Secret Powder Stash Safari
13 days
Visit Canada’s best kept skiing secrets! These resorts may not be well known but they are the rising stars amongst Canada’s best ski resorts. From Banff and Revelstoke to Nelson and Fernie, you will be experiencing the best powder in the country. Add driving a luxury SUV along the way for a complete Canadian winter adventure. A self-drive is the ultimate opportunity to choose where you want to stop along the way and exactly how long you want to spend in each location. All of our trips are fully customizable. Ask one of ski experts today for details!
Outline
Arrive Calgary
3 nights Banff
3 nights Revelstoke
2 nights Rossland
2 nights Nelson
2 nights Fernie
Depart Calgary
Arrive Calgary
3 nights Banff
3 nights Revelstoke
2 nights Rossland
2 nights Nelson
2 nights Fernie
Depart Calgary
Day 1 – Welcome to the Rockies
Arrive at the Calgary International Airport and pick up your 4x4 SUV. Turn up the heat and get comfortable for your drive to Banff! The drive through the foothills of the Rockies into Banff is one of the most scenic drives in Canada. Take advantage of having your own car and stop at all the view points for some of the most memorable moments and photographs!
Choose between standard, superior, and deluxe accommodations. All resorts offer great service, comfortable rooms, and convenient access to sightseeing and skiing in order to maximize the enjoyment of your stay.
Tonight, wander the scenic streets of Banff and enjoy its many boutiques and restaurants. Retire early to prepare for tomorrow’s full day of skiing!
Day 2 – Ski Sunshine!
Enjoy a full day today to ski Banff’s Sunshine Village. Your lift pass gives you access to the “Big 3” – Sunshine Village, Norquay Mountain and Lake Louise. If you have time, try to visit at least one other mountain while in Banff!
Sunshine Village boasts some of the best above tree line skiing of the region, meaning great views for the skiers who enjoy taking the time to drink in the views of mountain vistas and plenty of opportunities for photography.
After a day of excitement on the slopes, enjoy the relaxed charms of Banff. There is an abundance of restaurants suited for all palates and ages, and plenty of evening options for a nightcap or two.
Day 3 – Ski Banff/Travel to Revelstoke
This morning, revisit your favourite runs from yesterday or explore another of the “Big 3”!
This afternoon you begin your drive to Revelstoke. You pass through three of Canada’s most famous National Parks – Banff, Yoho and Glacier. The snow capped trees provide the perfect home for the mountain’s abundant wildlife. Be on the lookout for Elk and Moose!
Revelstoke accommodations are modest and comfortable with first class service. Settle into your room tonight before venturing to the outdoor hot tub or getting cozy by the fireplace in the lounge.
Day 4 – Ski Revelstoke
Revelstoke is BC’s best kept secret. While the crowds flock to Whistler, ski enthusiasts rush to Revelstoke. With one of the most reliable snow records, Revelstoke receives more than twice the snowfall than the West Coast. Revelstoke is also home of North America’s highest vertical descent – 5,620 vertical feet of lift-serviced ski terrain! Enjoy a full day of warming up for tomorrow’s catskiing adventure!
Day 5 – Catskiing
Do you dream of a heli-skiing adventure but can’t afford the cost or feel like you’re not advanced enough? Then catskiing is the answer for you! A true backcountry experience, catskiing takes you far from the lift lines and crowds to the best powder skiing in BC. Snow Cats run in all conditions meaning that you won’t be grounded when it’s snowing. Seated in the heated Snow Cats, you are surrounded by large windows for a great view on your way up to the powder. With the accompaniment of two certified guides you’re sure to have one of the best days on the hills.
Enjoy a comfortable evening at your Revelstoke hotel. Enjoy a hot chocolate around the fireplace as you share stories of your best runs of the day.
Day 6 – Travel to Rossland
Travel south today to Rossland, BC! Along the way, you pass through Halcyon Hot Springs. For an extra treat, stop at the Hot Spring for a dip! There’s nothing like relaxing in warm natural springs while surrounded by snow covered mountains and forest. It’s the perfect way to break up the drive!
Rossland is a small BC town making a big impression on outdoor enthusiasts across the province and the country. With a continuously developing ski resort, Rossland is becoming a favourite local destination for some of the best skiing in the province.
Your stay in Rossland is destined to be a memorable one. Your first class Mountain Resort is the picture of rustic luxury. Comfortable rooms and first class service is made rustic by the views of snow covered rolling hills.
Day 7 – Ski Red Mountain
This Ski Safari is all about Canada’s best kept secrets. Red Mountain is not known by many but is growing in popularity each season. Escape the commercialized resorts and enjoy the raw nature of your sport. Red may be a small resort but it’s immense when it comes to terrain. Red boasts 2,919 vertical feet of tree skiing, easy to access backcountry on some of the best powder in the province, first-class lifts, and a Terrain Park that can compete with the best. This winter, jump on the opportunity to visit this resort before it becomes just as busy as Whistler!
Day 8 – Ski Red/Travel to Nelson
Rise early this morning for your last few hours skiing Red Mountain. If you’re up early enough you may be some of the first down the mountain!
It’s a short drive north today to Nelson, a favourite and famous destination in Southern BC. Visiting Nelson is a unique experience. Nestled in the mountains and located on the shores of Kootney Lake, Nelson is a charming destination that, despite its constant growth, retains the charisma and appeals of a small town.
Settle into your lakeside resort tonight and take some time to explore the delightful streets of Nelson. It’s hard not to feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, surrounded by snow covered heritage buildings.
Day 9 – Catskiing
Today is your opportunity to try catskiing for the second time! The Valhalla Mountains offer some of the best powder skiing in the country! The consistency and quantity of fresh powder is unsurpassed by any other mountain. Glide effortlessly through pristine powder, warming and enjoying the views between each run in the comfort of your powder cat.
Nelson has many quaint restaurants and pubs. Visit the All Seasons Café for Nelson’s finest or stay close to your room and dine at the resort restaurant. Whatever your choice, you’re sure to have a wonderful and relaxing evening.
Day 10 – Ski Whitewater/Travel to Fernie
Whitewater is Nelson’s famed winter resort. With some of the best terrain in BC the reputation is well-deserved. The alpine terrain and Nordic trails offer something for skiers of all abilities. Visit the lodge to make use of the many onsite amenities from toddler care to day-use storage lockers and of course two tempting restaurants. Enjoy a hot lunch before packing up and heading to Fernie!
Circle back towards Alberta as you continue on your BC Ski Safari. Fernie is located along the southeast Rocky Mountains. Your warm mountain lodge is shadowed by the enormous surrounding mountains. It’s hard to believe, but we have saved the best for last!
Day 11 & 12 – Ski Fernie
Named one of the top 5 ski resorts in North America, Fernie Alpine Resort is the fastest growing resort in Canada. The variety of terrain is unbelievable. Renowned for its five enormous bowls, seemingly limitless glades and chutes and an average snowfall of 29 feet each year. Powder at this interior mountain is some of the best in the country. Nominal winds and the advantage of being inland mean fluffy soft snow for backcountry enthusiasts. Two full days will be just enough to fit in the absolute best of Fernie!
Ask about some of the other fun activities that you can do at Fernie – snowshoeing and dogsledding are our favourites!
Visit the slope side restaurants for a hot lunch or an afternoon break. A pint amongst friends is the best way to relay your favourite moments of the day.
Day 13 – Travel to Calgary/Depart with Fond Memories
Much too soon, you leave the clean air and spectacular sights of the Rocky Mountains behind as your ski vacation comes to an end. Wind through the foothills of the Rockies on your way to the airport for your flight home.
Arrive at the Calgary International Airport and pick up your 4x4 SUV. Turn up the heat and get comfortable for your drive to Banff! The drive through the foothills of the Rockies into Banff is one of the most scenic drives in Canada. Take advantage of having your own car and stop at all the view points for some of the most memorable moments and photographs!
Choose between standard, superior, and deluxe accommodations. All resorts offer great service, comfortable rooms, and convenient access to sightseeing and skiing in order to maximize the enjoyment of your stay.
Tonight, wander the scenic streets of Banff and enjoy its many boutiques and restaurants. Retire early to prepare for tomorrow’s full day of skiing!
Day 2 – Ski Sunshine!
Enjoy a full day today to ski Banff’s Sunshine Village. Your lift pass gives you access to the “Big 3” – Sunshine Village, Norquay Mountain and Lake Louise. If you have time, try to visit at least one other mountain while in Banff!
Sunshine Village boasts some of the best above tree line skiing of the region, meaning great views for the skiers who enjoy taking the time to drink in the views of mountain vistas and plenty of opportunities for photography.
After a day of excitement on the slopes, enjoy the relaxed charms of Banff. There is an abundance of restaurants suited for all palates and ages, and plenty of evening options for a nightcap or two.
Day 3 – Ski Banff/Travel to Revelstoke
This morning, revisit your favourite runs from yesterday or explore another of the “Big 3”!
This afternoon you begin your drive to Revelstoke. You pass through three of Canada’s most famous National Parks – Banff, Yoho and Glacier. The snow capped trees provide the perfect home for the mountain’s abundant wildlife. Be on the lookout for Elk and Moose!
Revelstoke accommodations are modest and comfortable with first class service. Settle into your room tonight before venturing to the outdoor hot tub or getting cozy by the fireplace in the lounge.
Day 4 – Ski Revelstoke
Revelstoke is BC’s best kept secret. While the crowds flock to Whistler, ski enthusiasts rush to Revelstoke. With one of the most reliable snow records, Revelstoke receives more than twice the snowfall than the West Coast. Revelstoke is also home of North America’s highest vertical descent – 5,620 vertical feet of lift-serviced ski terrain! Enjoy a full day of warming up for tomorrow’s catskiing adventure!
Day 5 – Catskiing
Do you dream of a heli-skiing adventure but can’t afford the cost or feel like you’re not advanced enough? Then catskiing is the answer for you! A true backcountry experience, catskiing takes you far from the lift lines and crowds to the best powder skiing in BC. Snow Cats run in all conditions meaning that you won’t be grounded when it’s snowing. Seated in the heated Snow Cats, you are surrounded by large windows for a great view on your way up to the powder. With the accompaniment of two certified guides you’re sure to have one of the best days on the hills.
Enjoy a comfortable evening at your Revelstoke hotel. Enjoy a hot chocolate around the fireplace as you share stories of your best runs of the day.
Day 6 – Travel to Rossland
Travel south today to Rossland, BC! Along the way, you pass through Halcyon Hot Springs. For an extra treat, stop at the Hot Spring for a dip! There’s nothing like relaxing in warm natural springs while surrounded by snow covered mountains and forest. It’s the perfect way to break up the drive!
Rossland is a small BC town making a big impression on outdoor enthusiasts across the province and the country. With a continuously developing ski resort, Rossland is becoming a favourite local destination for some of the best skiing in the province.
Your stay in Rossland is destined to be a memorable one. Your first class Mountain Resort is the picture of rustic luxury. Comfortable rooms and first class service is made rustic by the views of snow covered rolling hills.
Day 7 – Ski Red Mountain
This Ski Safari is all about Canada’s best kept secrets. Red Mountain is not known by many but is growing in popularity each season. Escape the commercialized resorts and enjoy the raw nature of your sport. Red may be a small resort but it’s immense when it comes to terrain. Red boasts 2,919 vertical feet of tree skiing, easy to access backcountry on some of the best powder in the province, first-class lifts, and a Terrain Park that can compete with the best. This winter, jump on the opportunity to visit this resort before it becomes just as busy as Whistler!
Day 8 – Ski Red/Travel to Nelson
Rise early this morning for your last few hours skiing Red Mountain. If you’re up early enough you may be some of the first down the mountain!
It’s a short drive north today to Nelson, a favourite and famous destination in Southern BC. Visiting Nelson is a unique experience. Nestled in the mountains and located on the shores of Kootney Lake, Nelson is a charming destination that, despite its constant growth, retains the charisma and appeals of a small town.
Settle into your lakeside resort tonight and take some time to explore the delightful streets of Nelson. It’s hard not to feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, surrounded by snow covered heritage buildings.
Day 9 – Catskiing
Today is your opportunity to try catskiing for the second time! The Valhalla Mountains offer some of the best powder skiing in the country! The consistency and quantity of fresh powder is unsurpassed by any other mountain. Glide effortlessly through pristine powder, warming and enjoying the views between each run in the comfort of your powder cat.
Nelson has many quaint restaurants and pubs. Visit the All Seasons Café for Nelson’s finest or stay close to your room and dine at the resort restaurant. Whatever your choice, you’re sure to have a wonderful and relaxing evening.
Day 10 – Ski Whitewater/Travel to Fernie
Whitewater is Nelson’s famed winter resort. With some of the best terrain in BC the reputation is well-deserved. The alpine terrain and Nordic trails offer something for skiers of all abilities. Visit the lodge to make use of the many onsite amenities from toddler care to day-use storage lockers and of course two tempting restaurants. Enjoy a hot lunch before packing up and heading to Fernie!
Circle back towards Alberta as you continue on your BC Ski Safari. Fernie is located along the southeast Rocky Mountains. Your warm mountain lodge is shadowed by the enormous surrounding mountains. It’s hard to believe, but we have saved the best for last!
Day 11 & 12 – Ski Fernie
Named one of the top 5 ski resorts in North America, Fernie Alpine Resort is the fastest growing resort in Canada. The variety of terrain is unbelievable. Renowned for its five enormous bowls, seemingly limitless glades and chutes and an average snowfall of 29 feet each year. Powder at this interior mountain is some of the best in the country. Nominal winds and the advantage of being inland mean fluffy soft snow for backcountry enthusiasts. Two full days will be just enough to fit in the absolute best of Fernie!
Ask about some of the other fun activities that you can do at Fernie – snowshoeing and dogsledding are our favourites!
Visit the slope side restaurants for a hot lunch or an afternoon break. A pint amongst friends is the best way to relay your favourite moments of the day.
Day 13 – Travel to Calgary/Depart with Fond Memories
Much too soon, you leave the clean air and spectacular sights of the Rocky Mountains behind as your ski vacation comes to an end. Wind through the foothills of the Rockies on your way to the airport for your flight home.
Options & Upgrades
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
- Great hotel rates to add some time exploring Victoria and go whale watching (Spring time only)
- Escape the lift lines by trying a day Cat skiing
- Explore the backcountry with a qualified mountain guide
- Revive your muscles with a skiers massage or spa treatment
- Snowshoeing tours are a relaxed way to explore the Alpine
- Rest those ski legs for a day and set of with a team of huskies on your own dog sled
- Join the ranks of devoted Canadian hockey fans and soak up the atmosphere at a Vancouver Canucks game
- See Vancouver from a new perspective by taking the Grouse Mountain gondola to the peak above the north shore
Accommodation
Standard
Standard
Trip Highlights
- BC locals favourite powder spots
- Chutes at Sunshine Village
- Big mountain lines and Cat skiing at Revelstoke
- En route stop at Halcyon Springs (optional)
- 12 days 4x4 SUV rental
- BC most challenging terrain - Red Mountain
- Cat skiing day in the Kootenays
- 2 day lift pass for Fernie
- 2 day Tri-area Banff ski pass
- 1 day pass for Whitewater
Request A Booking
Reserving Your Trip Is Easy
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Call us toll free
1 800 667 4744 (US/Can)
0 800 917 5924 (UK)
1 800 992 872 (Aus.)
Office hours:
M-F, 6am - 6pm Pacific Time.
Sat 10am - 4pm.
A personal trip advisor will help you book your perfect trip.
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Reserve Online using the form at left.
We will contact you as quickly as we can and you will not be under any obligation until after we have confirmed all details with you.
At that time a US$500 per person deposit is payable and you will be subject to our usual terms and conditions.
Reserve your spot without obligation for 48 hours. Our consultants will contact you to confirm details before you pay a deposit.
Required fields are marked with an asterisk (*).
2008-09 Package Start Dates
This package can be booked on any day from December 15, 08 to March 31, 09
For a custom trip at no extra cost, please call one of our experts
Price Notes
• Prices are per person
• This package is based on Standard hotels (3* or above), upgraded hotels at good rates are available
• We are based in Vancouver and are experts at customizing any of our vacations to suit your style of trip
Includes
• 12 nights accommodation
• 2 day Banff Tri-Area pass valid for Lake Louise, Sunshine and Norquay
• Full day guided Cat skiing at Revelstoke
• Full day guided cat skiing in the Kootenays, near Nelson - powder capital
• 1 day Revelstoke pass, big mountain lines and minimal queues
• 2 day pass at Red Mountain, steep, deep and really steep terrain
• 1 day pass at Whitewater
• 2 day Fernie pass to explore the alpine bowls
• 12 days group L, 4x4 Large SUV rental, 200 km’s per day, extra km’s charged at $0.20 per km
• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
• Vehicle licensing fee
• Provincial and resort tax
Not Included
• Fuel and refueling fees
• Additional drivers fees
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
• Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
• Meals other than above
• Airfare
• Goods & services Tax (GST)
This package can be booked on any day from December 15, 08 to March 31, 09
For a custom trip at no extra cost, please call one of our experts
| Standard | USD$ | CAD$ | ||
| Quad | Double | Quad | Double | |
| Dec 15 - Dec 23 2008 | 2,097 | 2,725 | 2,369 | 3,079 |
| Dec 24 - Jan 3 2009 | 2,386 | 3,109 | 2,696 | 3,513 |
| Jan 4 - Mar 31 2009 | 2,192 | 2,824 | 2,478 | 3,191 |
• Prices are per person
• This package is based on Standard hotels (3* or above), upgraded hotels at good rates are available
• We are based in Vancouver and are experts at customizing any of our vacations to suit your style of trip
Includes
• 12 nights accommodation
• 2 day Banff Tri-Area pass valid for Lake Louise, Sunshine and Norquay
• Full day guided Cat skiing at Revelstoke
• Full day guided cat skiing in the Kootenays, near Nelson - powder capital
• 1 day Revelstoke pass, big mountain lines and minimal queues
• 2 day pass at Red Mountain, steep, deep and really steep terrain
• 1 day pass at Whitewater
• 2 day Fernie pass to explore the alpine bowls
• 12 days group L, 4x4 Large SUV rental, 200 km’s per day, extra km’s charged at $0.20 per km
• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
• Vehicle licensing fee
• Provincial and resort tax
Not Included
• Fuel and refueling fees
• Additional drivers fees
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
• Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
• Meals other than above
• Airfare
• Goods & services Tax (GST)
