Explore over 7.2 million acres of extraordinary terrain along the renowned Powder Highway, home to more than 100 exceptional operators and recognized as the birthplace of heli-skiing.
Since 1965, CMH Heli Skiing has introduced heli-skiing to guests in the high alpine, while Selkirk Snowcat Skiing pioneered cat-skiing in 1975. Revelstoke Mountain Resort boasts North America’s greatest vertical at 1,713 m (5,620 ft) and features the longest run, “The Last Spike,” stretching 15 km (9.5 mi). And, the Kimberley Alpine Resort offers the longest lit night-skiing run.
Discover some of the most unique experiences on and off the slopes as you plan your Powder Highway adventure. To get you started – here are the top 15 ‘funky finds’:
BEGINNING AT KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT
#1 – Canada’s highest dining experience is the Eagle’s Eye Restaurant, located 2,347 meters (7,700 feet) above sea level at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in Golden. Accessible by gondola, the restaurant welcomes all guests, including those who are not skiing or snowboarding.
KICKING HORSE MOUNTAIN RESORT TO PANORAMA MOUNTAIN RESORT
#2 – The Whiteway, a 34-km (21-mi) trail on Lake Windermere linking Invermere and Windermere. Recognized as the world’s longest skating path, it offers exceptional opportunities for ice skating, fat-biking, Nordic skiing, and ice-fishing.
PANORAMA MOUNTAIN RESORT TO FAIRMONT SKI RESORT
#3 – Experience the restorative benefits of a mineral pool soak at Radium Hot Springs and/ or Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. Both locations offer a tranquil environment ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation, preparing you for your next adventure.
#4 – The remarkable Hoodoo formations near Fairmont Hot Springs, are located along Highway 93/95. Enjoy a hike or snowshoe trek to the summit, suitable for all ages. From the top, take in panoramic views of the Columbia River Valley, the majestic Canadian Rockies to the east, and the impressive Purcell Mountains to the west.
FAIRMONT SKI RESORT TO KIMBERLEY & FERNIE ALPINE RESORTS
#5 – Discover Canada’s largest cuckoo clock in Kimberley’s Platzl, an outdoor pedestrian mall featuring a variety of shopping and dining options. Explore three art galleries, the heritage museum, two craft breweries, and a craft distillery. Experience the unique charm of this mountain town, including meeting the town’s mascot, Happy Hans.
#6 – Take an easy hike to Fairy Creek Falls, an accessible segment of the Mt. Proctor Trail in Fernie. This family-friendly hike/snowshoe is celebrated for its appeal to visitors of all ages and offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
FERNIE ALPINE RESORT TO WHITEWATER SKI RESORT
#7 – Fort Steele Heritage Town, near Cranbrook, offers a true 1890s winter mood. Snow transforms Fort Steele into something straight out of a historic Christmas card – frosted wooden store-fronts, an ice-skating ring, and quiet streets that feel like time has paused.
#8 – Enjoy a scenic journey along the east shore of Kootenay Lake en route to Nelson, including a crossing on the world’s longest free ferry from Kootenay Bay to Balfour before rejoining Highway 3A.
#9 – A visit to Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, renowned for its unique horseshoe-shaped cave, offers a truly memorable experience. For generations, the Ktunaxa people have valued the nupika wu’u (spirit water) for its soothing and restorative qualities. Guests can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the warm mineral waters in both the cave and pool, making this resort an exceptional destination for relaxation.
#10 – We invite you to the Nelson Museum for an exclusive guided tour of our permanent exhibition and heritage site. Explore Canada’s history during the Cold War, including the construction of approximately 50 strategically designed bunkers. Discover the important role these sites played in safeguarding officials during a time of nuclear threat, and gain insight into this significant era in our nation’s past.
WHITEWATER SKI RESORT TO RED MOUNTAIN RESORT
#11 – The craft brewery scene along this section of the BC Ale Trail, featuring eight distinguished breweries: Angry Hen, Backroads, Lion’s Head, Nelson, Rossland, Tailout and Torchlight. Many establishments offer tours and tastings, providing an excellent opportunity to experience their seasonal selections. The Kootenays region is proud to be home to a total of 19 breweries across the region.
#12 – Experience unparalleled comfort at Constella Cabins, located on the serene backside of Granite Mountain in RED Mountain Resort’s Paradise Basin. Enjoy six exclusive cabins and a central clubhouse, offering a premier ski-in/ski-out accommodation.
RED MOUNTAIN RESORT TO REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT
#13 – Experience the serene beauty of Nakusp with a visit to Nakusp Hot Springs, Chalet & Campground and Halcyon Hot Springs Resort. Both hot springs provide stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making them ideal destinations for visitors discovering the charm of the Slocan Valley.
REVELSTOKE MOUNTAIN RESORT TO YOHO NATIONAL PARK
#14 – Revelstoke Paragliding, is Canada’s biggest tandem flight experiences and they provide tandem flights with certified pilots at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Begin your adventure by taking the gondola to the summit of Mount Mackenzie, where you will launch on skis or a snowboard under expert experience and soar high above the community of Revelstoke.
#15 – The beauty of winter with a family-friendly snowshoe excursion to Wapta Falls along the Kicking Horse River. Enjoy an accessible trail leading to stunning views of the ice-covered falls. Enhance your visit with a stop at Emerald Lake and a stay at the renowned Emerald Lake Lodge in Yoho National Park, where historic accommodation is available throughout the year in a tranquil setting.
