Canada Ski Season Guide

Explore Canada's world-class ski resorts, from the iconic Rocky Mountains to the powder paradise of British Columbia. Discover everything you need to know about working a ski season in Canada.

Resorts

20+ world-class ski resorts

Snowfall

7-12m annually

Flight Time

8-10 hours from UK

Season

Nov-April (6 months)

Major Resorts

Whistler Blackcomb

British Columbia

Elevation

2,182m

Terrain

3,307 acres

Snowfall

11.7m annually

Town Pop.

12,000

North America's largest ski resort with two connected mountains offering world-class terrain for all levels.

Lake Louise

Alberta

Elevation

2,637m

Terrain

1,645 acres

Snowfall

9.2m annually

Town Pop.

1,200

Iconic resort in the Canadian Rockies with stunning scenery and excellent intermediate terrain.

Sunshine Village

Alberta

Elevation

2,730m

Terrain

3,168 acres

Snowfall

9.7m annually

Town Pop.

500

High-altitude resort with the longest ski season in Canada and excellent powder conditions.

Fernie Alpine Resort

British Columbia

Elevation

2,301m

Terrain

2,564 acres

Snowfall

9.2m annually

Town Pop.

4,500

Known for exceptional powder and a vibrant mountain town atmosphere with excellent nightlife.

Big White

British Columbia

Elevation

2,319m

Terrain

2,765 acres

Snowfall

7.5m annually

Town Pop.

1,000

Family-friendly resort with a pedestrian village and excellent terrain for all abilities.

Revelstoke

British Columbia

Elevation

2,316m

Terrain

3,121 acres

Snowfall

12.2m annually

Town Pop.

7,200

Backcountry access and steep terrain make this a paradise for advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Getting There from the UK

Flight Options

•Direct flights: London (LHR) to Vancouver (YVR) - 10 hours
•One-stop options: Via Toronto or Calgary - 12-14 hours total
•Cost: £400-800 return depending on season
•Airlines: Air Canada, British Airways, WestJet, Air Transat

Ground Transportation

•Vancouver to Whistler: 2 hours by car (rental or shuttle)
•Calgary to Lake Louise: 2.5 hours by car
•Car rental: £25-40/day (winter tires required)
•Shuttle services: Available from airports to resorts

Cost of Living

Accommodation

Shared house: CAD $500-800/month
Shared apartment: CAD $600-900/month
Staff housing: CAD $300-600/month
Private room: CAD $700-1,200/month

Living Expenses

Groceries: CAD $200-300/month
Utilities: CAD $80-150/month
Internet: CAD $50-80/month
Transport: CAD $50-100/month

Entertainment

Restaurant meal: CAD $15-30
Pub drink: CAD $6-10
Ski pass: CAD $70-100/day
Activities: CAD $50-150/week

Total monthly budget: CAD $1,500-2,500 (£850-1,400) depending on lifestyle. Most ski season workers earn CAD $2,500-4,000/month, making it possible to save while enjoying the experience.

Work Opportunities

Ski Instructor/Snowboard Instructor

• Salary: CAD $25-40/hour + tips
• Requirements: CSIA Level 1 or equivalent
• Season: November - April
• Hours: 25-40 hours/week

Canada's ski schools are well-established and offer excellent training programs. Many resorts provide staff housing and meal plans.

Hospitality & Retail

• Salary: CAD $15-20/hour + tips
• Roles: Bartender, server, retail, lift operator
• Season: November - April
• Hours: 30-40 hours/week

High-season demand means good earning potential through tips and seasonal bonuses. Free or discounted ski passes often included.

Visa & Work Permit

International Mobility Program (IMP)

UK citizens can work in Canada under the International Mobility Program, which allows employers to hire foreign workers without a Labour Market Impact Assessment.

1.Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer
2.Employer obtains an IMP authorization letter from IRCC
3.Apply for a work permit (processing time: 4-8 weeks)
4.Valid for the duration of employment (up to 2 years)

Cost: CAD $275 work permit fee + employer authorization costs. Most employers cover these costs.

Ready to Plan Your Canada Season?

Download our complete Canada guide or explore other destinations.