High-end ski resorts are hot destinations during the deep of winter (pun intended). But top-notch ski resorts should not be overlooked when the warm weather rolls in. Many people are surprised to discover just how many incredible experiences are available when there’s no snow in sight. Whether it’s sports, luxury, nature, or a little culture you’re after, this list of off-season ski resorts will help you craft the perfect retreat, no matter what time of year it is.
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
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One of North America’s highest-rated ski resorts, Whistler Blackcomb is no less impressive when the snow melts. For exceptional, 360-degree views, take a ride on their Peak2Peak Gondola—stretching more than 3 kilometres and reaching heights of 436 metres high, it’s the highest, longest, lift in the world. Explore more than 50 kilometres of hiking trails, spanning across two mountains, offering truly magnificent 360-degree vistas. Bike riders can choose between paved valley trails or the famous single-track network in Whistler Mountain Bike Park. And when you’re finally ready for some down time, the village at the base is known just as well for its gourmet dining options and vibrant nightlife.
Mont Tremblant, Quebec
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During the summer months Mont Tremblant transforms into a beach destination adjacent to a beautiful, European-inspired village. At the beach and tennis club guests can swim or soak up the sun on the sandy shores of Lac Tremblant, play some beach volleyball, practice their tennis serve, or take a boat out on the water. And of course you can hit still the peaks for mountain activities like gondola rides, hiking, and running clubs. If you’re looking for a quirky and unique way to pass the time, sign-up for a private lesson with a Falconer who will teach you how to train birds of prey.
Sun Peaks Resort, British Columbia
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There are so many outdoor adventures to choose from at Sun Peaks, it’s hard to know where to begin; cross country mountain biking, golfing, canoeing, kayaking, fly fishing. But the most exciting option is the newly opened Mountain Cross Cart course, which is the first of it’s kind in North America. The winding 512-metre track descends down the mountainside, offering high-speed thrills and exiting turns the whole way down. Riders can clock their run times to improve on their own efforts or compete with friends. Them there’s the European-flavoured Sun Peaks village—a culture-rich environment with live concerts, cafés, and boutiques.
Blue Mountain Resort, Ontario
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This family friendly resort has truly embraced the off-season, launching a #90DaysOfSummer campaign urging guests to make the most of the warm weather. Blue Mountain is a great destination for adventurers of all ages, with alpine hikes, a high ropes course, and Ontario’s only mountain coaster. It’s equally satisfying for those who like to relax on vacation, with a golf course designed by a renowned architect, leisurely gondola rides, and a village with tons of spots to pamper yourself.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort, British Columbia
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Revelstoke is an up-and-comer on the off-season resort scene, but they belong on this list because of their unique partnership with Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing. Summer resort guests can sign up for three different helicopter sightseeing tours for a breathtaking aerial view of the Monashee and Selkirk Mountain Ranges. Or you can try a more unusual helicopter-based experience like heli-hiking, heli-mountaineering, heli-glacier trekking and heli-accessed mountain biking. You can basically heli-anything at Revelstoke—even lunch! In the heli-assisted alpine picnic package, you’re dropped off at a secluded picnic spot to enjoy a gourmet lunch before re-boarding for the journey home.
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