Big White Ski Resort Kelowna: Snow Ghosts & Night Skiing — Vertical Drop, Trails & Tickets 2026
British Columbia
Big White: Canada’s Largest Ski-In/Ski-Out Village & Famous Snow Ghosts
Big White Ski Resort in British Columbia’s Okanagan region is famous for two things: the eerie “snow ghosts” — trees so heavily encrusted with frozen snow they resemble towering white phantoms — and the largest ski-in/ski-out village in Canada. Located just 56 km from Kelowna International Airport, it is one of the most accessible major resorts in western Canada.
Mountain Stats
| Stat | Details |
|---|---|
| Vertical Drop | 777 m (2,550 ft) |
| Trails | 118 named runs |
| Skiable Area | 2,765 acres |
| Lifts | 16 |
| Average Snowfall | 750 cm (295 in) annually |
| Night Skiing | 5 lit runs |
| Day Pass | $149/day |
The Snow Ghost Phenomenon
Big White’s high-elevation, moisture-laden climate creates perfect conditions for rime ice to build up on subalpine trees throughout winter. The result is a surreal frozen forest of snow ghosts that draws photographers from around the world. Skiing through these ghostly formations on a bluebird day is one of the most visually striking experiences in Canadian skiing.
Ski-In/Ski-Out Village
Unlike many resorts where the village sits at the base and you shuttle to lifts, Big White’s entire village is designed so you can ski directly to and from your accommodation. Hotels, condos, restaurants, shops, and an ice skating rink are all connected by ski runs and walking paths. Leave your car parked for the entire trip — you simply will not need it.
Learning to Ski at Happy Valley
The Happy Valley beginner area is widely regarded as one of Canada’s best learning zones. Separated from the main mountain, it features gentle slopes, magic carpets, and a dedicated teaching environment where first-timers can progress without intimidation from advanced skiers blazing past. Families with children consistently rate it among the top beginner areas in North America.
Night Skiing & Activities
- Night skiing on 5 floodlit runs — extending your ski day well into the evening
- Tube park, ice climbing tower, and horse-drawn sleigh rides in the village
- Nordic skiing and snowshoeing trails through the snow ghost forest
With nearly 2,800 acres of terrain, reliable Interior BC powder, and a self-contained village, Big White offers a complete mountain vacation less than an hour from Kelowna’s wineries and warm-weather attractions.