Discover the Magic of Skiing at Panorama Mountain Resort
A ski resort and alpine village in British Columbia, Panorama Mountain Resort gives you access to almost 3,000 acres of terrain ©Panorama Mountain Resort
What is Skiing Like at Panorama?
Nestled in the stunning Purcell Mountains of British Columbia, Panorama Mountain Resort offers an extraordinary skiing experience that caters to all levels of skiers. Despite its quaint village ambience, there is an extensive amount of terrain, ensuring spacious slopes and minimal queuing. Attractive to families and groups of mixed ability, its tranquil environment is coupled with excellent novice facilities, rugged and challenging ski areas for seasoned pros, and inviting slope-side accommodations complete with the resort’s famous hot pools. But what exactly makes skiing at Panorama so special? Let’s dive into the unique features that make this resort a must-visit.
A Little Slice of Heaven for Everyone
With sweeping panoramic views that echo its name, a quiet village and plenty of skiing for all abilities, Panorama Mountain Resort is a fabulous choice for a ski holiday ©Panorama Mountain Resort
Panorama Mountain Resort is a gem for skiers of all abilities. Whether you’re a beginner just finding your ski legs or a seasoned pro looking for your next challenge, Panorama has got you covered. With 2,847 acres of varied terrain, the mountain features everything from wide-open fall-line cruisers to powder-filled trees and the steep, deep runs of Taynton Bowl. And with 120 named trails serviced by ten lifts, you’ll spend more time skiing and less time waiting in line.
A Haven for Beginners
Ideal terrain for beginners: head for the Discovery Quad, Silver Platter, Mile 1 Express, Toby Chair and the Sunbird Chair ©Panorama Mountain Resort
If you’re new to skiing, Panorama is the perfect place to start as 50% of the runs are suitable for beginners or intermediates. The Discovery Zone is specifically designed for novices, featuring wide, groomed trails and there are excellent ski school programs.
After mastering the basics, with help from top-notch instructors, the Mile 1 and Champagne Express quad chair lifts will give you access to a variety of trails suitable for intermediate and advanced skiers, so you can gradually take on more challenging runs as you improve. These include long, wide groomers that stretch down the mountain and more isolated areas like Founder’s Ridge that are unique to Panorama. And with Panorama being ranked as the #1 resort for most space per skier among the world’s 100 largest ski areas, you will have plenty of room to get comfortable and build your confidence on the mountain.
Impressive Vertical Drop
Panorama combines vast terrain with a massive vertical drop, all of the runs feeding back to the same single base area ©Panorama Mountain Resort
One of the key highlights of Panorama Mountain Resort is its impressive vertical drop. Ranking among the top three in Canada, the resort features a vertical descent of 4,265 feet, and a diverse range of terrain across the expansive mountain. The long, continuous fall line is perfect for high-speed groomed runs, while the vertical also provides access to extensive gladed areas.
For those seeking a bit more adventure, there are steep chutes, cliff bands, and hidden powder stashes to explore within Panorama’s high-alpine bowls. This substantial vertical drop, along with the resort’s 2,847 skiable acres, ensures a variety of runs, keeping even the most seasoned mountain enthusiasts engaged.
The Longest Run: 4 Miles of Pure Joy
Panorama’s longest run is an impressive 4 miles (6.5 kilometres), starting at the Taynton Bowl ©Panorama Mountain Resort
Imagine carving your way down a 4-mile (6.5-kilometre) run. The resort’s longest run offers a continuous and thrilling descent, and it’s perfect for those who love to explore both groomed and off-piste sections.
Recent Developments: Taynton Bowl Expansion
The Taynton Bowl was further expanded recently, with the terrain now reaching an extra 246 feet higher up the mountain ©Panorama Mountain Resort
Panorama’s longest run owes its existence to the recent expansion of Taynton Bowl. Already known for its deep snow and challenging runs, the bowl now features an additional 246 feet of vertical rise and four new double-black diamond lines. It’s a paradise for any skier seeking fresh tracks, more brutish terrain, and of course, thrilling adventures.
The Perfect Ski Retreat For All The Family
Panorama Mountain Resort’s snowy peaks offer premium skiing and riding for the whole family ©Panorama Mountain Resort
Planning a family ski holiday? Panorama is an excellent choice. The resort offers a host of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained, with its gentle beginner slopes perfect for kids and novices to more challenging runs ripe for adventurers.
Also home to a dedicated kids’ adventure zone, ski schools with expert instructors, and child care services, both kids and parents are assured of a fantastic time. A quieter resort, there’s also a congenial vibe for those bringing little ones to the slopes, and even if family members have differing abilities its comforting for mum and dad to know that all the runs end at the same base.
Off-Piste Thrills
Take inbounds cat skiing to the next level with Panorama’s Monster X snowcats ©Panorama Mountain Resort
For those who love off-piste skiing, Panorama has two Monster X snow cats that can take you to the farthest reaches of the terrain, including nine double-black diamond runs and numerous unnamed areas.
This non-guided snowcat service is perfect for exploring the wilds of the resort with the Monster zone comprising of a 950 acre area of inbounds backcountry style runs. And if you’re looking for even more adventure, RK Heli-Ski operates at Panorama. Easy to reach, the helipad is just minutes from the village centre.
Options for Non-Skiers
At Panorama, snowshoeing is easy to learn and a great way to enjoy a beautiful day in the forest and snow ©Panorama Mountain Resort
Not a skier? No problem! Panorama offers plenty of activities for non-skiers to enjoy. The resort features a Nordic centre with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails that wind through picturesque forests and meadows; regular guided snowshoe tours and rentals are available.
Want to branch out of the resort and explore more? Invermere is only a free shuttle away, and the town offers a delightful array of shopping and dining options. Perfect for whiling away a relaxing afternoon, its charming streets are lined with independent boutiques, artisanal shops, and eclectic eateries. Browse through unique clothing stores, galleries showcasing local artwork, and specialty food purveyors offering everything from freshly baked treats to gourmet provisions.
When it’s time for a break, you’ll find a vibrant dining scene with cafes, pubs, and fine dining restaurants serving up farm-to-table cuisine, international flavours, and delectable après-ski fare. We can highly recommend the Viking bar Ullr, where we tasted some of the best food on our recent Big Ski Review trip. Yes, it really is a Viking bar, and they have a great beer selection. If you do decide to visit, make sure not to miss the last bus at around 10 p.m. as there are no taxis.
You can also relax at the Panorama Springs’ Pools, a complex of outdoor hot pools with stunning mountain views that are open to all guests staying at the resort. For the more adventurous, snowmobiling and fat-biking are alternative ways to make the most of the surrounding wilderness.
Après-Ski Ambience
Panorama Springs’ hot pools are a fantastic way to ease tired muscles after a long day on the slopes ©Panorama Mountain Resort
After a day on the slopes, Panorama’s après-ski scene comes to life. The resort village offers a variety of dining options, from cosy cafes to upscale restaurants. The T-Bar & Grill is a popular spot for live music or for a truly elevated dining experience, ride up and down the mountain on the Monster snowcat and enjoy the Alpine Fondue affair at Elkhorn Cabin. Of course, the hot pools at the Panorama Springs are the ultimate après indulgence, the famous pools, the largest in Canada.
Hassle-Free Ski-in-Ski-Out Accommodation
Boasting both breathtaking mountainside and resort side views, The Approach is literally seconds from the mountain’s primary lift access ©Panorama Mountain Resort
Panorama Mountain Resort is renowned for its exceptional ski-in-ski-out accommodation options that make accessing the slopes a breeze. Imagine waking up, grabbing your gear, and stepping right onto the slopes without any fuss. That’s exactly what you get at Panorama Mountain Resort, with over 4,000 vertical feet of pure skiing bliss practically right outside your door.
The upper village has a good range of self-catering accommodations, including the Panorama Springs. A personal favourite of ours is Peaks Lodge. It’s a short walk from the slopes, but the rooms here are of the highest standard in the resort. The lower village has Horsethief and the Toby Creek Condos, which are three-star and ideal options for those wanting to be in a quieter location.
The latest arrival on the hotel scene is The Approach, with its modern hotel rooms. Its location, being right by the lift, is a major advantage, and the hotel’s double bunks are a great fit when it comes to larger groups.
An unparalleled Ski Experience
Panorama Mountain Resort truly has something for everyone. Its combination of diverse terrain, impressive vertical drop, and welcoming atmosphere make it a top destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. And not forgetting the resort’s features two terrain parks where guests can practice their freestyle skills on rails and kickers.
Plan Your Tailor-Made Ski Holiday with Frontier Ski
At Frontier Ski, we specialise in creating bespoke ski holidays tailored to your unique preferences, so let us help you plan the perfect getaway to Panorama Mountain Resort. From accommodation and lift passes to ski lessons and off-slope activities, we’ve got you covered as our first-hand knowledge ensures that every detail is taken care of.
For more information and to start planning your ski holiday to Panorama, contact our team of experts today on 020 8776 8709 or email ski@frontier-travel.co.uk.
