Winter is in full swing, and for those seeking a swift escape from Los Angeles to the slopes, Canada offers prime destinations. With streamlined travel options, skiers can leave LAX after breakfast and be on the mountains by mid-afternoon. Two standout locations—Banff in the Canadian Rockies and Big White in the Okanagan Valley—make for ideal long-weekend getaways.
Efficient Travel to Banff
Calgary International Airport serves as a gateway to the stunning peaks of Banff and Canmore. By taking a direct flight, visitors can maximize their time on the slopes. WestJet and Air Canada operate daily non-stop flights from LAX, with a flight duration of approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes.
Travelers can depart LAX at 9:00 a.m. and arrive in Calgary by 2:00 p.m.. After collecting a rental car, they can reach their accommodations in Banff or Canmore by 4:30 p.m. For a full day of skiing, Banff Sunshine offers exceptional conditions. The higher elevation ensures light, dry snow, perfect for enjoying the slopes without the worry of slush or ice.
On Sunday, skiers can enjoy a morning session at Mt. Norquay before relaxing at the Upper Hot Springs to soothe tired muscles. As the weekend wraps up, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along Banff Avenue, exploring shops before their late afternoon flight home.
For a unique lodging experience, consider the Sunshine Mountain Lodge. This mountaintop hotel allows guests to be the first on the lifts each morning, ensuring a head start on the day’s skiing.
Adventure at Big White
For those looking to skip the crowds of national parks, Kelowna provides access to Big White, a renowned ski resort. Alaska Airlines offers direct flights to Kelowna, with a flight time of roughly 3 hours and 25 minutes.
Upon landing in Kelowna, guests can take a shuttle directly to Big White, where the entire village is pedestrian-friendly and ski-in/ski-out. This means once you arrive, you can immerse yourself in the snowy paradise without the hassle of navigating through traffic.
With 119 runs to explore, Big White caters to all levels of skiers. Don’t miss the mesmerizing ‘Snow Ghosts,’ trees that have become encased in ice, creating a stunning visual effect that resembles otherworldly statues.
As the weekend comes to a close, visitors can enjoy a hearty breakfast in the village before the shuttle transports them back to Kelowna for their return flight. A recommended stay is the Stonegate Resort, which offers luxurious condo-style accommodations complete with private hot tubs on balconies. Guests can relax while enjoying breathtaking views of the Monashee Mountains, ideally paired with a glass of local Okanagan wine.
With efficient travel plans and breathtaking ski experiences, both Banff and Big White provide perfect options for a quick ski getaway from Los Angeles. Plan ahead to make the most of your long weekend and enjoy the best of Canada’s winter offerings.
