One ski resort in Canada is celebrating its opening day early, and it didn’t even need to use its snowmaking (the resort doesn't utilize snowmaking at all).
Big White, a resort in British Columbia opened for its 61st season on November 22, 2024. There were more than 2,500 visitors there for opening day. Those in attendance got to enjoy 103 centimeters – that’s over 40” to us in the U.S.A. – of an all-natural base.
"This is the best snow I’ve seen in many, many years—easily in the top three in my 39 years at the resort," said COO Darcy Arnold in a press release.
There’s more snow in the forecast, and Big White has plans to open more chairlifts and runs as the week goes on.
Photo: Big White Ski Area
As of 5 p.m. on November 25, there has been 12 centimeters of snow in the last 24 hours, and 40 centimeters in the last week. Big White had four lifts running with 43 trails open. Nineteen of those trails were groomed. Big White has 16 lifts and 120 lifts. Big White is about 214 kilometers outside Kamloops, BC.
"Opening early is always exciting, especially with conditions this extraordinary," said Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President of Big White Ski Resort in a press release. "It's like an early Christmas gift. The last time we opened with over 100 cm on opening day was the 2020/2021 season, and we couldn't be happier to kick off this year with such incredible snow."
Through Wednesday, guests can get half-off lift tickets, equipment rentals, and ski school group lessons. Those in the market for a season pass can also take advantage of early-season pricing until midnight on November 27.
“Visitors are reminded that early season conditions are still in effect, and caution is essential while on the mountain,” the press release says. Please carefully read and adhere to all signs, warnings, and hazard markings, and avoid entering closed runs or restricted areas. Additional lifts and terrain will open as soon as conditions allow.”
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