorating Laurentian environment, La Source! This refreshing environment offers indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, waterfall, whirlpools, and eucalyptus steam baths. A lovely way to unwind after a day on the slopes!

  • The pedestrian streets of the Mont Tremblant village are full of people watching and shopping activities all year round.



 

Accommodation Guide


Canada’s ski resorts offer the best in accommodation from well-appointed standard choices to the finest of deluxe – and Fresh Tracks has the inside scoop. From Mont Tremblant to Whistler/Blackcomb, we make the most of the array of accommodation on offer to ensure your bedtime relaxation is as memorable as days spent on the slopes.

The properties we’ve chosen as our standard option are those offering the best value in amenities, service, and location. Whether you’re looking for a boutique charmer in the middle of the village nightlife or a rustic lodge on the side of the trail, these accommodation options feature comfortable furnishings, great service, and the perks required to make your vacation a dream.

Our deluxe properties offer all that and more, with the comfort and luxury to make this a truly memorable experience. Reflect on the day’s skiing as you relax in the indulgences of a first class hotel. Enjoy the high thread count sheets, cozy and well appointed rooms, and impeccable service of a truly decadent resort experience. Sink into a candle-lit bubble bath, indulge in a good night’s sleep on a plush mattress, and wrap yourself in a soft robe as you nibble artfully presented culinary treats delivered right to your door. If the nearby mountains weren’t so tempting it would be difficult to leave.

Planning an escape into the wilderness beauty of the mountains? Consider staying at the rightfully famous Chateau Lake Louise, a formidable and decadent hotel nestled in the heart of the Rockies on the shores of pristine Lake Louise. From this lovely home ski shuttles pick up and take you to the accessible slopes of three nearby resorts.

Looking for a stylish home in the heart of the action? Consider one of the many luxury options available in bustling Whistler village.

Accommodation options vary, but all Fresh Tracks hotels feature clean and comfortable rooms, great locations, impeccable service, and great opportunities for activities and relaxations.

Specific benefits can include:

  • Ski in/ski out: The ultimate in winter getaway luxury, put on and take off your skis just outside your door. Don’t waste valuable time getting to the mountain – the mountain is at your doorstep!

  • Hot tubs and pool facilities: What better way to unwind than a soak in a Jacuzzi hot tub or heated pool? As an added bonus, many of these pools are outside complete with fresh air and mountain views.

  • In house restaurants: Many of the finest restaurants in Canadian resort towns are found inside the finest resort hotels – the very places you’ll be staying! Dine in style minutes from your room.


Need more info? Contact one of our Personal Trip Advisors and they'll gladly answer your questions.

Planning Your Trip

Planning a Canadian winter getaway can get a little complex, what with all the means to travel, styles of accommodation, places to visit, slopes to try, and activities to choose. Browse this site for virtual photo tours and detailed itineraries to give you a taste of all that’s available, or pick up the phone to talk to one of our friendly and knowledgeable agents at any time. The following guide provides a quick and easy way to get started on planning your ultimate snowy getaway.

Step 1: Where do you want to go?

  • Western Canada – Beautiful and rugged with cosmopolitan cities and the world class resort of Whistler. Western Canada is perfect for those looking to combine the vibrancy and culture of big cities and bustling resorts with the picture perfect surroundings of snowy peaks and endless oceans.

  • The Rockies – The Canadian Rockies are full of adventurous pursuits in a winter wonderland. Snow is plentiful, and these mountains are full of charming resort towns, great wildlife viewing, and endless opportunities for a range of activities. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, the Rockies are the best place to try your hand at dogsledding, tobogganing, ice skating, snow-shoeing, and more.

  • Eastern Canada – Mont Tremblant is the highlight of a luxury ski vacation to Eastern Canada, and this lovely resort town offers the ultimate in cultural and natural charms. Besides offering terrific skiing and winter pursuits, this region is full of European-style architecture, quaint villages, and friendly locals eager to share their French heritage. Winter is celebrated in style in Eastern Canada with dozens of snowy festivals.

Step 2: What do you want to do?

  • Canada’s ski resorts all offer terrific skiing opportunities, so consider what else you’d like to do while on holiday.

  • Looking to try your hand at dogsledding and glacier exploration? Considering vacationing in the Rockies.

  • Want to combine some nightlife, shopping, and exploration of world-class cities with time on the slopes? Consider the unbeatable combinations of Vancouver and Whistler, or Montreal and Mont Tremblant.

  • Want to get off the beaten path? Heli-skiing ensures you get first tracks.

Step 3: What’s your travel style?

  • Looking for a romantic getaway for two? Lake Louise’s deluxe accommodation and its remote and beautiful setting are ideal for lovers.

  • Wanting to get wild with friends? Whistler offers a huge range of dining and nightlife opportunity, plus some very hospitable locals.

  • Planning this year’s family holiday? On the East Coast, Mont Tremblant is a perfect getaway combining a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers, fun excursions, and a pedestrian village perfect to explore by foot. On the West Coast, Whistler is a winter playground for all ages.

Step 4: Find your trip.

With a few more ideas of which trip style would be right for you, browse All Our Trips, or call a Fresh Tracks agent for the inside scoop.

 

Tips


  1. Remember to pack a sense of humour and spirit of adventure!

  2. Procure some Canadian dollars before arriving in Canada (or before leaving the airport) to make sure unexpected bank closures or delays don’t see you caught without cash.

  3. Dress in layers – your temperature will vary based on level of exertion and outside temperature.

  4. Bring more socks than you think you need – dry socks prove immensely valuable at the end of the day!

  5. Don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, hat (and rain gear) as well as snow clothes!

  6. Take lots of photos and send digital copies to travelers you may meet – shared memories are a great way to bond.

  7. Always take note of posted caution signs, they're there for a reason.

  8. Break in your new boots before embarking on your adventure.

  9. Duct tape can solve any minor emergency, consider wrapping a foot or two around a pen and bringing it along for the ride.

  10. Always pack extra batteries (and memory sticks).

Need more tips or have a question not answered here? Contact one of our Personal Trip Advisors and they'll gladly answer your questions.