Predicting the 2024/25 Ski Season in British Columbia
It’s late autumn in British Columbia, and the mountains are calling. Across the province, from the rugged coastlines to the towering peaks of the interior, the ski community is buzzing with excitement. The 2024/25 ski season is almost here, and early predictions are painting a picture of what could be one of the most epic winters in recent memory.
The first signs are already there: cooler temperatures settling over the mountains, early snowfall dusting the peaks, and the hum of snow machines preparing the slopes. Skiers and snowboarders can feel it in their bones—this season is going to be something special.
The Anticipation Begins: Snowfall Predictions for 2024/25
As we inch closer to winter, the big question on everyone’s mind is simple: Will there be snow? And the answer, according to early forecasts, is a resounding yes. Experts are predicting a La Niña weather pattern this winter, meaning cooler-than-average temperatures and higher-than-normal snowfall for much of British Columbia. For ski resorts, this is the best kind of news—a potential for deep powder days and a season that could last well into the spring.
For the coastal resorts, particularly Whistler Blackcomb, La Niña could bring those classic heavy storms that roll in from the Pacific, dropping feet of fresh snow on the slopes. In the interior, places like Revelstoke and Fernie are expected to see consistent snowfalls that create those legendary powder days, where every run feels like floating.
Whistler Blackcomb: The Giant Prepares for an Epic Season
Whistler Blackcomb is always the star of the show, and for good reason. As the largest ski resort in North America, it’s a destination for skiers from all over the world. But even by its own high standards, the 2024/25 season is shaping up to be something extraordinary.
With La Niña’s influence expected to deliver early and frequent snowfall, Whistler is poised for an extended season. Opening day is set for November, and if the early forecasts hold, there could be fresh powder greeting skiers from day one. The resort has also been hard at work over the summer, upgrading several of its lifts to improve access to the mountain's vast terrain.
This means less time waiting in line and more time carving down Whistler’s famous bowls, chutes, and tree runs. And for those looking for even more adventure, the backcountry terrain surrounding Whistler offers some of the most accessible yet untouched powder in the world. Picture yourself riding through endless fresh tracks, the only sound being the swoosh of snow under your board.
The Powder Highway: BC’s Best-Kept Secret for Powder Chasers
For those who prefer the thrill of chasing powder across multiple resorts, BC’s legendary Powder Highway awaits. Winding through the Kootenay Rockies, the Powder Highway connects some of the best deep-snow ski resorts in the world. The 2024/25 season is expected to be a jackpot for powder hounds, with significant snowfall predicted for the interior mountain ranges.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort is at the top of the list, known for its immense vertical drop and backcountry access. This season, Revelstoke is expected to receive frequent snowstorms, creating days where the powder is so deep it feels like floating through clouds. Then there’s Fernie Alpine Resort, a place famous for its big powder bowls, where the snow piles high, and every turn sends up plumes of snow.
The Powder Highway also offers a true taste of small-town BC, where ski culture is woven into the fabric of daily life. Skiers who venture off the beaten path to resorts like Whitewater or Kicking Horse are rewarded with world-class skiing minus the big crowds. Imagine dropping into untouched powder stashes, weaving through the trees, and ending the day at a cozy local bar sharing stories with fellow powder chasers.
Hidden Gems: Small Resorts, Big Snow
While BC’s big resorts like Whistler and Revelstoke get most of the attention, the smaller ski hills are quietly preparing for what could be their best season in years. Mount Washington, perched on Vancouver Island, is one of these hidden gems. It might not have the size of Whistler, but what it lacks in acreage, it makes up for in beauty and snowfall.
Skiing at Mount Washington is an experience all its own. On clear days, you can carve down the slopes with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Coastal Mountains on the other. The resort is already preparing for what’s expected to be a long, snow-filled season, and with fewer crowds, it’s the perfect spot for families or those seeking a quieter, more intimate ski experience.
Another hidden gem is Whitewater Ski Resort, near Nelson. This small resort is known for its deep powder, friendly locals, and excellent tree skiing. Whitewater is often described as a skier’s paradise, where the snow is soft, the terrain is fun, and the atmosphere is laid-back. For those looking to escape the hustle of larger resorts, Whitewater is a must-visit this season.
Backcountry Boom: A Growing Trend for 2024/25
As more skiers and snowboarders seek the freedom and challenge of backcountry skiing, BC is poised to deliver. The 2024/25 season could see a continued rise in backcountry exploration, with places like Rogers Pass and the Monashees offering world-class terrain for experienced riders.
But venturing into the backcountry requires more than just an adventurous spirit. As more skiers head beyond the resort boundaries, avalanche safety and preparedness become crucial. This season, more resorts are offering backcountry training courses, guided tours, and avalanche education. With the right knowledge and gear, backcountry skiers can experience the thrill of untouched powder in some of the most beautiful and remote areas in the world.
What’s New for the 2024/25 Season?
BC’s ski resorts aren’t just banking on big snowfall. They’ve also been making improvements and upgrades to ensure skiers have the best possible experience. Whistler Blackcomb, Revelstoke, and Sun Peaks have all upgraded their lift systems, adding more high-speed chairs and gondolas to reduce wait times and improve access to terrain.
Additionally, sustainability is becoming a bigger focus for BC’s ski resorts. Many are implementing green energy initiatives and more eco-friendly operations. Resorts like Sun Peaks and Fernie are leading the charge with solar-powered facilities and waste reduction programs, ensuring that skiing in BC stays environmentally friendly for future generations.
Will It Be A Season to Remember
As the 2024/25 ski season approaches, there’s a sense of anticipation unlike any other. With La Niña expected to bring heavy snowfall, upgraded resort infrastructure, and a growing trend toward backcountry exploration, this winter could be one of the best in years. Whether you’re shredding the massive terrain at Whistler, chasing powder along the Powder Highway, or discovering BC’s hidden ski gems, one thing is certain: British Columbia’s mountains are calling, and the adventure of a lifetime awaits.
Get ready for an epic 2024/25 ski season in British Columbia. With predictions of deep snow, upgraded resorts, and endless powder days, BC is the ultimate destination for skiers and snowboarders this winter.