REVEL IN REVELSTOKE: One of B.C.’s finest skiing destinations is a must for travel enthusiasts

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One of Canada’s premier ski resorts is not only getting better—it’s about to get even bigger. Nestled in the breathtaking Kootenay Rockies along British Columbia’s legendary Powder Highway, Revelstoke Mountain Resort is a winter enthusiast’s dream come true.

Known affectionately as “Revy,” this mountain is one of the most impressive in Canada, boasting the biggest vertical drop in North America at a staggering 5,620 feet. While it’s renowned as an expert skier’s paradise, here’s a myth buster: Revelstoke has something for everyone, from seasoned pros to beginners. Yes, it’s home to some of the world’s most challenging steeps and deeps, but it also offers an incredible variety of blue and green runs, making it a fantastic destination for families and intermediates.

Start your day with a ride to the Summit on the Stoke Chair where panoramic views of four stunning mountains — including Revelstoke’s own Mt. Mackenzie — will take your breath away. One of our favourite surprises? Chopper, a blue run on the north side off the Ripper Chair. This section of the resort features long, winding blue runs with world-class groomers cutting through towering evergreens, offering stunning views overlooking the much steeper black runs of the North Bowl. It felt reminiscent of Europe’s legendary wide-open alpine bowls.

Spanning 3,000+ acres with 75 named runs, including a thigh-burning 15-kilometer-long descent, the resort is vast. I couldn’t believe its size with four sprawling bowls, five lifts, and a unique magic carpet — positioned at the top of the Revelation Gondola, rather than at the base, ensuring that even first-timers can enjoy jaw-dropping scenery.

Revelstoke receives an incredible 34 feet (average) of snow per season thanks to its rare inland temperate rainforest climate. We arrived to a fresh three feet of powder, making our first run down Critical Path, a long, flowing blue groomer, an unforgettable experience. It was skiing nirvana—deep powder, endless turns, and a perfect bluebird day.

Revelstoke isn’t just about skiing. The arts and culture scene here is thriving. I was particularly impressed by the Revelstoke Outdoor Art Movement, which features 58 art installations by local artists scattered across trails right on the hill, beautifully mixing nature and culture.

Accommodation options in Revelstoke range from cozy B&Bs, hotels and motels to luxurious hotels, but if you’re looking for the ultimate ski-in, ski-out experience, The Sutton Place Hotel is unbeatable and it’s Canadian owned. Located right in the village, this luxury condominium-style hotel delivers first-class comfort. From the moment you step into the elegant lobby — welcomed by a roaring fireplace and a complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate bar — you know you’re in for a treat. The property features heated indoor parking, a large recreation area with an outdoor pool, and beautifully designed suites with fully equipped kitchens and stunning mountain views. With shuttles running into town all day long, a car isn’t necessary here. Lift lines are rare at Revy, with a 2.5 hour drive from Kelowna, 4.5 hours from Calgary, and six hours from Vancouver.

Need ski gear? The RMR rental shop is fully stocked with top-of-the-line equipment — perfect for those who prefer to travel light, especially in powder country.

Sutton Place Hotel also offers four excellent on-site restaurants. We enjoyed après at Rockford Bar and Grill, where the lively atmosphere paired perfectly with their signature Beef Dip and fresh salads. For something unique, McKenzie Common Tavern serves creative takes on mac and cheese from its on-site food truck. La Baguette is a great morning stop, while Revelation Lodge, located beside the Revelation Gondola, offers hearty mountain fare.

Steeped in history dating back to the 1800s, Revelstoke is a charming, vibrant mountain town. Once an economic hub for mining, timber, and shipping along the Columbia River, it retains its authentic character while offering a thriving arts, music, and culinary scene. In fact, Revelstoke is known as a musician’s hub, hosting several popular festivals throughout the year, living up to its motto: “Big city taste in a small-town setting.”

We were impressed by the variety of restaurants, offering everything from steaks to sushi. Two local favourites stand out: The Big Bend Café – A classic breakfast and lunch spot serving delicious turkey clubs with locally raised turkey and BLTs with thick-cut maple bacon; and The Village Idiot — yes, the Village Idiot. A must for après or dinner, this lively Western-style pub is packed with skiers, boarders, and sledders enjoying fantastic pizzas and burgers.

You can’t leave Revelstoke Mountain Resort without grabbing a burger at Mackenzie Outpost located on the hill at the top of the Revelation gondola. Many have crowned it the best burger and fries in town, and I’d have to agree. With stunning mountain views to match, it’s well worth the trip — just arrive early or later in the day to avoid long lines.

While there are no grocery stores in the village, you’ll find three in town, along with a couple of locally owned liquor stores.

Revelstoke isn’t just for skiers and snowboarders—it’s a snowmobiler’s paradise, with miles of epic trails. We took a break from the slopes for an exhilarating deep-woods snowmobile adventure with Great Canadian Tours and our expert guide, Tyson. From the stunning landscapes to the thrill of sledding through untouched powder, it was an unforgettable way to experience the region. Other winter activities include cross-country skiing on well-groomed trails, snowshoeing along scenic routes, dog sledding and fishing.

Revelstoke’s future looks brighter than ever, with major expansions on the horizon. As I mentioned, this mountain is gigantic. The resort is set to add more lifts, expanded runs at higher elevations for deep powder and expanded terrain, making it an even more diverse. Even more exciting? The development of the world class Cabot golf course across from The Sutton Place Hotel, new luxury condominiums, and a new base for Selkirk Tangiers Heli-Skiing — making Revelstoke a true four-season resort and known as the Heli skiing capital of the world.

As their motto goes, “You can make Revelstoke whatever you want it to be.” And whether you’re chasing deep powder, scenic groomers, vibrant après, or off-mountain adventures, you’ll love every moment—any time of year.

Next stop: Deer Valley, Utah—America’s coolest playground for the rich and famous.

Glenn Crouter – Ski & Lifestyle Reporter, 640 Toronto Radio | Ambassador, Canadian Ski Council. Share your ski stories and suggestions @glennskigolf

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