Local Getaway: 3 Winter-Ready Stays Near B.C.’s Ski Hills

‘Tis the season for making snow angels and skiing through the snow-topped mountains. If you’re looking for a winter getaway filled with speed and thrills, we’ve got just the recommendations you need. Head to Sun Peaks Mountain for beginner-friendly family fun. For experienced skiers, Kicking Horse Mountain in Golden and Red Mountain in the Kootenays also offer challenging terrain. Of the two, Red Mountain offers a curated experience. Here are three stays at these underrated ski mountains to choose from. 

1. Stargazer Cabin

Location: Kootenay, British Columbia

The breakdown: $437 per night plus fees (two-night minimum, price fluctuates); sleeps six

The details: This stylish cabin is the epitome of a winter getaway. Situated on five acres of private land, it features log cabin siding, a handcrafted wood spindle staircase and high ceilings with a loft. This stay also offers a red cedar barrel sauna—a dream to unwind in after a long day on the slopes. There are two beds, one sofa bed and two bedrooms on this property, with one of the beds and sofa bed on the hygge-inspired loft. The loft also features a 55-inch TV for indoor entertainment. 

Bring your fur babies and let them be a part of this wintery escape. Pets are allowed at this stay, but dogs should be leashed outdoors as this property is unfenced. This cabin is conveniently just a five-minute drive to Red Mountain Resort and right next to Black Jack Ski Club’s extensive cross-country ski trails. If you prefer to explore the city in the evening, downtown Rossland is only six minutes away.

2. Sunnyslopes Retreat

Location: Sun Peaks Mountain, British Columbia

The breakdown: $811 per night plus fees (two-night minimum, price fluctuates); sleeps seven

The details: Situated on the top floor of a condo unit, this stay offers a ski-in, ski-out experience. Even though this home is a modern condo, it offers the same cozy atmosphere that any cabin would. This space is decked out with decor that screams “holidays,” along with excellent views of the snow-topped mountains right at your doorstep. There are four beds and three bedrooms in this home, great for a large family or group of friends. The kitchen is fully equipped with all the cooking essentials, as well as an espresso machine to help refuel after an early morning. 

To wind down after a long day on the mountains, take a dip in the outdoor hot tub located on the balcony. This rental is also only a short walk into town, where you can enjoy ski runs, hiking or a cozy breakfast with loved ones. 

3. Kicking Horse Chalet

Location: Golden, British Columbia

The breakdown: $879 per night plus fees (two-night minimum, price fluctuates); sleeps 14

The details: Enjoy an entire chalet all to yourself at this charming stay. You’ll find wooden beams throughout the interior of the cabin—along the ceiling, walls and to divide the rooms. This wood element adds to the natural feel of the space, blending it seamlessly with the outdoors. Family and friends can enjoy this large, open living space for gatherings, games or a potluck. There is also an outdoor hot tub available if you’d like a post-workout soak. Some extra amenities this rental offers include a ski mudroom to clean off your skis after shredding through the mountains, a foosball table and stationary bike for when you prefer to rest indoors, as well as an outdoor BBQ grill. Steak fresh off the grill while it’s snowing outside? Sounds good to me. 

This chalet is just steps away from a ski trail leading to the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Take a short drive and you will reach the town of Golden, where you can find plenty of restaurants and coffee shops.