Are you a snow sports enthusiast in search of the ultimate winter getaway? Look no further than Kicking Horse Mountain. Nestled in Golden, British Columbia, in the heart of the Rockies, it doesn't get much better than Kicking Horse Mountain skiing and snowboarding.
The mountain offers epic terrain and scenery, some of the best snow conditions, a long season, a variety of top-notch accommodations, and much more. If your next cold weather escape is on your mind, keep reading to learn why Kicking Horse Mountain should be at the top of your list.
Where is Kicking Horse Mountain?
Just outside the town of Golden, Kicking Horse Mountain is a stone's throw from world-renowned Yoho and Banff National Parks (but without the crowds!). If you're familiar with the Canadian Rockies, you know this means our views of endless snow-covered peaks are truly breathtaking.
For those coming from Calgary, it's 260 kilometres, or 162 miles, from the YYC airport. We're also 1.5 hours north of Radium, home of the famous Radium Hot Springs, and a nine-hour drive from Vancouver.
Kicking Horse Snow Conditions
Okay, you're sold on the location – but what about the snow? When it comes to slope conditions for skiing and snowboarding at Kicking Horse Mountain, you will not be disappointed. With an annual snowfall averaging over 16 feet across about 70 days and an average depth of 52", you can rest assured that you'll have plenty of fresh powder to carve through all season long.
And speaking of powder, did you know that Kicking Horse is widely known as the "Champagne Powder Capital of Canada?" It's true! The mountain's unique geography includes a combination of deep bowls and steep ridges, resulting in a light, dry, and smooth (like champagne!) snow that sticks around for a long time. Powder hounds know this "champagne powder" provides the most thrilling on-slope adventures you'll find anywhere.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Kicking Horse Mountain
Now that you know where we are and the snow situation, let's dive into why Kicking Horse Mountain snowboarding and skiing is superior and how you can take advantage of it.
Diverse Terrain
Kicking Horse Mountain has over 3,400 acres of skiable terrain and 1,315 meters (over 4,310 feet) of vertical, one of the longest in North America. The mountain is famous for its five challenging bowls and seemingly infinite chutes.
It should come as no surprise that this, combined with the famous champagne powder, attracts some of the world's top skiers and adrenaline junkies, but Kicking Horse caters to all skill levels. While 60% of the runs are rated Black Diamond or Double Black Diamond for advanced and expert skiers, the remainder are green (beginner) and blue (intermediate), so anyone can enjoy Kicking Horse Mountain skiing.
Brand new skiers, including children, can take lessons, and outdoor enthusiasts with any level of experience are encouraged to take avalanche safety training offered onsite.
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
Beyond hitting the slopes, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort has much to offer visitors. Five lifts serve the mountain, including one gondola that takes you from the base to the summit. This world-class resort also has cozy lodges and the Village Plaza, home to various shops, restaurants, and aprés options, as well as outfitters that offer gear rentals and adventure tours. There's even childcare available for children between 18 months and 5 years old.
One of the resort's main attractions, aside from the skiing and snowboarding, is Eagle's Eye Restaurant. Perched at the top of the gondola at 2,347 meters, or 7,700 feet, this is Canada's highest restaurant. Note that it's only open on Friday and Saturday nights and for winter holidays and requires a lift ticket and reservations.
Where to Stay for Kicking Horse Mountain Skiing
Another major perk of hitting the slopes at Kicking Horse this winter is the wide variety of accommodations available. With Kicking Horse Lodging, located right on the mountain, you can choose from three unique options, each catering to different needs and preferences.
Glacier Mountaineer Lodge: This option puts you in the heart of all the action in the heart of the village at the base of the gondola. You'll find traditional lodge-style hotel rooms, up to roomy 3-bedroom condos with full kitchens. Onsite amenities include a fitness centre, ski storage, complimentary parking, and outdoor hot tubs.
Palliser Lodge: If you're looking for ski-in, ski-out convenience to maximize your Kicking Horse Lodging skiing and snowboarding time, here it is. The hotel rooms and 1-2 bedroom condo suites are situated right along the slopes, with private balconies and kitchens. Many rooms also have private hot tubs on their balcony. Like Glacier Mountaineer Lodge, Palliser offers a gym, free parking, and ski storage.
Aspen Vacation Homes: Want to carve out your slice of this winter wonderland? The private vacation homes at Kicking Horse Lodging let you just do that, with townhomes and large luxury homes nestled on the slopes just a few minutes from the Village. Take full advantage of skiing and snowboarding at Kicking Horse Mountain with ski-in ski-out access, large kitchens, and hot tubs.
There's another perk to booking with Kicking Horse Lodging: Stay® | Well Amenities. Specially designed to enhance your on-mountain experience, this suite of amenities includes complimentary national park passes, snowshoe and trekking pole rentals, a private ski locker and lock, binoculars, yoga mats, child hiking carriers, and more.
Experience the Thrill of Kicking Horse Lodging Skiing and Snowboarding
Whether you're just learning about what a hidden gem Golden is or you've visited many times, Kicking Horse Mountain skiing and snowboarding offers an unparalleled experience. With epic, diverse terrain, spectacular snow conditions, and world-class resort amenities, it's the perfect destination for your next adventure.
Kicking Horse Lodging's convenient location allows you to maximize your time on the mountain and enjoy the comforts of home. Pack your gear (or don't – remember, you can rent it all when you get here!), book your stay, and get ready for an unforgettable winter escape at Kicking Horse Mountain!
